Have seen the post here about the Gotthard line being down for a month or so. We are not going until Sept, so hopefully all will be okay by then.
My question is, I can't seem to find many reviews of the William Tell Express, Lucerne to Lugano, as opposed to taking the regular train from Zurich to Lugano.

I am sure the cost is a lot higher, but is it worthwhile? Or a bit of a gimmick?
Any opinions?

Please consider calling the guys at BETS, http://www.budgeteuropetravel.com/
who can discuss your question clearly. Also you will see the promotion for two for one 4 day flexipass promotion - which would make the trip less expensive if combined with other Swiss rail travel.

It is hardly a gimmick. The train trip from Luzern to Lugano, while lovely, spends alot of time in tunnels, so you only get limited views of Lake Luzern, (vierwaldstättersee) which is just gorgeous. WE took the train and did not have time for the steamer, but it looked inviting. If you do the train, recommend taking the S-Bahn that goes through Kussnacht from Luzern to Goldau, as this goes right along Part of Lake Luzern and the Southern shore of Lake Zug, and is more scenic than the main rail line from Luzern to Goldau.

Thank you docdan, I didn't know about the tunnels. After doing a bit more research, my next question is, the standard fare or premier fare on the William Tell Express? Is there a difference in the seating ie better views in the premier option, or is the difference primarily in the 3course lunch?

My knowledge on this is only partial, but it is my understanding that views are essentially the same. In addition to the issue of the meal, the seats are larger and nicer on steamer and trains, with the premier vs. standard. Note that the timing of the trip on the "Express" is actually relaxed vs. the straight train trip. So my suggestion, if you are concerned with staying within a budget, is to do the standard rate. Also, you can just take the steamer to Brunnen or Fluelin, and then transfer to train, without the William Tell" Package Again, if you have a Flexipass - this might be cost-effective.

Ah, just priced out some ticket combos . . . . the 1st class price is the gimmick! Notice if you go to the SBB website and search for the boat trip Luzern Bahnhofquai to Brunnen SGV or Fluelin SGV, and price the 2nd class ticket - it is around 20 SF and then the rail price from those town to Lugano is about 25 Sf. THE VIEWS ARE THE SAME. You could then get a meal on the boat or near the train station in one of those towns , a la carte. With the "William Tell Express" they will completely handle your luggage, so it is just a matter aobut how much convienience or luxury you are willing to pay for.

Docdan thanks for that. It's difficult to tell what you're really paying for sometimes!