Grand Canadian Rockies & Alaskan Cruise Tour

Depart from London Heathrow with Air Canada. Flights from Manchester are available with a change in Toronto, at no extra cost. On arrival in Calgary, we meet our awaiting coach and travel west along the Trans-Canada Highway into the scenic foothills of the Rocky Mountains. As we approach Banff National Park, the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies fill the horizon. We continue to the picturesque town of Banff, and transfer to our hotel, the Moose Hotel & Suites for our first three nights in Canada.

The delightful town of Banff is situated in Banff National Park, the first and most famous of Canada’s national parks. It boasts a breathtaking mix of soaring peaks, vibrant meadows and crystal-clear emerald lakes. This morning, we tour this impressive region, taking in the striking Tunnel Mountain and cascading Bow Falls. We finish our sightseeing with a ride on the Banff Gondola, to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Banff and the national park.

Our first Freedom Day in Canada. Today, we can choose to relax or explore this beautiful region as we please. Perhaps join a scenic helicopter flight and take in some of the most beautiful landscapes Canada has to offer. Or experience cowboy culture, BBQ steaks, and mountain scenery on a Cowboy Cookout & Wagon Ride. Alternatively, you may prefer to unwind with a soak in Banff’s famous hot springs, surrounded by incredible mountain scenery, or take a cruise on the magnificent Lake Minnewanka. However you choose to spend your day, enjoy!

We Recommend - Scenic Helicopter Flight

Take a remarkable helicopter flight to witness spectacular views of the Rockies.

Tour Highlight

Today is undoubtedly one of our tour’s highlights as we commence our journey north into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Leaving Banff, we take the high mountain pass of Kicking Horse across Canada’s great Continental Divide. Our first stop is Yoho National Park. Situated on the western slopes of the Rocky Mountains the park is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls and soaring peaks. We visit some of the park’s many highlights including the mirror-like green waters of Emerald Lake. Crossing back into Banff National Park we make our way to Lake Louise. Named after Queen Victoria’s fourth daughter, and known as the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’, it is considered by many to be one of the most picturesque lakes in the world. With its glittering, vivid turquoise waters, ringed by soaring mountain peaks and the majestic Victoria Glacier, it’s not hard to see why. We also visit Moraine Lake (conditions permitting), set in the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks. Perfectly situated at the foot of Lake Louise is our hotel for the night, the world-renowned Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Following check-in, the remainder of our day is free to savour the exclusive facilities of this truly iconic hotel. Enjoy!

This morning, following a sumptuous breakfast in the most beautiful surroundings, we continue north along Icefields Parkway to further experience a wealth of awe-inspiring scenery where crystal blue-green lakes, fresh mountain streams, deep forests and snow-capped mountain peaks are the order of the day. The Athabasca Glacier is one of six principal glaciers fed by the Columbia Icefields, and upon arrival at the Columbia Icefield we board our ‘Ice Explorer’, an all-terrain ice explorer vehicle, and drive out onto Athabasca Glacier. At an altitude of 2,700 metres, our guide shares information about glaciers and the environment, whilst giving us the opportunity to walk on the ice. We continue our journey to Jasper, where our home for the next two nights will be Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

The small quaint town of Jasper sits in the middle of Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. The park, first established in 1907, covers over 10,000sqm and boast soaring peaks, lush valleys, and vibrant turquoise-coloured lakes, in addition to its spectacular icefields and glaciers. Today, we explore Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake – the largest lake in the Canadian Rockies and one of the most photographed scenes in Canada. At Maligne Lake (weather permitting), we embark on a narrated cruise to tiny Spirit Island. We return to our hotel mid-afternoon, where the remainder of our day and evening are at leisure.

Tour Highlight

Today, more incredible experiences await as we board the renowned Rocky Mountaineer and roll out of Jasper to further explore the Canadian Rockies by rail. Distant Journeys’ guests enjoy SilverLeaf Service, where impeccable hospitality is only surpassed by the incredible views from the oversized windows of the glass-domed carriage. Sit back and savour the scenery from your comfortable reclining chair, as the friendly onboard Hosts serve you delicious meals paired with excellent wines. Upgrades to Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf Service are available should you wish to enhance your onboard experience. Departing Jasper, we are soon surrounded by the dramatic backdrop of the Continental Divide, and the scenic river valleys of the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, while all the time looking out for Bald eagles and giant elk. Today’s highlights include Mount Robson – the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies – and Pyramid Falls, one of the most prominent waterfalls in the area, as the Rocky Mountaineer climbs over the famous Yellowhead Pass. Head to the Rocky Mountaineer’s outdoor viewing area to get closer to nature as our journey continues, skirting the North Thompson River. We arrive into Kamloops and transfer to our hotel for the night, which will be selected by Rocky Mountaineer.

Tour Highlight

This morning we reboard the Rocky Mountaineer in time for a delicious breakfast. As we wind our way west towards the coastal city of Vancouver, we experience dramatic changes in scenery, from otherworldly desert landscapes to pristine forest and winding river canyons. Travel alongside the Fraser River, home to Canada’s largest salmon run, and marvel at the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Upon arrival into Vancouver, we disembark and transfer to our overnight accommodation, either the Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA or the Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront.

Our day begins with a cruise through the beautiful Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island. On arrival, we visit Butchart Gardens – one of the world’s great botanical gardens, where there will be ample time to browse the impressive displays. Later, we continue to Victoria, British Columbia’s provincial capital and a former gold rush town. Its pioneering heritage and traditions are well preserved in its museums, art galleries, pioneer homes and great mansions. Our home for the next two nights is either the Inn at Laurel Point or the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA.

Victoria is known as the ‘Sunshine City of Gardens’, because of its abundance of green spaces and spectacular floral gardens. The hanging flower baskets, buskers along the Inner Harbour, ocean vistas and relaxing pace of life make this a captivating place to stay. This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Victoria including highlights such as Beacon Hill Park, Thunderbird Park and Oak Bay. The rest of the day is at leisure, or you may wish to take an optional whale watching cruise for an opportunity to spot Humpbacks, Orcas, Minke and Gray whales. Other wildlife we may encounter include harbour and elephant seals, sea lions, porpoises, otters, cormorants and Bald eagles.

We Recommend - Whale watching cruise

Victoria is one of the best places to see whales in the wild – join our afternoon whale watching cruise in search of these magnificent creatures.

Our day begins with a leisurely cruise through the stunning Gulf Islands, as we journey from Victoria to Vancouver. Upon arrival, we embark on a sightseeing tour of the city. First, we visit Stanley Park, a 400-hectare green oasis with a striking collection of First Nations totem poles. Next, we venture to English Bay, a lively waterfront neighbourhood known for its beaches, shopping, and dining. A stop at Canada Place follows, before a stroll through the historic charm of Gastown, with its cobblestone streets and the famous steam clock. We finish our day in Chinatown, before arriving at our hotel, either the Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA or Pinnacle Harbourfront Hotel, our home for the next two nights.

A full day at leisure to explore the beautiful city of Vancouver. Alternatively, travel north of Vancouver to the inviting mountain peaks of Grouse Mountain. Enjoy an exhilarating Skyride up the mountainside, for breathtaking views of Vancouver, before continuing to Vancouver’s oldest attraction, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, to enjoy the ancient old-growth forest, elevated by suspended walkways that offer a unique adventure.

We Recommend - Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge

Enjoy an exhilarating Skyride to the top of Grouse Mountain, followed by a walk on the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Tour Highlight

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s wilderness like never before – gliding through serene waters that bring us up close to towering mountain cliffs and untouched landscapes. After a relaxed morning, step aboard Holland America Line’s renowned ‘Pinnacle Class’ ship, Koningsdam. Whichever category of stateroom you choose, expect excellent dining, spectacular entertainment, and the exceptional hospitality perfected over Holland America’s 150-year legacy. Once embarkation is complete, depart from vibrant Vancouver and set sail on an unforgettable seven-night journey through Alaska’s awe-inspiring scenery.

Our first full day aboard is spent at sea, cruising our way through Alaska’s Inside Passage. Considered one of the greatest routes to cruise, this protected network of waterways offers plenty of opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife from our prime position on deck – Humpback whales and orcas play in the bountiful waters; Bald eagles soar overhead and Brown bears are scattered along the shoreline. As the day unfolds, settle into the unhurried rhythm of life on board and enjoy the Koningsdam’s superb facilities.

Our first highlight today is Tracy Arm Inlet, which winds its way through Tongass National Forest, flanked by towering cliffs and glacier-covered mountains. Melting snow-caps fuel cascading waterfalls that tumble into the pristine waters below. Keep watch for the diverse wildlife that calls this region home, including Black and Brown bears, wolves, deer, and moose, which are often spotted along the shoreline – alongside seals and whales in the cool waters. At the fjord’s end, behold the mesmerising sapphire blue of the Sawyer Glaciers, perfectly framed by rugged mountain terrain. Later, we arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s capital. Nestled between the Coast Mountains and Gastineau Channel, Juneau is a cosmopolitan outpost, only accessible by air or sea. Some of the many optional shore excursions include sightseeing and culinary tours of downtown Juneau, a visit to the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, embarking on a whale-watching adventure, or trying your hand at salmon fishing. This evening, we depart Juneau, sailing overnight to Skagway.

At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, when 100,000 hopeful miners set their sights on Alaska and the Yukon, the port town of Skagway became the main gateway to the legendary gold fields. Today, this historic town is filled with well-preserved buildings that tell the story of its gold-rush past. A range of optional excursions are available for you to explore the town and surrounding region. Explore the ‘Garden City of Alaska’ on a guided walking tour, ride the White Pass & Yukon narrow-gauge railway, try your hand at gold panning, or follow in the footsteps of early prospectors along the Chilkoot Trail. This evening, we set sail from Skagway for an overnight journey to Glacier Bay.

Tour Highlight

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay National Park is home to a protected ecosystem of plants and animals that exist within the constantly evolving glacial terrain. Absorb the sounds of the ‘living’ ice, with its creaks and groans, and watch out for possible ice calving – where ice chunks break off and crash into the sea, spraying water hundreds of feet into the sky. Wrap up warm and head out onto the open deck with your binoculars and camera to admire the serene snow-flecked and forested mountains, keeping a keen eye out for humpbacks or a Brown bear roaming the shoreline. On board, park rangers and local guides share their knowledge, so we may gain a deeper understanding of our environment.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before arriving at Ketchikan, Alaska’s ‘First City’. Clinging to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, Ketchikan has long been connected to the salmon-fishing industry, so it is no surprise that local restaurants offer outstanding fresh seafood. The town is also one of the best places to discover the cultural sights of native Alaskan nations, with intricately carved totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Park. Explore the town on foot and shop for souvenirs, smoked salmon and local art before returning to the Koningsdam.

Today we continue our cruise back along the Inside Passage, surrounded by the breath-taking wilderness – a coastline studded with snowy peaks, dense green forests and majestic glaciers. Keep an eye out for wildlife, enjoy an onboard activity, or simply relax in one of the stylish ship’s many bars and restaurants.

This morning, following breakfast, disembark at the port of Vancouver. Enjoy a final few hours in the city before transferring to the airport for our afternoon flight to the UK, which will connect in Toronto.

Flights arrive into the UK this morning bringing our unforgettable Canadian and Alaskan adventure to a close.