Grand Canadian Rockies & Alaskan Cruise Tour

Embark on your Canadian adventure with Air Canada, departing from London Heathrow. Flights from Manchester via Toronto are also available at no extra cost. Upon arrival in Calgary, our awaiting coach will set us on a westward journey along the Trans-Canada Highway, where the captivating foothills of the Rocky Mountains will lead us to the stunning Banff National Park. Here, the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies will greet us, as we arrive in the picturesque town of Banff. Depending on your chosen departure date, you will be transferred to Moose Hotel & Suites, Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa, or The Rimrock Resort Hotel for the first three nights of your stay.

Nestled within the awe-inspiring Banff National Park lies the captivating town of Banff. This renowned park, the first of its kind in Canada, presents a unique combination of magnificent peaks, verdant meadows, and unspoiled lakes. Further enhancing its allure are the natural hot springs.

Our day commences with a captivating tour of the area, offering glimpses of the iconic landmarks Banff Springs Hotel, Tunnel Mountain and Bow Falls. Brace yourself for adventure as we hop aboard the Banff Gondola, ascending towards the peak of Sulphur Mountain. From here, we can enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Today is our first Freedom Day in Canada. Take the opportunity to unwind or, if you prefer, embark on a little adventure. Thrill-seekers might enjoy a picturesque helicopter ride, while those ready for relaxation might choose to indulge in the world-renowned hot springs of Banff. Alternatively, immerse yourself in a wildlife safari, with glimpses of the prominent wildlife including bull elk, bighorn sheep, and osprey.

Tour Highlight
Today is another tour highlight. We begin by venturing into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, crossing the Continental Divide via the scenic Kicking Horse mountain pass. Our first destination is the celebrated Yoho National Park, renowned for its majestic waterfalls and towering mountains. We’ll explore notable attractions including the awe-inspiring Emerald Lake with its mesmerising waters.

Returning to Banff National Park, our next stop is the internationally acclaimed Lake Louise, praised as one of the world’s most picturesque lakes. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by mountains and the impressive Victoria Glacier, create a captivating scene that’s photograph-worthy. Weather permitting, we’ll also visit Moraine Lake in the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks. As the day comes to a close, we’ll stay at the esteemed Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, ideally situated at the lake’s base. After check-in, you’re free to indulge in the exclusive amenities provided at this impressive hotel.

After enjoying breakfast amidst our picturesque surroundings, we embark on a journey North along the Icefields Parkway. Prepare to be captivated by the astonishing lakes with their crystal clear hues, invigorating mountain streams, dense woodlands, and awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks. Our destination is the renowned Athabasca Glacier, one of the six primary glaciers fed by the Columbia Icefields. Upon arrival, we board the ‘Snowcoach,’ an all-terrain ice explorer vehicle, and venture onto the Athabasca Glacier itself. Positioned at an impressive elevation of 2,700 metres, an experienced guide accompanies us, sharing their knowledge about the glaciers and environment and offering us the opportunity to walk on the ice. Afterwards, our journey continues towards Jasper, where we will be staying for the next two nights at the magnificent Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. This enchanting mountain resort provides sweeping vistas of majestic mountains and the captivating Lac Beauvert.

Jasper, recognised for its significance relating to European fur trading history, was designated as a National Park by the federal government in 1907. Jasper National Park is home to some of the world’s most impressive peaks, verdant valleys, tranquil lakes, and astonishing icefields and glaciers. Today, our itinerary begins with an exciting day-long sightseeing excursion, commencing with a trip to Maligne Canyon. Our journey then continues to Maligne Lake, the largest lake in the Canadian Rockies. Should the weather allow it, we will then enjoy a narrated cruise to Spirit Island, a picturesque gem within the lake. Upon returning to our peaceful hotel surroundings later in the afternoon, the remainder of the day is yours to spend at your leisure. We recommend a refreshing cocktail at the local bar, or join fellow travellers to share your highlights from the trip so far.

Tour Highlight
Prepare for another incredible adventure today as we embark on another tour highlight. Board the iconic Rocky Mountaineer from Jasper as we continue our exploration of the stunning Canadian Rockies by rail. Enjoy the SilverLeaf service with impeccable hospitality, oversized windows in the glass-domed carriage, and delectable meals paired with exceptional wines. Upgrade options to GoldLeaf service are also available.

From the Rocky Mountaineer, we witness the majestic backdrop of the Continental Divide, with scenic river valleys of the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Look out for bald eagles and elk along the way. Highlights include Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and the impressive Pyramid Falls. Don’t miss the opportunity to get a closer look from the outdoor viewing area. Our journey continues alongside the North Thompson River until we reach Kamloops, where we’ll transfer to our hotel for the night, arranged by Rocky Mountaineer.

Tour Highlight
After a delightful early breakfast, we continue our journey on the Rocky Mountaineer towards the vibrant city of Vancouver. Prepare to be mesmerised by the changing landscapes, from desert vistas to pristine forests and scenic river canyons. Keep an eye out for the Fraser River, famous for its massive salmon run, and be amazed by the breathtaking Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Upon arrival in Vancouver, we transfer to the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel for an overnight stay.

We kick off our day with a delightful cruise through the stunning Gulf Islands, making our way to Vancouver Island. Upon arrival, our first stop is the renowned Butchart Gardens, a world-class botanical paradise.

Take your time to explore the impressive displays and immerse yourself in the beauty of the gardens. Afterwards, we continue our journey to Victoria – the provincial capital of British Columbia and a town with a rich gold rush history. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the city’s pioneering heritage through its museums, art galleries, pioneer homes, and grand mansions.

Our accommodation for the next two nights will be at the Inn at Laurel Point or the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, both conveniently located with scenic views overlooking Victoria’s harbour.

This morning, join our sightseeing tour of Victoria, known as the ‘Sunshine City of Gardens.’ Visit notable attractions including Beacon Hill Park, Thunderbird Park, and Oak Bay. Experience the beauty of lush green spaces, stunning gardens, and captivating ocean views.

Enjoy the hanging flower baskets, talented buskers along the Inner Harbour, and the overall enchanting atmosphere of Victoria. After, the rest of the day is yours to sit back and relax – or you may prefer to embark on an unforgettable whale-watching cruise.

Today we return to Vancouver, cruising through the scenic Gulf Islands resort region, a beloved summer getaway for residents of British Columbia and Washington State. Our captivating sightseeing tour begins at the iconic Stanley Park, a vast green oasis with stunning views along the famous Seawall. Explore the park’s landmarks, monuments, and beautiful gardens, including an impressive collection of totem poles representing the heritage of First Nations.

We continue our exploration in English Bay, known for its beaches, shopping, and dining options, and visit Canada Place, a significant national landmark welcoming visitors and ships to the west coast. Our tour also takes us to Gastown, a trendy downtown area, and Chinatown, where we can enjoy the vibrant local culture.

At the end of the day, we head to our accommodation for the next two nights. We will be staying at the Delta Vancouver Downtown Suites, offering an unparalleled opportunity to relax and unwind as you reflect on today’s adventures.

Today is another Freedom Day, presenting an opportunity to explore the enchanting city of Vancouver at your own pace.

Marvel at the city’s impressive high-rise buildings and picturesque harbours and inlets. Venture northward to discover the allure of mountain peaks like Grouse Mountain, or explore the fertile farmlands of the Fraser River Valley to the south and east.

You might wish to consider embarking on a tour of Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge, an exhilarating adventure featuring scenic chair rides and guided eco-walks, providing an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, opt for a zodiac boat journey to Bowen Island, where you can savour a delightful dinner and explore the island’s charming boutiques and shops. The choice is yours to make the most of this day in Vancouver.

Tour Highlight
After a relaxed morning, we embark on the Koningsdam, a ‘Pinnacle Class’ ship operated by Holland America Line, as we set sail from Vancouver on a remarkable seven-night Alaskan Cruise.

Prepare to experience the magnificent Alaskan wilderness and wildlife by exploring its serene waters from a cruise vessel, getting up close to breathtaking steep mountain walls and enjoying remarkable views.

No matter what your preferred category of stateroom, you can expect outstanding dining, top-notch entertainment, and impeccable service derived from Holland America’s 150-year cruising legacy.

As we awake to our first full day aboard the Koningsdam, we cruise through Alaska’s Inside Passage. This protected network of waterways provides ample chances to witness Alaska’s iconic wildlife from the comfort of our deck. Camera at the ready! Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, majestic bald eagles, and brown bears along the shoreline. Embrace the delightful onboard experience, making the most of Koningsdam’s excellent amenities.

Today is undoubtedly another trip highlight. Welcome to Tracy Arm Inlet, a picturesque waterway that winds through Tongass National Forest, embraced by towering cliffs and glacier-clad mountains.

Admire the untouched scenery, where melting snowcaps give rise to cascading waterfalls along the shoreline. Keep a lookout for an array of wildlife, including black and brown bears, wolves, deer, moose, seals, and whales. At the fjord’s end, witness the stunning sapphire blue hues of the Sawyer Glaciers.

Later, we arrive at Juneau, the capital of Alaska, nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Gastineau Channel. This cosmopolitan outpost can only be accessed by air or sea, offering a truly unique experience. Choose from various optional shore excursions, such as sightseeing and culinary tours of downtown Juneau, visits to Mendenhall Glacier, whale watching, or salmon fishing. In the evening, we depart Juneau and sail overnight to Skagway.

As a new day dawns, we set our sights on another destination! Skagway, once a bustling port during the Klondike Gold Rush, played a pivotal role as the primary gateway to the fabled gold fields, attracting over 100,000 eager miners. Today, this town preserves many remarkable buildings from that era. Choose from a variety of optional excursions to enhance your experience, such as a walking tour to explore the ‘Garden City of Alaska,’ a ride on the White Pass & Yukon narrow-gauge railway, trying your hand at gold panning, or discovering the historic Chilkoot Trail. This evening, we bid farewell to Skagway and embark on an overnight sailing to Glacier Bay.

Tour Highlight
A stand-out tour highlight. As a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier Bay National Park harbours a protected ecosystem of plants and animals, thriving amidst the ever-changing glacial terrain. Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambience of the “living” ice, accompanied by its distinctive creaks and groans. Keep watch for potential ice calving, witnessing chunks of ice breaking off and plunging into the sea, creating towering sprays of water.

Layer up as we venture out onto the open deck, equipped with your binoculars and camera, to marvel at the tranquil snow-dusted mountains and untouched scenery. Keep an eye out for humpback whales or a wandering brown bear along the shores. Our local experts will be aboard the ship too, offering insights into the wonders of this magical land as we cruise through.

Take advantage of a leisurely morning as we approach Ketchikan, known as Alaska’s ‘First City.’ Nestled alongside the banks of the Tongass Narrows, Ketchikan has long been a significant hub for the salmon-fishing industry. Indulge in the exceptional freshness of local seafood at renowned restaurants. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of native Alaskan nations by visiting the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Park, where intricately carved totem poles await your admiration. Or, if you prefer, explore the town on foot and browse for souvenirs like sample smoked salmon and local artwork.

Today we continue our journey along the awe-inspiring Inside Passage, where you’ll be surrounded by magnificent wilderness and impressive views. The coastline is once again adorned with majestic snowy peaks, lush forests, and stunning glaciers. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings as you revel in the serenity of this remarkable journey. There will be plenty of onboard activities to enjoy too, we recommend attending the ‘BBC Earth in Concert’ at the ship’s World Stage, a mesmerising orchestral score paired with fascinating BBC Earth footage. Or, perhaps you’d prefer to unwind in one of the ship’s stylish bars and restaurants. The choice is yours.

After a delightful breakfast, we will disembark at the vibrant port of Vancouver this morning. Take advantage of the remaining hours to soak in the city’s charm before we head to the airport for your afternoon flight back to the UK, with a connection in Toronto.

Our flight arrives in the UK this morning, bringing our unforgettable Canadian and Alaskan adventure to an end – but the memories we will cherish for a lifetime.