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Rocky Mountaineer and Alaskan Cruise Adventure
Canada’s most spectacular sights are all yours to enjoy as you journey through the Rocky Mountains and embark on a thrilling cruise along the dramatic coastline of Alaska. Your first stop is Banff National Park, where snow-capped peaks, sparkling lakes and wondrous wildlife will stop you in your tracks. Equally breathtaking is Lake Louise – said to be one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Canada. A journey by road through the Rocky Mountains and across British Columbia then takes you to Vancouver. Another splendid beauty, this city is surrounded by water, mountains and forests and always tops the ‘best places to live in the world’ lists! Now it’s time to board the Zaandam, your floating hotel for the next seven nights as you set off on a thrilling Alaskan cruise. As you sail along North America’s most scenic coastal landscape, watch for wildlife from the deck – you could spot whales, eagles, seals and grizzly bears. Step ashore in Alaska’s capital, Juneau, to view the Mendenhall Glacier, and in Skagway, a lively relic of the Klondike Gold Rush. At Glacier Bay look for huge icebergs floating in the water, before your cruise comes to an end back in Vancouver.
Tour Highlights
- Return Flights: From Heathrow with Air Canada.
- Accommodation: 6 nights in hotels of a good standard, plus 1 night in flight.
- Cruise: 7 nights full board on Holland America Line’s Volendam.
- Meals: 4 meals on the Rocky Mountaineer (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches).
- Tour Manager: Travelsphere Tour Manager (pre-cruise).
- Transfers: Overseas transfers and other transportation included.
- Porterage: Luggage handling included throughout the trip.
Itinerary
Day 1: UK to Banff
Depart from the UK on your scheduled flight to Calgary, Canada. Upon arrival, travel by road to Banff and enjoy a scenic journey through the Rocky Mountains. Spend the next three nights in Banff, with plenty of time to explore this beautiful destination.
Day 2: Banff
Explore Banff National Park, known for its stunning views, including snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and sparkling streams. Visit the Hoodoos of Bow Valley, unique rock formations, and Surprise Corner, offering a breathtaking view of the Banff Springs Hotel. Be on the lookout for local wildlife such as bears, wolves, and eagles.
Day 3: Lake Louise
Enjoy a visit to Lake Louise, a glacial, jade-green lake surrounded by towering peaks. The beauty of this area has earned it recognition as one of Canada’s most picturesque locations. Take time to explore hiking trails along the shore for incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Day 4: Rocky Mountaineer
Board the Rocky Mountaineer train this morning for the journey of a lifetime. Travel through the Canadian Rockies to Kamloops, soaking in stunning views from the SilverLeaf service coaches. Meals and snacks will be served at your seat as you enjoy the ride. If you’ve upgraded to GoldLeaf, enjoy access to an outdoor viewing platform and a private dining room. After the journey, spend the night in Kamloops.
Day 5: Rocky Mountaineer
Continue your journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer from Kamloops to Vancouver. Follow the Thompson River and the dramatic Fraser River Canyons, while keeping an eye out for grizzly bears. Arrive in Vancouver for a two-night stay.
Day 6: Vancouver
Enjoy a free day in Vancouver, often regarded as the best place to live in the world. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, explore the city’s many attractions. If you prefer, join an optional tour to Victoria on Vancouver Island, where you’ll visit Butchart Gardens and enjoy the beauty of this world-famous floral garden.
Day 7: Vancouver & Volendam
Today, board the Volendam cruise ship in Vancouver. After unpacking and settling into your stateroom, take some time to explore the ship. The cruise departs at 5:00 PM, marking the start of your adventure at sea.
Day 8: The Inside Passage
Cruise through the Inside Passage, a scenic coastal landscape known for its natural beauty. Spend the day relaxing and enjoying the ship’s facilities while keeping an eye out for whales, seals, and eagles. The coastal fjords and surrounding islands make this area one of the most scenic in North America.
Day 9: Juneau
Arrive in Juneau, the capital of Alaska, located in one of the largest wilderness areas in the United States. Explore this remote destination, with opportunities to visit the Mendenhall Glacier, a 12-mile-long river of ice. The area is home to bears and bald eagles, adding to the adventure.
Day 10: Skagway
Arrive in Skagway, a historic town from the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1800s. Wander through its wooden sidewalks and turn-of-the-century buildings, feeling like you’ve stepped back in time. Explore at your leisure or take part in one of the many local activities.
Day 11: Glacier Bay
Prepare for one of the highlights of your cruise as you arrive in Glacier Bay. Watch enormous icebergs float in the blue-green waters, and be on the lookout for humpback whales, sea otters, and bears on the shore. If you’re lucky, witness a glacier “calving,” when massive ice chunks break off into the water.
Day 12: Ketchikan
Arrive in Ketchikan, known as the “salmon capital of the world.” Explore this quaint town, perched on the side of a mountain, and sample some of the freshest salmon available. You may also choose to visit Totem Pole Park, home to the largest collection of totem poles in the world.
Day 13: Cruising at Sea
Enjoy a relaxing day at sea as the ship continues its journey through the breathtaking Inside Passage. Take in the stunning views of fjords and islands, and reflect on the memories of your incredible journey so far.
Day 14: Vancouver to the UK
Disembark the Volendam ship in Vancouver. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city, visiting Gastown, Chinatown, Stanley Park, and the beautiful harbour. After the tour, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
Day 15: Arrive in the UK
Arrive in the UK, bringing an end to your unforgettable adventure through the Canadian Rockies and Alaskan waters.
Key Experiences
- Rocky Mountaineer: A luxurious train journey through the Canadian Rockies, offering stunning views and onboard service.
- Alaskan Cruise: A 7-night full board cruise aboard the Volendam, exploring the beauty of Glacier Bay, Ketchikan, and other Alaskan ports.
- Banff National Park: Explore this world-renowned park with its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.
- Vancouver: Enjoy a free day in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with optional tours available.
