Rockies Explorer and Alaska Cruise from Victoria

Welcome to Canada. We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel, where a welcome dinner awaits you this evening. 

Today begins with a special Signature Experience. With some free time this afternoon, spend the rest of the day however you please.

Signature Experience – The Butchart Gardens Before Hours

Visit The Butchart Gardens before the public is granted access and enjoy breakfast in the original Butchart residence. More than 100 years in the making with a former quarry as the initial canvas, this space was transformed by Jennie Butchart into a haven overflowing with lush greenery and colourful blooms. Relish the opportunity to wander among the floral displays without the crowds. 

Take your BC Ferries service across the Georgia Strait. Afterwards, enjoy a scenic drive along the Sea to Sky Highway en route to Whistler. Skirt the shores of Howe Sound, then carve into the Coast Mountains and wind through lush rainforests before arriving in Whistler. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your luxurious hotel.

Embark on a scenic journey through the stunning Coast Mountains, where you'll pause to admire the crystal-clear waters of Duffey and Seton lakes. Continue through Fraser Valley before arriving at Sun Peaks. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque alpine village, filled with shops and restaurants.

Travelling along the Yellowhead Highway today, you’ll stop to see the incredible sight of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Take in the spectacular scenery of Maligne Canyon en route to Jasper. In the evening, choose where to dine at your lodge.

Travel through the Rockies and along the Icefields Parkway to Athabasca Falls. Continue onwards to the Columbia Icefield, where you'll embark on an exhilarating journey onto the Athabasca Glacier. Later, arrive at Lake Louise, known as the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’. Be awed by this mesmerising setting, where turquoise water is bordered by a jagged mountainscape, dotted with trees. Tonight, you will stay at the world-renowned Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Select one of the hotel’s restaurants for dinner this evening.

Take a guided tour through the town of Banff before enjoying a Signature Experience in the afternoon. Tonight, choose which of your hotel’s restaurants to dine at.

Signature Experience – Meet a Mountie

On an exciting morning in beautiful Banff National Park, you’ll have the chance to meet one of Canada’s renowned Mounties and hear tales from the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Set out on your chosen Freedom of Choice activity this morning. The remainder of the day is left free for you to explore however you please.

Freedom of Choice – Banff Locals, Lakes & Gems

Join this exclusive small-group tour and venture off the beaten path to discover Banff National Park’s hidden gems. You’ll also enjoy more time to explore Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lake and the stunning Lake Minnewanka.

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Head to the top of Sulphur Mountain and take in Banff from above, climbing nearly 700 metres in elevation as you are carried through the pines. Once you reach the peak, you can head off for a stroll along the boardwalk.

Freedom of Choice – Heli Flightseeing

Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the Rocky Mountains. Soar past snowy peaks and jagged mountains, enjoying breathtaking views of pristine lakes and alpine meadows.

Freedom of Choice – Bow River Float Trip

Embrace the tranquil atmosphere as you float down the serene Bow River, keeping your eyes peeled for any signs of cheeky wildlife on the banks. This activity is suitable for most fitness levels.

Freedom of Choice – Hockey Player Experience

When in Canada, it’s only fitting that you experience a day in the life of an ice hockey player. Get to know the Canmore Eagles as you tour their dressing rooms, try on their gear and step onto the ice.

Freedom of Choice – Fairmont Spa Entry

Harking back to the hot spring that first called travellers some 100 years ago, soothe your tired muscles in the mineral pool and pulsating waterfalls at Fairmont Banff Springs.

Begin your Rocky Mountaineer rail journey in GoldLeaf Service and soak up the views from your bi-level glass-dome carriage. Marvel at the incredible engineering feat of the Spiral Tunnels as you traverse the picturesque Kicking Horse Pass.

Your Rocky Mountaineer journey continues west today along the Thompson River. Pass Hell’s Gate and its raging whitewater, then admire the mighty Fraser River before arriving in Vancouver. Blending urban sophistication and stunning natural beauty, this cosmopolitan city is known for its culinary scene, vibrant galleries and lush parks.

This morning, visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park on the beautiful outskirts of Vancouver. Here, you'll join an insightful nature exploration through the grounds and across the legendary suspension bridge. Afterwards, discover Vancouver’s highlights on a fantastic half-day sightseeing tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll soak up the scenery at vast Stanley Park, explore trendy Granville Island, and immerse yourself in the historic neighbourhood of Gastown.

Bid farewell to Vancouver and board your Holland America Line ship. Settle into your elegant suite and embark on your spectacular journey through Alaska's Inside Passage.

Spend today on board, gliding past rocky headlands and over the icy waters of the Inside Passage, one of the most picturesque sea lanes in the world.

Alaska’s capital, Juneau, sits at the foot of Mount Roberts and Mount Juneau on the Gastineau Channel. Flowing from the Juneau Icefield, the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier lies just beyond the city's doorstep. Widely regarded as one of the most remote and breathtaking state capitals in the United States, this picturesque destination is surrounded by pristine waters, lush forests and rugged mountains, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Disembark and explore at your leisure, or join an optional excursion to discover more of Juneau’s wonders (additional expense).

Arrive in Skagway, the Inside Passage’s northernmost point. During the peak of the Klondike Gold Rush, this bustling port town became the main gateway to the goldfields, rapidly growing into Alaska's largest settlement. It's the perfect place to discover Alaska's rich history, enchanting landscapes and abundant wildlife. See heritage buildings, now protected as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and perhaps set off on an excursion (additional expense).

Awaken to the striking scenery of Glacier Bay National Park. Take in the calving tidewater glaciers and learn about the area's geological wonders from local rangers.

Dock in Ketchikan today, a vibrant coastal town set on the tranquil Tongass Narrows, proudly known as the salmon capital of the world. Immerse yourself in Alaska Native culture and spend time exploring as you please. Perhaps discover the Totem Heritage Center's collection of 19th-century totem poles or stroll along historic Creek Street.

Enjoy a final day on board and make the most of the ship's amenities. Marvel at the stunning views along the British Columbia Coast as you glide past rocky headlands and across the icy waters of the Inside Passage. This picturesque route offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most famous sea lanes.

Your spectacular journey comes to an end today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.