Enchanting Rockies and Alaska Cruise (Cruise First)

Your journey begins today on arrival in Vancouver. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the heart of this cosmopolitan city.

After breakfast this morning, transfer to board your premium cruise ship. Enjoy time to relax and settle into your cabin before dinner on board this evening.

Enjoy a full day at sea at the beginning of your phenomenal journey. Take in the majestic scenery as your ship cruises past dramatic rocky headlands and glides over the frigid waters of the Inside Passage. You also have plenty of time to explore the facilities of your cruise ship and perhaps relax in one of the onboard public areas.

Today your journey brings you to Alaska’s capital, Juneau. There is time to explore the region’s glacial terrain and gold rush history or perhaps choose to make your way to the town and explore the rustic shops located here. You may also like to experience an exhilarating dog sled ride over a glacier or try one of the other activities available to you. These include sampling delicious salmon baked over a fire or even trying your hand at panning for gold in this former gold rush town (own expense).

This morning, you’ll dock at the port of Skagway, which is located at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage. Skagway was once a frontier town and gateway to the Klondike and still celebrates its gold rush past to this day. You will find a variety of stores and saloons in town that capture the excitement and history of the gold rush days. Here, you will also have the opportunity to learn more about gold prospecting or to view some of the fascinating local wildlife on a tour (own expense).

Wake up to the breathtaking sight of Glacier Bay National Park this morning, with its formidable rivers of ice, wild coastline and sheltered fjords. As you cruise through the national park, it is easy to see why the area has received World Heritage status. Today, you’ll gain a more detailed insight into the unique nature of this national park as local rangers join you on board to explain the geological wonders and diverse wildlife found in this remarkable region.

Arrive today in the Alaskan town of Ketchikan, regarded as the salmon capital of the world and renowned for its idyllic scenery and rich Alaskan Native cultures. Here, you will have free time to relax and explore the town at your leisure. Alternatively, perhaps choose to join a walking tour of the town or learn about the history of Tlingit culture at Saxman Native Village (own expense), where you’ll be fascinated by the collection of Native American totem poles found on display.

Today marks your final day aboard your premium Holland America Line cruise ship. You’ll spend the day cruising south through the Inside Passage and its magnificent landscapes and towering glaciers. There is time to relax on board and enjoy the premium facilities of your ship while you take in the incredible views. This evening, savour a final dinner on board.

After breakfast aboard your cruise ship this morning, disembark in Vancouver and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, meet with your Tour Director and fellow guests during a Welcome Reception this evening.

Fall in love with Vancouver and enjoy a sightseeing tour which takes you through some of the city’s most vibrant areas and best-loved attractions, including the Waterfront and historic Gastown. Discover more with an Enhance Your Journey optional select experience. 

Enhance Your Journey – Hop-On, Hop-Off City Tour

Take in the sights of Vancouver at your own pace during a self-guided hop-on, hop-off bus tour. 

Enhance Your Journey – Grouse Mountain

Enjoy views of lush greenery, the spectacular city of Vancouver and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Visit the bear refuge and take a scenic walk. 

Enhance Your Journey – Capilano Suspension Bridge

Wander across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, some 70 metres above the Capilano River. 

Enhance Your Journey – Flyover Canada Experience

View Canada’s most incredible sights on a truly breathtaking virtual flight simulator experience. 

This morning, board the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer train and settle into your carriage with large panoramic windows for expansive views. Discover the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, taking in some of its many highlights, which include Fraser Valley, the Coast Mountains and Fraser Canyon.  Later, arrive in the city of Kamloops where you’ll stay overnight.   

Your rail journey continues today past the impressive Spiral Tunnels and Kicking Horse Canyon before arriving in Banff National Park. This evening, settle into the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for your Insider Experience. 

Insider Experience – Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Relax and unwind at the stunning Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Set against the backdrop of towering mountain peaks and breathtaking turquoise water, the iconic hotel preserves the elegance of a bygone era. Enjoy premium amenities and delicious dining in the awe-inspiring alpine surrounds of Lake Louise.   

Travel to Moraine Lake (season permitting) and witness the incredible turquoise colours of this spectacular glacier-fed lake. Then continue to the charming alpine resort town of Banff. Later, enjoy a guided tour, and in the evening, a memorable Insider Experience awaits.   

Insider Experience – BBQ on the Bow River

This evening, embark on a true western experience and take a wagon ride along the banks of the Bow River. Try your hand at western-style activities like lassoing and horseshoes before joining the horseback riders for a BBQ cookout. Enjoy a tasty steak-fry dinner as you soak up the stunning surrounds.

Enjoy today at your leisure to discover Banff. Perhaps choose one of our Enhance Your Journey experiences to explore the spectacular scenery. 

Enhance Your Journey – Heli-Flightseeing

An extraordinary tour for the first-time flyer in the Canadian Rockies,. Escape to Spray Valley and the spine of the Goat Range.  

Enhance Your Journey – Bow River Float Trip

Enjoy a relaxing float trip down Bow River and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Suitable for most fitness levels. 

Enhance Your Journey – River Explorer Tour

Enjoy your guide’s tales and the beauty of the Bow River while you paddle in a Voyageur Canoe. 

Enhance Your Journey – Banff Gondola Ride

Ride the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for incredible views of the surrounding region. 

Enhance Your Journey – Banff Experience Tour

Learn about the township of Banff, its people and wildlife. Visit the famous Johnston Canyon, known for its spectacular waterfalls and spring water pools.   

Today, you'll travel along the Icefield Parkway which is considered to be one of the world's most scenic highways. Stop at the Columbia Icefield for an exhilarating Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. Later, continue to the beautiful mountain town of Jasper.

Spend the morning in Jasper before departing for Sun Peaks, passing the spectacular Mount Robson on your way. Stop for lunch at River Safari in Blue River, where you will enjoy and exciting Insider Experience.

Insider Experience - Blue River Safari

Set off on a remarkable River Safari to Grizzly Bear Valley, where you'll likely to witness active native wildlife on the riverbank. Cruise along glacier-fed rivers and lakes, and admire remarkable views of the surrounding forest and waterfalls.

After breakfast, enjoy the spectacular scenery as you journey to Whistler. Travel through the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, a rugged landscape that stretches from the Pacific Coast to the Cariboo Mountains. Gold was discovered in the region in the 1860s, sparking a rush which attracted prospectors from across the world. On arrival in Whistler, spend time at leisure as you explore in this popular alpine resort.

Today begins with one of the most scenic drives in Canada, as you journey along the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway. Admire expansive views of the Coast Mountains and stop at Shannon Falls, the third tallest waterfall in British Columbia. Continue to Horseshoe Bay, where you’ll board a ferry and cruise across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver Island. After arriving in Nanaimo, travel by coach to the picturesque seaside town of Chemainus. Then make your way to delightful, flower-filled Victoria, aptly referred to as ‘the Garden City’.

Spend time exploring the elegant capital of British Columbia today. Choose from a range of Enhance Your Journey optional select experiences and discover Victoria’s history and charm. You’ll enjoy a special Insider Experience in the evening, visiting The Butchart Gardens for a Farewell Dinner. 

Enhance Your Journey – Whale-Watching Cruise

Choose between cruising on a Zodiac or a luxury motor yacht on an adventure in search of British Columbia’s enchanting marine wildlife. Enjoy the unique opportunity to spot whales, sea lions and more in their natural habitat.  

Enhance Your Journey – Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

Embark on a traditional horse-drawn carriage tour through Victoria and learn about the charming city’s culture and history. Visit the picturesque James Bay district, known for its vibrant waterfront. See the serene, lush gardens of Beacon Hill Park, Victoria’s oldest church and Thunderbird Park, home to many traditional First Nations totem poles. 

Enhance Your Journey – Seaplane Flightseeing

This 20-minute flight offers stunning views of Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, with the Olympic Mountains in the distance.  

Insider Experience – Farewell Dinner at The Butchart Gardens

Dine in the original Butchart family residence after exploring The Butchart Gardens’ vivid floral displays. As you indulge in a delicious menu at the special Farewell Dinner, enjoy the opportunity to swap travel stories with fellow guests. 

After breakfast at your hotel you are free to depart from Victoria at any time, alternatively transfer to Vancouver airport for your onward flight.