Canadian Rockies by Rail & Alaska Cruise 15 days / 14 nights

Trip Overview

Combine two amazing adventures into one with this Canadian Rockies Train and Alaskan Cruise vacation.

Stand in awe at the base of Sulphur Mountain, gasp at the sight of the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate, be brought to silence at the beauty and simplicity of the Inside Passage and step back in time in Alaska’s oldest towns.

Combining a world class Canada train experience with an equally incredible cruise ensures that you’ll experience the amazing sights of Canada and Alaska while being treated to the very best service.

Trip Images

Begin your Journey in the Rocky Mountains
Continue West onboard the Rocky Mountaineer
Wind through the Rockies to the West Coast
Explore the Rugged Coastlines of Alaska by cruise
Relax enroute to Vancouver, B.C.

Map

Arrive Calgary
1 nights Banff
1 night Lake Louise
2 nights Jasper
1 night Kamloops
1 nights Vancouver
7 nights Glacier Bay Inside Passage Cruise
Depart Vancouver

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Your Canadian Rockies and Alaskan Cruise Vacation Begins
Today you arrive in the famous “Stampede City”. Grab your cowboy hat and prepare yourself for a fantastic steak dinner. Enjoy your day exploring Calgary! This evening, settle into your comfortable Calgary hotel for a good night’s rest.

Day 2 – Into the Canadian Rockies – Travel to Banff
Wake bright and early to meet your guide for your full-day tour/transfer to Banff. After an hour you’re approaching the foothills of the Rockies; it’s hard to believe these are only the foothills! Your first stop is in the natural wonder of Kananaskis. Here you enjoy the highlight of your day, a 15-minute Summit Helicopter Tour; the mountain range from this height looks never-ending. You’ll be spending tonight in the bustling resort town of Banff.

Day 3 – Into the Canadian Rockies – Travel to Lake Louise
Yoho National Park is full of stunning sights from the famous Spiral Tunnels to a natural rock bridge across the Kicking Horse River. See these sights first-hand on a half-day tour ending in Lake Louise. Enjoy a guided lakeshore stroll before checking in to your hotel, the stunning Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. As hard as it may be to pull yourself from your beautiful hotel, don’t spend too much time indoors, the rest of your day is yours to explore Lake Louise.

Day 4 – Into the Canadian Rockies – Lake Louise to Jasper
The Icefields Parkway is known to be one of the most beautiful highways in the world. Shadowed by the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains, your sightseeing tour of Banff and Jasper national parks holds many wonders in store. The most exciting of these is a visit to the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest and most accessible icefields south of the Arctic Circle. An Ice Explorer takes you right to the middle of the Athabasca Glacier. After nearly a full day touring your arrival in Jasper is welcomed. Enjoy your evening!

Day 5 – Sightseeing – Enjoy Jasper
Today is your opportunity to see Jasper in a whole different way. Enjoy a short scenic tour to many natural attractions, experience the rugged peaks of the Rockies, and possibly catch a photo, or two, of the many different types of wildlife in the area. This day of your Canada Train Trip is bound to be a memorable one.

Day 6 – On the Rocky Mountaineer Train – Jasper to Kamloops
The scent of hot coffee wafts through your train car as you find your place and settle into the spectacular Rocky Mountaineer train. The gentle pull of your train moving out of the station begins your Canadian Rockies train adventure. Travel west before heading south along the river valleys of the Monashee and Cariboo mountains. The sights out your large picture window are ever-changing from the high peaks of Mount Robson to the crashing waters of Pyramid Falls. Arrive in Kamloops.

Day 7 – On the Rocky Mountaineer – Kamloops to Vancouver
Continue westbound today toward the coastal city of Vancouver. Watch the dry interior become rushing rivers, lush forests and steep slopes of the coastal mountains. The sounds of the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate are so loud they reach your train car and you can almost feel the mist of the waters while on the observation deck. Passengers are known to spot all kinds of Canadian wildlife, be sure to have your camera ready!

This evening you arrive in the picturesque city of Vancouver. Bordered by mountains, forest and ocean, the views are stunning.

Day 8 – Into the North – Board Alaska Cruise
Wake-up this morning to the sun shining and Vancouver buzzing outside your hotel. Before checking out, find the perfect place for a strong coffee and a freshly baked muffin.

This afternoon you board the grand ms Zuiderdam for a spectacular 7-day Alaskan cruise. The ms Zuiderdam welcomes you to a once in a lifetime experience of comfort and unforgettable sights. From the striking artwork around the ship to the ultra-courteous staff, the ms Zuiderdam is a home away from home.

Day 9 – Into the North – Cruise the Inside Passage from Canada to Alaska
Enjoy an entire day cruising the Inside Passage. Strolling along the deck you see rolling hills covered in trees, islands with small communities or none at all, whales taking the same refuge from the chopping waters beyond the islands and the odd fishing boat who scurries out of the ships way. Relax in the warmth of the ship or stay bundled up outside capturing the best photos of the day.

Day 10 – Into Port – Juneau, Alaska
Juneau is everything you would expect from an Alaskan capital city: small, surrounded by the most amazing wilderness, soaked in history and with a pace of its own. Hike in the Tongass National Forest or venture out onto the water (in a smaller vessel!) for whale watching or fishing. Wandering through the rustic shops in town is a great way to get to know Juneau on a more personal level. It’s back to the ms Zuiderdam this afternoon for a delicious dinner served in the grand dining room.

Day 11 – Into Port – Skagway, Alaska
Step off the ship and back in time to the days of the Gold Rush. Over a century ago, men arrived on this very shore with only one thought, GOLD! Enjoy wandering along the wooden sidewalks, in and out of the many character shops. Visit the Trail of ’98 Museum to get the complete picture of the Gold Rush days. This evening return to the comfort and warmth of the ms Zuiderdam.

Day 12 – Cruise Glacier Bay
Today is an exciting opportunity to sightsee from the decks of your ship. Glide along the calm waters of Glacier Bay a Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This protected area is home to a distinct ecosystem of plants and animals all calling this glacial landscape home. Today is a chance to learn more about this beautiful icy environment and capture the perfect photograph of the impressive icebergs surrounding your ship.

Day 13 – Into Port – Ketchikan, Alaska
Ketchikan is an opportunity to learn more about Alaska’s rich herritage. The Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian were the first peoples to live on this land and their culture still flourishes. Home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles, Ketchikan has a powerful spirit that you won’t want to leave behind. Capture the moment with some spectacular photographs or bring home a mini totem pole of your own. The totem poles are not the only beauty to be found here; explore Creek Street and the Tongass Historical Museum. The natural surroundings are breathtaking. Here is a place to take in all the sights and sounds that make Alaska so special. Return to the ship for a relaxing evening.

Day 14 – Southbound – Cruise the Inside Passage from Alaska to Canada
Most people are only lucky enough to cruise the Inside Passage once in their lifetime. Today is your second opportunity to see this beautiful landscape. Be sure to catch everything you missed the first time!

Day 15 - With Fond Memories – Depart Vancouver
Enjoy a lovely breakfast before disembarking in Vancouver. Much too soon, you leave the clean air and colorful sights of Canada and Alaska behind as your Canada train and Alaskan Cruise trip comes to an end.

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Accommodations

Fairmont Banff Springs

Deluxe

Styled after a Scottish Baronial Castle, The Fairmont Banff Springs is located in the heart of Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy one of the many activities that the hotel has to offer from tennis, horseback riding, a round of golf, skiing, relaxing at the the Willow Stream Spa (charge), or enjoying a great meal at one of 12 restaurants, lounges or pubs.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Standard, Superior and Deluxe

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is undoubtedly a beautiful and impressive hotel. Its amazing location overlooking beautiful Lake Louise and the distant mountains can not be compared. There are a variety of restaurant types, so you can do casual or fine dining as you choose. Strolling around the lake, renting a canoe, riding horses, or hiking up to the tea house are all great summer activities. In winter choose from snow shoeing, skating, skiing or taking a sleigh ride around the lake.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Deluxe

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is it's own Canadian wilderness resort. The property is made up of many buildings with different room types throughout the resort. Relax by the lake, or enjoy a round of golf on the beautiful Stanley Thompson Golf Course, or enjoy a game of ice hockey on the lodge's pond. Be sure to keep your eyes open for Elk as they walk past your building!

The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Deluxe

Nestled between the majestic coastal mountains and the tides of the Pacific Ocean lies the city of Vancouver, and the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Located within the hotel you will find a luxurious day spa, health club, award-winning restaurants and an array of designer shops in downtown Vancouver.

Options & Upgrades

Upgrade to GoldLeaf Service aboard the Rocky Mountaineer - Dome windows optimize your view of the great scenery, excellent food and an outdoor viewing platform allowing wonderful photographic opportunities make this option a must.
• Extend your stay in the Canadian Rockies to river raft the Kicking Horse River, explore the National Parks on foot or mountain bike, or sharpen up your shopping skills on Banff’s Main Street
• Add a trip to Victoria, British Columbia’s quaint capital city on Vancouver Island
• Experience an aerial view of the Mendenhall Glacier by helicopter or learn about Alaska’s wildlife on a whale-watching and wildlife tour both available as shore excursions from Juneau
• Survey Ketchikan’s rain forest canopy from a bird’s-eye perspective on a Canopy Adventure & Wildlife Expedition
• Reach White Pass summit aboard the 100 year old White pass & Yukon Route Railroad through some of Alaska’s most rugged and beautiful terrain

Dates & Prices

2010 Departure Dates

Starts Calgary (Westbound)
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11

Westbound -
Popular Hotels & Rocky Mountaineer RedLeaf Service

USD$
Double Single
May 1 2010 4,081 6,377
May 8 - May 15 2010 4,407 7,030
May 22 2010 4,519 7,244
May 29 2010 4,958 7,928
Jun 5 2010 5,234 8,468
Jun 12 - Jul 31 2010 5,407 8,805
Aug 7 2010 5,234 8,468
Aug 14 2010 5,234 8,254
Aug 21 - Aug 28 2010 4,938 7,907
Sep 4 2010 4,897 7,815
Sep 11 2010 4,560 7,172
Westbound -
Superior Hotels & Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service
USD$
Double Single
May 1 2010 5,540 8,366
May 8 - May 15 2010 5,866 8,999
May 22 2010 5,979 9,213
May 29 2010 6,479 10,030
Jun 5 2010 6,887 10,846
Jun 12 - Jul 31 2010 7,060 11,172
Aug 7 2010 6,887 10,846
Aug 14 2010 6,785 10,632
Aug 21 - Aug 28 2010 6,601 10,295
Sep 4 2010 6,560 10,203
Sep 11 2010 6,223 9,591
Westbound -
Deluxe Hotels & Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service
USD$
Double Single
May 1 2010 5,917 9,111
May 8 - May 15 2010 6,223 9,723
May 22 2010 6,326 9,938
May 29 2010 6,815 10,713
Jun 5 2010 7,244 11,581
Jun 12 - Jul 31 2010 7,428 11,897
Aug 7 2010 7,244 11,581
Aug 14 2010 7,142 11,366
Aug 21 - Aug 28 2010 6,968 11,019
Sep 4 2010 6,928 10,948
Sep 11 2010 6,632 10,356
Price Notes
• Prices are per person based
• All cabin types are outside cabins
• Upgrade to Goldleaf Service on Rocky Mountaineer - $880USD/CAD per person

Includes
• 7 nights hotel accommodation
• Rocky Mountaineer Rail Journey between Vancouver and Banff - Standard features Rocky Mountaineer Redleaf service, Superior and Deluxe feature Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service
• 7 nights Glacier Bay Inside Passage Cruise aboard Holland America, Verandah Stateroom
• Exclusive Attractions Pass
• Calgary to Banff guided sightseeing Tour, including Gondola Ride
• Lake Louise to Banff Tour, including visit to Yoho National Park
• Summit Helicopter Tour
• Guided walk around Lake Louise from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
• Tour along the famous Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper, including Ice Explorer
• Jasper Tour
• Rail station transfers in Vancouver, Kamloops and Jasper
• Taxi transfer to cruise terminal
• National Park Pass and luggage handling
• 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners

Not Included
• Meals, other than specified
• Port charges and taxes (approximately $250 per guest)
• Airport transfers & other transfers unless otherwise stated
• Onboard ship gratuity charge (USD $10 per person per day plus 15% on alcoholic beverages)
• Gratuities for rail, hotel & transfer staff
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• HST

HAVE A CHAT  

From UK toll-free: 0-800-917-5924
From Australia toll-free: 1-800-992-872
Other countries: (int.l prefix +) 1-604-737-8743

Your vacation is important and to make the most of it, we strongly advise talking to a local expert first.