Canadian Rockies and Alaska's Inside Passage featuring Rocky Mountaineer and a 7-night Alaska Cruise
Canadian Rockies and Alaska's Inside Passage featuring Rocky Mountaineer and a 7-night Alaska Cruise
15 Days Starting in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and ending in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Visiting: Calgary, Alberta, Lake Louise, Banff, Kamloops, Vancouver, Inside Passage, Juneau, Alaska, Skagway, Glacier Bay, Alaska, Ketchikan
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16425
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 44
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies and Alaska's Inside Passage, featuring the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train and a 7-night cruise with Holland America. Begin your adventure in Calgary, exploring the cowboy spirit of Western Canada, before heading to the stunning Lake Louise and Banff. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes along the Icefields Parkway and enjoy a traditional Albertan barbecue. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Rockies aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, with its panoramic views and elegant dining. In Vancouver, ascend Grouse Mountain for breakfast with a view, then set sail on a cruise through Alaska's majestic Inside Passage. Discover the rich history of Skagway, the vibrant culture of Ketchikan, and the serene beauty of Glacier Bay. This tour offers a perfect blend of scenic wonders, cultural experiences, and luxurious relaxation, promising memories to last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Location: Calgary, Alberta
Accommodation Name: Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel
Get ready for an adventure that brings together the soaring majesty of the Canadian Rockies, the emerald-green forests of British Columbia, and the grandeur of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Arrive today in the province of Alberta.
Day 2 : Calgary - Lake Louise
Location: Lake Louise
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Discover the cowboy spirit of Western Canada with a stop at a local ranch for a line dancing lesson and a wagon ride in search of buffalo. With soaring peaks serving as your backdrop, sit down for a traditional Albertan barbecue lunch. Arrive this afternoon in the picturesque village of Lake Louise and settle into the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a stunning property nestled on the banks of the lake. This evening, dine at one of the great restaurants at Fairmont Chateau.
Day 3 : Lake Louise - Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation Name: The Rimrock Resort Hotel
Enjoy a leisurely morning and admire the tranquil turquoise waters of the lake. Set off for a scenic drive through Banff featuring powerful Bow Falls and Surprise Corner, known for its picture-perfect panoramic views. Next, meet a local ammolite specialist to learn about this rare gemstone, found only in Alberta. During an afternoon at leisure, perhaps you’ll take a stroll through Banff’s charming downtown.
Day 4 : Banff - Icefields Parkway - Banff
Location: Banff
A wonderful day of sightseeing awaits as you set out along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway. Marvel at impressive waterfalls, rushing rivers, glacial peaks, imposing cliffs, and snowcapped mountain ranges. Stop at the Athabasca Glacier, where it’s your choice! Take a fun ride* across this 1,000-foot-thick mass of glacial ice, the largest accumulation of ice south of the Arctic Circle -OR- take a walk on the Columbia Icefield Skywalk to experience breathtaking views of the Sunwapta Valley and take in the dramatic landscape from the glass-floored platform. We’ll also make a stop at Peyto Lake on our return to Banff.
Day 5 : Banff - Rocky Mountaineer - Kamloops, British Columbia
Location: Kamloops
Accommodation Name: Kamloops* hotel
Onboard Rocky Mountaineer, embark on an awe-inspiring rail journey through some of the world’s most majestic scenery. Beyond your sparkling glass window, history comes alive as you travel the legendary rail route that united Canada as a nation, through the century-old Spiral Tunnels, and along the powerful Kicking Horse River. Traverse the Continental Divide and keep an eye out for moose, elk, and bighorn sheep – not to mention osprey, soaring eagles, and even the occasional bear. Arrive this evening in the city of Kamloops for your overnight stay.**
Day 6 : Kamloops - Rocky Mountaineer - Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Continue west this morning through river canyons and snowcapped mountains. Inside your single-level dome coach, gaze out at the stunning panorama of the mighty Fraser River and the raging white waters of Hell’s Gate. Watch the landscape transform again as you enjoy views of the coastal deep-green forests and the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains. After another beautiful day onboard Rocky Mountaineer, arrive in the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver.
Day 7 : Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, ascend Grouse Mountain on an enclosed gondola and enjoy views in every direction while you enjoy breakfast on the peak of Vancouver. Then, join a ranger to meet two grizzly bears that were rescued in 2001. Later, begin your Vancouver sightseeing tour at Stanley Park, Canada’s renowned urban rainforest. Follow the park’s famous seawall and discover views of the mountains along trails, beaches, historical landmarks, and colorful gardens. Make your way to picturesque Granville Island Public Market and stroll past stalls of handmade crafts and artisan food producers. Tonight, toast the end of the Canadian part of your journey at a local restaurant.
Day 8 : Vancouver - Board Cruise Ship
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Holland America Cruises' <i>Zaandam</i> or <i>Koningsdam</i>
Enjoy a free morning in Vancouver before heading to the port to embark on your Holland America cruise of Alaska’s Inside Passage.
Day 9 : Cruising - Inside Passage Northbound
Location: Inside Passage
A wonderful day of sightseeing awaits as your ship sails along the amazing Inside Passage, an extensive coastal route known for its natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Day 10 : Cruising - Tracy Arm Inlet - Juneau, Alaska
Location: Juneau, Alaska
This morning, discover the Tracy Arm Inlet, a fjord flanked by steep cliffs and glacier-covered mountains. This afternoon, arrive in beautiful Juneau, the most remote U.S. state capital, surrounded by water, forests, and mountains.
Day 11 : Cruising - Skagway
Location: Skagway
Relive Alaska's Gold Rush days in the “Gateway to the Klondike” and home of the famed Chilkoot Trail. In historic Skagway, Alaska’s past lives on in a spectacular natural setting and cries of “gold in the Yukon!” can still be heard.
Day 12 : Cruising - Glacier Bay
Location: Glacier Bay, Alaska
Cruise through Glacier Bay, a spectacular national park and preserve that’s a treasure trove of tidewater glaciers and scenic coastal islands. Its rich world of marine life and glaciers is Alaska at its best.
Day 13 : Cruising - Ketchikan
Location: Ketchikan
Your port of call today is Ketchikan, known as the “salmon capital of the world” and the “city of totems.” Located on tranquil Revillagigedo Island, Ketchikan is home to the world’s largest collection of totem poles.
Day 14 : Cruising - Inside Passage Southbound
Location: Inside Passage
Arguably one of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orcas plying the water alongside the ship, bald eagles soaring overhead, and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline.
Day 15 : Vancouver, B.C. - Disembark Cruise - Tour Ends
Location: Vancouver
Your cruise ends this morning back in the vibrant city of Vancouver, leaving you with many wonderful memories of your tour through one of the last great frontiers.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel, the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and The Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff. Experience the comfort of Kamloops hotel and Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, and enjoy a luxurious 7-night cruise aboard Holland America's Zaandam or Koningsdam.
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Transportation
Travel through the stunning landscapes of Canada and Alaska by train on the Rocky Mountaineer and enjoy a 7-night cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. Experience scenic drives and local excursions, with transportation included for optional activities.
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Meals
Enjoy a traditional Albertan barbecue, savor elegant meals, as well as unlimited drinks, aboard Rocky Mountaineer, and indulge in fresh local seafood and classic French dishes on your Alaskan cruise.
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Activities
Explore the Totem Heritage Center in Ketchikan, relive Alaska's Gold Rush days in historic Skagway, and ascend Grouse Mountain in Vancouver for breakfast with panoramic views.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as the Jet Boat Whale Watching in Juneau, Skagway Tour and Summit Overlook, and Misty Fjords Flightseeing in Ketchikan are not included and require additional payment.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and other personal purchases are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
Experiences
- In Ketchikan, explore the Totem Heritage Center and learn about the First Nations of Alaska.
- Enjoy a welcome lunch at Calgary’s iconic Boundary Ranch.
- Relive Alaska’s Gold Rush days in historic Skagway.
Options
Juneau, AK: Jet Boat Whale Watching Climb aboard your jet boat – a marine mammal-friendly mode of transportation – and set sail for an incredible experience! Discover the Alaskan wildlife during an expedition that takes you up close to the whales, porpoises, sea lions, seals, eagles and other wildlife abundant in this area. Marvel at the sounds of nature and the sea – your tranquil soundtrack while a local expert narrates. Duration approximately 3 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 2 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
While in Juneau, only one option may be selected. Due to the nature of this option, once purchased it will be non-refundable.
Individuals must have the ability to board the vessel. There is a short walk from the ship to the vessel.
Skagway, AK: Skagway Tour and Summit Overlook This is the ideal tour for the traveler seeking a short, but in-depth look at Skagway’s natural and historical wonders. This tour showcases the best of everything that has made Skagway famous and parallels much of the train route to the White Pass Summit and beyond. Historical highlights include Brackett’s Toll Road, Dead Horse Gulch, and spectacular views of the White Pass Rail. Also included is a visit to the Gold Rush Cemetery where the legendary Soapy Smith was laid to rest. There will be plenty of photo opportunities, so be sure to bring along your camera. Duration approximately 2.5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 2 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
A passport is required.
Ketchikan, AK: Misty Fjords Flightseeing Experience the magnificent beauty of Misty Fjord National Monument, a 2.1 million-acre park covered by glaciers ages ago. Your pilot will narrate as you soar over majestic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and jewel-like lakes to discover some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery. Sheer walls of granite rise over 3,000 feet comprising a truly awe-inspiring sight. Experience the tranquility of the Alaskan wilderness in a truly remote setting. Just don’t forget your camera for this amazing experience! Duration approximately 2 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 1 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
This option is non-refundable if cancelled within 14 days prior to tour.
Actual flight time is approximately 65 minutes. Total time from ship and back is 90 minutes.
Passengers weighing over 260 pounds will be charged $450 for this option. All passengers are required to provide their weight at time of booking.
Culinaries
- Enjoy a traditional Albertan barbecue.
- Savor elegant meals, as well as unlimited drinks, aboard Rocky Mountaineer.
- Indulge in fresh local seafood and classic French dishes on your Alaskan cruise.
- Enjoy breakfast atop Grouse Mountain – the Peak of Vancouver!
Must See
- Travel by train and journey alongside Kicking Horse River while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
- Relax onboard a 7-night Holland America cruise – your fabulous floating resort.
- Take in picture-perfect snowcapped mountains as you explore the Icefields Parkway.
Choice Highlights
Boundary Ranch
Lake Louise Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies' Banff National Park, Lake Louise is a pristine alpine lake whose robin-egg-blue glacial waters and renowned Chateau-Style hotel have made it a Canadian travel icon. Mount Victoria and its twin glaciers are perfectly framed by the surrounding peaks and reflected in the lake's serene waters. Sunrise slowly waking up the montage is pure magic!
Banff A small mountain town nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff is the second highest elevation community in Alberta, with a population just over 7500. As part of the Canadian Rockies UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff provides visitors with activities such as hot springs, gondola rides to the mountain tops and wildlife sightings in abundance.
Ice Explorer Glacier Tour or Columbia Icefield Skywalk In the Icefields area, you have the choice between two activities. First, you may choose to ride onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier by Ice Explorer; a massive vehicle specially designed for glacial travel. An experienced driver-guide shares a wealth of fascinating information about glaciers, icefields and their impact on our environment. Your other option is to walk beyond nature's edge and enjoy the view from a fully-accessible, cliff-edge walkway that leads to a glass-floored observation platform 918 feet (280 metres) above the Sunwapta Valley.
Ice Explorer Glacier Tour
Activity Level: 1
Travellers should be able to get on and off a coach and walk around on a Glacier.
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Activity Level: 1
Travellers should be able to get on and off a coach and walk around for a 45 minute self-guided tour.
Peyto Lake
Rocky Mountaineer Take a ride on the Rocky Mountaineer train! This train company is a family owned business based in British Columbia. With 41 cars, the train set the Canadian record for the longest passenger train in 1999. Admire the sights around you as you journey through the awe-admiring scenery. You’ll have two days to relax as you’re transported through stunning nature, including the lush farmlands of the Fraser Valley. You’ll also view the Coast Mountains, which extends along the entire British Columbia Coast.
Kamloops, BC Spend a night in the city of Kamloops! This city is known for its cultural art, such as pole carvings and murals. Founded with a rich history, the first residents of Kamloops started as nomadic. Over time, the city became a hotspot for trading routes as it was situated along Thompson’s River. Trading eventually turned to ranching, which is still a part of the community today. Home to countless parks, the wildlife of Kamloops is certainly abundant.
Grouse Mountain
Stanley Park Take a sightseeing tour at beautiful Stanley Park in Vancouver to see Canada’s renowned urban rainforest. Follow the park’s famous seawall for views of the mountains, beaches, historical landmarks, and colorful gardens.
Vancouver Located on the west coast of Canada is Vancouver, a city of just over 600,000. Comprised of various neighborhoods and areas such as Stanley Park, Chinatown, Gastown and Granville Island, Vancouver was a perfect choice for the 2010 Winter Olympics. Originally named Gastown after one of the lumber proprieters, Vancouver today is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Canada and a popular destination for cruise and rail travelers.
7-Night Holland America Alaska Inside Passage Cruise
Mode of Transport
Travel through the stunning landscapes of Canada and Alaska by train on the Rocky Mountaineer and enjoy a 7-night cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. Experience scenic drives and local excursions, with transportation included for optional activities.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences can I expect during the tour in Ketchikan?
In Ketchikan, you can explore the Totem Heritage Center and learn about the First Nations of Alaska. The city is known as the 'salmon capital of the world' and the 'city of totems,' and is home to the world's largest collection of totem poles.
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What activities are available in Banff during the tour?
In Banff, you can enjoy a scenic drive featuring Bow Falls and Surprise Corner, known for its panoramic views. You will also have the opportunity to meet a local ammolite specialist to learn about this rare gemstone found only in Alberta.
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What can I expect from the Rocky Mountaineer train journey?
The Rocky Mountaineer train journey offers an awe-inspiring rail experience through some of the world's most majestic scenery. You will travel through the legendary rail route that united Canada, passing through the Spiral Tunnels and along the Kicking Horse River, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose, elk, and bighorn sheep.
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What is the highlight of the Icefields Parkway tour?
The highlight of the Icefields Parkway tour is the visit to the Athabasca Glacier, where you can choose between taking a ride across the glacier or walking on the Columbia Icefield Skywalk for breathtaking views of the Sunwapta Valley.
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What wildlife might I see during the Inside Passage cruise?
During the Inside Passage cruise, you may spot iconic Alaskan wildlife such as humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, and brown bears along the shoreline.
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What culinary experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a traditional Albertan barbecue, elegant meals with unlimited drinks aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, fresh local seafood and classic French dishes on the Alaskan cruise, and breakfast atop Grouse Mountain in Vancouver.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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