California Zephyr & Alaska Cruise

Welcome to the Second City! Make your way to Chicago's historic Union Station for your mid afternoon departure aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr. Settle into your onboard accommodations, and prepare for your journey West! Overnight train.

• Dinner

This morning you'll wake up to find yourself passing through the majestic Rocky Mountains. Spend the day watching the scenery roll by from your window, or enjoy the view while mingling with other guests in the Sightseer Lounge. Overnight train.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You are scheduled to arrive at 5:00 pm this evening in San Francisco, a city unlike any other. From pioneers to hippies to Silicon Valley, this forward-thinking city has always had a free, curious, and innovative spirit. This evening, dine in Chinatown, stroll along Fisherman's Wharf, and get acquainted with this remarkable city. Overnight San Francisco.

Start your day with a trip to prison; the nation's first maximum-security penitentiary military prison, that is - Alcatraz. Previously having housed such A-list criminals as Al "Scarface" Capone, George "Machine Gun" Kelly, and hot-headed "Bumpy" Johnson, Alcatraz was once considered one of the most dangerous and inescapable prisons in the nation. But never fear! No criminals currently reside there at this time. Alcatraz is now a beloved attraction and National Park with a scenic ferry ride transporting you to and from Pier 33 in Fisherman's Wharf. Thrills and chills guaranteed!

As part of this package, conclude your day back on the mainland with a grand tour of the city, one of the most soulful cities on the West Coast. Your tour will commence with a drive along the famous waterfront, with views of the San Francisco Bay and Alcatraz Island. Notable photo opportunities include: the Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Twin Peaks (weather permitting), China Town, Palace of the Fine Arts, and Presidio National Park, just to name a few. Overnight San Francisco.

Spend the morning taking a stroll along San Francisco's winding streets or riding a cable car over its hills. This afternoon, you'll board the Star Princess cruise ship. This magnificent ship will be your home for the next ten nights, so take this evening to settle into your accommodations and prepare for your Alaskan adventure. Overnight ship.

• Dinner

Spend your time at sea taking in spectacular ocean views, mingle in the Italian-style Piazza, read in the library, learn something new in a Discovery at Sea® enrichment class, or unwind in the Lotus Spa Pool. This is your time to kick back and relax. Overnight ship.

• Day 6 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Day 7 - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Immersed in gorgeous coastal scenery, rooted in commercial fishing, and brimming with activities, Ketchikan is the quintessential Alaskan city. Stroll along Creek Street's antique boardwalk, admire totem poles, and watch as salmon swim up Ketchikan Creek! Overnight ship.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The onion domes of St. Michael's Cathedral are a clue to Sitka's past as a Russian settlement - the colonial headquarters of Count Baranof, no less. Discover the echoes of its bustling past at a performance by the New Archangel Dancers. Meet Tlingit natives and stand on the spot where the United States took possession of Alaska in 1867 for $7.2 million. Take a stroll through the Sitka National Historical Park, shop the downtown district, and visit the Sheldon Jackson Museum for a firsthand look at some of the city's most prized art, crafts, and Russian relics. Overnight ship.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arrive today in Alaska's capital city, Juneau. Points of interest here include the Alaska State Museum, where you can learn about the state's fascinating history, and the Alaskan Brewing Company, whose tasting room features complimentary samples of limited edition and rough draft beers. If you have time, zip over the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier. Overnight ship.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This narrow fjord is located approximately 50 miles southeast of Juneau and is part of the Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness area. Breathtaking Endicott Arm extends over 30 miles long, with nearly one-fifth of its area covered in ice. As you glide through the pristine fjord, you'll first pass by a lush forest where a number of beautiful waterfalls cascade down, and then you'll be treated to views of snowcapped mountains and blue-tinged glaciers more spectacular than you could ever imagine.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, sail along the breathtaking western coast of Canada. Take time to appreciate the views and make some time for yourself at the spa or a yoga class. Overnight ship.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Victoria puts the "British" in British Columbia. Situated on beautiful Vancouver Island and full of charming streets, Victorian facades, and miles of bike paths, Victoria offers countless ways to spend your day. Walk through the Buchtart Gardens, visit the Royal BC Museum, and stop for a photo op at the harbor. Overnight ship.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy your last day sailing through the beautiful Pacific Northwest! Make the most of the ship's amenities, including the various restaurants and dining rooms. Overnight ship.

• Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your tour comes to an end this morning in San Francisco. Disembark the Star Princess and head to the airport for your flight home*.

*You may choose to extend your vacation by taking the California Zephyr back to Chicago.