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Rocky Mountaineer & Alaska Cruise

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15 days From $6,795 $6,295 per person
4.4 stars(7 reviews)
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Soak up Canada and Alaska’s breathtaking sights on one bucket list adventure, from the iconic Rocky Mountaineer to a stunning seven-night cruise along Alaska's wild coastline

Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager

Mobility Rating 2

2026 Tour code: RPO26

About the tour

A spectacular discovery of natural wonders awaits on this exploration by land and sea.

From the mountain town of Banff in the Canadian Rockies, we marvel at the spellbinding beauty of Lake Louise before boarding the iconic Rocky Mountaineer. This fantastic rail journey transports us to Vancouver, where we set sail on an unforgettable cruise.

Admire the dramatic landscapes of Icy Strait Point, visit the former Gold Rush towns of Juneau and uncover Ketchikan's indigenous history.

Unforgettable Experiences

Gaze at amazing scenery on the renowned Rocky Mountaineer
Gaze at amazing scenery on the renowned Rocky Mountaineer
From the magnificent landscapes of Banff to coastal Vancouver, enjoy two stunning daytime trips on this iconic train’s ‘First Passage to the West’ route, admiring the panoramic views from unique, glass-domed carriages.
Set sail for a seven-night Alaska cruise
Set sail for a seven-night Alaska cruise
Unwind on an amazing cruise along the Inside Passage, appreciating captivating views of ethereal Icy Strait Point, as well as visiting the historic towns of Juneau and Ketchikan.
Marvel at the turquoise water of iconic Lake Louise
Marvel at the turquoise water of iconic Lake Louise
Enjoy a coach excursion of this famous glacial lake, framed by magical snow-capped mountains – one of the most photographed locations in Canada – with free time to bask in its impressive majesty.
Discover beautiful Banff
Discover beautiful Banff
Explore this picturesque town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, known for its mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and an abundance of wildlife like elk, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, deer, and wolves.
Embark on a sightseeing tour of Vancouver
Embark on a sightseeing tour of Vancouver
Discover this coastal city in British Columbia on a guided tour, visiting the historic area of Gastown, the streets and squares of Chinatown and the fascinating totem poles in Stanley Park.

What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - To Calgary on the edge of the Rockies

Your Canadian and Alaskan adventure begins as you make your way independently to Calgary. Checking in to our hotel, there's time at leisure before you meet the Tour Manager and rest of the group this evening.

Calgary has a modern skyline but is steeped in the western culture that earned it the nickname 'Cowtown.' Heading out for dinner independently you'll find a diverse choice of cuisine, from upscale steakhouses to stylish cafés.

Day 2 - The Trans-Canada Highway into the Rocky Mountains

Today we travel along the Trans-Canada Highway by motorcoach. We pass through Native American reservations, before the imposing foothills of the Rocky Mountains gather round the route. Our destination is Banff, a quintessential Rockies town nestled beneath the imposing Cascade Mountain. We check into our hotel in mid-afternoon and the rest of the day is free to spend as you wish.

As one of the main tourist destinations in the Canadian Rockies, there are many things to do in Banff, with many shops and restaurants in its walkable center. Dining independently this evening, you could pop into one of the attractive eateries.

Day 3 - Banff National Park and Lake Louise

Our day begins with a journey on the Banff Gondola up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain to enjoy views across beautiful Banff.

We then take a coach excursion to astonishing Lake Louise. This turquoise glacial lake is framed by towering snow-capped mountains often reflected in the serene waters. As one of the most photographed sights in the Canadian Rockies, this remarkable view has become intrinsically linked with the region but is equally impressive in person. There is time to soak up this glacier-fed lake and its spellbinding backdrop before spending free time over lunch in Lake Louise village.

We continue to the vivid Emerald Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Yoho National Park - stopping enroute at Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint. On returning to our hotel, we meet a retired member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in uniform, affectionately known as a 'Mountie', who talks about their time in service, before we dine independently.

Day 4 - Free day to explore Banff at leisure

With a day at leisure, you can explore the mountain resort town of Banff at your own pace.

Founded in 1883 near a planned railway tunnel, Banff is surrounded by wonderful wilderness and spectacular scenery. As Canada's premier year-round destination, there are various excursions available from here (payable locally), including guided visits to Lake Minnewanka - a glistening turquoise lake, known by the First Nations people as the 'Lake of the Spirits' - and the wide, low, but powerful Bow Falls.

Banff itself attracts many tourists, for shopping as well as nature and, with its creative community, has an alternative side to it. You may prefer to stay local and soak up the charms of the Main Street, a row of half-timbered independent shops and a variety of restaurants. This town is renowned as one of Canada's foodie capitals with its 'mountain-to-table' movement and wild game dishes. Enjoy innovative local cuisine in a cozy and stylish eatery of your choice as we dine independently.

Day 5 - The Rocky Mountaineer to Kamloops

Boarding the Rocky Mountaineer early this morning, we begin the first of our superb daylight journeys through some of Canada's most jaw-dropping scenery. Our trip to Kamloops is on the Rocky Mountaineer's 'First Passage to the West' route, aptly named as it was the first track to connect Vancouver with the rest of Canada. Traveling in SilverLeaf Class, in unique, glass-domed cars with breakfast and lunch included at our seats, we marvel at panoramic views of Canada's spectacular scenery unfolding in front of us on this relaxed journey.

Leaving Banff, we pass Castle Mountain, then climb into the Kicking Horse Pass, an important route that was key to the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway, before traveling through the Spiral Tunnels. Crossing the Continental Divide, the train moves into British Columbia. This point marks the division between rivers flowing into the Pacific Ocean and those that flow eastward to the Atlantic.

This evening, we arrive in Kamloops for a night at a local hotel. After checking in, there is time to explore and dine independently.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6 - The Rocky Mountaineer to the Pacific coast

Our wonderful Rocky Mountaineer experience continues this morning on another dramatic stretch of the line through varied landscapes. Enjoying breakfast and lunch on board, we journey along the impressive Thompson and Fraser Canyons, past the rushing waters of Hell's Gate, as we keep our eyes open for native Canadian wildlife.

From the rugged Rockies and dense forests, through arid, desert landscapes and into the Fraser Valley's fertile fields, the scenery is as dazzling as it is varied. From the Cascade Mountains, the route begins its descent towards the lush rainforests of the Pacific coast, before we arrive in Vancouver for a two-night stay. The city is considered one of the world's most desirable places to live, thanks to its incredible setting. Blending the vibrancy and culture of a cosmopolitan city with spectacular scenery, Vancouver quietly impresses its many visitors.

Our hotel is a short distance from both Downtown and the harbor. After check in there is a free evening to try some of Western Canada's cuisine, like seafood.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7 - Exploring the sights of Vancouver

We get to know the city this morning as a local guide joins us on a sightseeing tour of Vancouver's most characterful districts.

As Vancouver's original Downtown, the area known as Gastown is the city's most historic area. Redbrick Victorian buildings dot the tree-lined streets surrounding pretty Maple Tree Square. Many coffee shops, art galleries, upmarket fashion boutiques, and the famous Gastown Steam Clock can be found in this area named after talkative Hull-born sailor and barman 'Gassy' Jack Deighton. Crossing East Hastings Street, we arrive in Canada's largest Chinatown, where we take in the sights and sounds of the streets and squares. From here, we venture to Stanley Park, a green oasis with magnificent scenes of water, to view colorful totem poles that celebrate the region's Native American history.

The rest of the day is free to explore independently. You could travel to Granville Island to sample its food markets or view the boutique shops and cafés. This evening, you have the opportunity to enjoy Vancouver's restaurants at leisure.

Day 8 - Setting sail for our Alaskan cruise

After a relaxing morning, we are transferred to Vancouver's port to board the Celebrity Solstice for a spectacular seven-night cruise through the Inside Passage to Alaska.

Our vessel is elegant and comfortable, featuring stylish accommodations, and is equipped with a relaxing spa and a variety of restaurants. After settling into our cabins, we wave farewell to the Canadian mainland as we head into the Strait of Georgia, surrounded by verdant islands as we head north towards Alaska.

All food is included on our cruise, and this evening we sit down for our first meal on board the ship - admiring the beautiful views of Vancouver Island and the coastline of British Columbia on our way to the Inside Passage. Historically an important sea route for prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, it has since become one of the most popular and striking cruising routes in the world.

Includes
  • Dinner
Day 9 - Cruising the Inside Passage to Alaska

Awaking this morning in the extraordinary landscapes provided by the Inside Passage, we cruise onwards towards Alaska. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner on board today as we wind through this UNESCO-protected network of waterways, following in the slipstream of adventurers and prospectors.

Passing stunning fjords and deep inlets along the wild and rugged coastlines of British Columbia and southeast Alaska, this is an area of pristine waters, snow-capped mountains and glacial waters. This region was first charted by English-born sailor Captain George Vancouver between 1791 and 1795, for whom our port of departure was named. Vancouver, who sailed with James Cook's second voyage, was well thought of by indigenous peoples. His maps of the Inside Passage were so detailed and accurate that they were used by many future generations.

As well as its history and beautiful scenery, this is also renowned as a haven for marine animals - and we may be lucky enough to spot wildlife from the deck of our ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 - Icy Strait Point

Sailing into the breathtaking Icy Strait Point near the native Tlingit village of Hoonah, we admire stunning views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear waters. As we glide along, keep your eyes peeled to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and bald eagles.

You could also choose one of the optional shore excursions (booking in advance is advised). Ascending the Sky Peak Gondola to the summit of White Alice Mountain provides excellent views across Glacier Bay, before a walk through the Tongass National Forest reveals the unspoiled Alaskan wilderness. Alternatively, you might wish to join trips searching for the area's iconic wildlife such as whales and brown bears.

On board, you could relax by the outdoor pool or peaceful lawn, or drink in our beautiful surroundings at the on-board Sunset Bar. Dinner is served on board this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 - Skagway or the Hubbard Glacier

Depending on your departure date, today you will either visit Skagway or experience the Hubbard Glacier.

Once the lawless hub of the Klondike Gold Rush, Skagway served as the entry point for the gold fields and people rushed here in the hope of making it rich. This frontier town quickly turned into Alaska's largest settlement, full of saloons and traders and while peaceful now, the town retains its authenticity as its buildings have been authentically preserved.

The Hubbard Glacier is located about 30 miles north off the coast of Yakutat and is one of Alaska's most exciting natural treasures. As we cruise, you can experience the wilds of Alaska as our ship makes its way through icy waters. Turning from Yakutat Bay into the narrow Disenchantment Bay, we come face-to-face with the towering Hubbard Glacier.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 - Free time in Juneau

Today, we cruise to the Alaskan state capital, Juneau. Completely inaccessible by road, this former gold rush city is set against a backdrop of mountains, and you have a free afternoon here to explore its picturesque waterfront area and charming frontier-era streets.

Alternatively, select from today's range of optional excursions (booking in advance is advised). Join a professional naturalist on a stroll around the Mendenhall Glacier recreational area, seeking views of whales. Visit the Alaska State Museum to gain a greater insight into the cultures who have shaped this beautiful land. Enjoy an exclusive experience on a smaller-sized whale-watching vessel to get closer to Alaska's wild beauty. Or discover the Mendenhall Glacier by bike, followed by a tasting of award-winning beers from the state's microbreweries.

Whatever you choose to do in and around this fascinating city, dinner is served back on board this evening.

Please note: on some departures, shore excursions may vary.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13 - Ketchikan – Alaska’s ‘First City’

Clinging to the forested banks of the Tongass Narrows, Ketchikan is known as the 'First City' of Alaska as it was the first main settlement most visitors reached on their way north.

We dock here, where you have the rest of the day to explore. Apart from being the Salmon Capital of the World, Native Alaskan culture and art flourishes here and, with the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, this may be one of the best spots on our cruise to see these intricately carved cultural artifacts. The Totem Heritage Center is easy to reach and an interesting place to visit, with its large display of poles, retrieved from abandoned villages.

A little further north, you'll find Totem Bight State Park, which has another collection of famous poles, and a native community house. The town itself has a museum, souvenir shops and local art - and there are plenty of dining options to sample the town's celebrated salmon.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14 - Return to Vancouver

On the last full day onboard this fabulous Alaskan cruise, we set sail back to Vancouver today, passing through the legendary Inside Passage. Relax onboard as we glide through a maze of isolated islands blanketed in dense rainforests. Although appearing remote and inhospitable, these lands have been the home of many indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Tlingit.

Vancouver Island is one of Canada's largest islands. It shelters the Johnstone Strait and Strait of Georgia from the wild Pacific and guides us towards our destination. This evening, we have our final dinner onboard our ship as we sail ever closer to Vancouver.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15 - Homeward bound

By road, rail and sea, we have traversed the breathtaking Rocky Mountains and sailed the Inside Passage to witness many jaw-dropping natural wonders. Exploring Banff and Vancouver revealed Canadian culture while a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer showcased incredible landscapes. Our cruise through Alaska's glacial bays, fjords and old Gold Rush towns was a perfect ending to our adventure.

After breakfast, we leave our cruise ship and disembark in Vancouver, where you are free to make your way home or continue exploring on your own.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Pricing Plans

SilverLeaf Service
We travel on the Rocky Mountaineer in SilverLeaf Service. The single-level dome car boasts over-sized windows which provide magnificent panoramic views. Meals are expertly prepared by award-winning chefs and served at your comfortable seat, with a hot breakfast, and gourmet lunch options with complimentary local wine or beer. Complimentary beverages and a range of snacks are also included through the journey.

GoldLeaf Service Upgrade
For unrivalled views of the Canadian landscape, upgrade to the premium GoldLeaf Service and travel in ultimate style, in a custom-designed bi-level dome car. The GoldLeaf car boasts unparalleled views of the towering Canadian Rockies, as well as spacious, reclining seats. GoldLeaf passengers have access to covered open-air vestibules, perfect for reflection-free photography, as well as the separate GoldLeaf dining room where an impeccable à la carte menu is served. Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and gourmet snacks are available throughout the journey.

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours, they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. Please reference our Mobility Ratings Information, and if you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-929-7245.

Hotels

Elk and Avenue, Banff

Elk and Avenue, Banff

View hotel

Caribou Lodge, Banff

Caribou Lodge, Banff

View hotel

Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel

View hotel

Train

Rocky Mountaineer

Ship

Celebrity Solstice

Enhance your holiday

Upgrades

Upgrades to GoldLeaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer
Upgrades to outside cabins or a Vista Suite on the MS Zaandam

Reviews

4.4 stars4.4 / 5 · 7 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (4)
  2. 4 stars
    (2)
  3. 3 stars
    (1)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (0)

BARKIN/NEIL JAY

5 stars

Submitted 28 Sep 2024

Great combination of land and sea touring

Collected by Trustpilot

Joseph Cormier

5 stars

Submitted 28 May 2024

It was a once in a lifetime experience

Collected by Trustpilot

X Vacations By Rail GRJ

5 stars

Submitted 17 Oct 2022

We have recommended this to all of our friends. Nothing but great things to say about the entire trip.

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Craig Keogh

5 stars

Submitted 17 Oct 2022

The combination of the Rocky Mountaineer train journey and the Alaskan cruise fulfilled a longtime dream for my wife's retirement trip. The experience was exceptional.

Collected by Trustpilot

ROZEMA, PATRICIA LOU

4 stars

Submitted 10 Oct 2023

Finally get to cross this adventure off my bucket list!

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ROZEMA, PATRICIA LOU

4 stars

Submitted 06 Oct 2023

A definite bucket list trip!

Collected by Trustpilot

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