from pp Twin Share
16 Day Incredible Canada & Alaska
A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
A land of rugged hills, rushing waters and undisturbed wildlife, Alaska is as big as it is wild. Whether you're watching whales splash in the Pacific Ocean, gazing up at towering ice formations like the Hubbard Glacier or journeying by train deep into the last frontier on Anchorage's Coastal Classic Railroad, Alaska is sure to quench any explorer's thirst.
This tour is categorised as 1 out of 5
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. Options include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ Limited Time Offer - Add return international airfares for only $2,499
✓ Incredible sightseeing including Banff National Parks snow-capped peaks, sparkling glaciers and emerald green lakes, explore Vancouver and Calgary's cosmopolitan heartbeat, and traverse the stunning Sea to Sky Highway between Whistler and Vancouver
✓ 8 nights accommodation in central 3 star accommodation
✓ 7 nights cruising the Inside Passage and Alaska with Royal Caribbean including gratuities
✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
✓ English speaking Tour Director on Day 1 to 7
✓ Dedicated transportation as outlined in the itinerary
✓ All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Arrive at Calgary’s International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. After an individual check-in, the remainder of the day is free to explore the streets of this dynamic city, famous for its annual Stampede. The tour director will contact you in the late afternoon.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
This morning we set out to meet fellow travellers at breakfast before we tour the sights of Calgary. We admire such modern and historic landmarks as the Calgary Tower, Fort Calgary and the skyscrapers of the commercial district. Leaving Calgary behind we set our sights on the Rocky Mountains, which can already be seen, far off in the distance. Experience the majesty of the mountains as we first travel through the foothills and then enter Banff National Park. We tour the region around Banff amidst snow -capped peaks, sparkling glaciers and emerald green lakes and see landmark Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls and Tunnel Mountain.
The entire day is at leisure to tour Banff area and browse through the many boutiques and specialty shops along Banff Avenue.
Alternatively, you may wish to travel along the Icefields Parkway to the Columbia Icefield (additional expense). From the unsurpassed beauty of Lake Louise we enter rugged wilderness as we travel up the world famous Icefields Parkway. At the spectacular Columbia Icefield we board a Ice Explorer that will take us onto the surface of the ancient Athabasca Glacier. We return late in the afternoon.
Our drive today is on the famed Trans -Canada Highway, following a route charted by the railroad engineers and fur traders of the mid 1800s. We continue our tour of the Canadian parks system as we cross the jagged Kicking Horse Pass into British Columbia’s Yoho National Park. From the highway, we are treated to a dazzling display of vast icefields, deep canyons, dense forests and glacier -fed streams. One awe -inspiring landscape follows another en route to Glacier National Park. We continue through the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges to the rugged interior town of Kamloops.
We can expect a day of dramatic scenery changes when we drive through the ranch lands and head for the coastal mountains. An optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over Garibaldi Park gives you an inspiring view of a natural preserve of volcanic peaks, alpine lakes and meadows. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
We drive south along the spectacular Sea -to -Sky Highway through a dramatic landscape of jagged fjords and glaciated mountain peaks. We leave the countryside behind and explore the metropolis of Vancouver on a sightseeing tour. Highlights include Stanley Park, Prospect Point, English Bay, historic Gastown, bustling Chinatown and much more. The afternoon is free to discover more of this coastal gem.
The Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains form the backdrop to your day at leisure in Vancouver. You might want to do some shopping down on Robson Street, relax in Vancouver’s playground Stanley Park or stroll through the markets of Granville Island. If you prefer to explore the outdoors, take a gondola ride to the summit of Grouse Mountain. You can also go on an optional full-day tour to Victoria, the charming provincial capital that is proud of her maritime heritage. See the beautiful 19th century landmarks and enjoy its lively atmosphere. Before taking the ferry back to Vancouver, you will visit Butchart Gardens, one of the world’s great floral displays set in a reclaimed stone quarry.
Enjoy another day at leisure in cosmopolitan Vancouver.
Please note: Guests staying on the 7th September 2024 will be required to change hotels to the 4-star Sheraton Wall Centre for this night.
This morning offers you an opportunity for any final shopping endeavours in Canada before making your own way to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal for your voyage to Alaska.
Upon checking in to the cruise, commence your exploration of the myriad amenities aboard your ship.
Alaska is part of the USA and an ESTA or Visa may be required.
Please note that ports of call may vary depending on ship schedules and sailing dates.
Enjoy a leisurely day at sea cruising the spectacular Inside Passage.
Your vessel provides an ideal vantage point for admiring the beauty of British Columbia's Inside Passage. Stretching over 25,000 miles from Seattle to Prince Rupert near the Alaskan border, this archipelago boasts serene waters nestled between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island. As you navigate this route, prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring rugged landscapes and encounter a plethora of wildlife, including orcas, humpback whales, rare white spirit bears, and countless seabirds.
Sitka truly offers the best of Alaska. Its small-town appeal stems from a unique blend of Russian, Tlingit and American history. Its snow-capped peaks and volcanic Mount Edgecumbe pose amongst the state’s most postcard-worthy scenes. And its rare wildlife astounds, from Saint Lazaria Island’s orange-beaked puffins to Alaska Maritime Refuge’s 40 million seabirds. This is off-the-beaten-track Alaska, where you can kayak Sitka Sound alongside swimming sea otters or fly-fish for the world’s biggest halibut. Whether it’s hiking along Baranof Island trails or listening to tribal stories passed down for generations, in Sitka the midnight sun never sets on adventure.
There are a range of shore excursions on offer today. Join your pre-booked option or arrange something when you get onboard with the Shore Excursions desk.
Tracy Arm Fjord extends over 30 miles alongside the wilderness of Tongass National Forest. Sailing through this deep and narrow passage delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find in Alaska. See active glaciers carved into 7,000-foot-tall mountain peaks and plunging waterfalls burrowed into evergreen-clad cliffs. Glimpse native wildlife and watch deep blue icebergs float past the ship. Discover the twin Sawyer Glaciers at the end of Tracy Arm Fjord. While viewing the massive face of these tidewater glaciers, spanning more than a half-mile wide, you can hear the roar and feel the rumble of huge pieces of ice calving into the water in a spectacular display.
Tracy Arm Fjord is home to a spectacular array of wildlife. See pigeon guillemots, kittiwakes and arctic terns. Mountain goats graze on rocky slopes, while newborn seal pups sun on ice floes. Glimpse black bears hunting for lunch and soaring eagles— or watch for the fluke of a whale diving below.
We then sail to Alaska’s remote capital, Juneau.
You can’t get to Juneau easily without a sprint by air or by sea. But once you arrive you’ll find majestic views and rich culture in every corner. With its snow capped mountains, misty rainforests, massive glaciers and bounty of wildlife, Alaska’s remote state capital is the perfect place to dive into nature. Framed by Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts, the city’s picturesque central area offers centuries-old bars, boutique shops and historical landmarks. For a taste of the local culture, visit the historic district and the Alaska State Museum. And for outdoor thrills, you can take your pick of activities ranging from whale watching in Auke Bay Harbour to tundra trekking over Mendenhall Glacier, and even try your hand at gold panning in Last Chance Basin.
Royal Caribbean’s Alaska program visits many of the same destinations, however there are some departures that stop in different ports due to operational requirements. These vary based on your cruise embarkation date. Please see the port you will visit today based on your cruise embarkation date below.
Ketchikan
(Embarkation Date - 11 May, 25 May, 01 Jun, 15 Jun, 03 Aug)
Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska! Experience the must-see lumberjack show in Ketchikan—an action-packed showcase of rugged skills in chopping, sawing, and log-rolling, immersing you in the region's rich heritage. For fishing enthusiasts, Ketchikan, known as the salmon capital of the world, offers guided trips for salmon reeling, suitable for all levels of expertise.
Indulge in a shopping spree in Ketchikan's downtown district, boasting unique shops and boutiques offering local artwork and handmade goods, perfect for picking up Alaskan souvenirs. Nature lovers can embark on a wildlife safari boat tour through neighbouring fjords and islands, spotting bald eagles, seals, whales, and other captivating wildlife.
Haines
(Embarkation Date - 18 May, 17 Aug, 07 Sep)
Haines offers diverse activities for all ages and interests, from wildlife tours to cultural immersion. Prepare for an incredible journey into the untouched beauty of the Haines wilderness. Wildlife photography tours in Haines, Alaska provide endless opportunities to capture stunning shots of bears, eagles, moose, and whales amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. Join bear-viewing tours for a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, fishing along rivers or grazing in meadows.
Icy Strait Point
(Embarkation Date - 08 Jun, 29 Jun, 13 Jul, 10 Aug, 24 Aug)
Icy Strait Point is a Native Tlingit-owned Alaskan gem offering a unique blend of adventure and culture. This picturesque port town, accessible primarily by cruise ship, boasts the world's largest zipline, thrilling hiking trails, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in Tlingit heritage at the restored salmon cannery museum, savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and explore the charming shops. It's an unforgettable destination where adrenaline-pumping activities meet authentic cultural experiences.
Skagway
(Embarkation Date - 22 Jun, 20 Jul)
Skagway is a charming Alaskan town steeped in gold rush history. Once a bustling gateway to the Klondike, it now offers visitors a step back in time with its well-preserved historic buildings and wooden sidewalks. The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway provides a breathtaking journey through stunning mountain scenery, while the Chilkoot Trail offers a challenging hike for adventurous souls. Beyond its rich past, Skagway also offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing being popular activities.
At Sea (Hubbard Glacier)
(Embarkation Date - 31 Aug)
A day at sea cruising past the Hubbard Glacier, a colossal natural wonder, renowned as North America's largest tidewater glacier. This massive ice formation, located in Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, is a breathtaking sight to behold. Its sheer size and power are awe-inspiring, as huge chunks of ice regularly break off and crash into the icy waters below. The glacier's dynamic nature, with its occasional surges and advances, adds to its mystique.
Royal Caribbean’s Alaska program visits many of the same destinations, however there are some departures that stop in different ports due to operational requirements. These vary based on your cruise embarkation date. Please see the port you will visit today based on your cruise embarkation date below.
Prince Rupert
(Embarkation Date - 11 May, 25 May, 01 Jun, 15 Jun, 03 Aug)
Prince Rupert is a vibrant coastal city nestled in the heart of British Columbia's stunning North Coast. Known as the "Gateway to the Great Bear Rainforest," it offers a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. With its rich history as a bustling port city, Prince Rupert boasts a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city is a paradise, with opportunities for fishing, whale watching, kayaking, and exploring the pristine wilderness. Prince Rupert is a captivating destination that promises unforgettable experiences.
Ketchikan
(Embarkation Date - 18 May, 08 Jun, 22 Jun, 29 Jun, 13 Jun, 20 Jul, 27 Jul, 10 Aug, 17 Aug, 24 Aug, 31 Aug, 07 Sep)
Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska! Experience the must-see lumberjack show in Ketchikan—an action-packed showcase of rugged skills in chopping, sawing, and log-rolling, immersing you in the region's rich heritage. For fishing enthusiasts, Ketchikan, known as the salmon capital of the world, offers guided trips for salmon reeling, suitable for all levels of expertise.
Indulge in a shopping spree in Ketchikan's downtown district, boasting unique shops and boutiques offering local artwork and handmade goods, perfect for picking up Alaskan souvenirs. Nature lovers can embark on a wildlife safari boat tour through neighbouring fjords and islands, spotting bald eagles, seals, whales, and other captivating wildlife.
Today is a full day to relax and enjoy the many activities, restaurants and entertainment your ship has to offer whilst cruising the stunning Inside Passage.
Welcome back to Vancouver. Your ship will arrive in port at approximately 7:00AM this morning. At the appropriate time, disembark your Alaska cruise and make your own way to the airport for your onward flight. We hope you have had an unforgettable experience in Canada.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Give your routine a rest and press pause on reality, because adventure is well within reach. Whether you’re dining in one of the onboard restaurants or soaking up the sunshine poolside at the adults-only Solarium, Brilliance of the Seas is what getaway goals are made of.
Spend your time poolside soaking up sunshine and serenity,or fill your days with new ways to play and non-stop action on every deck. On this ship, how you live it up is entirely up to you.
Stateroom Details;
Each stateroom aboard Brilliance of the Seas includes the following services and amenities;
Complimentary 24-hour In-Room Dining
Daily Housekeeping
Nightly turndown service
Generous Storage
Safes for your valuables
INSIDE - Included
Two lower beds convertible to one Royal King bed, with seating and a desk. Each room includes a private bathroom, vanity area, hair dryer, TV and phone. (Approximately 12 square metres).
OCEAN VIEW - From an additional $350 per person, twin share (Single from an additional $700)
These staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one Royal King bed—includes seating and a desk, with a window allowing natural light into the room. Each room includes a private bathroom, vanity area, hair dryer, TV and phone. (Approximately 12 square metres).
OCEANVIEW BALCONY CABIN UPGRADE - From an additional $1,620 per person, twin share (Single from an additional $3,240)
Sliding glass doors open onto your private balcony from this comfortable stateroom, which includes two lower beds convertible to one Royal King bed. Each room includes a private bathroom, vanity area, hair dryer, TV and phone. — (Approximately 18 square metres with a 4sqm balcony).
Cabin Upgrades and prices are subject to availability upon booking. Please note your upgrade option as a "Special Request" when booking and our team will be in touch with a confirmed quote. If we are unable to confirm your request, we will quote alternative options.
This package is a flight add-on package
This package has the option of adding international airfares to your booking when selecting your departure city. Select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’ and a cost will be stated next to your selected departure city. This cost will then be added to your booking and international flights will be added to your booking.
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. While tipping is not customary, it's of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many destinations.
You may also consider tipping your tour leader and driver for outstanding service throughout your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,895.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
Visas may be required.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Maximum of 60 people
When travelling with a group, no matter the size, we ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Children
Children must share a room with parents at all times and are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
Optional activities may be booked on-site with your tour director. Prices will be competitive with locally available sightseeing tours. Passengers must pay thetour director directly. Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted.
Approximate cost per person in Canadian Dollars:
Day 3 Banff – Columbia Icefields Excursion including Ice Explorer ride $280 CAD
Day 5 Whistler Floatplane Sightseeing Tour – Spectacular Glacier Tour $205 CAD
Day 5 Whistler Floatplane Sightseeing Tour – Ultimate Glacier Tour $252 CAD
Day 7 Vancouver – Victoria Excursion including coach/ferry transfers and visit Butchart Gardens $328 CAD
Optional tour descriptions can be found in the day-by-day itinerary.
Click HERE for more information on weather in Canada & Alaska.
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