20 Day Canadian Rockies By Rail With Alaska Inside Passage Cruise
On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
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.
Make the most of your cruise and travel independently, with everything organised for you. Your international flights, pre-cruise stay, and cruise are organised so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your time at sea. Of course, there is the option of extending your tour if you don’t want to head straight to the airport upon disembarkation.
✓ 11 nights accommodation in central 3 & 4-star accommodation
✓ 1 night journey on the iconic VIA Rail train from Jasper to Vancouver
✓ 7 nights Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean including gratuities
✓ 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 8 dinners
✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel
✓ Scenic float plane flight from Whistler to Victoria
✓ Ride the Ice Explorer and set foot on the Athabasca Glacier
✓ Full day sightseeing transfer from Banff to Jasper
✓ 3 hour sightseeing tour of Banff
✓ Hop-on Hop-off trolley tour of Vancouver
✓ Transfer from Victoria to Vancouver including ferry passage on board BC Ferries
✓ Expert local guides
✓ Scheduled transportation as outlined in the itinerary
✓ All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
✓ Incredible sightseeing including Banff National Park and the Columbia Icefield, idyllic Victoria and the stunning town of Whistler, cruise the Inside Passage to Alaska and experience the iconic VIA Rail train
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
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.
Upon arriving at Calgary International airport, make your way to your conveniently situated hotel (transfer not included).
As you check in, be sure to collect your information kit from the front desk. The rest of the day is yours to explore and embark on your own city adventure in this vibrant urban landscape, allowing you to form your initial impressions of Western 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.
This morning marks your journey to Banff, which will take you through the ranching region to the west of Calgary. Upon your arrival in Banff, complete your hotel check-in. The rest of the day is yours to explore the charming town of Banff at your leisure.
This morning, embark on a journey to explore the town of Banff and its pristine natural environment. Notable attractions on your itinerary encompass Bow Falls, the peculiar formations sculpted over centuries known as hoodoos, Surprise Corner, Tunnel Mountain Drive offering breathtaking views of the Bow River Valley, and the awe-inspiring Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you please.
Depart from Banff and head north along the renowned Icefields Parkway, venturing into the pristine wilderness of Jasper National Park. Each twist and turn in the road reveals breathtaking panoramas of formidable mountain peaks, expansive valleys, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant meadows. When you reach the Columbia Icefield, you'll have the chance to join a guided tour onto the Athabasca Glacier's surface, riding aboard the Ice Explorer.
Today, you'll embark on a westbound journey aboard VIA Rail's ‘The Canadian’, treating yourself to some of the most breathtaking vistas of the Rockies, the interior of British Columbia, and the Coastal Mountains. You'll traverse rugged mountain peaks, arid ranchlands, and windswept rolling hills, immersing yourself in the beauty of the landscape.
You'll spend the night on board VIA Rail's The Canadian, with both lunch and dinner included.
Upon your morning arrival in Vancouver, make your way independently to your hotel (transfer not included). Today's agenda includes an informative Hop-on Hop-off trolley tour of Vancouver, allowing you to acquaint yourself with this coastal city. Tour highlights encompass exploring historic Gastown, nearby Chinatown, Stanley Park, English Bay, and other attractions. Following the tour, the rest of the day is yours to explore this captivating city at your own pace.
Today is a day of leisure in Vancouver. You can opt to explore the shops and dining options along Robson Street or venture into Chinatown to savour the flavours of Asian culture. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, a brief visit to Stanley Park offers a perfect setting to take a leisurely walk along the numerous kilometres of pathways. Additionally, the aquarium within the park promises to captivate visitors with the entertaining antics of the amiable beluga whales.
Today, you'll be picked up from downtown Vancouver and embark on a scenic drive along the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway to reach Whistler, arriving before noon. This early arrival provides ample time to explore and savour the attractions of this remarkable resort.
You have the entire day to venture out on your own and discover the various captivating experiences, sounds, and attractions within this city that once hosted the Winter Olympics. Consider organising a canoe excursion on one of the nearby lakes or treat yourself to a delectable culinary adventure by indulging in a gourmet tour featuring menus filled with both local and exotic delicacies at world-class restaurants.
Following your included transfer from your hotel to Whistler's Green Lake float plane dock, you embark on an exhilarating one-hour flight with Harbour Air to downtown Victoria. Soar above the stunning Whistler Valley, glacial lakes, verdant alpine meadows, the Strait of Georgia, and the picturesque Gulf Islands. Upon your arrival at the Inner Harbour docks, you'll make your own way to your Victoria hotel, leaving the rest of the day free for your leisurely exploration (transfer not included).
Spend your morning discovering the lively city of Victoria and its charming Inner Harbour. Following this exploration, step on board a BC Ferries vessel for a scenic daytime voyage through the beautiful Active Pass to Vancouver. Once you arrive in Vancouver, make your way independently to your downtown hotel (transfer not included).
Today, you have the entire day to enjoy Vancouver at your own pace. You may wish to explore Granville Island's artisan shops, visit the Museum of Anthropology, or take a scenic bike ride around the city, discovering its numerous parks and scenic waterfronts.
You have some time this morning for some last minute shopping before making your own way to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal to board your Alaskan Inside Passage cruise.
Once you have checked in to the cruise, begin exploring all that your ship has to offer.
Ports of call may vary cruise to cruise based on ship schedules.
Your ship offers the perfect platform for viewing British Columbia’s Inside Passage. This archipelago spans 25,000 miles from Seattle to Prince Rupert near the Alaskan border. Here you’ll ply calm waters sheltered between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island. Along the way catch a glimpse of breathtakingly rugged scenery, plus staggering wildlife like salmon sharks, white spirit bears, and millions of 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.
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 snowcapped 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.
The tiny town of Skagway still looks like it did during the Klondike Gold Rush over 100 years ago – and today it remains an outpost for thrilling Alaskan adventure. An old-time tram ride along bustling Broadway Street reveals well-preserved buildings, including the state’s oldest hotel. You can see engraved walrus tusks at the Corrington Museum, or get lost in riveting historical reenactments around town. If outdoor adventure is more your thing, there are plenty of ways to ramp up the adrenaline, from sledding with Alaskan Huskies on Laughton Glacier to rafting on Lynn Canal, the longest fjord in North America.
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 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.
Today is a full day to relax and enjoy the many activities, restaurants and entertainment your ship has to offer.
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.
Vancouver's Canada Place Cruise Terminal is located approximately 15kms from Vancouver International Airport. There are a range of transportation options available. Taxis are readily available and will cost approximately $35-45. The Skytrain is also available to the airport from Waterfront Station, located approximately 150 metres from the Cruise Terminal.
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 - price from $381 per person, twin share (Single additional $762)
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 - price from $1,770 per person, twin share (Single additional $3,540)
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).
Please note your upgrade request in the 'Special Request' field whilst making your booking. Once your upgrade has been confirmed, the additional amount will be added to your invoice and payable with your final payment.
Get ready to see the spectacular outline of the Rocky Mountains on the horizon as you cross Alberta. Nestled in snowy peaks, you'll make your way through some of the most iconic landscapes in Canada. Get your fill of nature in British Columbia and enjoy breathtaking sceneries: majestic mountains, spectacular waterfront, peaceful rainforests, fishing villages... The rail journey to Vancouver is unique in its beauty.
The beauty of travelling by train is that you can admire the scenery through large windows that look out over the horizon. Furthermore, you’re free to move about during the trip, and you benefit from ample leg room.
You’ll be on your way to some much deserved rest and relaxation on board the Skyline car. On the top floor, the windows extend to the ceiling, providing you with the perfect place to admire the breathtaking scenery as it unfolds.
VIA Rail Accommodation
On VIA Rail sleeping cars, passengers enjoy a reserved seating area for daytime travel, which is made into sleeping berths by an attendant in the evening. A shower room and toilet facilities are located in each car in trans-continental cars only.
Berth Class / Section (Upper / Lower) - Included
Offers deep-cushioned seats with an optional table by day that convert to upper and lower beds with privacy curtain at night. Toilet and shower facilities are shared. Complimentary shower kits including soap, shampoo, cap, towel and washcloth.
Private Cabin Upgrade - an additional $826 per person (twin share or solo)
A private room for 2 people with toilet facilities and air conditioning. The room contains comfortable armchairs in the daytime, which convert to upper and lower beds at night. There is a small closet (holds 1 large and 1 small suitcase), reading lamp and a sink with razor outlet. Access to a shared shower room, just a few steps away, with a complimentary shower kit containing soap, shampoo, cap, towel and washcloth.
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.
Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.
Instalment Schedule:
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
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.
This particular tour is categorised as a”3”
Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
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.
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 $4,185.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory for this tour 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.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children 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.
Click HERE for more information on weather in Canada & Alaska.
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