Iconic Canada and Alaska

Today is a relaxed day in Calgary, giving you time to ease into your journey and explore the city at your own pace.
After breakfast, the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. You may choose to wander through downtown Calgary, explore local
shops and cafés, or take a stroll along the Bow River pathways. Those interested in culture and history might like to visit
nearby museums or landmarks, while others may simply prefer to rest and recover from the journey.
This free day offers the perfect opportunity to adjust to the time zone, unwind, and get ready for the adventure ahead as we
prepare to head into the Canadian Rockies tomorrow.

Overnight: Ramada Plaza Calgary Downtown or similar

Inclusions: Breakfast

After breakfast this morning, we set out from Calgary and begin our journey west towards the Canadian Rockies. Before leaving the city, we enjoy a brief orientation of Calgary, taking in a mix of historic sites and modern landmarks that showcase the city’s character and growth.

As the city skyline fades, the landscape gradually transforms into rolling foothills and, eventually, the dramatic mountain scenery that defines Banff National Park. Our first impressions of the Rockies are nothing short of striking, with rugged peaks, forested valleys and wide-open views.

Throughout the day, we explore some of Banff National Park’s most well-known natural highlights. We visit the town of Banff, pass beneath the slopes of Tunnel Mountain and enjoy views of the historic Banff Springs Hotel. Time is also spent at Johnston Canyon (weather permitting) and the Hoodoos, before enjoying a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, where wildlife is often spotted.

One of the day’s highlights is our visit to Lake Louise, famous for its vivid turquoise waters and mountain backdrop. There is time to take photos, walk along the lakeshore and soak in the atmosphere of this iconic alpine setting.

In the afternoon, we continue on to Banff where we check in to our hotel and settle in for the evening.

Overnight: Banff Caribou Lodge or similar

Inclusions: Breakfast

Optional Experiences

Banff Gondola with Transfers – $124 pp
Rise above Banff on the iconic gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s summit for sweeping views across the Bow Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. At the top, you can stroll the boardwalk toward Sanson’s Peak and the Cosmic Ray Station, explore the mountaintop discovery centre, or simply soak up the alpine atmosphere with a café stop while the world stretches out beneath you. Return transfers from your hotel are included.

Wagon Ride with Cowboy BBQ Cookout Dinner – $180 pp
Enjoy an evening outdoors on a classic Western wagon ride along the Bow River, keeping watch for local wildlife as you roll through open meadows. Midway, you arrive at 3 Mile Cabin where you are welcomed with genuine cowboy hospitality and a hearty BBQ dinner with all the fixings. After dinner, the wagon returns beneath Sulphur Mountain, rounding out an unforgettable Banff evening.

Please note: Guests wishing to join both optional experiences will need to make their own way between activities.

Important Notes

• Johnston Canyon access may be limited in icy or wet conditions
• Wagon Ride departs from Warner Stables, approximately a 15-minute walk from downtown Banff
• Taxi assistance can be arranged locally at one's own expense

After breakfast, we set off on a spectacular drive north along the Icefields Parkway. This stretch is famous for its nonstop scenery, think vivid glacial lakes, winding creeks, thick pine forests and dramatic peaks that seem to follow you the whole way.

Our main stop today is the Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre (Jasper region). If you have not pre-booked the optional Icefield Explorer Snow Coach Ride (own expense), you will have around 1.5 hours here to choose from a range of activities. You can purchase the Glacier Skywalk locally, grab lunch at the Altitude or Chalet Restaurant, stretch your legs on the free walking trails starting from the centre, or simply take in the incredible glacier views from the Discovery Centre and outdoor patio.

Alternatively, you may choose to enjoy a relaxed day in Banff, with extra time to wander the townsite and soak up that mountain-town feel at your own pace.

Overnight: Banff Caribou Lodge (or similar)

Inclusions: Breakfast

Optional Experiences

Icefield Explorer Snow Coach Ride – $130 pp
Step onto an all-terrain Ice Explorer built for glacier travel and head out onto the Columbia Icefield for a rare opportunity to stand on ancient ice. With an experienced driver-guide, you learn about glacier formation and environmental significance before stopping for photos, time on the ice, and the chance to collect crystal-clear glacier water for your bottle.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Please note: This option cannot be combined with the helicopter flight.

Banff Evening Wildlife Safari
As the sun lowers, Banff’s wildlife becomes more active, making this one of the best windows for sightings. Travel by paved-road bus to wildlife hotspots with a guide who knows where to look. You may spot elk, bighorn sheep, and occasionally even a grizzly, while also learning how the park protects its animals and habitat. Includes hotel pick-up.
Duration: 2 hours. Start time varies by season and sunset.

Three Sisters Peaks Helicopter Tour with Transfers – $426 pp
Take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight over the Spray Lakes and Spray Valley for a dramatic view of forested slopes, alpine patterns, and rugged outcroppings across the Goat Range. It is a breathtaking introduction to helicopter sightseeing and an unforgettable way to see the Rockies from above. Includes return transfers from downtown Banff.
Note: This option can only be selected if you are not visiting the Icefields Parkway and Columbia Icefield.

After breakfast, we depart Banff and continue our journey west along the historic Trans-Canada Highway. This iconic route follows pathways once used by early fur traders and later surveyed by railway pioneers carving their way through the mountains.
Travelling via Kicking Horse Pass, we leave the towering peaks of the Rockies behind and descend into the scenic Columbia River Valley. From here, the road climbs once more as we enter Glacier National Park, crossing the impressive Rogers Pass. This dramatic section of the journey cuts through the Selkirk Mountains, a region renowned for its heavy snowfall and extensive avalanche control systems.
Our drive continues through the rugged landscapes of the Monashee Mountain Range before reaching the lakeside town of Vernon, located in British Columbia’s interior. On arrival, the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, whether you choose to relax at the hotel or head out to explore the local area.

Special Information: Today’s total travel time is approximately 6 hours.

Overnight: Prestige Hotel Vernon or similar

Inclusions: Breakfast

After breakfast, we farewell Vernon and the Okanagan Valley as we begin our journey west toward the Pacific coast. Today’s drive showcases just how varied Canada’s landscapes can be in a single day.

Travelling through the Lower Mainland, we follow Highway 3, a route known for its striking contrast in scenery. Along the way, the landscape shifts dramatically, from dry, desert-like terrain around Osoyoos where prickly pear cacti grow, to increasingly lush vegetation as we move west.

Our journey continues along the Coquihalla Highway, a major mountain route cutting through forested valleys and rugged terrain, before arriving in the vibrant coastal city of Vancouver.

On arrival, we check in to our hotel and the remainder of the day is at leisure, giving you time to relax or begin exploring this dynamic city at your own pace.

Overnight: Century Plaza Hotel or similar

Inclusions: Breakfast

This morning, we set out on a guided sightseeing tour of Vancouver, introducing you to some of the city’s most recognisable neighbourhoods and landmarks.

Our tour includes a visit to Stanley Park, home to the famous totem poles and surrounded by sweeping coastal views. We continue past English Bay, explore the lively atmosphere of Robson Street, and discover the character-filled streets of Gastown and Chinatown. We also pass through the waterfront precinct around Canada Place and the Cruise Ship Pier.

The afternoon and evening are free to enjoy Vancouver at your own pace. With a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, shops and bars all within walking distance of your centrally located hotel, there’s plenty to explore. Your Tour Leader will be available to offer suggestions and local tips if you’d like recommendations.

Overnight: Century Plaza Hotel or similar

Inclusions: Breakfast

Optional Experience

Harbour Air Vancouver Classic Panorama Seaplane Flight – $232 pp
Lift off from downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour and enjoy a scenic flight over the city and surrounding coastline. This classic panorama route is ideal for first-time seaplane flyers and photographers alike, with aerial views across English Bay, Horseshoe Bay and Deep Cove. The sensation of landing back on water is a highlight in itself, and it is an unforgettable way to see Vancouver’s scale and beauty in one swoop.
Duration: 30 minutes. Flights scheduled between 13:00 and 18:45.
Note: Overlaps with the Gastown foodie tour, so both cannot be booked.

Gastronomic Gastown Foodie Tour with Alcohol Pairing – $349 pp
Eat and drink your way through Vancouver’s most iconic foodie district on a progressive tour through Gastown’s cobblestone streets and hidden gems. Across three venues, you enjoy a curated journey of comfort foods, creative dishes, cocktails and wines, while hearing stories of the community and meeting local restaurateurs. It is part history walk, part indulgent night out, and perfect if you want a vibrant city experience before your cruise begins.
Meeting point: Gastown, Vancouver. Start 15:00, finish 18:00. Walking distance 1.4 km.
Note: Overlaps with the seaplane flight, so both cannot be booked.

This morning is yours to enjoy at leisure in Vancouver, with time for any last-minute shopping or a relaxed wander through the city before your next adventure begins.

Around 1:00pm, we transfer to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal to begin our Alaska Inside Passage cruise. After completing check-in procedures, you’ll step aboard your ship and have time to familiarise yourself with the many onboard facilities.

Once settled in, start exploring everything the ship has to offer, from lounges and viewing decks to dining venues and entertainment spaces, before enjoying dinner onboard as the cruise gets underway.

Cruise Ship: Serenade of the Seas or similar, Cabin as booked

Inclusions: Breakfast and Dinner

Today is all about slowing down and soaking it in as we cruise through the spectacular Inside Passage.

This legendary stretch of coastline winds its way between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island, creating calm, sheltered waters framed by rugged mountains, dense rainforest and remote islands. With more than 25,000 miles of waterways, this is one of the most scenic cruising routes in the world and your ship offers front-row views every step of the way.

Spend the day moving between viewing decks, lounges and outdoor spaces as the scenery unfolds around you. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, this region is known for sightings of orcas and humpback whales, along with seabirds gliding overhead and, with a little luck, the elusive white spirit bear along the shoreline.

With all meals included onboard today, you can enjoy the freedom to dine when you like, relax with a drink in hand, or simply watch the landscapes drift by. It’s a day to disconnect, unwind and fully embrace the rhythm of life at sea.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today we arrive in the captivating town of Sitka, a place that perfectly captures the spirit of Alaska. Set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-dusted mountains and dominated by the striking silhouette of Mount Edgecumbe, Sitka is as scenic as it is culturally rich.

This historic coastal town blends Russian, Tlingit and American influences, creating a character unlike anywhere else in Alaska. Beyond its fascinating past, Sitka is renowned for its extraordinary natural environment and abundant wildlife. Nearby islands and marine reserves are home to vast seabird colonies, while the surrounding waters are frequented by sea otters, whales and other marine life.

Today is your opportunity to experience Sitka in a way that suits you best. Choose from a wide range of shore excursions, from kayaking through the calm waters of Sitka Sound and hiking forested trails on Baranof Island, to fishing adventures or cultural experiences led by local storytellers. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventure or curious to learn more about the region’s heritage, Sitka delivers an unforgettable taste of off-the-beaten-track Alaska.

Shore excursions can be pre-booked in advance or arranged onboard through the Shore Excursions desk.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

This morning delivers one of Alaska’s most unforgettable cruising experiences as we sail deep into the dramatic wilderness of Tracy Arm Fjord. Stretching more than 30 miles through the untouched reaches of the Tongass National Forest, this narrow fjord is a world of towering cliffs, waterfalls and ancient ice.

As the ship glides through calm, icy waters, keep your camera ready. Sheer mountain walls rise thousands of feet above the fjord, with waterfalls cascading down evergreen-covered rock faces. Massive blue icebergs drift silently past as we approach the twin Sawyer Glaciers at the far end of the fjord. Here, the scale is breathtaking. These immense tidewater glaciers stretch more than half a mile wide, and with a bit of luck, you may witness huge slabs of ice breaking away and crashing into the water below, an awe-inspiring natural spectacle.

Tracy Arm is also rich in wildlife. Watch for seabirds skimming the water, mountain goats perched high on rocky ledges, seals resting on floating ice, bald eagles soaring overhead and, occasionally, whales surfacing in the fjord.

Later, we continue our journey to Alaska’s remote capital, Juneau, a city accessible only by air or sea. Set between snow-capped peaks and dense rainforest, Juneau blends raw natural beauty with a fascinating frontier history.

Once ashore, there is plenty to explore. Wander the compact historic centre lined with character-filled bars, local boutiques and heritage buildings, or visit cultural highlights such as the Alaska State Museum. For those craving adventure, Juneau offers a wide range of experiences, from whale watching in Auke Bay and glacier trekking on the Mendenhall Glacier, to gold panning in Last Chance Basin.

By day’s end, you’ll have experienced some of Alaska’s most powerful landscapes, both from the water and on land.

Tracy Arm Fjord (6:30am–10:30am) → Juneau (1:30pm–10:00pm) (Approximately)

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Step into Skagway, once the launching point for gold rush stampeders and still one of Alaska’s most character-filled towns. The landscape here feels bold and cinematic, and the history adds a sense of drama to the day. You may choose from a range of shore experiences, from vintage-style rail journeys with sweeping mountain views to outdoor adventures that showcase the surrounding wilderness. Or, simply wander the charming streets lined with historic buildings and enjoy the atmosphere. Skagway has a way of making you feel like you have walked straight into a story.

Docked 7:00am–5:00pm (Approximately)

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Welcome to Ketchikan, a lively coastal town known for its deep-rooted traditions, rich wildlife and creative spirit. Often called the salmon capital of the world, Ketchikan offers a classic taste of Alaska with plenty of ways to experience it.

One of the most popular experiences here is the iconic lumberjack show, where you can watch powerful displays of strength and skill as local competitors race through events like log rolling, axe throwing and precision sawing. It’s fast-paced, entertaining and a fun insight into the region’s logging heritage.

Fishing enthusiasts will feel right at home in Ketchikan, with guided salmon fishing trips available for all experience levels. Alternatively, explore the compact downtown area, where colourful streets are lined with local galleries, artisan boutiques and shops selling handmade Alaskan souvenirs and artwork.

For nature lovers, wildlife safari boat tours provide the chance to cruise through nearby fjords and islands in search of bald eagles, seals, whales and other marine life, offering yet another unforgettable way to experience Alaska’s wild beauty.

The Ketchikan Visitors Centre is located on the dock at Berth 2 for maps and brochures. Ketchikan is also one of the rainiest towns in North America, so waterproof gear is a smart choice. This port is vibrant, authentic, and packed with classic Alaska charm.

Docked 1:00pm–7:00pm (Approximately)

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today is a full day at sea, giving you time to unwind and enjoy everything life onboard has to offer as we continue cruising through the spectacular Inside Passage.

Take the day at your own pace. Relax on deck as the coastline slips past, settle into a quiet lounge with panoramic views, or take advantage of the ship’s many facilities and activities. From dining venues and entertainment to onboard experiences designed for both relaxation and fun, there’s no shortage of ways to fill the day.

With all meals included, you can enjoy leisurely breakfasts, long lunches and relaxed dinners, making the most of this scenic cruising day through one of the world’s most beautiful waterways.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

We arrive back into Vancouver at approximately 7:00am, marking the final morning of your Alaska Inside Passage cruise. After disembarkation at Canada Place Cruise Terminal, the group travels together via the SkyTrain, a simple and efficient way to reach Vancouver International Airport. Waterfront Station is conveniently located just a short walk from the terminal, making the transfer smooth and straightforward.

Travelling as a group allows the journey home to feel relaxed and supported, with Travel Connex hosting right through to the airport. It is a fitting close to a shared adventure that has taken you from the Canadian Rockies to Alaska’s wild coastline, with plenty of time to reflect on the moments that made the journey so memorable as you prepare for your onward flight home.

Inclusions: Breakfast

Today you’ll be in transit, crossing the International Date Line as you make your way home. Sit back, relax and reflect on the incredible landscapes, experiences and memories made along the way.

Welcome home. Today you arrive back home, marking the end of The Iconic Canada–Alaska Escape.

From the Canadian Rockies to Alaska’s Inside Passage, this journey has been filled with extraordinary scenery, wildlife encounters and unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after unpacking your bags.

We are currently exploring the possibility of offering an Eastern Canada extension to complement the Canadian Rockies and
Alaska journey. This extension would showcase a different side of Canada, focusing on historic cities, cultural highlights, and
iconic landmarks in the east of the country.
If there is strong interest, this extension may be offered in one of two ways:
• As a combined itinerary, where the Eastern Canada experience becomes part of the main tour, or
• As an optional add-on for those who wish to extend their journey further.
The proposed outline includes time in Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa, and Niagara Falls, with highlights such as guided
walking tours, city sightseeing, time along the Rideau Canal, and the famous Voyage to the Falls (Hornblower) experience,
before flying home from Toronto.
At this stage, this extension is not finalised and will only proceed if there is sufficient interest. If this option appeals to you,
please indicate your interest when registering so we can explore pricing and logistics further.