Rockies Odyssey and Alaska Cruise
Tour Description
Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies on an unforgettable tour, including a journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer in GoldLeaf service, two nights at the opulent Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and a spectacular Alaska cruise.
Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies on an unforgettable tour, including a journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer in GoldLeaf service, two nights at the opulent Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and a spectacular Alaska cruise.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Victoria
Welcome to Canada. We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel, where a welcome dinner awaits this evening.
Day 2: Victoria, The Butchart Gardens
Today begins with a special Signature Experience. With some free time this afternoon, spend the rest of the day however you please.
Signature Experience – The Butchart Gardens Before Hours
Visit The Butchart Gardens before the public is granted access and enjoy breakfast in the original Butchart residence. More than 100 years in the making with a former quarry as the initial canvas, this space was transformed by Jennie Butchart into a haven overflowing with lush greenery and colourful blooms. Relish the opportunity to wander among the floral displays without the crowds.
Day 3: Victoria, Georgia Strait, Whistler
Take your BC Ferries service across the Georgia Strait. Afterwards, enjoy a scenic drive along the Sea to Sky Highway en route to Whistler. Skirt the shores of Howe Sound and make a stop at Shannon Falls, the third tallest falls in British Columbia. Then carve into the Coast Mountains and wind through lush rainforests before arriving in Whistler.
Day 4: Whistler
Start the day with a Signature Experience. The afternoon is left for you to decide how you want to explore with an included Freedom of Choice activity.
Signature Experience – Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and feast on a breakfast inspired by traditional First Nations food. Explore the museum, discovering your First Nations animal spirit with the help of your guide.
Freedom of Choice – Peak 2 Peak Gondola
Be swept to entirely new heights on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The Cloudraker Skybridge also takes you 130 metres from Whistler Peak to the West Ridge, across the Whistler Bowl.
Freedom of Choice – Tree Trek
Explore Whistler’s ancient forest on a tree trek. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you wander through the tall pines, walking along an incredible network of suspension bridges and boardwalks.
Freedom of Choice – Ziptrek Bear Tour
Soar through the treetops during an exhilarating zipline adventure on Ziptrek Ecotours’ Bear Tour. This spectacular course takes you over the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Peak across four ziplines and a series of suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails.
Freedom of Choice – Mountain Jeep Tour
Set off on a Jeep tour and see Whistler from a completely different altitude. Take in glorious views of Whistler Village, lakes, golf courses and the peaks of the Coast Mountains.
Freedom of Choice – Heli Flightseeing
Be awed by the sights surrounding Whistler from the air during a helicopter flight and marvel at an aerial view of the Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
Freedom of Choice – Electric Mountain Bike Rental
Exploring Whistler on an electric mountain bike is a wonderful way to spend a summer day. Feel the fresh air as you coast past lush green landscapes and mountains.
Day 5: Whistler, Sun Peaks
Depart Whistler early this morning and journey through the stunning Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, stretching from the Pacific Coast to the Cariboo Mountains. In the 1860s, the discovery of gold here sparked a rush that drew prospectors from around the world. Stop at the scenic Duffey and Seton lakes before visiting the charming town of Lillooet. Then, continue east to the picturesque alpine town of Sun Peaks.
Day 6: Sun Peaks, Mount Robson, Jasper
Travelling along the Yellowhead Highway today, you’ll stop to see the incredible sight of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Take in the spectacular scenery of Maligne Canyon on your way to Jasper. In the evening, choose where to dine at your lodge.
Day 7: Jasper
Discover Jasper your way with a range of Freedom of Choice activities to select from.
Freedom of Choice – Harley-Davidson Sidecar Tour
Experience the thrill of the open road as you coast through Jasper’s breathtaking wilderness on a chauffeured motorcycle sidecar tour.
Freedom of Choice – Maligne Valley Tour with Hike
Journey to Maligne Canyon, a stunning natural wonder teeming with iconic Canadian wildlife. On a trail hike, look for osprey, eagles, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, elk, deer and bears.
Freedom of Choice – Maligne Valley Tour with Cruise
Set against the backdrop of jagged mountain peaks, cruise across the glacial waters of Maligne Lake to Spirit Island, a destination only accessible by boat.
Freedom of Choice – River Rafting
This is the perfect introduction to rafting. Small rapids and calm waters ease you into the activity, and your licensed guide is around to point out areas of interest and wildlife along the way.
Freedom of Choice – Jasper SkyTram
Jasper’s peak attraction provides an unforgettable view of the Athabasca Valley and Jasper National Park. Transport on the SkyTram shuttle is included.
Day 8: Jasper, Athabasca Glacier, Lake Louise
Take in spectacular vistas at every turn as you travel through the Rockies and along the Icefields Parkway to Athabasca Falls. Continue onwards to the Columbia Icefield, where you’ll board an Ice Explorer for an exhilarating journey onto the Athabasca Glacier. Later, arrive at breathtaking Lake Louise and be greeted by a scene of pure alpine beauty – turquoise waters shimmering beneath towering snow-capped peaks. Tonight, you’ll stay at the world-renowned Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, overlooking the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’. Select one of the hotel’s restaurants for dinner this evening.
Day 9: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake
Travel to Moraine Lake this morning (season permitting), located in the incredible Valley of the Ten Peaks. Spend time marvelling at the glacier-fed waters and sublime mountain scenery. Later, return to Lake Louise and enjoy a Signature Experience. The evening is free for you to spend at leisure.
Signature Experience – Lake Louise Mountain Heritage Guide
On the shores of Lake Louise, join an expert Mountain Heritage Guide and learn about the area’s rich natural history.
Day 10: Lake Louise, Banff
Take a guided tour through the town of Banff before enjoying a Signature Experience in the afternoon. Tonight, take your pick from your hotel’s exceptional collection of restaurants.
Signature Experience – Meet a Mountie
On an exciting morning in beautiful Banff National Park, you’ll have the chance to meet one of Canada’s renowned Mounties and hear tales from the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Day 11: Banff
Set out on your preferred Freedom of Choice activity this morning. The remainder of the day is left free for you to explore however you please.
Freedom of Choice – Banff Experience
Join this exclusive small-group tour and venture off the beaten path to discover Banff National Park’s hidden gems. You’ll also enjoy more time to explore Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lake and the stunning Lake Minnewanka.
Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride
Head to the top of Sulphur Mountain and take in Banff from above, climbing nearly 700 metres in elevation as you are carried through the pines. Once you reach the peak, you can head off for a stroll along the boardwalk.
Freedom of Choice – Heli Flightseeing
Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the Rocky Mountains. Soar past snowy peaks and jagged mountains, enjoying breathtaking views of pristine lakes and alpine meadows.
Freedom of Choice – Bow River Float Trip
Embrace the tranquil atmosphere as you float down the serene Bow River, keeping your eyes peeled for any signs of cheeky wildlife on the banks. This activity is suitable for most fitness levels.
Freedom of Choice – Hockey Player Experience
When in Canada, it’s only fitting that you experience a day in the life of an ice hockey player. Get to know the Canmore Eagles as you tour their dressing rooms, try on their gear and step onto the ice.
Freedom of Choice – Fairmont Spa Entry
Harking back to the hot spring that first called travellers some 100 years ago, soothe your tired muscles in the mineral pool and pulsating waterfalls at Fairmont Banff Springs.
Day 12: Banff, Rocky Mountaineer, Kamloops
Begin your Rocky Mountaineer rail journey in GoldLeaf Service and soak up the views from your bi-level glass-dome carriage. Marvel at the engineering feat of the Spiral Tunnels as you traverse the iconic Kicking Horse Pass.
Day 13: Kamloops, Rocky Mountaineer, Vancouver
Your journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer continues west today. Depart Kamloops and follow the Thompson River, passing Hell’s Gate and its raging whitewater. Take in the mighty Fraser River before arriving in Vancouver.
Day 14: Vancouver
Embark on a sightseeing tour of beautiful Vancouver this morning, where you’ll discover the city’s must-see attractions, including the cobblestone streets of historic Gastown, vibrant Chinatown, and vast Stanley Park. You’ll also visit Granville Island, the bustling heart of Vancouver’s cultural scene. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to explore at leisure.
Day 15: Vancouver, Embark Ship
Board your ship and set off for your journey along Alaska’s iconic coastline.
Day 16: Inside Passage
Spend today on board, gliding past rocky headlands and over the icy waters of the Inside Passage, one of the most picturesque sea lanes in the world.
Day 17: Juneau
Alaska’s capital, Juneau, sits at the foot of Mount Roberts and Mount Juneau on the Gastineau Channel. Flowing from the Juneau Icefield, the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier lies just beyond the city’s doorstep. Widely regarded as one of the most remote and breathtaking state capitals in the United States, this picturesque destination is surrounded by pristine waters, lush forests and rugged mountains, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Disembark and explore at your leisure, or join an optional excursion to discover more of Juneau’s wonders (additional expense).
Day 18: Skagway
Arrive in Skagway, the Inside Passage’s northernmost point. During the peak of the Klondike Gold Rush, this bustling port town became the main gateway to the goldfields, rapidly growing into Alaska’s largest settlement. It’s the perfect place to discover Alaska’s rich history, enchanting landscapes and abundant wildlife. See heritage buildings, now protected as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and perhaps set off on an excursion (additional expense).
Day 19: Glacier Bay National Park
Awaken to the striking scenery of Glacier Bay National Park. Take in the calving tidewater glaciers and learn about the area’s geological wonders from local rangers.
Day 20: Ketchikan
Dock in Ketchikan today, a vibrant coastal town set on the tranquil Tongass Narrows, proudly known as the salmon capital of the world. Immerse yourself in Alaska Native culture and spend time exploring as you please. Perhaps discover the Totem Heritage Center’s collection of 19th-century totem poles or stroll along historic Creek Street.
Day 21: Inside Passage
Enjoy a final day on board and make the most of the ship’s amenities. Marvel at the stunning views along the British Columbia Coast as you glide past rocky headlands and across the icy waters of the Inside Passage. This picturesque route offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most famous sea lanes.
Day 22: Disembark Ship, Depart Vancouver
Your spectacular journey comes to an end today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.