Calgary Stampede, Rockies and Alaska Cruise

21 days, 37 meals. Begin your Canada and Alaska adventure with a two-day ‘Wild West’ extravaganza at the Calgary Stampede.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Calgary

Welcome to Calgary, where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Reception and get to know your fellow guests and Travelmarvel Tour Director.

Day 2: Calgary Stampede

Your two-day ‘Stampede Thrill Package’ includes a ticket to the Afternoon Rodeo, gate admission, a souvenir program, an evening ticket to the Chuckwagon Races and the Grandstand Show, plus two thrilling Skyrides over Stampede Park.

Day 3: Calgary Stampede

Enjoy a full day to return to Stampede Park and experience all the excitement that the Calgary Stampede has to offer.

Day 4: Calgary, Banff

This morning, depart for beautiful Banff National Park. On arrival in Banff, enjoy a sightseeing tour to get to know the town’s stunning surroundings.

Day 5: Banff

Today is at your leisure to discover beautiful Banff.

Day 6: Banff, Lake Louise

After a leisurely morning, visit Moraine Lake (weather permitting) on your way to Lake Louise, the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’.

Day 7: Lake Louise, Icefields Parkway, Athabasca Glacier, Jasper

Journey along the iconic Icefields Parkway this morning. One could argue this is one of the most breathtaking journeys on Earth. This 232 km highway stretches through the glorious Canadian Rockies where you’ll be met with incredible sights around every turn. Stop at the Columbia Icefield for an exhilarating Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier. Continue along the Continental Divide to Jasper which is nestled in Jasper National Park.

Day 8: Jasper, Blue River

Depart Jasper National Park today, stop at Mt Robson and continue to Blue River.Rocky Mountaineer Rail Option

Day 9: Blue River, Vancouver

Upon arrival in Vancouver, enjoy time at leisure to explore this beautiful cosmopolitan city.

Day 10: Vancouver

Fall in love with the beautiful city of Vancouver and discover some of its most vibrant districts and best-loved attractions on a sightseeing tour, including the Waterfront and historic Gastown.

Day 11: Vancouver, Whistler

Take a scenic drive along the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler.

Day 12: Whistler, Victoria

On your return from Whistler, board a ferry across the Georgia Strait to Victoria

Day 13: Victoria

Enjoy time at leisure, then visit The Butchart Gardens.

Day 14: Victoria, Vancouver, Embark Cruise

Travel by ferry from Victoria to Vancouver and board your premium cruise ship.

Day 15: Inside Passage

Enjoy a full day at sea at the beginning of your phenomenal journey. Relax and absorb the majestic scenery as your ship cruises past dramatic rocky headlands and glides over the frigid waters of the Inside Passage. You also have plenty of time to explore the facilities of your cruise ship and perhaps relax in one of the onboard public areas.

Day 16: Juneau

Today your journey brings you to Alaska’s capital, Juneau. There is time to explore the region’s glacial terrain and gold rush history or perhaps choose to make your way to the town and explore the rustic shops located here. You may also like to experience an exhilarating dog sled ride over a glacier or try one of the other activities available to you. These include sampling delicious salmon baked over a fire or even trying your hand at panning for gold in this former gold rush town (own expense).

Day 17: Skagway

This morning, you’ll dock at the port of Skagway, which is located at the northernmost point of the Inside Passage. Skagway was once a frontier town and gateway to the Klondike and still celebrates its gold rush past to this day. You will find a variety of stores and saloons in town that capture the excitement and history of the gold rush days. Here, you will also have the opportunity to learn more about gold prospecting or to view some of the fascinating local wildlife on a tour (own expense).

Day 18: Glacier Bay

Wake up to the breathtaking sight of Glacier Bay National Park this morning, with its formidable rivers of ice, wild coastline and sheltered fjords. As you cruise through the national park, it is easy to see why the area has received World Heritage status. Today, you’ll gain a more detailed insight into the unique nature of this national park as local rangers join you on board to explain the geological wonders and diverse wildlife found in this remarkable region.

Day 19: Ketchikan

Arrive today in the Alaskan town of Ketchikan, regarded as the salmon capital of the world and renowned for its idyllic scenery and rich Alaskan Native cultures. Here, you will have free time to relax and explore the town at your leisure. Alternatively, perhaps choose to join a walking tour of the town or learn about the history of Tlingit culture at Saxman Native Village (own expense), where you’ll be fascinated by the collection of Native American totem poles found on display.

Day 20: Inside Passage

Today marks your final day aboard your premium Holland America Line cruise ship. You’ll spend the day cruising south through the Inside Passage and its magnificent landscapes and towering glaciers. There is time to relax on board and enjoy the premium facilities of your ship while you take in the incredible views. This evening, savour a final dinner on board.

Day 21: Disembark Cruise, Depart Vancouver

Your journey comes to an end today. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.