Fly Stay Cruise — 18 Day Ultimate Denali Alaska Rail & Cruise with Vancouver Stay
Enjoy an exceptional-value holiday that seamlessly combines return flights, pre- and post-cruise hotels and/or tours with a cruise—removing the stress of planning so you can enjoy every moment from departure to return.
This package includes international airfares and flights will be added to your booking at no additional cost.
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 2 out of 5
Relax and uncover: Enjoy ample free time alongside key sightseeing and activities. Moderate fitness is still recommended to fully experience the trip.
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.
✓ 14-night Ultimate Denali Alaska Cruisetour onboard Holland America's Westerdam
✓ Return international airfares
✓ Arrival airport transfer in Fairbanks
✓ 2-night post-cruise stay in Vancouver
✓ Luxurious McKinley Explorer glass-domed rail journey from Denali to Anchorage
✓ Included sightseeing: Riverboat Discovery, Gold Dredge No. 8, Tundra Wilderness Tour, Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
✓ Dedicated Tour Director during the land portion
✓ All land transfers during the cruisetour
✓ Breakfast daily during hotel and lodge stays
✓ All onboard dining, entertainment and port charges
Inspiring Bonus Value
Exclusive fly-stay-cruise package savings.
Two nights at Holland America's iconic Denali Lodge with included Tundra Wilderness Tour.
Full-day scenic cruising at both Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Upgrade to Have It All - from only AU$85 per person per day
Shore Excursion Credit - up to two free shore excursions (up to US$100 value per tour)
Specialty Dining Package - dine at Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, Tamarind and more
Signature Beverage Package - up to 15 beverages per day priced at US$11 or less, including wine, beer, cocktails, sodas and specialty coffees
Surf Wi-Fi Package - stay connected throughout your cruise
Discover Alaska's wild heart on this unforgettable 18-day journey. From the peaks of Denali National Park and the glacier-carved fjords of the Inside Passage to two memorable nights in cosmopolitan Vancouver, this cruisetour blends rugged natural wonders, spectacular scenic cruising and iconic Pacific Northwest cities into one seamless experience.
Your Alaskan adventure begins today! Depart Home on your included international flights to Fairbanks, Alaska's "Golden Heart City." With a connection via a USA hub, the overnight journey takes you across the International Date Line travelling eastbound, meaning you will arrive in Fairbanks later in the day. On arrival at Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), you will be met for your included private transfer to your centrally located hotel - the same hotel included in your Holland America cruisetour - where your tour officially begins. The remainder of the day is at leisure to recover after your long journey, stretch your legs along the Chena River or sample hearty Alaskan fare at a local restaurant.
Special Information
Departure airport transfer in Australia is not included. Arrival airport transfer in Fairbanks is included.
This morning meet your dedicated Holland America Tour Director at your hotel for a welcome briefing before stepping back in time aboard the sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery. Cruise the scenic Chena and Tanana Rivers with an included lunch and fascinating commentary on Alaskan life and culture. In the afternoon, try your hand at gold panning at the historic Gold Dredge No. 8, where you'll learn about the Klondike Gold Rush that shaped Alaska's interior. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
This morning, board your motorcoach for the scenic drive south to Denali National Park, arriving in the afternoon. Check in to Holland America's iconic Denali Lodge, beautifully situated at the entrance to one of America's most spectacular national parks. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Denali Square, take in the pristine mountain views or unwind at the Lodge.
Today features the highlight of your land tour - the unforgettable Tundra Wilderness Tour. This fully narrated sightseeing excursion takes you deep into the heart of Denali National Park in search of Alaska's "Big 5": bears, moose, Dall sheep, caribou and gray wolves. On clear days, witness stunning views of Denali itself, North America's tallest peak at 20,310 feet. A snack is included during this 5-6 hour adventure. The evening is at leisure to enjoy the Lodge.
This morning, board the luxurious glass-domed rail cars of the McKinley Explorer bound for Anchorage. This unforgettable scenic journey showcases Alaska's dramatic interior - snow-capped peaks, broad rivers, pristine lakes and vast tundra - all viewed from the comfort of your domed carriage. Arrive in Anchorage in the afternoon and check in to your hotel. The evening is at leisure to explore Alaska's largest city.
After a morning at leisure in Anchorage, enjoy an included visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center on your way to the picturesque seaside town of Seward. Meet moose, bison, bears and other iconic Alaskan species while learning about their care and conservation. Continue by coach along the spectacular Seward Highway, often rated one of America's most scenic drives, arriving at your seaside hotel in Seward for the first of two relaxing nights.
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Seward, the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. You may wish to visit the Alaska SeaLife Center, take an optional wildlife cruise into Kenai Fjords to see humpback whales, orcas, sea otters and calving glaciers, or simply stroll the charming waterfront and browse the local galleries and cafes.
This afternoon, transfer by coach to Whittier where your Holland America adventure continues aboard the elegant Westerdam. After settling into your stateroom, explore the ship's facilities - from the Pinnacle Grill and Morimoto by Sea to the World Stage theatre and Crow's Nest lounge - before departing at 7:30 PM for your 7-night Glacier Discovery cruise.
Enjoy a leisurely morning onboard Westerdam before an afternoon of spectacular scenic cruising at Hubbard Glacier - North America's longest tidewater glacier. From the open decks, witness the dramatic calving of ice into Disenchantment Bay from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This is one of Alaska's most awe-inspiring natural spectacles.
Today, spend a full day cruising the ice-studded fjords of Glacier Bay National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular natural environments on Earth. A Park Service Ranger joins the ship to provide fascinating narration from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Keep an eye out for whales, seals, sea otters and soaring eagles against a backdrop of towering tidewater glaciers. Route time is subject to weather and ice conditions.
Step back into the Klondike Gold Rush era in Skagway, a perfectly preserved frontier town nestled at the head of the Lynn Canal. With the ship docked from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, you'll have ample time to explore the historic Broadway streetscape, ride the famous White Pass & Yukon Route Railway for breathtaking alpine views, or hike into the spectacular surrounding wilderness.
Enjoy a full day in Juneau, Alaska's scenic capital. Accessible only by sea or air, Juneau is surrounded by mountains, the Tongass National Forest and the dramatic Mendenhall Glacier. Choose from optional excursions including whale watching, a helicopter glacier tour, a Mendenhall Glacier kayak adventure or the Mount Roberts Tramway for panoramic city views.
Explore Ketchikan, Alaska's "First City" and the self-proclaimed Salmon Capital of the World. Famous for its rich Tlingit heritage, colourful Creek Street waterfront and the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, Ketchikan is also the gateway to the breathtaking Misty Fjords National Monument - accessible by seaplane or catamaran for those seeking an unforgettable excursion.
Enjoy a full day of scenic cruising through the legendary Inside Passage - a sheltered coastal route through a maze of forested islands, fjords and secluded coves. Watch for humpback whales, orcas and bald eagles from the open decks, or indulge in a final day of Westerdam's onboard experiences.
Your Holland America cruise concludes this morning as Westerdam arrives into Vancouver at 7:00 AM. After breakfast onboard, disembark and make your own way to your centrally located Vancouver hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to begin exploring one of Canada's most beautiful cities. You may wish to stroll the seawall at Stanley Park, explore the historic streets of Gastown or sample the Pacific Northwest cuisine for which Vancouver is renowned.
Enjoy a full day at leisure to discover Vancouver at your own pace. Ride the gondola to the top of Grouse Mountain for sweeping city views, explore Granville Island's vibrant public market, cross the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge, or simply enjoy the relaxed waterfront atmosphere. The city's blend of natural beauty, cosmopolitan sophistication and multicultural cuisine makes a perfect final chapter to your Alaskan adventure.
Enjoy your final moments in Vancouver before making your way to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) for your included international flight home. As you cross the International Date Line travelling westbound, a calendar day will pass during your journey.
Special Information
Airport transfers in Vancouver are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfer for an easier departure experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Arrive home today, completing your unforgettable 18-day Alaskan adventure. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience exploring the Great Land - from the towering peaks of Denali National Park and the ice-studded fjords of Glacier Bay, to the cosmopolitan charm of Vancouver.
Fairbanks - Explore Alaska's "Golden Heart City," gateway to the Arctic, with its Gold Rush heritage and the scenic Riverboat Discovery sternwheeler.
Denali National Park - Spend two nights at Holland America's Denali Lodge with a fully narrated Tundra Wilderness Tour into North America's most iconic wilderness.
Anchorage - Discover Alaska's largest city, surrounded by mountains, glaciers and pristine coastal waters.
Seward - Enjoy two nights in this picturesque seaside town, the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.
Hubbard Glacier - Marvel at North America's longest tidewater glacier on an afternoon of spectacular scenic cruising.
Glacier Bay National Park - Spend a full day cruising this UNESCO World Heritage Site with Park Ranger narration.
Skagway - Step back into the Klondike Gold Rush era in this historic frontier town nestled at the head of the Lynn Canal.
Juneau - Visit Alaska's scenic capital, surrounded by mountains, glaciers and the vast Tongass National Forest.
Ketchikan - Explore Alaska's "First City," famous for rich Tlingit heritage, colourful Creek Street and the world's largest collection of totem poles.
Inside Passage - Enjoy scenic cruising through one of the world's most spectacular coastal waterways.
Vancouver - Conclude your journey with two nights in Canada's stunning Pacific Northwest harbour city.
Westerdam
Set sail aboard Holland America Line's Westerdam and experience refined premium cruising as you explore some of the world's most spectacular scenery. Accommodating 1,964 guests, the ship features six dining venues, eight bars and lounges, two pools, a professionally staffed Fitness Center and the award-winning Greenhouse Spa & Salon. Savour world-class cuisine at the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse, authentic Italian at Canaletto and innovative Japanese at Morimoto by Sea, plus casual favourites at the Lido Market and Dive-In poolside grill. Entertainment spans the two-story LED World Stage, live music at the Rolling Stone Lounge and Billboard Onboard, and enriching destination-focused programming. With Holland America Line's 150+ years of expertise and 80 years of exploring Alaska, you're in the hands of true destination specialists.
Guaranteed Cabin - What This Means for You
Your cabin is booked on a Guaranteed basis. This means you're confirmed in your selected cabin category (or higher), however your specific cabin number will be allocated by Holland America Line closer to departure. You may receive an upgrade at no additional cost, but cabin location and deck cannot be requested. Rest assured, you'll enjoy all the features and inclusions of the category you've chosen - the exact cabin details will simply be revealed a little later.
Inside Stateroom - Included
Inside staterooms offer a comfortable and stylish retreat with two lower beds that convert to a queen-size bed, a modern ensuite bathroom, sitting area, TV, minibar, hair dryer, ample storage and twice-daily housekeeping service.
Ocean View Stateroom - from $790 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Ocean View staterooms feature a large picture window that fills the room with natural light and stunning Alaskan scenery. Enjoy two lower beds that convert to a queen-size bed, a well-appointed bathroom, sitting area, TV, minibar, hair dryer and twice-daily housekeeping service.
Verandah Stateroom - from $1,600 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Verandah staterooms offer your own private outdoor space, perfect for taking in dramatic glacier views and Inside Passage scenery. Enjoy a spacious layout with two lower beds that convert to a queen-size bed, sitting area, modern bathroom facilities, TV, minibar, hair dryer and twice-daily housekeeping service.
Signature Suite - from $2,000 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Signature Suites offer a spacious retreat with a private verandah, separate sitting area, premium bedding, whirlpool bath, walk-in wardrobe, TV, minibar and twice-daily housekeeping service - ideal for those seeking extra comfort.
Neptune Suite - from $2,950 per person, twin share. Solo fare on application.
Neptune Suites are Holland America's most luxurious accommodations, featuring an expansive verandah, separate living and sleeping areas, whirlpool bath, complimentary access to the exclusive Neptune Lounge, concierge service, premium amenities and elevated dining and entertainment privileges.
Cabin upgrades and prices are subject to availability at the time of booking. Please select this option to indicate your preferred upgrade. Once confirmed, the additional cost will be added to your invoice and included with your final payment.
Payment Information
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:
Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 3-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product.
Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.
Terms and conditions
Please review the Inspiring Vacations terms and conditions found HERE
Starting Point
Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.
Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.
Note: if you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.
Arrival Details
Airport transfers are included as part of your package.
On arrival look out for a representative holding a sign with your name after you have collected your baggage and exited customs. If you cannot find them, try to avoid wandering around and instead stay in one place and call the emergency contact number on your documentation.
In Case of Emergency
Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it's essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative. This ensures they can take immediate action to address the problem and mitigate any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.
We understand that there may be instances where your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction. In such cases, we encourage you to request that the tour leader or local representative escalate the matter to their direct manager for further assistance.
When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour.
Finishing Point
Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14-30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list. If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.
Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at the hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost payable directly.
Departure Details
Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.
As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.
To make your way to the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. If you're having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.
Accommodation
All hotels listed are subject to change; any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding requests cannot be guaranteed and are always on a request basis with the hotel.
Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not 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 $5,915.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.
Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them 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 as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller 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.
Itinerary Changes
Please note that as part of our commitment to constantly improving our passenger experience, there may be itinerary changes between the time of booking and when you travel. These changes are always made with your experience in mind and will be clearly communicated in advance if they affect your booking.
Trusted Travel Partner Tour
Your chosen tour will be operated by one of our trusted travel partners. These are meticulously crafted tours designed by established travel partners we know and trust. These tours offer a unique and exciting way to explore the world, packed with incredible sights and experiences.
Documentation
Travel documentation is sent digitally 30 days before departure. No postal documents are issued. You must complete your cruise personaliser directly with the cruise line. We cannot complete this on your behalf. Visit the Know Before You Go section for guidance, and you will receive an email reminder when it is time to complete this.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here:
https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.
We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our tours. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-tour cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider.
We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international tours, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.
If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.
Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it.
Official Travel Advice
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:
Here is a help link to get you started:
In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:
By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.
Post-Tour Feedback
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability.
Terms and Conditions
For the full terms and conditions for Inspiring Vacations, please see HERE.
This is a flight inclusive package.
This package includes international airfares and flights will be added to your booking at no additional cost. Select your departure city after clicking ‘Book Now’.
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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