A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.
This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
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.
✓ Incredible sightseeing including Toronto's famous landmarks, witness the beauty and power of the Niagara Falls, discover Quebec's French-speaking cities, Banff National Parks snow-capped peaks, explore the cosmopolitan cities of Vancouver and Calgary and cruise the Inside Passage to Alaska
✓ 15 nights accommodation in comfortable 3 star accommodation
✓ 7 nights Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean including gratuities
✓ Delicious breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
✓ Spend two nights in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Banff
✓ Escorted by expert Canadian Tour Leaders throughout Canada (Day 1 to 8 and Day 10 to 16)
✓ Dedicated transportation as outlined in the itinerary
✓ All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
✓ Porterage at hotels for one piece per person
✓ All national park fees
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.
On arrival in Toronto, make your own way to your downtown hotel. After checking in with your tour director, the remainder at your leisure to explore the streets of this dynamic city. Discover Toronto’s colourful neighbourhoods, take a ride to the top of the CN Tower, experience the lively theatre district and indulge in one of the numerous restaurants.
This morning, meet your group at breakfast before setting out to discover the many identities of the Canada’s most cosmopolitan city. After seeing the provincial parliament buildings, the waterfront, the imposing CN Tower and lively Chinatown, we leave the city and head for the Niagara Peninsula. We pass through outlying communities and towns along the shores of Lake Ontario en route to Niagara Falls. Time is allocated to admire the falls and take part in some of Niagara Falls numerous activities.
We leave the Toronto skyline behind and drive east towards Ottawa. Our route then winds through rolling farmland, following the rivers and lakes of the Rideau Waterway. Upon arrival in Ottawa, we enjoy a sightseeing tour of the national capital. Defined by the Rideau Canal (designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site) and the government buildings on Parliament Hill, the city offers many great sights including the public gardens, the Byward Market and City Hall.
This morning we travel along the scenic Ottawa River to the French-speaking province of Quebec. We skirt the magnificent Laurentians and follow the Chemin du Roy Highway past rustic Quebecois villages and historic shrines. Today’s journey ends in Quebec’s cultural heartland, Quebec City. We tour within the walls of the old city and view the ornate city gates, Lower Town, the Citadel and Battlefields Park.
The day is at your leisure to further explore the sights of this charming World Heritage Site. You can enjoy an optional full day excursion to Tadoussac including 3-hours of whalewatching on the St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River aboard a regular boat. Upon return, we will visit the spectacular Montmorency Falls that are 30 metres higher than the Niagara Falls with a flow of roughly 35,000 litres of water per second.
Departing from Quebec City we drive along the St. Lawrence River in the footsteps of the early settlers. Upon arrival in Montreal, we tour the second largest French-speaking city in the world. The dynamic city of Montreal encapsulates the two founding cultures of Canada and boasts a curious blend of history and modernity. Touring the downtown area we view the Olympic Complex, charming Old Montreal, McGill University, the residential streets of Mount Royal and the bustling shopping streets.
Today’s journey takes us back to Toronto. On route will be a stop in Rockport you have an option of enjoying an entertaining and relaxing cruise through the beautiful 1000 group of islands.
Farewell your Eastern Canada Tour Director and fellow travellers today, before a day at leisure in Toronto. It’s a great opportunity to catch up on some shopping or visit some of the memorable sights that Toronto has to offer.
Please note today is unescorted.
At the appropriate time, make your own way to Toronto Airport to board your included flight to Calgary.
Welcome to Calgary! On arrival, make your own way to your downtown hotel where upon checking-in, you have the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is located approximately 20km from downtown Calgary. There are a range of transportation options available. Taxis are available for approximately CAD$45-55 per vehicle.
Please note today is unescorted.
Savour a leisurely day in Calgary, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this dynamic city. Explore its bustling streets, renowned for their diverse shopping experiences, or venture out to discover the captivating landmarks and attractions that define Calgary's unique charm.
This evening, meet your Western Canada Tour Director and fellow travellers.
This morning, we gather with our fellow travellers over breakfast before embarking on a captivating exploration of Calgary's landmarks, both modern and historic. From the iconic Calgary Tower to the storied Fort Calgary and the imposing skyscrapers of the bustling commercial district, we marvel at the city's diverse architectural tapestry.
As we bid farewell to Calgary, our gaze shifts towards the majestic Rocky Mountains, looming on the distant horizon. Prepare to be enchanted as we traverse through the picturesque foothills, gradually entering the breathtaking expanse of Banff National Park.
Our journey through Banff National Park is a feast for the senses, encompassing highlights such as the charming Banff town site, the commanding presence of Tunnel Mountain, and the awe-inspiring vista of the Banff Springs Hotel. Delight in the natural wonders of Johnston Canyon and the peculiar formations of the Hoodoos, before cruising along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway. Our adventure culminates at the renowned Lake Louise, offering an unforgettable rendezvous with one of the world's most iconic alpine lakes. We return to Banff whilst looking out for bears and moose, before retiring to our hotel in the heart of Banff.
After a delicious breakfast, begin your northward journey along the Icefields Parkway, where you'll be enchanted by an array of breathtaking landscapes. Admire the shimmering blue-green lakes, meandering mountain streams, lush forests, and majestic snow-capped peaks that dominate the scenery.
Alternatively, you may opt for a leisurely day in Banff, allowing you to explore the townsite further and fully embrace the mountain lifestyle.
Upon reaching the Columbia Icefield, you can choose to embark on an exciting and informative ride aboard an all-terrain Ice Explorer—an expansive vehicle engineered specifically for glacier exploration (Additional expense). Led by an experienced driver-guide, this exhilarating excursion promises a wealth of captivating insights into glaciers and their environmental significance. During this unforgettable adventure, the snow coach will transport you to a designated area where you can pause to capture breathtaking photos, traverse the icy terrain on foot, and collect pristine glacier water to refill your bottle.
Today's journey takes us along the renowned TransCanada Highway, tracing the path originally charted by railroad engineers and fur traders in the mid-1800s.
Our route traverses Kicking Horse Pass, guiding us from the Rockies into the picturesque Columbia River Valley, before ascending through Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park. The Selkirk Mountains, known for their abundant winter snowfall, boast more than one hundred active avalanche zones.
Continuing onward, we navigate through the majestic Monashee Mountain Range, eventually arriving at the rugged interior town of Vernon.
Today marks our departure from the Okanagan Valley and its majestic mountains as we journey through the lower mainland. Few routes in Canada offer such a diverse range of vegetation in such a compact distance as Highway 3 between Osoyoos and Tashima. At the western end, lush rainforests abound, while to the east lies a desert landscape where prickly pear cacti thrive. Our route takes us along the Coquihalla Highway before arriving in Vancouver.
Indulge in a captivating sightseeing expedition of Vancouver, showcasing iconic attractions including Stanley Park with its renowned totem pole collection, picturesque English Bay, the vibrant ambiance of Robson Street, historic Gastown, bustling Chinatown, and the majestic Canada Place and Cruise Ship Pier.
The afternoon and evening is at leisure in Vancouver. There are countless restaurants, shops and bars within walking distance from your centrally located hotel. Your Tour Leader will be on hand to provide recommendations.
This morning offers you an opportunity for any final shopping endeavours in Canada before your transfer to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal for your voyage to Alaska. Your included transfer to the cruise port departs around 1pm.
Upon checking in to the cruise, commence your exploration of the myriad amenities aboard your ship.
Please note that ports of call may vary depending on ship schedules and sailing dates.
Enjoy a leisurely day at sea cruising the spectacular Inside Passage.
Your vessel provides an ideal vantage point for admiring the beauty of British Columbia's Inside Passage. Stretching over 25,000 miles from Seattle to Prince Rupert near the Alaskan border, this archipelago boasts serene waters nestled between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island. As you navigate this route, prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring rugged landscapes and encounter a plethora of wildlife, including orcas, humpback whales, rare white spirit bears, and countless 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.
There are a range of shore excursions on offer today. Join your pre-booked option or arrange something when you get onboard with the Shore Excursions desk.
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 a 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.
We then sail to Alaska’s remote capital, Juneau.
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 snow capped 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.
Haines offers diverse activities for all ages and interests, from wildlife tours to cultural immersion. Prepare for an incredible journey into the untouched beauty of the Haines wilderness. Wildlife photography tours in Haines, Alaska provide endless opportunities to capture stunning shots of bears, eagles, moose, and whales amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. Join bear-viewing tours for a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, fishing along rivers or grazing in meadows.
For adventure enthusiasts, the Glacial Fjords Bicycle Tour offers an exhilarating way to explore Haines's stunning scenery on two wheels. Experience the world's largest population of bald eagles at the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, ideal for birdwatchers.
You can also enjoy guided hikes, wildlife spotting, and cultural experiences, while the White Pass Summit Excursion offers a historic train journey through rugged mountain terrain with panoramic views.
Haines, Alaska shore excursions cater to everyone, promising unforgettable encounters with wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Explore this hidden gem and embark on your unforgettable journey today.
Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska! This remarkable locale offers a wealth of shore excursions to suit every traveller. Whether you're drawn to nature, culinary delights, or thrilling adventures, Ketchikan has something for you.
Experience the must-see lumberjack show in Ketchikan—an action-packed showcase of rugged skills in chopping, sawing, and log-rolling, immersing you in the region's rich heritage. For fishing enthusiasts, Ketchikan, known as the salmon capital of the world, offers guided trips for salmon reeling, suitable for all levels of expertise.
Indulge in a shopping spree in Ketchikan's downtown district, boasting unique shops and boutiques offering local artwork and handmade goods, perfect for picking up Alaskan souvenirs. Nature lovers can embark on a wildlife safari boat tour through neighbouring fjords and islands, spotting bald eagles, seals, whales, and other captivating wildlife.
Delight in a seafood feast showcasing fresh Alaskan delicacies against a backdrop of stunning mountains and waters, offering a culinary experience not to be missed. For a relaxed city tour, hop on the historic Ketchikan Trolley, exploring the vibrant ambiance, rich culture, and iconic landmarks with knowledgeable guides.
Today is a full day to relax and enjoy the many activities, restaurants and entertainment your ship has to offer whilst cruising the stunning Inside Passage.
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.
Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska, where Serenade of the Seas serves up snow-capped scenery everywhere you look. Onboard, panoramic views and acres of glass ensure that you’ll never miss a moment of the wilderness – from breeching humpback whales to calving icy blue glaciers. You’ll find some of the best scenic views from the cruise ship in the Main Dining Room, which offers two levels of glass windows. This means that every course comes served with a side of stunning Alaska landscapes.
The pool onboard Serenade of the Seas has a retractable glass roof, so you can soak up long hours of sunlight on summer days that seem to last forever – all while watching snow-capped mountains and misty forests roll gently by.
Whether you’re craving Far East flavours at Izumi or elevated Italian comfort food at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, bold and delicious is always on the menu onboard Serenade of the Seas. And if you want to really dial up date night, there’s the exclusive Chef’s Table.
Stateroom Details
INSIDE STATEROOM - 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 - FROM an additional $563 per person, twin share (Single from an additional $1,126)
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 - FROM an additional $1,431 per person, twin share (Single from an additional $2,862)
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.
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 package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades , you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?”
By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can assist with flying the airline of your choice to turn your booking into a flight inclusive package.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
We are currently unable to provide a quote for the following requests:
Online check-in
Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers.
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
Tipping in Canada is a complex cultural practice. While not technically mandatory, it's deeply ingrained in the service industry and considered a crucial part of an employee's income. Understanding the tipping etiquette can be confusing for visitors, as it varies depending on the type of service, location, and even the bill amount.
Here is some information to assist you with tipping in the Canada.
Tipping in the Canada is expected, but not mandatory. Generally 15-20% of the bill (before tax) is considered standard for good service, while higher tips are customary for exceptional service. Some restaurants may automatically add gratuity, so check your bill carefully.
Tipping your tour leader in the Canada is not as common as tipping in restaurants, but it's certainly a kind gesture and a way to show your appreciation for their hard work and guidance throughout your trip. If you had a good experience, CAD$5-$10 per person per day is a decent starting point. For exceptional service or longer tours, aim for CAD$10-$20 or a lump sum at the end.
Ultimately, tipping your tour leader is a personal decision. If you felt they provided a valuable service and made your trip more enjoyable, a tip is a thoughtful way to express your thanks. Remember, even a small gesture can go a long way in showing your appreciation for their hard work.
While navigating the intricacies of tipping can feel overwhelming at first, understanding the basics will ensure you navigate this cultural practice confidently during your visit to Canada.
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, however, any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $4,326.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
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.
Visa & Passport information
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.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/entry-requirements-country.html for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Group Size
Minimum of 20 and maximum 50 people
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:
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Click HERE for more information on weather in Canada & Alaska.
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