Spirit of the Rockies with Alaska Cruise ( CRI)

19 Day Tour from Vancouver to Vancouver

2024 Tour Details

Nothing lifts your spirits like sunny days, blue skies, and even bluer water – not to mention soaring peaks, stunning glaciers, and heartwarming wildlife. This lofty tour of Western Canada leads you to see the inspirational sights of British Columbia and Alberta – and from a variety of vantage points. Enjoy a two-day scenic rail journey from bustling Vancouver to the still beauty of Banff National Park; cross the Columbia Icefield aboard an exciting Ice Explorer; then get ready to melt as you ferry to the “garden city” of Victoria to tiptoe through the tulips. You’ll also relish the timeless scenery of Jasper National Park and the newer resorts of Sun Peaks and Whistler. These dream sights are complemented by the dreamiest of hotels as you rest your wonder-filled head at the best of the Fairmont Collection, including the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Banff Springs Hotel, Chateau Lake Louise, Jasper Park Lodge, and the Chateau Whistler Resort. Catch the spirit of Alaska by adding a leisurely cruise around the 49th state to your tour of Western Canada and the Canadian Rockies. While your ship will sail through the glacial beauty of the Inside Passage, Tracy Arm, and Glacier Bay National Park, you’ll personally cruise through several exciting ports of call, including the capital city of Juneau, the gold rush town of Skagway, and totem-pole-dotted Ketchikan.

To know more about the visas for this vacation, click here

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Notes:

Guests with mobility concerns may experience uneven or wet surfaces specifically for ferry loading and unloading.

Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions.

At least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.

 Meals & Itinerary

 Meals

Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, 12 dinners

 Itinerary

Day 1

ARRIVE IN VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA Welcome to Vancouver! At 6pm, meet your travel companions for a welcome drink. Your Tour Director will prepare you for your upcoming adventure.

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Day 2

VANCOUVER British Columbia Treasures Tour Vancouver, including the waterfront, Chinatown, and Stanley Park with its old-growth evergreen forests and totem poles. The afternoon is free to explore the many attractions at your leisure before dinner at a local restaurant.
Breakfast Breakfast Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Created in 1888, Stanley Park is considered the 'crown jewel' of Vancouver. The oldest park in the city of Vancouver, the dramatically beautiful and panoramic setting of Stanley Park spans more than 1000+ acres right next to downtown Vancouver. Here, Native culture is preserved with a striking collection of First Nations Totem Poles, carved from western red cedar and each carving tells of a real or mythical event with each carving bearing significant meanings – the eagle representing the kingdom of air; the whale as the lord of the sea; and the wolf as the genius of the land – to name a few.


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Day 3

VANCOUVER–ROCKY MOUNTAINEER–KAMLOOPS Riding the Rails At Vancouver’s Rocky Mountaineer Station, board the Rocky Mountaineer train to follow the Fraser Canyon and the Thompson River through beautiful landscapes to historic Kamloops. Tonight, enjoy free time in Kamloops.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
TRAIN SPOTLIGHT Travel in style aboard the legendary Rocky Mountaineer train service from Vancouver to Kamloops. Ride in comfort with exceptional service as you take in the panoramic views through your custom-designed glass-dome coach. Snap the perfect shots of spectacular landscapes from the comfort of your seat or step out on the outdoor viewing area for a wide-open view. Enjoy Rocky Mountaineer’s SilverLeaf service with everything you need and more to experience the majesty of the Rocky Mountains in luxury: panoramic views, delicious meals and beverages brought right to your seat, friendly Hosts and miles and miles of memories.


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Day 4

KAMLOOPS–ROCKY MOUNTAINEER–BANFF, ALBERTA The Continental Divide Back aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, journey from Kamloops eastward to Shuswap Lake with its many miles of shoreline. Follow the Kicking Horse River and pass over the Continental Divide into Banff National Park.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Spend two nights at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, internationally recognized as the symbol of Canadian hospitality. Opened by Canadian Pacific Railway in 1888, this majestic chateau-style hotel is one of the top three getaways in North America.


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Day 5

BANFF Breathtaking Banff Breathe in the fresh mountain air! This morning, tour the highlights of Banff: Bow Falls, Tunnel Mountain, and Surprise Corner. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy all that Banff has to offer. You may wish to ride on the Banff Gondola, visit the shops on Main Street, or perhaps take an optional helicopter flightseeing trip for impressive views of the Rocky Mountains and Banff.
Breakfast Breakfast Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Get ready for a spectacular adventure to explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes in Banff National Park - Canada’s first national park. This awe-inspiring natural wonder, where soaring peaks and sapphire lakes meet the heavens for a breathtaking experience like no other on Earth!


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Day 6

BANFF–LAKE LOUISE Rocky Mountain Majesty En route to Lake Louise, a side trip showcases one of the crown jewels of the Rockies—Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks (weather permitting). Here, 10 mountain peaks soar above 10,000 feet and surround the tranquil waters of the lake. Arrive enchanting Lake Louise for a LF guided heritage walk along the lake. Enjoy an overnight and dinner at the exclusive Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Breakfast Breakfast Dinner Dinner

LOCAL FAVORITE
NATURAL WONDERS Today, you’ll also enjoy a guided heritage walk along Lake Louise to hear about the area’s first settlers, some unique characters, and the history of this incredible setting.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Stay overnight at the spectacular Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Built as a log cabin in 1890, the historic chateau has become world famous, hosting celebrities and royalty, including Queen Elizabeth II, Alfred Hitchcock, and Marilyn Monroe. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine lake, pamper yourself in the spa, or just relax with afternoon tea.


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Day 7

LAKE LOUISE–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–JASPER On the Ice Travel on awe-inspiring Icefields Parkway past towering peaks and immense hanging glaciers to Jasper National Park. Ride an exciting Ice Explorer with a Glaciologist Guide on the Athabasca Glacier and see thundering Athabasca Falls. Your overnight destination is the charming village of Jasper in Jasper National Park.
Breakfast Breakfast Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Spend the night at the beautiful Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Originally built by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway and called “Tent City,” it is now a 4-star resort nestled between majestic mountains and enchanting lakes. Take a nature hike, play a game of croquet, enjoy a canoe trip on the lake, or just bask in the beauty of this tranquil setting.


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Day 8

JASPER–SUN PEAKS Legendary Pathways Departing Jasper, watch the scenery unfold while traveling the Yellowhead Highway.
Breakfast Breakfast

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Travel on the legendary Yellowhead Highway along the Fraser and Thompson Rivers – the same route followed by the early fur brigades of the Hudson’s Bay Company as they paddled fully laden canoes to the Pacific Coast. Pass regal Mount Robson; at 12,972 feet, it is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies on this inspiring and mesmerizing road.


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Day 9

SUN PEAKS–WHISTLER, BRITISH COLUMBIA Rugged Beauty A spectacular day lies ahead! This morning, travel past some of the most beautiful and rugged lakes and mountains in British Columbia. This afternoon, we arrive in Whistler—one of Canada’s newest and most exciting mountain resorts, and host of the 2010 Winter Olympics— and settle into the deluxe Fairmont Chateau Whistler.
Breakfast Breakfast

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT The luxurious Fairmont Chateau Whistler resort is located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain where you’ll enjoy spectacular mountain setting in this stunning architecture that blends with the natural alpine views. Relax in the spa, by the pool, or with a stroll through the Olympic village. Your Tour Director and GlobusGO mobile app have plenty of expert tips, maps, and more.


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Day 10

WHISTLER–VICTORIA Ancient Traditions Visit the LF Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, dedicated to the history and culture of the First Nations people, for a private presentation and breakfast. Afterward, Victoria awaits! Board a BC Ferry for a picturesque cruise to Vancouver Island and the charming, very British “Garden City” of Victoria. This afternoon, discover British Columbia’s capitol on a city highlights tour. Later, you may want to stroll around the Parliament buildings or do some shopping. Enjoy dinner on your own at one of the many restaurants in this delightful harbor city.
Breakfast Breakfast

LOCAL FAVORITE
CULTURAL GEMS Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre before opening hours where you will be greeted with a First Nations welcome followed by breakfast. The centre is a spectacular setting, which brings to life the history of Native peoples whose traditions and beautiful culture still resonate today.


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Day 11

VICTORIA City of Gardens Free time this morning before an afternoon visit to world-famous LF Butchart Gardens.
Breakfast Breakfast Dinner Dinner

LOCAL FAVORITE
PICTURE PERFECT Butchart Gardens, named for the woman who founded this botanical oasis of blooming shades and horticultural design. This National Historic site, recognized for its legacy and lush treasure - millions of flowering beds and over 900 varieties of plants in exquisitely landscaped gardens bring fairytales to life. Enjoy the gardens and a special farewell dinner in the original, now restored, greenhouse.


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Day 12

VICTORIA–VANCOUVER (EMBARKATION) Ready to Cruise! Travel on a scenic BC Ferry crossing through the Gulf Islands to Vancouver where you will begin your 7-Night Alaska’s Inside Passage cruise.
Breakfast Breakfast Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS You’re in for one wild and wonderful week on a roundtrip cruise on the incredible. Inside Passage through the spectacular ports of Alaska. Cruise from Vancouver to discover spellbinding scenery from narrow fjords to scattered islets and towering peaks. Get close to massive glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park and wait breathlessly for ice to calve off and plunge into the ocean. Inside Passage waters are as smooth as it gets, while on shore you’ll find endless thrills and chills.


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Day 13

CRUISING: INSIDE PASSAGE, ALASKA Glacial Fjords & Grand Forests Alaska’s Inside Passage is a protected network of waterways that wind through glacier-cut fjords and lush temperate rain forests along the rugged coast of Southeast Alaska. Arguably one of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage stretches through stunning landscapes, from Misty Fjords National Monument to famed Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
WILD BY NATURE Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orcas plying the bountiful waters alongside the ships, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline.


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Day 14

CRUISING: TRACY ARM–JUNEAU, ALASKA Coastal Cliffs & The Catch of the Day Steep cliffs and glacier-covered mountains flank the Tracy Arm fjord, fringed by the largest intact coastal temperate rain forest in the United States. Old-growth trees colonized Tracy Arm's mouth long ago as the Ice Age retreated. Continue cruising to Juneau, Alaska and visit the most remote, most beautiful, and strangest state capital in the United States. Surrounded by water, forest and mountain sights, visitors seeking things to do in Juneau indoors and outdoors can hike a glacier, eat fresh-caught fish on a seaside patio and tour a grand capitol building all in one day.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
UNTAMED WILDERNESS Even more glorious than nearby Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm is part of the 5.7 million acres (or around 23,000 square kilometers) of pure wilderness sheltered by the Tongass National Forest (America's biggest). Visitors often see bears, whales and mountain goats roaming across various corners of this pristine area—not to mention chubby baby seals resting on the ice floes. Summer temperatures average 35 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 16 degrees Celsius), so pack warm clothing. Pack your waterproof gear, when traveling by cruise ship, in preparation for the more than 1 ½ meters of rainfall each year!


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Day 15

SKAGWAY The Rush for Gold At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, the port town of Skagway served as the primary gateway to the legendary gold fields, and quickly grew into Alaska’s largest settlement. It was then a raucous frontier hub packed with trading posts, saloons, and guesthouses. As the gold rush faded into the 1900s, so did Skagway—but today it has been reinvigorated as a gateway for a new kind of visitor: those looking to explore Alaska’s colorful history, pristine wildlife, and unrivaled natural beauty.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE At every turn, you’ll find yourself immersed in gold rush lore in the town of Skagway, from the infamous Red Onion Saloon that still keeps a pistol that Wyatt Earp left behind on his way to the Klondike, to the narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, traversing rugged mountains, waterfalls, and towering glaciers on its course to Whitehorse deep in the Yukon.


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Day 16

CRUISING: GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK Making a Splash On your cruise to Glacier Bay (A UNESCO World Heritage Site), close your eyes and take in the sounds—the creaks and groans of “living” ice, the shrill cries of gulls and soaring eagles, the splash of a breaching humpback whale. Frosted peaks towering over mossy forests, wide tidewater glaciers (there are seven in the park), and marine wildlife are givens on Glacier Bay cruises, but every experience in this changing biosphere is unique.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
WILD DISCOVERIES Cruise to Glacier Bay where the sounds of creaking groans of living ice in constant flux, the shrill calls of gulls and soaring eagles, and the splash of breaching humpback whales are likely to greet you. Frosted peaks towering over mossy forests, wide tidewater glaciers (there are seven in the park), and marine wildlife are main attractions, but every discovery in this dynamic biosphere is unique. With the serene majesty of snow-flecked and forested mountains defining its shores, Glacier Bay National Park offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. Keep your binoculars and camera at the ready as you cruise Glacier Bay to the mile-wide Margerie Glacier for the chance to witness ice calving. Wildlife abounds in Glacier Bay, so stay ready—you never know when you will see the fluke of a humpback rise out of the water or spot a lone brown bear patrolling a windswept beach.


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Day 17

KETCHIKAN Alaska’s First City Take an adventure and cruise to Ketchikan, Alaska. Alaska's "First City" of Ketchikan is so named because it’s the first major landfall for most cruisers as they enter the picturesque fjords of the Inside Passage, where the town clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & TRADITION Ketchikan has long been an important hub of the salmon-fishing and -packing industries. Visitors can savor the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants on a cruise to Ketchikan excursion. Ketchikan is also one of the best spots along the Inside Passage to explore the rich cultural sights of Native Alaskan nations like the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. You can see intricately carved totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Park, while the attractions of Saxman Village just outside of Ketchikan offers the chance to see Tlingit culture in action, with working carvers and a dance show in the clan house.


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Day 18

CRUISING: INSIDE PASSAGE Where the Wild Things Are Scenic cruising through the Inside Passage offers outstanding opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife.
Breakfast Breakfast Lunch Lunch Dinner Dinner

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ALASKAN ADVENTURE Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orcas plying the bountiful waters alongside the ships, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline. One of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage stretches through stunning landscapes, from Misty Fjords National Monument to famed Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.


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Day 19

VANCOUVER, BC (DISEMBARKATION) Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Schedule flights departing from Vancouver International Airport after Noon.
Breakfast Breakfast

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 Tour Director

With Globus, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of your Tour Director. Averaging over a decade... we’d like you to meet a Tour Director, who is representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

ALMA BERNASCONI

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

" Born and raised in Switzerland, I love my home in Western Canada. I have a zest for life, am always eager to share information and experiences, and enjoy creating lasting memories for travelers. As an avid hobby photographer, I revel in capturing the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies, the surprise appearance of the elusive grizzly bear, a majestic eagle soaring high above endless forests, and so much more."

Tour Director -  ALMA BERNASCONI

MARK LOVE

Escorting tours for more than 5 years

" Travel has always been my passion. After completing my degree in Tourism, I lived oversees and had the opportunity to visit numerous countries and experience different cultures. My background in the travel industry has enabled me to realize how invaluable a respected and experienced tour operator is. I have 5 years of experience as a Tour Director with Globus family of brands and am proud every time I represent the company and travel with my guests. The Canadian Rockies are my home and I can not imagine a better office space in the world. Regardless if I am viewing wildlife with my group, telling a story of historical significance, or just standing close by as guests enjoy the beautiful scenery of Western Canada, I love my role as a Tour Director. Being a part of a guests travel experience is the best reward that I can ask for!"

Tour Director -  MARK LOVE

LYNDA BROWN

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

" Born in Calgary, I caught the travel bug while teaching in Europe-and I haven't looked back since! Western Canada is my preferred travel destination, and having the Rockies in my backyard to enjoy year round is indeed a privilege! I've also had the thrill of introducing many visitors to Calgary's famous Stampede every July. I'm a proud Canadian and proud Calgarian. I am here to share the pride and love I have for my country--its people, culture, food, geography, and history."

Tour Director -  LYNDA BROWN

JENNIFER ROBERTS

" Hi, I am Jennifer Roberts. I was born and raised near Vancouver, BC, and I am a traveler, adventurer, and lifelong learner. While backpacking around the world, I fell in love with wild places, new experiences, and fresh perspectives. I have spent years guiding guests through Canada, South America, and Antarctica. I have been a Tour Director with the Globus family since 2013, and I have traveled independently to over 75 countries on 7 continents. I am thrilled to share my love of the natural world with guests from all over the globe and looking forward to helping make your travel dreams come true!"

Tour Director -  JENNIFER ROBERTS

 Accommodations

VANCOUVER

FAIRMONT HOTEL VANCOUVER

Hotel as shown or similar
Moderate Deluxe
  Free Wifi

BANFF

FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS HOTEL

Hotel as shown or similar
Moderate Deluxe
  Free Wifi

LAKE LOUISE

FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE

Hotel as shown or similar
Deluxe
  Free Wifi

The Chateau has an indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, spa, game room, horseback riding stables, concierge service, gift shops, business center, several restaurants, lounge, room service, and Afternoon Tea.

SUN PEAKS

SUN PEAKS GRAND HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE

Hotel as shown or similar
First-Class
  Free Wifi

WHISTLER

FAIRMONT CHATEAU WHISTLER RESORT

Hotel as shown or similar
Deluxe
  Free Wifi

The Chateau is located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain and just 5 minutes from the center of Whistler Village. The hotel has a golf-course, indoor & outdoor pool, hot tub, tennis courts, fitness center, spa, concierge service, gift shops, guest laundry, business center, several restaurants, baker, lounge, Afternoon Tea, and room service.

VICTORIA

MARRIOTT VICTORIA INNER HARBOUR

Hotel as shown or similar
Superior First-Class
  Free Wifi

 Optional Excursions

Contact your Travel Consultant for more information.
Price Ranges

$ ($50 USD and under)
$$ ($51 - $100 USD)
$$$ ($101 - $150 USD)
$$$$ (Over $150)



* The "Starting at" or listed price is based on the lowest price available to book. Price is per passenger based on double occupancy and does not include airfare; additional fees/charges are not included. If a price is crossed out, the new price includes a limited time promotional offer(s) – please review current promotions or deals for additional information. Some tours require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Globus).
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