Alpine & City Explorer

Itinerary

Days 1-8Cruise

See Explorer of the Seas 7-Night Southbound Alaska Sawyer Glacier Cruise.

Day 8FridayVancouver

Your adventure to the Canadian Rockies begins in lovely Seattle. Upon arrival at the pier, you’ll enjoy a complimentary scenic motor coach transfer from the Seattle cruise pier to the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy as you explore downtown Vancouver.

Day 9SaturdayVancouver

Today’s adventure will take you to Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia. In the morning, you’ll embark on a journey through the Fraser River delta to Tsawwassen, where you’ll board a B.C. Ferry for a scenic sail through the Gulf islands to Victoria Island. Upon arrival at the ferry terminal, you’ll travel to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens and explore this botanical showcase, famous for its colorful and authentic series of formal gardens. Your sightseeing guied tour of Victoria continues as you explore the University of Victoria, Royal Victorian Yacht Club, Beacon Hill Park, and the attractions of the Inner Harbour. Enjoy free time to explore Victoria independently before returning to Vancouver, where you’ll spend a second night at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Day 10SundayVIA Rail

In the morning to begin your day with a scenic city tour of Vancouver, introducing you to such sights as the English Bay Vancouver Harbor, historic Gastown, Stanley Park, Granville Island and much more. The excitement continues in the evening as you transfer to Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station and board VIA Rail’s legendary ’Canadian’ train for a spectacular journey through the Rockies eastward to Jasper. Experience old world charm on rails as you relax for the evening in your private cabin while enjoying marvelous views of the stunning natural scenery along the way. In the evening, you’ll retire to your Sleeper Plus Class private cabin and enjoy a restful night’s sleep in your premier accommodations.

Please Note: Please pack an overnight bag for the train portion of your package as you will not have access to your luggage once you board the train.

Day 11MondayJasper

Begin your morning with a delightful breakfast in the dining car as you pass between the stunning Monashee and Cariboo mountain ranges. Meander to the domed car for majestic views of Mt. Robson and Cariboo Falls. Lunch will be served in the dining car prior to arrival in Jasper, where you’ll enjoy leisure time in the late afternoon and evening for sightseeing and dining. Overnight at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Breakfast & Lunch are Included in the ’Canadian’ dining room.

Day 12TuesdayBanff

Travel through the famous Icefields Parkway, one of the most spectacular highways in North America, stopping at the Columbia Icefield for a “Glacier Experience”. This unique excursion will place you on the 1,200-feet-thick icy slopes of the Athabasca Glacier aboard a specially-designed Ice Explorer. Venture to the middle of the glacier as your experienced guide explains how glaciers are formed and points out interesting geological features. After this unique ice adventure, you’ll enjoy free time at the Columbia Icefield Centre to relax over a buffet lunch and visit the new and expanded Parks Canada Interpretive Centre. Upon arrival in Banff, you’ll transfer to the Fairmont Banff Springs, where you can relax in your accommodations or enjoy the rest of your evening with a scenic stroll through this charming Bavarian-like town. Overnight at the Fairmont Banff Springs. Lunch Included.

Day 13WednesdayCalgary

Start your day with a guided motorcoach tour through the towering mountains of Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade, and Norquay while discovering the natural attractions of Hoodoos Surprise Corner and breathtaking valley views from Tunnel Mountain Drive. After, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the landscape aboard the Banff Gondola as you make your way to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Later, you’ll depart Banff and set off to Calgary, the largest city in the province of Alberta. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped off at the Fairmont Palliser, where you’ll enjoy leisure time to relax before your afternoon’s adventures, featuring a visit to the Calgary Tower, the tallest 360-degree observation deck in the world (admission included). Soak in panoramic views of the city and marvel at the sights below from the observatory’s remarkable glass floor, which looks straight down the side of the tower. After, you’ll head back to your hotel and enjoy an overnight stay in Calgary.

Day 14ThursdayCalgary

Bid farewell to Calgary before enjoying a complimentary transfer to the Calgary International Airport for your flight home, taking with you a lifetime of memories from your unforgettable experience in the Canadian Rockies.

Note: All Canadian Rockies itineraries are independent travel itineraries and do not include an escort. Independent travel offers all the features of a structured group vacation plus the advantages only true independence can offer. All tours and activities described are included in your Cruisetour vacation. Upgrades for travel on VIA Rail are available for an additional fee. Contact your travel agent for details.