Essential Rockies with Alaska Cruise
5.0
3
reviews
Length
14 days / 13 nights
Time on train
2 days
Train type
Where it goes
When to go
April – September
Price from
Your itinerary is personalized to suit your dreams and needs:
- Decide your desired budget
- Choose your own activities and experiences
- Have all the details of your trip arranged for you
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Marvel at the beauty of iconic Lake Louise, before a luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train journey to Vancouver. Travel to Sitka, Alaska where your small ship crew will sail you into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. Here, a team of guides lead you into the remote bays and fjords of Alaska, with a daily menu of adventure only a small ship experience can offer.
Highlights of your trip
Spectacular rail journey on the Rocky Mountaineer train
Choice of adventures in the Canadian Rockies
Explore beautiful Vancouver
Explore Alaska on a small ship vessel
Whale watching, glacier viewing, kayaking, hiking, and more
Expert guides, hosts, and activity coordinators on your cruise
ExperiencesFAQsItineraryPricesAccommodations
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Top experiences and features
Stay in Lake Louise
Your trip includes a visit to Lake Louise - an emerald lake surrounded by glacier-clad mountains.
Ride the Rocky Mountaineer train
Experience a train ride through the mountains of British Columbia into the Canadian Rockies.
Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer Train
Relax in luxurious comfort onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train.
Explore Alaska's bays and inlets
Your agile small ship vessel will take you deep into the wilderness of Southeast Alaska. Explore secluded bays, inlets, and channels teeming with wildlife.
Explore Alaska's coast in an agile, small ship vessel
Your small ship typically hosts around 100 guests. Enjoy well appointed private cabins, first class dining, as well as common areas to mingle with fellow adventurers.
View Alaska's glaciers up close
One of the highlights of your trip will be witnessing Alaska's massive, calving glaciers. Get up close on a zodiac adventure.
Look for Humpback whales
Waters of Alaska are abundant with wildlife. Photograph whales in their natural environment.
Your Questions Answered
Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. We are here to help.
What’s Included
Hotel accommodation
Rocky Mountaineer daylight train journey
Private cabin on small ship cruise
Choice of unique guided activities
All meals onboard your cruise and on the train
Transportation to and from airports, timed with your flights
Train station transfers
Feature dining experience at one of our favorite local restaurants
Electronic travel documentation package
Personalized Fresh Tracks Canada customer service support
Frequently Asked Questions
Your trip can be as rich as you’d like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can customize your trip and decide what you’d like to see and do.
If your trip is a special occasion, we’ll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you’re traveling with a group, we’ll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.
Absolutely! We personalize all our clients’ trips to fit their exact tastes and needs. You can add days at locations that you’d like to explore and spend more time at. Or leave out certain areas that don’t interest you as much. Discuss your travel goals with our Vacation Advisors who make sure that your trip fits your needs and budget.
We partner with many hotels across the country that offer a variety of service levels and unique experiences. Choosing a hotel is based on local availability and personal preference, and our Insiders will help you find the perfect place to rest your head so that you can have the best experience possible.
On some of our trips, you’ll see that we categorize our hotel rooms by Comfort, Superior and Deluxe class, which generally translates into the traditional 3-, 4- or 5-star designation (equivalent to Best Western, Sheraton and Fairmont). However, sometimes we use the same hotel for more than one category and distinguish the room by size, floor level or view.
Our Comfort Level hotels include our favorite 3 star hotels, in great locations and with excellent service.
Our Superior Level hotels provide amazing value for clients wanting something more upscale but not at the price of a top-end 5 star resort. Superior level hotels are some of our favorites because of the character and unique charm that you won't find at the average chain hotel.
In Deluxe Level hotels, it's likely you'll be staying at one of the iconic Canadian Fairmont Hotels in a room with a view. Built for the Canadian Pacific Railway in the early 20th century, these hotels are luxurious and full of history – ensuring an experience you'll never forget.
All our trips are personalized to fit our clients’ schedule and budget. The price of your trip generally depends on the travel season, train service, accommodations, and the sightseeing tours you take. When you request a quote you’ll be provided with the detailed information you need
Rocky Mountaineer operates daylight touring trains, which travel along three of the most spectacular routes in Western Canada. You’ll enjoy onboard commentary, award winning service, and incredible food.
There are a few differences between SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service.
In SilverLeaf, you travel in a single-level dome car with oversized windows and are served meals at your seat. In GoldLeaf, you travel in a bi-level dome car, which features comfortable seating on the upper level and a dining area on the lower level. GoldLeaf coaches are taller, so you can see above the treeline.
GoldLeaf also includes access to an exclusive outdoor viewing platform. In SilverLeaf, there is a small viewing area between train cars.
Small ship cruises are much more flexible than a typical large ship cruise - your onboard team will decide on the best adventures of the day based on weather, wildlife sightings, and the interests of the group. The agile vessels are able to access secluded inlets, bays, and channels where your chances of seeing wildlife are so much better.
Accommodations range from comfortable private cabins with ensuite bathrooms and picture windows, to full suites. These well appointed ships feature delicious cuisine, common lounges for mingling and evening presentations, as well as kayak launch docks for the days of adventure ahead.
We recommend bringing a range of layers for this trip. Summers are mild in Southeast Alaska (average temperatures: 55-56 degrees F / 12-18 degrees C) and slightly warmer in the Canadian Rockies (average temperatures: 68-77 degrees F / 20-25 degrees C). It can be cooler close to the water or up in the mountains, so a fleece pullover and rain jacket are must-haves. Packing a pair of waterproof boots and some comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended.
When travelling on Rocky Mountaineer, you enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard the train. The seasonal menu varies by rail route and day. The cuisine is inspired by the areas the train passes through. Complimentary snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are served each day.
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and snacks are included on your small ship cruise. The onboard chefs create fresh, sustainable meals from locally sourced ingredients.
Dietary requirements, food allergies and other preferences can be accommodated with advance notice. Please let your Vacation Advisor know of any dietary needs at the time of booking.
Trip Itinerary
Speak to one of our Canadian Insiders about personalizing this trip. Some of our trips can be done in the reverse direction.
Indicates featured activities
Day 01
Adventure Begins – Calgary to Banff
Travel from Calgary to the Canadian Rocky Mountain town of Banff. Your vacation is off to the best start. We've taken care of all the details. Banff is a unique destination, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the charm of a small mountain community. Breathe deep — you’ve arrived!
Transfer from Calgary Airport to Banff
Feature Dinner in Banff
Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner at one of Banff's great restaurants.
Day 02
Explore Banff
Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Rockies air and head out for a day of exploration. The town of Banff, established in 1885, is the main hub in Banff National Park, as well as a centre for visitor activities and cultural events.
Three Sisters Peaks Helicopter Tour
Get close to the world-famous Three Sisters on this exhilarating 20-minute helicopter flight. You'll also discover Spray Valley and the extraordinary hues of the Spray Lakes.
Icefields Parkway Tour from Banff
On this full-day sightseeing tour, journey through a landscape carved by glaciers and opened by pioneers. Travel along the Icefields Parkway, explore the Athabasca Glacier on an Ice Explorer vehicle, and walk across the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
Banff Sightseeing Tour and Gondola Ride
Discover Banff’s folklore and natural history on a small group tour, then ride the gondola up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Sunshine Gondola and Guided Alpine Nature Walk
Begin your day with a gondola ride and a stroll through Sunshine Meadows. Admire alpine wildflowers and views of endless mountain peaks as your guide teaches you about the ecosystem above the treeline. Walking duration is two hours.
You have 4 options to choose from today:
Day 03
Travel from Banff to Lake Louise
Today you travel from Banff to Lake Louise. Gaze at the turquoise-blue lake, surrounded by glacier-clad mountains. This is the picture-perfect overnight stop in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Banff to Lake Louise Sightseeing Transfer
Travel along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway on a guided sightseeing transfer to Lake Louise. Photo stops and commentary are provided along the way.
Day 04
Board The Rocky Mountaineer Train
This morning you'llbegin the first day of your Rockies train adventure onboard the Rocky Mountaineer.
Motorcoach Transfer to Train Station
Rocky Mountaineer Train Service
Rocky Mountaineer daylight trains feature glass-dome cars with oversized windows, gourmet meals, and friendly, attentive staff. Ask your Vacation Advisor about the differences between SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf.
Day 05
Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer
Re-board the Rocky Mountaineer this morning for the second part of your train journey towards Vancouver.
Motorcoach Transfer to Hotel
Day 06
Vancouver to Sitka
Today, fly to Sitka, Alaska, to begin your cruise adventure. Sitka is Alaska’s most charming seaside town, surrounded by misty islands and soaring, snow-capped mountain peaks. Discover the influence of Tlingit, Russian, and American culture at the Cultural Center, or relax in your hotel.
Private Transfer to Vancouver Airport
Day 07
Cruise Embarkation from Sitka, Alaska
Feel the excitement build as you are led to your small ship vessel. Step onboard for a champagne welcome.
Alaska Cruise Begins
Day 08
Discover Alaskan Wildlife
Your first day of adventure - drop anchor and venture off the beaten path.
Krestof and Nakwasina Sounds
Prices
Get your personalized quote as prices vary by departure date, train-service level and hotel class. Prices shown are our lowest rates per person, based on double occupancy, and exclude taxes.
Comfort Level
Hotel Accommodation
Rocky Mountaineer Service
Cruise Accommodation
Navigator Cabin
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Superior Level
Hotel Accommodation
Rocky Mountaineer Service
Cruise Accommodation
Pathfinder Cabin
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Deluxe Level
Hotel Accommodation
Rocky Mountaineer Service
Cruise Accommodation
Pathfinder Cabin
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- Day-tour options and descriptions;
- Departure dates;
- Suggestions for personalizing your trip.
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Accommodations
These are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Example of a Deluxe hotel in Lake Louise
Located in Banff National Park, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, a sparkling turquoise lake, and the impressive Victoria Glacier. Explore the area’s outstanding beauty on horseback, or paddle on the lake in a canoe.
Rimrock Resort Hotel
Example of a Superior hotel in Banff
Built into the side of a mountain, the Rimrock Resort Hotel sits high above Banff town and provides guests with spectacular views of the Bow River Valley. Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola are a short walk from the hotel, while other attractions are minutes away by car.
Elk + Avenue Hotel
Example of a Comfort hotel in Banff
Conveniently located in downtown Banff, the Elk and Avenue Hotel combines Banff’s alpine history with a sleek modern design. After a day of exploring, unwind in the hotel’s jacuzzi or dry sauna, then enjoy fresh Canadian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
Personalize This Itinerary
Here are some of the most popular ways to personalize this journey.
Celebrate an occasion
Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or the fulfillment of a lifelong goal, our team is ready to make it a celebration to remember. From arranging a bottle of champagne to putting together a helicopter picnic for two on top of a mountain at sunset, we're ready to make your dreams a reality.
Travel in a private group
Exploring with friends and family is the best way to create lasting memories and reconnect. Organizing once-in-a-lifetime trips for families and small groups of friends is a particular passion for us. Ask us about how our itineraries can be customized to work for your group.
Visit Victoria, BC
Add a night or two to explore the old-world charm of Victoria, on Vancouver Island. Visit the famed Butchart Gardens, go whale watching, or explore the seafront parks and museums. We recommend a stay at the Fairmont Empress - Victoria's stately crown jewel.Photo credit: Destination BC
Explore on a self drive
For the days you're not onboard the train, ask us about adding a car rental and exploring on your own. We'll provide points of interest, admission to attractions, and information on all the best places to visit along the way.
What Our Customers Say
Excellent
overall rating based on
3 reviews
It was a great trip!
Choosing our favourite part of our trip is very hard, from our accommodations to the food, and the GoldLeaf service on the train was all up to a 5 star review. Great Job!
Joseph, Renee and Party
CT, USA
You helped make memories for a life time
The whole trip from the first minute to the last was a highlight. Our experience on the train was tremendous. We agree that all was a "10". You helped make memories for a life time...
Susanne and Robert
CA, USA
The entire experience was awesome!
Our vacation was so much more than I expected! The entire experience was awesome! The region was beautiful, the glaciers and waterfalls were amazing, and we saw lots of wildlife up...
Sue and Mark
IL, USA
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