Compare Alaska & the Yukon with Alaska Cruise by Cosmos vs Canadian Rockies and Pacific Coast with Alaska Cruise 2022 Classic Group with Alaska Cruise Verandah Suite by Insight Vacations

Day 1: ANCHORAGE

Welcome to Anchorage! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.

Day 2: ANCHORAGE. EXCURSION TO PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND

As you enter Whittier from North America’s longest tunnel, the panoramic view of the ocean, mountains, and glaciers greet you. As the gateway to Prince William Sound, this is where you’ll board a cruise to see and marvel at the natural beauty of the fjords and glaciers. Watch for eagles, whales, seals, and salmon jumping out of the cold, pristine water!

Day 3: ANCHORAGE–TOK

Travel northeast through Palmer in the Matanuska Valley, a lush farming region where cabbages can grow to weigh more than 70 pounds in the 24-hour daylight! Up over scenic Tahnita Pass with spectacular vistas of Matanuska Glacier. Travel along Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the largest park in the United States. The area boasts glaciers larger than the island of Manhattan and is home to nine of the 16 highest peaks in North America. Overnight in Tok, the “Dog Sled Capital of the World.”

Day 4: TOK–WHITEHORSE

Join the Alaska Highway and follow along the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge. Skirt the shores of Kluane Lake, once a meeting place for crews constructing the Alaska Highway. Behold spectacular vistas of the rugged mountains of Kluane National Park, home to 19,551-foot-high Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak. The next two nights are in Whitehorse, capital of the Yukon and the territorial headquarters of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Day 5: WHITEHORSE. EXCURSION TO SKAGWAY

Follow the Trail of ‘98 over the same mountains that thousands of determined gold seekers scaled on foot in the dead of winter while heading for the Klondike. From Fraser, your Tour Director will suggest an optional train trip on the narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Railway to Skagway. Otherwise, continue by motorcoach to Skagway. Stroll the wooden sidewalks past charming false-front buildings and colorful saloons.

NOTE:
Operation of the White Pass & Yukon Railway to Skagway is subject to seasonal conditions.

Day 6: WHITEHORSE–DAWSON CITY

Head northwest through the town of Carmacks, once an important supply station for gold seekers on their way to the Klondike. A stop at the Five Finger Rapids, a major obstacle to the hordes of fortune seekers that passed this way. Reach Dawson City, the center of excitement after the first gold strike in the Klondike in 1896, which led to the world’s largest gold rush. Tonight, enjoy the high-flying entertainment of Dimond Tooth Gertie’s Saloon, featuring ragtime music, can-can girls, and an old-fashioned casino.

Day 7: DAWSON CITY

Highlights on your morning sightseeing tour include Bonanza Creek, site of Claim #1, where the first gold strike was made; and a presentation by Parks Canada regarding the Gold Rush Era. Enjoy a photo opportunity at the SS Keno, the last sternwheeler to run between Dawson and Whitehorse. The rest of your day is free to soak up the exciting history of this Gold Rush town at your own pace. Perhaps a return to Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Saloon is in order?

Day 8: DAWSON CITY–FAIRBANKS

A full day and well worth it, as the scenery is magnificent. Have your camera ready for photo opportunities at Dawson overlook and Top of the World Highway, where the motorcoach will re-enter Alaska, and visit one of the last surviving gold rush towns in Alaska before heading west on the Alaska Highway to Fairbanks.

Day 9: FAIRBANKS

Morning sightseeing features highlights of Alaska’s second-largest city and a visit to the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Then try striking it rich gold panning with a local provider. This afternoon, board the Sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery III for a leisurely cruise on the Chena River. You will see a bush floatplane take off alongside the boat, see the home and kennels of the late four-time Iditarod winner, Susan Butcher, and see her champion sled dogs in action. Be immersed into the ancient Athabascan Indian culture when our Alaskan Native Guides take you on a tour of the Chena Indian Village.

Day 10: FAIRBANKS–ALASKA RAILROAD–DENALI NATIONAL PARK

Board the world-famous Alaska Railroad for a memorable journey through untamed wilderness. Sit back in comfort and enjoy spectacular scenery through wide windows. Be sure to take advantage of the domed-roof car. The ride ends in Denali National Park & Preserve. North America’s highest peak, 20,310-foot Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, dominates the park’s six million acres of glacial streams, river valleys, and multi-hued tundra. After a short orientation tour of Denali, the afternoon is free to explore on your own.

Day 11: DENALI NATIONAL PARK

A free day for independent activities. A hike along the many wilderness trails might be good fun. Also take advantage of several optional outings, including a wildlife tour to seek out grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and Dall sheep; a raft trip down the Nenana River; or a helicopter ride over the park. Your Tour Director will have plenty of other suggestions.

Day 12: DENALI NATIONAL PARK–ANCHORAGE–WHITTIER (EMBARKATION)

Relish one last look at the outstanding scenery and wildlife of Denali before traveling south toward Anchorage. After arrival in Anchorage, transfer to Whittier and board your cruise ship. This remote village is nestled along breathtaking Prince William Sound, home to a stunning array of wildlife, including bald eagles, sea otters and killer whales, so have your camera ready. (Dinner)

Day 13: CRUISING: HUBBARD GLACIER

Hubbard is the longest tidewater glacier (meaning it ends at the ocean) in North America. However, unlike nearly every other tidewater glacier on the continent, Hubbard is advancing, not retreating; it is forever pushing a little further into the bay. Chunks of ice that break off become floaties for seals. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 14: SCENIC CRUISING: GLACIER BAY

A relaxing day at sea provides time to explore the ship’s many amenities. 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 on hand as you cruise Glacier Bay to the mile-wide Margerie Glacier, where you may have a 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 wandering a wind-swept beach. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 15: SKAGWAY

In winter, the sidewalks are all but rolled up in Skagway, so you can imagine the frightful conditions endured by gold prospectors who passed through en route to the Yukon. Take your time and poke your head into every little shop, from the Trail Bench to Lynch & Kennedy’s Dry Goods. The Red Onion Saloon, with its honky-tonk piano and costumed barmaids, is a treasure trove of memorabilia featuring pictures of Klondike Kate, Peahull Annie, and other historic characters. To complete the picture of those rip-roaring days, visit the nostalgic Trail of ’98 Museum. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 16: JUNEAU

Located at the foot of grand mountain peaks on Gastineau Channel, Alaska’s capital city of Juneau has massive Mendenhall Glacier and the Juneau Icefield at its back door. Visit the rustic shops in town—or get out and kayak, raft, hike, whale watch, flightsee, or fish. There is no end to the adventure because of the long daylight hours. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 17: KETCHIKAN

Alaska’s “First City” of Ketchikan is so named because it is 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. An important hub of the salmon-fishing and -packing industries—visitors can try their luck on a sport-fishing excursion or simply savor the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. It 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. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 18: SCENIC CRUISING: INSIDE PASSAGE

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. Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orca plying the bountiful waters alongside the ships, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

Day 19: VANCOUVER (DISEMBARKATION)

Your vacation ends this morning. Please schedule homebound flights after noon. (Breakfast)

Day 1: Welcome to Vancouver

Arrive in Vancouver, a haven for sports enthusiasts and keen history buffs alike. This unique city offers something for everyone. From its striking mountains to the bustle of the city’s art and music scene, this British Columbia seaport does not disappoint. On arrival, your airport transfer will take you to your luxury hotel before you join your Travel Director at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner and an opportunity to mingle with fellow guests over wine.

Day 2: Cruise the Gulf Islands to Victoria

Embark on a tour of Vancouver, exploring Gastown and the famous totem poles in Stanley Park followed by a visit to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. You'll have free time to enjoy lunch on your own. This afternoon, board a ferry and sail through the beautiful Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island, an idyllic place known for its fishing and art communities. You'll end your day here, in British Columbia's stunning capital city, Victoria. Your hotel will be the Inn at Laurel Point, a modern waterfront venue with harbour views.

Day 3: Butchart Gardens

Start your day wandering through world renowned Butchart Gardens, a beautiful National Historic Site of Canada featuring groups of floral displays. Enjoy an immersive day exploring Canada's oldest Chinatown, the bustling Inner Harbour and stately Legislative Buildings. At night, choose from a selection of restaurants for your Dine-Around Evening, where you’ll sit down and enjoy a hearty meal with striking views.

Day 4: Victoria to Chase, British Columbia

This morning, cruise back to the mainland and continue on your scenic journey through British Columbia to the Secwepemc Territory at Little Shuswap Lake close to Chase. Upon arrival, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness and partake in a Smudging Ceremony, a traditional spiritual ritual conducted by a member of the local Indigenous community. As you settle in at your lakeside lodge this evening, you'll enjoy a Dinner with Wine, featuring authentic regional flavours.

Day 5: The Alpine Wonderland of Jasper National Park

After breakfast this morning, your journey takes you along the legendary Yellowhead Highway towards Jasper National Park, part of the Canadian Rocky Mountains Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, a stop will be made at the Mount Robson Visitor Center in Mount Robson Provincial Park, the second oldest park in British Columbia’s park system and truly one of the world’s crown jewels. Enjoy the best views of Mount Robson, which at 12,972 ft (3,954 metres) is the most prominent mountain in North America's Rocky Mountain range and also the highest point in the Canadian Rockies. Arrive in the wonderland of Jasper National Park with its soothing mineral hot springs, rugged glaciers, colourful meadows, and majestic mountains.

Day 6: Exploring Jasper and the Columbia Icefield

Start the day with an informative walk on the trails of Maligne Canyon, one of the most beautiful gorges in the Canadian Rockies. Then, embark on a narrated cruise across the serene waters of iconic Maligne Lake, one of the jewels of the Canadian Rockies (please note that this activity is seasonal and subject to closure as the lake may be frozen). Stop at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed sites in the Canadian Rockies. Start your journey along the majestic Icefields Parkway, one of the world's most stunning mountain drives. Travel along the majestic Icefields Parkway and arrive at the Columbia Icefield for your stay at the just opened Glacier View Lodge, the first and only glacier-view resort in Canada. After a welcome reception in the Moraine Lounge,venture onto the amazing Glacier Skywalk where you will be treated to an after-hours, private guided tour of the cliff-edged, glass-floored walkway.After enjoying a gourmet dinner with wine, you can step out onto the Viewing Deck, stargaze marveling at the dark night sky, relax with a drink in the library, or hang out inside the Moraine Lounge with games and live entertainment.

Day 7: Icefields, Glaciers and Lakes to Banff National Park

Following a hearty breakfast, your Local Expert will escort you to a special before-hours glacier tour. Venture out onto Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer. Then, join your guide for a stroll atop the ice and discover the beauty and immensity of the glacier. Learn about the history and geology of the region, and enjoy a warm beverage out on the glacier itself. After this morning's icy adventure, continue south to Lake Louise and admire it's blue waters and Victoria Glacier. Journey on to the resort town of Banff, your home for the next two nights. This evening, dine in town and unwind in your stunning natural surroundings.

Day 8: The Unspoiled Wilderness of Banff National Park Relaxed Start

Today is yours to spend exploring the rugged charms of the park. Choose from several optional experiences, including a once in a lifetime helicopter flight over the magnificent Canadian Rockies, or a ride onboard the Banff Gondola, a scenic cableway that can take you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.

Day 9: Buffalo and Glacier National Park

Prepare for a day of culture and history as you join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, one of the world’s oldest and largest buffalo jumps. Once here you’ll discover how the indigenous people used this 36-foot-high (11 metres) cliff to hunt stampeding herds of bison. You’ll also get a unique chance to join a local Blackfoot elder and hear fascinating stories about the Plains people of today and long ago. From craggy plains to mountainous landscapes, you’ll cross the U.S. border into Montana and end your day at Many Glacier Hotel, a charming property situated in the heart of Glacier National Park.

Day 10: Going-to-the-Sun and Glacier National Park

Today, board a private Red Jammer bus to cruise along the Going-to-the-Sun Road in style. During your narrated trip you'll witness stunning views from Logan Pass and the marvels of the park's wild interior. Disembark and end your day at Lake McDonald, the largest lake in Glacier National Park. Rest up in a classic Swiss-chalet-style lodge with spectacular mountain views.

Day 11: Lake Coeur d'Alene and Spokane

Today you'll continue on to the beautiful shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene, one of America's most beautiful lakes, and arrive in Spokane to stay at The Historic Davenport, Autograph Collection hotel.This is Washington State's grandest hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has welcomed a number of famous faces including Amelia Earhart and Clark Gable.

Day 12: Wonderful Wines en route to Seattle

Wine connoisseurs rejoice. Today you'll head through the wide, endless horizons of the wine-producing area of Washington State. This afternoon, enjoy a tasting of local wines at your Highlight Lunch, focusing on fresh, local and artisanal ingredients. Then it's on to Seattle for an evening at leisure at your hotel.

Day 13: The Soaring Sights of Seattle

Enjoy an Insight Choice today. Either head to the Space Needle, with its jaw-dropping panoramic views of the unique skyline or the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit. You'll also see Puget Sound, Pioneer Square and Pike Place Market, where you should watch out for flying fish. The afternoon is yours at leisure and you'll find activities, restaurants and shops aplenty. In the evening, join your Travel Director and fellow guests for a Celebration Dinner with wine at Ivar's Acres of Clams. Here you'll find the Northwest's best dining, as you take in the views on Seattle's waterfront.

Day 14: Depart Seattle for Anchorage

Today take a flight (not included) from Seattle to Anchorage, Alaska Enjoy your afternoon and evening at leisure. Anchorage offers an incongruous contrast to the wild wonders of Alaska. A place where deep-sea fishermen bump shoulders with businesspeople on the 9 to 5, it's a fascinating, remote city. Home to almost half of the Alaskan population, Anchorage and its humble skyline is dwarfed by the snowy peaks of the wilderness beyond. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture, traditions and heritage of the First Nation people of these lands too.

Day 15: Anchorage - Seward - Embarkation

Start your Alaska Cruise adventure and transfer from Anchorage to Seward. Monumental scenery surrounds you in this remote corner of the world, where glaciers calve and whales cruise through inky waters, before an immense mountain backdrop. Almost totally submerged by the colossal landscapes around it, Seward - and the wonders of Kenai Fjords National Park - offer some of astonishing Alaska's most thrilling scenery. Located in a deep gash in the Kenai Peninsula, Seward is a place to immerse yourself in nature's majesty. Fjords carve into the landscape, while the Harding Icefield - which caps Kenai Fjords National Park - reaches out its icy fingers, with glaciers spilling down between mountain peaks.

Day 16: Cruise Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

Hubbard Glacier, off the coast of Yakutat, Alaska, is the largest glacier in North America, with a calving front that is more than six miles wide. One of the main sources for Hubbard Glacier originates 76 mi inland. It has been a very active glacier, experiencing two major surges in the past 30 years. This glacier was named after Gardiner Greene Hubbard, a U.S. lawyer, financier, and philanthropist. He was the first president of the National Geographic Society.

Day 17: Juneau, Alaska

Extraordinary adventures amid nature's wildest staging await at Juneau - there is a selection of 11 included shore excursions and 15 selected shore excursions (require surcharge). The majestic Mendenhall Glacier sprawls down from Juneau Icefield, which provides an icy cap to the area's rip-roaring scenery. State capitals simply don't get more dramatic than this isolated, remote city lost amid the Alaskan wilds. Even the roads eventually peter out, absorbed by forests and viewpoints, firmly underlining the isolated location, hidden behind an impenetrable wall of rigid mountains. Rise up to Mount Roberts Tramway's viewpoint, to see the city swallowed by this most colossal backdrop. This is glacier country, and no fewer than 38 ice flows branch off from the main Juneau Icefield, slowly carving out valleys in their wakes. Taku Glacier cuts deep into the mountain, forming a colossal sculpture that is one of the world's thickest - almost a mile deep. Mendenhall Glacier cascades down, just 12 miles away from downtown, terminating in its own lake and visitor centre. With 1,500 square miles of ice field to explore, one of the best ways to take in the magnitude and majesty of this epic ice sculpture is to hold on tight on as the propeller whirs, and you soar into the skies on an exhilarating sightseeing flight. Cruising up above the icy world that fills in these serrated mountain peaks is a once in a lifetime experience. The animals that inhabit the Southeast Alaskan wilds are just as inspiring as the landscapes – families of bears patrol the riverbanks, bald eagles survey the surroundings watchfully, and Pacific humpbacks migrate from Hawaii's waters to feast on the krill rich, icy waters. Fish for huge catches, power across the ice in a snow-sledge, or kayak just below glaciers. However, you choose to immerse yourself in it, Juneau's incredible outdoor adventures never disappoint.

Day 18: Skagway, Alaska

Feel the same rush of excitement as the gold rush chasers did, when they first arrived in Skagway, intent on finding their fortune. While the gold may now be gone, a treasure trove of natural glory waits to be discovered here. The adrenaline of America’s legendary gold rush still pulses along Skagway's streets, especially in Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park and the historic downtown area - which sprang up during the heady heights of the 1890’s goldrush. The jagged mountain ridges - with peaks of white snow above a treeline of soaring pine forests - provide a reward for the ages. Recapture the evocative sense of adventure, as you ride one of the world’s most spectacular railroads. Your engine will puff steam below the precipitous, colossal scenery, while the vintage carriages curve around the White Pass & Yukon Route, alongside tumbling waterfalls and spanning deeply-etched gorges. Wander historic trails like the Chilkoot Trail Hike, to walk in the well-trodden footsteps of the gold seekers. Set on the northern tip of the Inside Passage, Skagway luxuriates in a remarkably beautiful and dramatic landscape. Explore mighty rivers teeming with thick salmon leaping over rapids and see brown bears edging from the shelter of the trees. Endless forests spread as far as the eye can see, while bald eagles perch on treetops, surveying the surroundings from above. Whales roam offshore, and glaciers creak and calve nearby, in this magical natural kingdom. Choose from 8 included Shore Excursions and 16 Selected Shore Excursions that are offered for a surcharge.

Day 19: Sitka, Alaska

A distant land of bears, wild landscapes and icy adventures, sail between glorious islands and witness the diverse wildlife of the Inside Passage. Eagles watch over the scenery overhead, while whales and sea lions add glorious weight to the animal life that thrives and thrashes in these icy seas. With a quintet of Pacific salmon species filling the rich rivers and waterways with life, settle back to enjoy the show, as Sitka's immense setpieces play out before you. You might notice the onion-shaped dome atop St. Michael’s Church – a relic of the area's Russian history. Sitka formed a part of the Russian Empire until a deal was struck in 1867, and the territory was sold to the United States, with the handover ceremony taking place here in Sitka. The native Tlingit culture is an important presence, and elaborate totem poles rocket up in Sitka National Historical Park. They mark the battleground of 1804, when the indigenous people clashed fiercely with the Russians. The snow-capped peak of the dormant volcano, Mount Edgecumbe, draws understandable comparisons with Mount Fuji's symmetrical cone. Climb to thrilling heights, as you arrive on Kruzof Island, and enjoy richly spellbinding views of the scattered Pacific islands, while hiking. Whether you want to spend your time flying above snow-dusted mountain ridges, fishing for colossal King salmon, or savouring Northwest frontier cuisine in waterfront restaurants, there's no shortage of ways to experience Sitka's natural wonders. Choose from 9 included Shore Excursions and 10 Selected Shore Excursions that are available for a surcharge.

Day 20: Ketchikan, Alaska

The Salmon Capital of the World is a thrilling introduction to wild and wonderful Alaska, sitting at the southern gateway to the Inside Passage's famed route of larger-than-life scenery. Cruise through the waters, or soar just above in a sightseeing plane, to take in the full majesty of the magnificent Misty Fjords National Monument. Home to grizzly and black bears - as well as cruising whales and swimming seals - the wildlife spotting opportunities in this majestic corner of the world are nothing short of spectacular. Towered over by steep banks and valley walls, Ketchikan's ocean inlet is peppered with granite stacks, looming from the waters. Surrounded by glorious landscapes, head to the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary, which is alive with bald eagles, black bears and remarkable, thick, yellow banana slugs - the squeamish are advised to keep well clear. Visit Ketchikan's Heritage Centre, where a collection of intricately carved totem poles rise up, preserving the heritage of the indigenous Tlingit and Haida people of these lands. Ketchikan has the world's largest collection, and some of the oldest and most precious totems in existence. This frontier city hasn’t always been so wholesome, however. See the colourful historic street that is built on crooked stilts over Ketchikan Creek, which has a crude history as the main red-light district in the city. The brothels closed in the 1950s, but you can explore this legendarily seedy past at Dolly’s House - a brothel turned museum. See the Married Man trail, a historical route used to enter Creek Street away from prying eyes. Choose from 13 included Shore Excursions and 14 Selected Shore Excursions that are available for a surcharge.

Day 21: Cruise the Inside Passage

Navigate through the intricate outlays of some of Alaska’s most staggering winter scenery, threading a needle between craggy, snow-dusted islands, and slipping glacial giants. To cruise this 500-mile stretch of Alaskan beauty is to sail through a living work of natural art - with perfectly sculpted mountains soaring from the shoreline, and clutches of islands scattered across the dark waters with delicate attention to detail. A common sailing route due to its calm sheltered waters, gorgeous natural set pieces constantly play out here - whether it’s killer whales accompanying you through the breathtaking icy passages, harbour seals catching a break on floating hunks of ice, or wisps of cloud clinging to distant mountain peaks. Witness Mother Nature at her most dramatic and elaborate along this Alaskan coastline, where glaciers groan and creak melodramatically, before finally releasing colossal shelves of ice, allowing them to free fall into the waters below, and explode with angry booms and thunderous splashes. While fundamental displays of nature’s power always awe and amaze, it’s the tranquil beauty of this passage - amid still waters, splitting only to reveal the smooth backs of breaching humpback whales – that is relentlessly moving. A journey of glaciers, remote hidden villages, and carved fjords - the Inside Passage is a breathtaking voyage through the intricate mesh of Alaska’s fractured, raw and spectacular coastal landscapes.

Day 22: Disembark and Depart Vancouver

Boasting mountains, sea, culture, art and so much more, many cities claim to have it all, but few can back it up like Vancouver. Famously livable, just visiting this high-rise city - surrounded by staggering natural beauty - is a thrill. Transfer to the airport where you will arrive at approximately 10:30am or choose to extend your stay with additional nights.