Compare Coastal Alaska: Glacial Waters, Breathtaking Shores by Road Scholar vs Canadian Rockies and Pacific Coast with Alaska Cruise 2022 Classic Group with Alaska Cruise Verandah Suite by Insight Vacations

Day 1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
ms Amsterdam D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: Recommend boarding between Noon and 3 pm. A mandatory for all passengers safety drill happens at 3:15 pm. Sail away at 4:00 pm.

Afternoon: Board MS Amsterdam at the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier # 91 near downtown Seattle between 12:00 Noon and 3 pm. Departure from Seattle is scheduled for 4:00 pm. Lunch is served in the Lido Restaurant. Check in with Road Scholar staff -- we will staff a signed desk on deck 3 in the Atrium between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Sail away is scheduled for 4:00 PM. A mandatory drill is scheduled prior to sail away usually around 3:15 PM -- attendance by all guests is required.

Dinner: Our Road Scholar group will have dinner in the Dining Room. We sit at adjoining tables. We are on the upper level, deck 5 Upper Promenade. We have the early seating -- 5:30 PM.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own. Evening activities are many and varied and run from extravagant production shows to dancing to an evening movie to sing along piano bar to live music of several genres. All routes and excursions are subject to change – weather sea conditions may affect the itinerary. Sea conditions affect the progress of the ship, making it run late and sometimes miss ports because it is not safe to dock. Because of this, the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. The operators reserve the right to change the content of excursions without prior notice. The time available in each port is set by the cruise line. Whenever possible, the Road Scholar daily schedule indicates port arrival and departure times (subject to change by the cruise line). This may mean that free time in port is limited. Regardless of the time in port, Road Scholar delivers a robust educational program.

Day 2
British Columbia & Vancouver Island
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: Road Scholar Education programs

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room or in the comfort of your stateroom.

Morning: This morning we begin our Road Scholar programming in the Hudson Room on Deck 5, Upper Promenade. We'll do some introductions of participants and detail our itinerary for the next few weeks before beginning a several part program on the natural and human history of Coastal Alaska.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Afternoon: We'll continue our exploration of Coastal Alaska natural and human history in the Hudson Room on Deck 5, Upper Promenade. An introduction to tomorrow's activities in Ketchikan is presented.

Dinner: Join fellow Road Scholar participants for dinner in the Dining Room.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own. Perhaps enjoy some live music in one of the specialty bars!

Day 3
Ketchikan Port Call Totem Heritage & Potlatch Park
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: Ship is in port from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Sponsored field trips to the Totem Heritage Center and Potlatch Park. Free time to explore Ketchikan on your own. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Minimal walking is required.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room or in your stateroom.

Morning: We disembark the ship and bus to the Totem Heritage Center for a presentation on the iconic totem, symbol of the Pacific Northwest Coastal peoples for thousands of years. Ancient totems are preserved here, and that technique is discussed as well as the significance and meaning of totems by one of the Center docents. We continue our exploration of Alaskan history and Native culture with a visit to Potlatch Park with totems, a re-created Alaskan Native village, and carving center. Following the presentation we return to downtown Ketchikan.

Lunch: Lunch is on your own. Return to the vessel for lunch in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room or have lunch in town.

Afternoon: You are free to explore Ketchikan on your own for the remainder of the afternoon. Visit the Southeast Alaska Visitor Center, a museum type facility administered by the National Forest Service. The outstanding displays provide significant educational content and help the visitor to understand the magnificent coastal rainforest that envelopes Coastal Alaska and British Columbia. An award winning short film is presented. Visit the colorful and historic Creek Street, ride the tram to the Cape Fox Hotel overlooking the harbor with its exquisite collection of Native Art, or check out the Tongass Historical Museum.

Dinner: Join your fellow Road Scholar participants for dinner in the Dining Room.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own. Like to dance? The Ocean Bar provides live dance music and a polished teak dance floor to swing your partner round and round.

Day 4
Tracy Arm, Coastal Alaska
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: Dress warmly and spend time out on the deck area or bow for narration and exploration of Tracy Arm.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room or the comfort of your stateroom.

Morning: We will have a Road Scholar meeting in the Hudson Room from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM on Deck 5, Upper Promenade to continue our educational programming and to introduce tomorrow's day in Juneau and the following days activities at Icy Strait Point. There will be free time to enjoy ship's activities.

Lunch: Lunch is on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Afternoon: We spend the afternoon exploring the stunningly scenic Tracy Arm fjord. Glittering icebergs dot the narrow, winding fjord. Hundreds of beautiful waterfalls cascade from the soaring 2,000' granite cliffs while the process of primary plant succession unfolds in front of our eyes. Dress warmly and spend time out on deck or the bow and enjoy the informal narration. The magnificent Sawyer Glacier is our objective at the very end of the twisting, turning spectacular glacial fjord.

Dinner: Join fellow Road Scholar participants for dinner in the Dining Room

Evening: Free time this evening to enjoy ship's activities. Take in the show at the Showroom at Sea or perhaps join the sing along at the Piano Bar.

Day 5
Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier, Glacier Gardens, Fish Hatchery
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We are in port from 8:00 AM until 10:00 PM tonight. Dress warmly for the field trip. There is lots of time for exploring Juneau on your own. Moderate walking is required on paved or well maintained trails. There are several optional trails to hike on your own so wear comfortable walking shoes if you will be hiking.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room or your stateroom.

Morning: Enjoy exploring Juneau on your own. Your Road Scholar leaders will give you several ideas for your visit. You might wish to visit the oldest building in Southeast Alaska, the St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, take a docent led tour through the State Capital Building, explore the outstanding Alaska State Museum, or browse the many unique shops and galleries.

Lunch: Lunch in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room or perhaps enjoy lunch in town.

Afternoon: We board a comfortable motorcoach for a short tour through downtown historic Juneau before heading out to the Mendenhall Valley. We shall visit the Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska's only drive up glacier. There are trails to walk, a visitor center with outstanding displays and an excellent short film and an Alaska Geographic bookstore. National Forest Service Rangers are on hand to answer questions. Scenic points provide outstanding viewing platforms as well as photographic points. We move on to Glacier Gardens. The Visitor Center sports delightful gardens to wander through and a short interpretive trail to stroll. Here also, we board golf cart type vehicles for a wonderful trip through the heart of the old growth Pacific Coastal Rain Forest. Riding in open air carts give a great feel for the mystic forest and the air and aroma is fresh and wonderful. High on a mountainside, a short walk on a boardwalk brings us to a platform overlook with terrific views of the Mendenhall Valley, Gastineau Channel, Juneau, and the spectacular Chilkat Range. We enjoy one additional stop at McAuley Fish Hatchery. Depending on the time of the year, you may experience watching wild Pacific Salmon fight their way up the fish ladder to spawning areas. One of the scientists provides us with an overview of hatchery operations and fisheries management. Finally, spend time enjoying the magnificent aquarium in the hatchery building. Free time after the field trip to continue your exploration of Juneau.

Dinner: Dinner together with Road Scholar participants in the Dining Room.

Evening: You are free to enjoy ship's activities this evening or to explore downtown Juneau on your own.

Day 6
Icy Strait Point & Whale Watch Expedition near Glacier Bay
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: Ship is at Icy Strait Point from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. . Dress warmly so you can spend lots of time out on decks when we are on the whale grounds. About a half mile of walking is required and there are several very nice trails in the area so wear comfortable walking shoes.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room

Morning: We walk about a half mile along the beach on a boardwalk to the Cannery and then board a high speed catamaran tour vessel to explore Icy Strait and watch whales. Three separate currents meet here at Point Adolphus to create extremely productive waters that are the summer feeding home to over 80 humpback whales as well as many other marine mammals including Steller sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals, the occasional Orca, and thousands of sea birds. Dress warm so you can be out on decks as much as possible. The tour company provides binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. A local guide narrates the tour

Lunch: Lunch is on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room. However, instead of spending the time to go back to the ship to eat, you could find something on your own at the restored cannery site at Icy Strait Point. That way you would have more time in the early afternoon to continue investigating the historic cannery area, the small shops and trails in the vicinity.

Afternoon: You'll enjoy free time to visit the refurbished Icy Strait Point cannery, walk the interpretive trails, or visit the Native Tlingit village of Hoonah. Feeling adventuresome? Icy Strait Point features the longest, fastest ZIP line in the Pacific Northwest!

Dinner: Join your fellow Road Scholar participants for dinner in the Dining Room.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own.

Day 7
Enroute to Anchorage
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We will present several educational programs today.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room

Morning: This morning we continue with our educational programming in the Hudson Room.

Lunch: Enjoy lunch on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Afternoon: We continue our educational programming in the Hudson Room and also preview our day tomorrow in Anchorage and the following days in Homer and Kodiak. There will be some free time this afternoon to enjoy ship's activities on your own.

Dinner: Join the group for dinner in the Dining Room.

Evening: Free time tonight to enjoy ship's activities.

Day 8
Anchorage Port, Anchorge Rasmussen Museum
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We are in port from 8:00 AM this morning until 11:00 PM tonight. Visit to the Anchorage Museum is on your own but admission and lunch at the Museum Cafe are included. There will be ample free time to explore Anchorage on your own. There is some walking required today to get around but distances depend on what you might do. All walking is on paved surfaces.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Morning: We disembark the vessel and board the ship shuttle to the Convention Center in downtown Anchorage. A short walk takes us to the Anchorage/Rasmussen Museum. The Rasmussen/Anchorage Museum is outstanding with exhibits featuring Alaska history and culture, Alaska's most celebrated artists, and the magnificent Smithsonian Exhibit celebrating the Native cultures of the North Pacific Rim. Explore the Museum at your own pace. Enjoy an included lunch at the Museum Cafe.

Lunch: Included lunch at the Museum Café.

Afternoon: Spend more time at the museum or explore downtown Anchorage.

Dinner: You may return to the ship and enjoy dinner with fellow Road Scholar participants at the Dining Room or have dinner downtown at one of Anchorage's many excellent restaurants.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own or continue your exploration of Anchorage.

Day 9
Homer Port Call Gull Island & Kachemak Bay Wildlife Preserve
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We are in port from 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. There is free time to visit the Homer Spit on your own. About a half mile walk to the marina required today, so wear comfortable walking shoes.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Morning: Homer is a really interesting small town at the very end of the Kenai Peninsula -- known as "The End of the Road". It's situated on a 5 mile long, 1/2 mile wide sand bar in Kachemak Bay. We'll board a small tour boat for an excursion across Kachemak Bay to the world famous birding site of Gull Island, home to thousands of nesting sea birds including puffins. We continue through Edred Passage and the Yukon Islands all part of the Kachemak Bay Wildlife Preserve.

Lunch: Return to the ship for lunch at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room, or have lunch in town on your own.

Afternoon: Enjoy free time to explore the Homer Spit on your own.

Dinner: Join your Road Scholar friends for dinner at the Dining Room.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own.

Day 10
Kodiak, Fish and Wildlife Center & Baranoff Museum
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We are in port from 7:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes as we will walk into town from the pier (about a mile on a paved surface). There is a shuttle available for those who don't wish to walk and little walking is required. There is free time to explore Kodiak on your own

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Morning: Disembark and walk or catch the ship shuttle to the Kodiak Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center and explore on your own. The Visitor Center features exhibits detailing the Kodiak Game Refuge that is home to the Kodiak Brown Bear, the largest land mammal in North America. You may visit the Baranoff Museum (a small museum that highlights the Russian era in Kodiak which you will have tickets to) and explore the downtown area on your own. Use a walking tour map to see sights that interest you. You might enjoy a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church, one of the first in Alaska, or stroll around the busy working harbor home to one of Alaska's largest fishing fleets.

Lunch: Return the the ship for lunch at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room or enjoy lunch in town on your own.

Afternoon: Continue exploring Kodiak on your own.

Dinner: Join fellow Road Scholar participants in the Dining Room for dinner

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own.

Day 11
Gulf of Alaska, Yakutat Bay & Hubbard Glacier
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We continue educational programming today. Dress warmly and spend time on outside decks or the bow for the best look at this amazing glacier.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Morning: We'll continue educational programming this morning in the Hudson Room and preview our visit to Hubbard Glacier

Lunch: Lunch on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Afternoon: This afternoon we visit one of Coastal Alaska's most stunning vistas, Yakutat Bay and the massive Hubbard Glacier. Thousands of icebergs glitter in the Bay as huge chunks of ice calve of the 350' high ice face. A half dozen more tidewater glaciers spill off the high coastal range mountains into the Bay. This is one of the scenic highlights of the trip. Spend some time on outside decks or the bow and listen to the informal narration as well as the calving glacier.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner in the Dining Room with fellow Road Scholar participants.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own.

Day 12
Sitka National Historic Park, Raptor Center
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We are in Sitka from 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM. We are docked about 6 miles from downtown Sitka so will utilize a ship shuttle to travel between dock and town. Dress for the weather for our excursions. There is ample free time to explore Sitka on your own. Walking is minimal today.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Morning: We will utilize the ship shuttle to travel between the dock and downtown Sitka. Sitka was the Capital and heart of Russian America and much Russian culture and history is still prevelant here. Visit the Bishop's House with its stunning Russian antiques and artifacts, stroll up to Capital Hill, where the original Russian Governor's Mansion once existed and was the site of the official tranfer ceremony when the USA took posession of Alaska from Russia in 1867, or check out the Russian blockhouse and cemetery. You may wish to visit the St Michaels Russian Cathedral. Sitka is also home to the best bookstore in Alaska!

Lunch: You may return to the ship for lunch at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room, or eat at one of the local restaurants in town to save time.

Afternoon: We borad a motorcoach for a tour of Sitka and transfer to the Na Ka Hidi Clan House where we enjoy an authentic Native Dance performance by the renowned Na Ka Hidi Dancers. Following the preformance, the dancers answer questions and offer picture taking opportunities. Following the dance performance we board a bus for a short town tour followed by a narrated walk in the rainforest at Sitka National Historical Park and have some time to puruse the Visitor Center. Our Native Tlingit tour guides discuss their 8,000 year history here in Sitka as well as their culture. We also visit the award winning Sitka Raptor Center, a private rehabilitation center principally for injured bald eagles but other raptors as well. One of the trainers presents an "on the arm" eagle presentation, and there is time to observe the many injured animals in their enclosures as well as check out the "touching" displays.

Dinner: Join fellow Road Scholar participants for dinner in the Dining Room.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own.

Day 13
Sailing Coast of British Columbia & Vancouver Island
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We will offer several Road Scholar presentations today and there is free time to enjoy ship's activities.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Morning: We have educational programming this morning in the Hudson Room.

Lunch: Lunch on your own at the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Afternoon: Enjoy free time for ship's activities on this last full day aboard ship.

Dinner: Join your fellow Road Scholar participants in the Dining Room for dinner. As we are in Victoria tomorrow evening, many folks will probably not return to the ship for dinner so this will be our last dinner together as a full group.

Evening: Enjoy ship's activities on your own.

Day 14
British Columbia, Victoria Dock & Buchart Gardens
ms Amsterdam B,L,D ms Amsterdam
Activity note: We are in port from 1:00 PM until 11:00 PM. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes for our visit to Buchart Gardens. There will be ample free time to explore Victoria on your own.

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast on your own in the Lido Cafe or Dining Room.

Morning: Join the group in the Hudson Room for a final wrap up, some final thoughts, some information on disembarkation, and an introduction to our day in Victoria. This is the last time we will meet as a group so all are asked to attend.

Lunch: Eat lunch early as we will disembark as a group shortly after arrival for a motorcoach transfer to the Buchart Gardens.

Afternoon: We'll board a motorcoach for transfer to the Butchart Gardens, perhaps the most famous gardens in North America. Set in an old quarry they are spectaclar. Stroll the Gardens on your own until departure time. Following the visit to the Gardens we enjoy a narrated motor coach tour of greater Victoria. After our visit to Butchar Gardens you have until 11:00 PM tonight to explore Victoria on your own. Visit the remarkable British Columbia Museum, stroll in Beacon Hill Park, visit the magnificent British Columbia Parliament Building, have tea at the famous Empress Hotel, or simply stroll the Promenade around the inner harbor and enjoy the arts and crafts and street performers

Dinner: You may return to the ship for dinner tonight or stay in town and dine on your own.

Evening: Explore Victoria on your own or enjoy last night ship's activities.

Day 15
Program Concludes at Pier 91 in Seattle
Your next destination B
Activity note: Disembark and head to your next destination.

Breakfast: Breakfast on your own at the Lido Cafe.

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.