ARRIVE IN VANCOUVER.BC. Welcome to Vancouver, your gateway to the Canadian Rockies! At 6 pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. Your Tour Director will prepare you for your upcoming adventure.
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VANCOUVER - VICTORIA. This morning, tour Vancouver, including the waterfront, Chinatown, and Stanley Park with its old-growth evergreen forests and totem poles. Catch the FERRY over to Vancouver Island and Victoria. Major attractions on your orientation tour include the gardens of Beacon Hill Park, the Empress Hotel, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. (B)
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VICTORIA. This morning is free to explore on your own; your Tour Director suggests an optional wildlife and whale-watching trip. For shoppers, Government Street's elegant shops and Market Square's collection of specialty stores are good places to start. History buffs should be sure to visit the Royal British Columbia Museum. This afternoon, visit world-famous BUTCHART GARDENS followed by a special dinner in the original Butchart family residence. (B,D)
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VICTORIA - WHISTLER. This morning, board a BC FERRY and sail across the Strait of Georgia and through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-type climate. Continue to the alpine resort of Whistler, nestled at the base of breathtaking Blackcomb Mountain. Time today to explore many of the 2010 Winter Olympics' sites. (B)
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WHISTLER - SUN PEAKS. This morining, enjoy a visit and private breakfast at the SQUAMISH LIL' WAT CULTURAL CENTER, dedicated to the history and culture of the First Nations People of Canada. Journey north today through the heart of the magnificent Cariboo region. Spectacular scenery abounds as you pass by rolling hills, deeply incised rivers, and sparkling lakes. Afternoon arrival in Sun Peaks with the balance of the day at leisure. You may take advantage of an optional canoe trip on Lake McGillivray, where, surrounded by beautiful scenery, you learn about Canada's fur trade. (B)
Note Operation of the canoe trip is subject to favorable weather conditions.
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SUN PEAKS - JASPER. Continue north following the Yellowhead Highway, hugging the mighty North Thompson River into the province of Alberta. See the base of 3,953.8 metres (12,972 feet) Mount Robson (the highest point in the Canadian Rockies) before entering JASPER NATIONAL PARK. Marvel at the precipitous gorges, snowcapped summits, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens in this wild mountain wilderness. (B,D)
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JASPER. Enjoy a short sightseeing tour to see Jasper's unspoiled beauty. Afterward, travel to glacial Maligne Lake for a narrated CRUISE to Spirit Island. On the return journey, stop to view Maligne Canyon. Balance of the day is at leisure to explore Jasper on your own or perhaps take an optional float trip down the historic Athabasca River, where your experienced guide will navigate as you absorb the splendor of Jasper National Park. (B)
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JASPER - COLUMBIA ICEFIELD - LAKE LOUISE - BANFF. This morning, travel through Jasper National Park on Icefields Parkway to the 304.8 metres (1,000 feet) thick Columbia Icefield for a thrilling ICE EXPLORER RIDE. Climb Sunwapta Pass to savor stunning vistas of alpine meadows, waterfalls, and massive glaciers, then scale Bow Pass with splendid views of Peyto Lake. Next, stop at Lake Louise, whose green-blue waters form a perfect mirror reflection of Mount Victoria. Continue into BANFF NATIONAL PARK. (B)
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BANFF. Sightseeing includes a visit to Sulphur Mountain for a ride on the BANFF GONDOLA, complete with panoramic views of Banff's spectacular scenery. Also visit Bow Falls and the hoodoos. The balance of the day is at leisure. Consider an optional float trip excursion on the Bow River or a helicopter flightseeing trip for a bird's-eye view of the Rockies. (B,D)
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BANFF - YOHO NATIONAL PARK - GLACIER NATIONAL PARK - KELOWNA. This morning, depart Banff and scale Kicking Horse Pass across the Continental Divide into British Columbia and Yoho National Park. Next, enjoy panoramic vistas of peaks exceeding 3,048 metres (10,000 feet) on Rogers Pass at the summit in Canada's Glacier National Park. Descend into the agricultural region of the Okanagan Valley to the resort city of Kelowna. A special evening is in store for you with a dinner at a winery, producing some of the best wine in British Columbia. (B,D)
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KELOWNA - VANCOUVER. Today, continue through the fertile Fraser Valley with grand vistas of vineyards and orchards before traveling over the towering Cascade Mountains into Vancouver. Upon arrival, enjoy some time at leisure. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner. (B,D)
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VANCOUVER. Continue your stay in Vancouver for the evening of (B)
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VANCOUVER ( EMBARKATION) Embark Holland America's MS Zuiderdam. (OUTSIDE CABIN) (B,D)
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SCENIC CRUISING: Sit back and relax as you cruise through the beautiful and awe-inspiring scenery of the Inside Passage. Keep your cameras ready for spouting whales, soaring eagles, barking seals, and other wildlife. (B,L,D)
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TRACY ARM & JUNEAU Tracy Arm is a narrow, 41.8 kilometres (26 mile) long fjord and another of Alaska's most dramatic glacier settings. The lush rainforest recedes to reveal a stunning canyon of bare rock. The panorama of 2,133.6 metres (7,000 foot) mountain peaks and nearly vertical rock cliffs is astounding. Waterfalls appear at every turn. Icebergs make their way to the sea in all sorts of wondrous shapes. And tucked away at the end of this remarkable waterway are two very active reminders of the Ice Age-the twin Sawyer Glaciers, which calve icebergs into the jade-colored inland sea. Kittiwakes, mountain goats, and seals are a common sight. Whales and bears may even make an appearance in this magical place. Visit one of the most scenic and remote capital cities-Juneau. Accessible only by air and water, Juneau is located at the base of two towering mountains in the heart of Alaska's Inside Passage, and is home to a rich Gold Rush history, Native culture, wildlife, and a wealth of natural wonders. Step ashore to shop for gold nuggets; visit the stately Governor's Mansion; saunter through the swinging doors of the Red Dog Saloon, the city's famous watering hole; or visit mighty Mendenhall Glacier, an impressive river of ice that is 19.3 kilometres (12 miles) long and 2.4 kilometres (1.5 miles) wide. (B,L,D)
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SKAGWAY. Once a major port for gold prospectors who passed through en route to the Yukon, today you can still ride the antique White Pass & Yukon Route narrow-gauge railway up past Deadhorse Gulch to see what it was like ages ago. Step back in time as you stroll the wooden sidewalks of the town, preserved as a national historic park. (B,L,D)
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SCENIC CRUISING: This Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site protects a unique ecosystem of plants and animals living in an ever-changing glacial landscape. Here, witness an amazing spectacle of thunder and flying spray as tremendous slabs of ice break off and "calve" into the sea-making for lasting memories. National Park rangers accompany the ship to add expert commentary to the day's events. (B,L,D)
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KETCHIKAN. Experience Native Alaska firsthand. Meet the spirits of the raven, whale, and eagle as you view the largest collection of totems in the world at Saxman Totem Park or Totem Bight State Historic Park. Or, explore Creek Street, now home to contemporary art galleries and quaint boutiques. (B,L,D)
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SCENIC CRUISING: Sit back and relax as you cruise through the beautiful and awe-inspiring scenery of the Inside Passage. Keep your cameras ready for spouting whales, soaring eagles, barking seals, and other wildlife. (B,L,D)
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VANCOUVER (DISEMBARKATION). Airport transfers are provided. Please schedule flights after Noon. (B)
VANCOUVER - VICTORIA: Ferry ride through Gulf Islands
VICTORIA: Orientation tour; Butchart Gardens
JASPER NATIONAL PARK: Sightseeing and cruise Maligne Lake
COLUMBIA ICEFIELD: Ice Explorer ride on the Columbia Icefield
BANFF NATIONAL PARK: Gondola ride up Banff's Sulphur Mountain
KELOWNA: Dinner at a winery
MEALS: American breakfast daily (B); 5 three-course dinners (D), including a special farewell dinner in Vancouver. Alaska Cruise Extension: 21 additional meals.
Inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE in the tour description, including admission charges where applicable.
Meals Breakfast - 19 Lunch - 6 Dinner - 12
Optional Excursions
To help plan your leisure time, as well as your pre-tour budgeting, here is a list of optional excursions that may be offered on this tour.
Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, group interests, and general feasibility for your tour. Please note prices may be based on the previous year and are subject to change. Full terms and conditions are contained in the important travel documents.
Cost
Description
75
CAD
Name:CHINATOWN DINNER AND LANTERN WALK Location:VICTORIA Details:A fascinating tour of Chinatown, one of the oldest in Canada. Your expert local guide will offer you the opportunity to learn about the "East meets West" portals. Themes range from Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac to Brave Pioneers and World Developments. Food sampling along the way with dinner in a first-class restaurant. Finally, at dusk you will be given lanterns and lead through the narrow alleys to Bastion Square. A very unique and memorable way to experience Victoria. (Approximately 3 hours).
122
CAD
Name:VICTORIA PANORAMA Location:VICTORIA Details:This half-hour flight is an ideal introduction to seaplane aviation and includes spectacular vistas of downtown Victoria, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Enjoy unique views of the buildings ringing the harbour and grand houses perched above the rugged coastline. The exhilarating spray of the water is always a highlight during take-off and landing.
111
CAD
Name:MARINE AND WILDLIFE WHALE WATCHING Location:VICTORIA Details:Whale watching is a an experience many say they will never forget. Whale Watching Excursions in Victoria and around beautiful Vancouver Island provide you with wonderful memories of British Columbia. Whale and Marine Wildlife watching expeditions have become one of Victoria's most popular activities. The rich marine wildlife of beautiful southern Vancouver Island is world renowned for its abundance and diversity. Killer Whales are magnificent and never fail to impress, but there are many other living treasures that share their waters. Bring your camera and your excitement because this is a trip you won't soon forget! (Excursion is approximately 3 hours).
151
CAD
Name:SPECTACULAR GLACIER SEAPLANE TOUR Location:WHISTLER Details:Our most popular tour! Experience British Columbia's supernatural beauty with an eagle's eye flight over the majestic glaciers, rugged peaks, unique volcanic formations and lush alpine meadows that surround the turquoise waters of mile-high, 1000 foot deep Garibaldi Lake. Don't forget your camera! Rate includes fuel surcharge and taxes. (30 minutes).
100
CAD
Name:CANOEING IN SUN PEAKS WITH FUR TRADERS FEAST Location:SUN PEAKS Details:Join the Northwest Voyageur Company for a trip into Canada's storied past. A qualified Voyageur will be your guide in a replica Voyageur Canoe where you will calmly glide across the waters of McGillvray Lake and hear the tales of how the NWC & Hudson Bay Company erected this country. During the trip you may see some of our local residents such as eagles, osprey, loons, beavers, deer, mouse, bears, and other wildlife. Through this completely non-strenuous trip you will receive great insight into how this nation was explored, discovered and eventually established. Finish your guided Voyageur Canoe trip off with a traditional 4 course Fur Trader's Feast prepared for you at the McGillvray Lake Outpost. While on the journey to the Rockies the Voyageurs mostly ate pemmican 3 times a day, but when they were at their main posts voyageurs would enjoy only the finest delicacies. Come and relive the majesty of the fur trade through a unique culinary experience. (Canoe Trip 1.5 hours plus dinner afterward) No previous canoeing experience necessary.
48
CAD
Name:FUR TRADERS FEAST Location:SUN PEAKS Details:We are pleased to offer a rustic 4 course Dinner on the shores of historic McGillvray Lake. While on the journey to the Rockies the Voyageurs mostly ate pemmican 3 times a day, but when they were at their main posts voyageurs would enjoy only the finest delicacies. Come and relive the majesty of the fur trade through a unique culinary experience.
64
CAD
Name:JASPER RAFT ON THE ATHABASCA RIVER Location:JASPER Details:Jasper's best rafting float trips take you down the Athabasca River for those in seek of a complete and fun filled Alberta wilderness adventure. This 16 kilometre trip passes through many small sets of rapids and calm stretches, which allows your National Park Licensed guide to point out the natural and human history of Jasper. Jasper's best rafting float trips take you down the Athabasca River for those in seek of a complete and fun filled Alberta wilderness adventure. This 16 kilometre trip passes through many small sets of rapids and calm stretches, which allows your National Park Licensed guide to point out the natural and human history of Jasper. The Athabasca River is the same route that was used by the "fur traders" many years ago, (David Thompson 1811). The specially designed rafts offer a safe, comfortable ride that any first time rafter will enjoy. This trip is for everyone from toddlers to seniors. The guides do all the rowing so you can sit back & enjoy the majestic scenery. (2.5 hours) (Subject to favourable weather and water conditions).
83
CAD
Name:MOUNT EDITH CAVELL NATURE WALK & DINNER Location:JASPER Details:After dinner at a local restaurant join your experienced guide on this two-hour hike on the "Path of the Glacier" walk with Mount Edith Cavell's snowcapped peak towering a mile overhead. Experience three kinds of glacier formations, icebergs, waterfalls and the emerald green of "Lake of Forgiveness." An exceptional "soft adventure" to one of Jasper's gems. You need to wear good walking shoes, but no previous hiking experience is necessary. This excursion operates mid June to the first week in October and is dependent on the weather.
240
CAD
Name:ROYAL CANADIAN HELICOPTER TOUR Location:BANFF Details:Your adventure will take you past the Three Sisters Peaks as you spectacularly escape to the Spray Valley. You will see the magnificent Goat Range where you will observe the radiant aqua blue/green colours of the Spray Lakes. Next, your journey will take you to new heights through the Goat Range Pass and along the Sundance Range of Banff National Park where you will see mountain peaks, alpine meadows and pristine lakes. An extraordinary adventure not to be missed! (25 minute flight). Flights are subject to favourable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.
272
CAD
Name:MOUNT ASSINIBOINE GLACIER HELICOPTER TOUR Location:BANFF Details:Your adventure will take you past the Three Sisters Peaks as you spectacularly escape to the Spray Valley. You will see the magnificent Goat Range where you will observe the radiant aqua blue/green colours of the Spray Lakes. Next, your journey will take you to new heights through the Goat Range Pass and along the Sundance Range of Banff National Park where you will see mountain peaks, alpine meadows and pristine lakes. Finally, you will be transported to the "Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies" which rises majestically to 3,611 metres (11,870 feet) along the Great Divide. The surrounding glaciers and icefalls will astound you and capture your imagination where you will get up close and personal with the Gloria Glacier as it tumbles off of Mount Assiniboine. This is an experience you will not forget! (30 minute flight). Flights are subject to favourable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.
45
CAD
Name:FLOAT TRIP DOWN THE BOW RIVER Location:BANFF Details:A chance to really experience the beauty and tranquillity of the Canadian Rockies with a peaceful one-hour float trip down the Bow River past Tunnel Mountain, the Hoodoos and Mount Rundle. No experience necessary & guide does all the paddling. The rafts are customised with elevated floorboards, so your shoes even stay dry! Guests often bring cameras to catch the scenery as they float by. Lifejackets are required and provided. (Subject to favourable weather & water conditions).
125
CAD
Name:SPRAY LAKES TOUR - 12 MINUTE HELICOPTER TOUR Location:BANFF Details:This will be the most action packed 12 minutes of your life. Your adventure will take you past the Three Sisters Peaks as you spectacularly escape to the Spray Valley. You will see the magnificent Goat Range where you will observe the radiant aqua blue/green colours of the Spray Lakes. Your return flight will provide views of the Bow River as it meanders back towards the Town of Canmore. (12 minute flight) Flights are subject to favourable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.
110
CAD
Name:SUNSET DINNER CRUISE Location:VANCOUVER Details:It's like dining in a restaurant which looks out onto all of Vancouver's finest views. Enjoy a leisurely cruise past the downtown skyline, the cruise ship terminal of Canada Place, the Mountains behind the North Shore, the West Vancouver shoreline and more. Take in the sights and sounds of the city as you enjoy live music and delicious West Coast-themed cuisine. You'll have the best spot in Vancouver to watch the sun slowly disappear into the Pacific Ocean. During the shoulder months (May & October) enjoy the evening under a star-lit sky as the moon reflects off the Pacific. Take in the sights and sounds of the city while cruising past the magnificent skyline at night while enjoying live music and delicious West Coast-themed cuisine. Treat yourself to Vancouver's favourite dining cruise experience, the Sunset Dinner Cruise. (2.5 hours) (Seasonal, May - October).
139
CAD
Name:GROUSE MOUNTAIN & CAPILANO SUSPENSION BRIDGE Location:VANCOUVER Details:Visit Vancouver's North Shore as you drive over Lion's Gate Bridge to world famous Capilano Suspension Bridge, one of Vancouver's most popular attractions. Capilano Suspension Bridge offers a unique mix of adventure, history and culture making this Vancouver tourist attraction a complete British Columbia experience. Afterwards, board the gondola up to the 4,000-foot level of Grouse Mountain, the peak of Vancouver. Take in a lumberjack show, visit orphaned grizzly bears and grey wolves, or enjoy a leisurely walk through the many trails. Note: This excursion is only available on multiple night stays in Vancouver. (Full Day Excursion).
Optional Excursions
