Compare Alaska's Inside Passage Up Close 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 Arrival in Sitka, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation Sitka, AK

Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m. If you arrive before your room is ready, you may store your luggage at the hotel until check-in is available.

All routes and excursions are subject to change – weather and sea conditions may affect the itinerary. Sea conditions may 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. Upon arrival in Sitka, we will be met by Alaskan Dream Cruises staff and transferred to the hotel. Program Registration. After you have your room assignment, come over to the Road Scholar table outside the meeting room to register with the program staff and get your welcome packet containing the up-to-date schedule that reflects any last-minute changes, other important information, and to learn when and where the orientation session will take place. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet when you check in.

Following dinner we'll have a brief introduction to the program. A more in depth orientation will take place the next morning. Each afternoon before dinner aboard the ship, we’ll have a social hour to recap the day’s activities, preview what will happen tomorrow, get to know our fellow participants better and see amazing scenery. As a tasty treat, enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate; other beverages available for purchase. Evenings aboard the ship will often include a presentation for the group, unless specified otherwise. It might be a narrated slide presentation, a talk, an opportunity for questions and answers, or just a good story. Durations of hikes will be dependent on the group pace and ability level, which can vary. Unless specified otherwise, transportation on land will be provided primarily by motorcoach, requiring the going up/down of a few steps when getting on/off. Periods in the schedule labeled “Free Time and “At Leisure” offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable while going out to explore on your own, engaging in available activities independently, making new friends among fellow Road Scholars, or simply relaxing. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions for activities. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the full day ahead.

In our private meeting space at the hotel, we’ll enjoy a buffet meal which will include an entrée, salad, starch, coffee, tea, and water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 2 Explore Sitka, Free Time, Embark Ship, Daily Preview Northern Southeast Alaska - Inside Passage

Please bring luggage from hotel rooms to hotel lobby (assistance as needed). During Sitka field trip, walking up to 1 mile with stops along the way.

Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule and any program changes, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. After bringing our luggage down and checking out of the hotel, we'll board a motorcoach and make our way to the Alaska Raptor Center. Here we'll witness all of the wonderful work this place doing to rehabilitate the local raptors. Following our tour of the Alaska Raptor Center, we will have the chance to explore the historic Sitka National Historical Park. One of Alaska's most charming communities, Sitka lies in a protected harbor rich in natural resources and has a complex history dating back over 8,000 years beginning with the Kiksadi Tlingit people as the native residents. Serious Russian interest began in 1725 when they began to explore the Pacific coast of North America until they eventually established, after much fighting with the Tlingit people, Sitka as an administrative center.

Free Time. Take the afternoon to explore Sitka on your own. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. If you would like to visit the Sheldon Jackson Museum or the Sitka Sound Science Center during your free time please make sure you are wearing your Road Scholar name tag. Your name tag is your ticket to those two places. Following our free afternoon we'll meet back at the hotel where we'll board a motorcoach that will take us to the dock. We will then board our vessel and begin our journey along Alaska's Inside Passage. After boarding, we will meet the Captain and crew and have an orientation session outlining safety procedures as we get underway. After we settle in, we’ll transit two beautiful, twisty narrow passages where we can look for sea otters, bald eagles, and other creatures.

A staff member will provide an overview of tomorrow’s activities as well as discuss the local history and culture. The ship’s public address system allows participants to hear programs in the forward lounge (where most of our onboard programming occurs) or in the comfort of staterooms.

Our breakfast buffet at the hotel includes oatmeal, French toast, eggs, breakfast potatoes, bacon, sausage, fruit, orange juice, tea, milk.

At the Alaskan Dream Cruise Hospitality Suite, we’ll choose from a selection of pre-made sandwiches along with dessert items, fresh fruit and sodas, water, coffee and tea.

In the dining room, enjoy plated meals prepared by professionally trained chefs using fresh and locally produced foods plus one complimentary glass of beer or wine with all dinners aboard the ship. Coffee, tea, milk, hot chocolate and water are included; other beverages available for purchase. Menus change daily, usually including a seafood or meat entrée.

Day 3 Kake, Frederick Sound Northern Southeast Alaska - Inside Passage

Walking with guide 1 mile on a maintained road. There are some hills. A bus is available for those who don't want to walk. Sitting or standing during totem carving demonstration. Sitting during the Tlingit dance performance but there is an opportunity to participate and dance with the group.

This morning we arrive in Kake. Of the twenty largest islands in the United States, seven of them are in Southeast Alaska. At 1,086 square miles, Kupreanof Island is 13th largest, yet fewer than 600 people call the island home. Most of them live in the first-class city of Kake, a mostly Tlingit village situated on the island’s northwest shore facing Keku Strait, a skinny thread of ocean that separates their island from neighboring Kuiu Island to the west. Arriving in Kake, we will meet with our local guide who come on board to offer a short presentation. Following this presentation we will disembark the ship and make our way to the totem carving demonstration. After the demonstration we’ll continue on to view one of the world’s largest totem poles. This totem pole was raised in 1971 and stands at 136 feet tall. Then we’ll make our way to the community center where we’ll watch a traditional Tlingit dance performance. You’ll even have a chance to participate in the dance!

This afternoon we’ll cruise along Frederick Sound, which is virtually unknown to many travelers. We will spend the afternoon cruising through this delightful and lovely, yet rarely visited part of Alaska. View the temperate rainforest, waterfalls, and pristine beaches from the comfort of the ship, scan the skies for birds and the shores for wildlife.

Onboard staff will lead an orientation to procedures for tomorrow’s outdoor activities in Hobart Bay.

Aboard the ship, we’ll have plated meals featuring fresh and locally produced foods including items such as pancakes, cereals, egg dishes, and breakfast meats with coffee, tea, milk, hot chocolate, juice and water; other beverages available for purchase.

Aboard the ship, we’ll have plated meals featuring fresh, organic, and locally produced foods with coffee, tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.

Aboard ship.

Day 4 Hobart Bay, Inside Passage Lecture Northern Southeast Alaska - Inside Passage

Levels of activity are dependent on personal preference. Option for skiff ride - climbing up/down ladder to get to loading dock. Climbing in and out of 22 foot skiff with assistance from crew. Option to kayak - climbing in and out of kayak with assistance. Kayak groups will be led by 2 staff leaders. Option to hike- it will last approx. 1 hour and distance covered is dependent on pace of group. Hike takes place on gravel road with moderate incline and is led by 2 staff leaders.

After arriving at Hobart Bay, we'll begin our wilderness adventure with a full day of exhilarating outdoor activities. You will have the choice to explore the bay via 2-person sea kayaks or on 22-foot skiffs for quiet exploration. Kayak launchers make it easy to get into kayaks that are then slid into the water slowly. Groups will be limited to 10-12 on the skiffs providing room to easily maneuver and catch sight of wildlife and take photos as well as watch for eagles or bears along the shore.

Continue exploring this secluded bay. A variety of marine life and birds are visible as well as an occasional black bear roaming the shoreline. We’ll also go ashore for a short hike to a view point along a gravel road in the late afternoon passing a muskeg/bog with some unusual plants, including a carnivorous species!

Our Road Scholar Group Leader will give a presentation on more fascinating aspects of Alaska’s Inside Passage.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Day 5 Tracy Arm Fjord, Waterfalls, Wildlife Watch Northern Southeast Alaska - Inside Passage

Climbing up and down steep stairs to get to the deck for wildlife viewing. Climbing in and out of the 22 foot skiff for tours (weather permitting).

Perhaps Alaska’s most scenic fjord, Tracy Arm, a photographer’s paradise, is a narrow inlet of ocean running between cliffs or steep slopes. Tracy Arm twists and turns for more than 30 miles through some of the most dramatically scenic landscapes anywhere, dotted with thousands of icebergs from glaciers - North Sawyer and South Sawyer - at the end of the fjord. Wildlife is seasonally prolific, with whales and sea lions, seals on floating ice, bears, deer, mountain goats, wolves, and smaller animals inhabiting surrounding forests, and bald eagles and other birds flying above. Along the way, our staff will narrate and point out the highlights.

We’ll wind our way back down the arm, pausing to view some of the spectacular waterfalls that spill out of the granite cliffs along the fjord. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we will also have the opportunity to ride the skiffs with our expert leaders to explore either the area. As we depart Tracy Arm, we will scout for humpback whales and other marine mammals in these world-renowned whale waters.

At leisure.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Day 6 Exploration, Orca Point Lodge Northern Southeast Alaska - Inside Passage

Levels of activity are dependent on personal preference. Option for skiff ride - climbing up/down ladder to get to loading dock. Climbing in and out of 22 foot skiff with assistance from crew. Option to kayak - climbing in and out of kayak with assistance. Kayak groups will be led by 2 staff leaders. Option to take a walk on the shore- distance covered is dependent on pace of group. The walk will be a bit rocky and will be led by 2 staff leaders.

This morning we'll have the chance to explore the area via kayak, DIB ride, or shore walk.

We will continue to explore the area, watching for marine animals, wildlife, and the pristine Tongass National Forest. This afternoon enjoy a lecture in the ship's lounge.

At the lodge's touch tank, get “up close and personal” with Alaskan sea life. Take a stroll on the private rocky beach and, if weather permits, enjoy a bonfire on the beach. We'll have ingredients to make smores! We’ll then board the ship for the evening.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

As a special treat, we have an exclusive stop at Orca Point Lodge on Colt Island to enjoy a wonderful buffet meal of Alaskan salmon and all-you-can-eat King Crab. A glass of wine, soft drinks, coffee, tea and water are included; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 7 White Pass Railway, Skagway & Gold Rush, Free Time Northern Southeast Alaska - Inside Passage

Getting on/off street cars. Minimal walking on sidewalks and city streets. Train ride is approx. 40 miles roundtrip; about 3.5 hours.

Making our way up the spectacular Taiya Inlet, we’ll dock in Skagway. This famous gold rush town is also home to Klondike National Historic Park, which owns and has restored many of the buildings. We will take a narrated shuttle from the ship to the White Pass Railway depot, board the train, and take a narrated rail road trip up to the White Pass summit located in British Columbia, Canada, with spectacular views along the way. This narrow gauge railway route was built during the Klondike Gold Rush. Its proposed 110-mile journey through coastal mountains was considered impossible but became a reality in only 26 months of construction from 1898-1900. The railway operated as a business until 1982, then re-opened in 1988 for seasonal excursions.

Free Time. You may wish to visit the Klondike National Historic Park's museum, go on a walking field trip with our Group Leader, or explore the town of Skagway on your own. The park offers park ranger walks at regularly scheduled times from the visitor's center. The ship is scheduled to depart mid to late afternoon. The exact time to return to the ship will be announced. We’ll cruise back down the scenic Taiya Inlet and Lynn Canal towards Icy Strait as we head towards tomorrow’s destination.

Aboard the ship, enjoy an evening of native storytelling or other Alaskan tales.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship or at your own cost in town.

Aboard ship.

Day 8 Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve Northern Southeast Alaska - Inside Passage

Climbing up and down steep stairs on the ship to get to the different deck levels for wildlife viewing.

Birders and wildlife watchers will want to be up and out on deck as we enter Glacier Bay early this morning. We will be joined by a National Park Service (NPS) Ranger who will lead our programming today. The NPS citation reads, “Covering 3.3 million acres of rugged mountains, dynamic glaciers, temperate rainforest, wild coastlines, and deep sheltered fjords, Glacier Bay National Park is a highlight of Alaska's Inside Passage and part of a 25-million acre World Heritage Site — one of the world’s largest international protected areas.” The entrance to Glacier Bay teems with wildlife, particularly sea birds. This is also an area frequented by feeding humpback whales. The Huna Tlingit people once lived here and consider it their spiritual homeland. A Native Tlingit interpretive naturalist will join the NPS Ranger to discuss their traditional ties to this stunning natural treasure.

We’ll continue our exploration of Glacier Bay National Park, the crown jewel of Southeast Alaska considered by many to be the United States’ Number 1 national park. Glacier Bay boasts the largest number of tidewater glaciers in North America, with the backdrop of the stunning 15,000-foot Fairweather Mountain range, some of the most stunning scenery anywhere, and a prolific array of wildlife including humpback whales, sea otters, puffins, mountain goats and much more, often amid calving icebergs. Watch for all these wonders from the deck of the ship (binoculars provided). The Ranger and naturalist will be on deck for commentary, to point out highlights, and answer questions.

At leisure. As we head to Juneau overnight, prepare for departure in the morning and get a good night’s sleep.

Aboard ship.

Aboard ship.

Aboard the ship, we'll enjoy a delicious plated meal with standard beverages in the company of the captain. Toast to a successful program and share your favorite memories with your Road Scholar friends.

Day 9 Juneau, Disembark, Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska State Museum Juneau, AK

The ship is scheduled to arrive in Juneau at approximately 7:30 a.m. Disembarkation from the ship will begin at approximately 8:30 a.m. Climbing on and off a motorcoach. Opportunity for short hike on a groomed trail at Mendenhall Glacier. Walking on paved walkways during free time (shuttle available for those who need it).

After disembarking the ship we will take a field trip to one of Alaska’s extraordinary natural wonders: the Mendenhall Glacier. This river of ice is one of 38 large glaciers that flow from the 1,500 square mile Juneau ice field formed about 3,000 years ago. The glacier stretches 12 miles from the ice field down to its terminus at Mendenhall Lake. The glacier and surrounding area are protected by the National Forest Service as part of Tongass National Forest, the largest in the U.S., encompassing 17 million acres. The Visitor Center offers magnificent views of the Glacier and the lake, many displays and presentations, a short movie, and hiking trails. National Forest Service interpretive rangers will be available to provide information and answer questions as we explore independently. We’ll then explore Juneau via motorcoach as our driver provides commentary on our surroundings and the local history. Originating with the Alaska Gold Rush in 1880, the miners’ tent camp grew into a small town and then kept growing as mines produced millions of dollars in gold well into the 20th Century. Tourism expanded as adventure travelers were attracted by the surrounding old-growth forests, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, salmon streams, bear habitat, and migratory whale routes. En route, we will pass the Capitol Building and the governor’s mansion, among other city highlights. Following our exploration of Juneau, we will head to the Alaska State Museum for a self-directed exploration of the Museum, which is the repository for the state's history, highlighting the distinct native cultures of Alaska.

Following lunch we will have an opportunity for some free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You may wish to take a walking excursion with the Group Leader or explore on your own visiting other interesting sites in Juneau including the Sealaska Heritage Institute , Mt. Roberts Tramway, Capitol building, or city museum.

Enjoy a wrap up presentation at the hotel reviewing our adventures with Road Scholar staff. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

Aboard ship.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

In our private meeting space at the hotel, we’ll enjoy a buffet meal which will include an entrée, salad, starch, coffee, tea, and water; other beverages available for purchase.

Day 10 Program Concludes Juneau, AK

Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. If departing this day and you purchased air through Road Scholar, transfers will be provided to the airport.

If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

At the hotel. You will receive a voucher to enjoy breakfast in the hotel restaurant. This concludes our program. If your flight is early causing you to miss the hotel breakfast, a boxed breakfast will be provided for you.

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.