Your Itinerary

DAY 1: UK - Toronto.

Fly to Toronto where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.

DAY 2: Toronto - Niagara Falls - Toronto - VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.

Begin the day with a sightseeing excursion to Niagara Falls - one of the world's most amazing natural wonders - offering you spectacular views of the waterfalls from scenic points on the rim of the gorge and from the decks of the Maid of the Mist, where you will experience the thundering water up close! Return to Toronto with time for dinner before transferring to Union Station for a late evening departure on the 'Canadian', VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train. Spend the next three days and nights on this classic trip across Canada's heartland. Note: The operation of the Maid of the Mist cruise is subject to favourable conditions which exist from May to the end of October. When unfavourable conditions exist, a walking tour of the scenic tunnels will be offered.

DAY 3: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.

Watch the scenery as you whisk by the ever changing landscape and travel the full length of the Canadian National Railway's breathtaking mainline. Pass sparkling lakes and sun-dappled forests while enjoying the many great onboard features at your disposal. Your first class 'Sleeper Touring' rail cars are refurbished Art Deco cars from the 1950's. Try the observation dome for unparalleled views, or relax in one of the comfortable lounges. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train - Winnipeg.

After a brief stop in Winnipeg, re-board the 'Canadian' for a memorable journey through Manitoba's prairies and into Saskatchewan. (B, D)

DAY 5: VIA Rail® - Jasper.

Enjoy breakfast before the train arrives in Edmonton, set on the North Saskatchewan River. After a short break continue your train journey into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. You'll arrive at the beautiful mountain resort of Jasper early in the afternoon. End the day with a short tour to experience its unspoiled beauty, with the rest of the evening free. (B)

DAY 6: Jasper.

Begin the day with an optional excursion to Maligne Lake, and a narrated cruise. On the return journey, stop to view Maligne Canyon. With free time this evening you might take a hike and watch for elk.

DAY 7: Jasper - Columbia Icefield - Banff.

Journey through Jasper National Park, stopping along the way at the Columbia Icefield for an exciting snowcoach ride on the 1200-foot-thick Athabasca Glacier. Then continue down the Icefield Parkway to the lively mountain resort of Banff for two nights. Note: Unfavourable weather conditions may affect the availability of the Columbia Icefield snowcoach excursion.

DAY 8: Banff.

For a spectacular start to the day, why not take the optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies? In the afternoon join our optional excursion to Sulphur Mountain for a thrilling gondola ride, and a stop at sparkling Bow Falls. The evening is free.

DAY 9: Banff - Lake Louise - Kamloops.

Travel to Lake Louise, its azure blue waters mirroring the surrounding mountains and glaciers, before proceeding over Kicking Horse Pass on the Continental Divide. Travel through Yoho National Park, where Precambrian fossils were discovered, and Glacier National Park, where recreational mountain climbing was introduced to North America a century ago. Late this afternoon arrive at the cattle ranching centre of Kamloops.

DAY 10: Kamloops - Vancouver.

Continue along Kamloops Lake, then follow the mighty Fraser River to Vancouver, spectacularly set on the Burrard Inlet. Upon arrival in Vancouver, your sightseeing tour will introduce you to many of the city's major sights including Stanley Park, Gastown and the harbour.

DAY 11: Vancouver.

Today, why not join an optional excursion to Vancouver Island and the charming city of Victoria. The excursion includes a visit to renowned Butchart Gardens, and the ferry ride through the mediterranean Gulf Islands is a treat.

DAY 12: Vancouver.

A full day to explore Canada's 'Gem of the Pacific', spectacularly set on the Burrard Inlet. It's one of the country's most beautiful cities with plenty of sightseeing opportunities including Gastown, Chinatown and Stanley Park. Our representative will be delighted to suggest places to visit, go shopping and eat out.

DAY 13: Vancouver to embark your cruise ship.

Transfer to your cruise ship, either the MS Volendam or MS Zuiderdam, for embarkation. Sailing time is around 5pm. This evening enjoy a lavish à la carte dinner. (D)

DAY 14: Inside Passage cruising.

The beauty of the Inside Passage will amaze you as you cruise past 1,000 miles of epic scenery, towering glaciated mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands and virgin forests. There is also plenty of animal and marine life to look out for: sea lions, eagles and porpoises. (B, L, D)

DAY 15: Juneau.

An afternoon arrival in Juneau, Alaska's capital. The city has a Gold Rush story to rival that of Klondike, and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. An optional wildlife cruise and salmon fishing will normally be available, and you'll also have the opportunity to take an optional excursion to Juneau's own glacier, Mendenhall. This impressive river of blue ice is about 1.5 miles wide and over 12 miles long! (B, L, D)

DAY 16: Skagway.

Morning arrival in Skagway, Alaska's gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush in Canada's Yukon. Skagway was the turbulent staging point for prospectors and still has old-fashioned weathered boardwalks and old-time saloons. Optional sightseeing includes a ride in a vintage parlour car to see the White Pass and Yukon route. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore some more, before setting sail again late this evening. (B, L, D)

DAY 17: Glacier Bay.

Cruise into spectacular Glacier Bay early this morning, where forests give way to a rugged landscape rising to rocky peaks. Sixteen huge mountains converge to create an awe-inspiring panoramic wonder, a dramatic scene of awesome glaciers and massive icebergs. Wildlife is abundant and you may spot eagles, seals, mountain goats, moose and bears in their natural habitat. (B, L, D)

DAY 18: Ketchikan.

A morning arrival in colourful Ketchikan, situated on Revillagigedo Island and known as the 'salmon capital of the world'. Here, a picturesque harbour shelters fishing boats and seaplanes. A wide choice of optional excursions will be available, including an outing to see Indian Heritage Villages, Totem Bight State Park and 'flightseeing' to Misty Fjords National Monument. Evening departure from Ketchikan. (B, L, D)

DAY 19: At sea.

Continue cruising south along British Columbia's spectacular coastline. Animal and marine life are abundant in this area and with a little luck you may spot a pod of graceful orca whales. (B, L, D)

DAY 20: Vancouver - UK.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK or extend your stay in Vancouver or Hawaii. (B)

DAY 21: Home landing in the UK.

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Your Holiday Map

Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Alaska Cruise

Itinerary Map

MS Zuiderdam

Renowned as Holland America Line's first Vista-Class vessel, MS Zuiderdam is a contemporary and luxurious ship, equipped with ultra-modern technology and an excellent array of amenities. Tastefully elegant and designed with Modernism in mind, the on board décor ranges from works by celebrated artists such as Andy Warhol, Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Ben, to the exquisite Waterford Crystal seahorse suspended over the three-tiered atrium. MS Zuiderdam accommodates 1,916 guests in comfortable, well-designed cabins and affords the best in service, fine dining, and luxurious cruising.

Public Rooms & Facilities

2 swimming pools (one with sliding glass roof); two-tiered Vista Dining Room; Lido Restaurant; Pinnacle Grill, casual Italian Canaletto; Terrace Grill; Pinnacle, Sea View, Ocean, Piano, Lido and Sports bars; Crows' Nest, Neptune and Explorers' lounges; Queen's Lounge and Culinary Arts Centre; Explorations internet café; Vista show lounge; volleyball and basketball courts; Greenhouse spa and salon with hydro pool and thermal suites; fitness centre and aerobics; observation deck; shops and boutiques; casino; nightclub; library; atrium; photo gallery; lifts; reception.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. There is a choice of dining venues on board: the main Vista dining area has set dining or new 'dine as you wish' arrangements and a good selection of different menus. Casual dining is available in the Lido Restaurant most evenings with three courses of fresh, cooked-to-order specialities, and the informal Italian Canaletto, or guests may enjoy elegant, sophisticated dining in the reservations-only 'Pinnacle Grill' (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's the complimentary ice cream bar, hot hors d'oeuvres during the pre-dinner hour and after dinner there is the famous late night snack. Vegetarian or kosher meals and any special dietary requirements should be requested at the time of booking. Please note, we will automatically book early dining unless otherwise requested.

Cabins

All cabins have twin or queen size beds (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed); air-conditioning/climate control; flat-panel TV; DVD player; and telephone. Inside cabins have a shower only while outside cabins have a shower and bathtub. Your holiday price is based on a category J inside cabin or you may choose to upgrade.

Options/Upgrades

Cabin Categories & Descriptions:

J Large or standard inside lower or upper deck cabin

E Large outside lower deck cabin with picture window

D Large outside lower deck cabin with picture window

VD Deluxe verandah cabin with sitting area; private verandah; floor-to-ceiling windows

VC Deluxe verandah cabin with sitting area; private verandah; floor-to-ceiling windows

Tipping

A gratuity of $11 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.

MS Volendam

Embodying Holland America Line's 'Signature of Excellence', MS Volendam is equipped with the most modern technologies and provides a good selection of amenities, facilities and entertainment. Decorated throughout with a garden motif, floral attributes can be found in abundance ranging from priceless paintings and sculpture, to sumptuous fabrics and bouquets of fresh flowers. Accommodating 1,432 passengers in bright, comfortable cabins, MS Volendam also offers elegant public areas and fine dining - ideal for luxurious cruising.

For the full ship description, see page 79

Public Rooms & Facilities

2 pools (one with sliding glass roof); 2 whirlpools; main dining room; Lido Restaurant; Pinnacle Grill; casual Italian Canaletto; Terrace Grill; 5 bars including Piano and Wine tasting; 3 lounges; internet café; show lounge; tennis and basketball courts; spa and beauty salon; thermal suite; fitness centre and aerobics; Wajang Theatre and Culinary Arts Center; shops; casino; art and photo galleries; launderette; 12 lifts; reception.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. The main Rotterdam Dining Room has a wide choice of menus with most passengers opting for smart casual dress in the evenings. The Lido Restaurant and the Italian Canaletto offer casual dining most evenings, or guests can enjoy sophisticated dining in the reservations-only 'Pinnacle Grill' (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's a complimentary ice cream bar and the famous late night snack. Please note, we will automatically book early dining unless otherwise requested.

Cabins

All cabins have twin lower beds, convertible to 1 queen-sized bed (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed); air-conditioning/climate control; flat-panel TV; DVD player; telephone; music system; and 24-hour room service. Inside cabins have a shower only while outside cabins have a shower and a bathtub. Your holiday price includes a category K inside cabin, or you may choose to upgrade.

Options/Upgrades

Cabin Categories & Descriptions:

K Large inside lower or middle deck cabin

E Large outside lower deck cabin with picture window

C Large outside middle deck cabin with picture window

AA Verandah Suite with whirlpool bath; sitting area; private verandah; minibar; fridge; floor-to-ceiling windows

Tipping

A gratuity of $11 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.

MS Zuiderdam

MS Zuiderdam - side view

  Category J Main Deck Large or standard inside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed

  Category E Main Deck Large outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath & shower

  Category D Main Deck Large outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath & shower, and picture window

  Category VD Upper Promenade Deck Deluxe Verandah outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows

  Category VC Verandah Deck Deluxe Verandah outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows

MS Volendam

MS Volendam - side view

  Category K Main or Lower Promenade Deck large inside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-sized bed

  Category E Dolphin or Main Deck large outside cabin with 2 lower beds, bath and/or shower

  Category C Lower Promenade deck large outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-sized bed, bathtub & shower, and picture window

  Category AA Verandah or Navigation Deck Verandah Suite with 2 lower beds, whirlpool bath, sitting area, private verandah, fridge, and floor to ceiling windows

Optional Excursions

To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list of optional excursions available to you.

Niagara Helicopter Sightseeing

Take a thrilling eight-minute ride over the most famous falls in North America. You will be dazzled by the sights of the Rainbow Bridge, Horseshoe Falls, and Whirlpool Rapids. Bring your camera and it's up, up, and away! Helicopter tour duration approximately 12 minutes.

$132 (Canadian Dollar)

CN Tower - Toronto By Night

360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower, one of Toronto's finest, features unforgettable food combined with a magnificent revolving view of Toronto more than 351 metres (1,151 ft) below. 360 offers market-fresh cuisine, featuring regional ingredients to ensure an incomparable culinary experience. Following dinner, enjoy panoramic views from the observation decks.

$89 (Canadian Dollar)

Jasper Raft On The Athabasca River

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 kilometer 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 kilometer 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 favorable weather and water conditions.)

$64 (Canadian Dollar)

Banff Gondola

The adventure begins with an eight minute journey to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in a modern, fully-enclosed four passenger gondola cabin. The views become increasingly spectacular as you climb 698m (2,292 ft) to an elevation of 2,281m (7,486 ft) at the Summit Upper Terminal. Stay on the look out for wildlife and birds that frequent the Banff Gondola. This is nature's wild playground, so a camera is a must! You can encounter the local wildlife including Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, Golden mantled ground squirrels, Hoary marmots, Clark's nutcracker and the Canada (Gray) jay. Afterwards, we'll visit thundering Bow Falls where plenty of great photo opportunities await you. Be sure to bring a sweater or light jacket as the wind can become quite cool at 2,285 metres above sea level.

$31 (Canadian Dollar)

Royal Canadian Helicopter Tour

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 colors 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 minuet flight) Flights are subject to favorable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.

$240 (Canadian Dollar)

Mount Assiniboine Glacier Helicopter Tour

Your adventure will take you past the Three Sisters Peaks as you spectacularly escape to the Spray Valley. 160You will see the magnificent Goat Range where you will observe the radiant aqua blue/green colors 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 meters (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 favorable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.

$272 (Canadian Dollar)

Spray Lakes Tour - 12 Minute Helicopter Tour

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 colors 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 favorable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.

$125 (Canadian Dollar)

Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge

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)

$139 (Canadian Dollar)

Whistler Day Trip

Take the scenic Sea to Sky Highway with wonderful views of Howe Sound and the Gulf Islands. Make a stop at Shannon Falls. You'll have free time in Whistler to explore this world famous resort and host of the 2010 Olympics. There are restaurants, shops, galleries and plenty of other options to enjoy your day. (10 hours)

$139 (Canadian Dollar)

Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip

Travel by coach and ferry on this full day trip to Victoria. Enjoy a ferry cruise through beautiful Active Pass in the Gulf Islands to B.C.'s quaint capital. Marvel at the awesome, ever-changing Butchart Gardens. You'll drive the scenic route into Victoria and the Inner Harbour. You'll have some free time to explore this unique city: Government Street shopping & dining, Empress Hotel, Legislative Buildings, Royal B.C. Museum and more. Take a leisurely walk along the beautiful waterfront. Relax on the bus and ferry ride back to your hotel. A day well spent! This excursion is only available on multiple night stays in Vancouver. (Full Day Excursion)

$189 (Canadian Dollar)

Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.

Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Alaska Cruise 19 nights

Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and departure month, update the calendar then select your holiday.

Earlier 2012 2013 Later
Sep Mon 03 Sep Mon 10 Apr Mon 29 May Mon 06 May Mon 13 May Mon 20 Jun Mon 03 Jun Mon 17
Aberdeen

Departure Times

06:50 Air Canada

Departure Times

06:50 Air Canada
             
Edinburgh

Departure Times

08:20 Air Canada

Departure Times

07:05
(+ £80)
British Airways
08:20 Air Canada
             
London Gatwick

Departure Times

09:30 Air Transat

Departure Times

09:30 Air Transat

Departure Times

09:45 Air Transat

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

09:45 Air Transat

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

09:45 Air Transat

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

09:45 Air Transat

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

09:45 Air Transat

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

09:45 Air Transat

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

 
London Heathrow

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada

Save £100 per couple - book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - book by 30 June 2012.

 
Manchester  

Departure Times

05:55 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
08:20
(+ £115)
Air Canada
             
Newcastle  

Departure Times

06:55 Air Canada
             

Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Alaska Cruise 19 nights

Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and accommodation options. Then select your holiday from the grid.

Earlier Dates Date Depart From Price from PP   Later Dates
  3 Sep 2012 Aberdeen

Departure Times

06:50 Air Canada
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  3 Sep 2012 Edinburgh

Departure Times

08:20 Air Canada
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  3 Sep 2012 London Gatwick

Departure Times

09:30 Air Transat
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  3 Sep 2012 London Heathrow

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12:05 Air Canada
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  10 Sep 2012 Aberdeen

Departure Times

06:50 Air Canada
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  10 Sep 2012 Edinburgh

Departure Times

07:05
(+ £80)
British Airways
08:20 Air Canada
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  10 Sep 2012 London Gatwick

Departure Times

09:30 Air Transat
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  10 Sep 2012 London Heathrow

Departure Times

12:05 Air Canada
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  10 Sep 2012 Manchester

Departure Times

05:55 KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
08:20
(+ £115)
Air Canada
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  10 Sep 2012 Newcastle

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06:55 Air Canada
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Grand Canadian Rail & the Rockies + Alaska Cruise

Price from £2729.00

What's Included

  • Flights UK - Toronto; Vancouver - UK
  • Accommodation in a twin room with private facilities on tour and in private cabins (upper and lower berths) with toilet facilities (shower room separate) on board the 'Canadian' train. Accommodation on the cruise is as per cruise ship details
  • Meals 3 breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L), 2 dinners (D) on tour and full board on cruise ship
  • Services of a tour director on tour and local representative at other times
  • Porterage at hotels on tour and on cruise ship (for one suitcase per person)
  • Transfers between overseas airports, hotels and cruise ship
  • All local, port and airport taxes including Alaska State Government Tax

Holiday highlights

  • Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist cruise
  • VIA Rail® Canadian Train Toronto to Jasper
  • Jasper National Park
  • Columbia Icefield Snowcoach ride
  • Lake Louise
  • Banff National Park
  • Glacier National Park
  • Vancouver
  • Inside Passage Cruising
  • Juneau
  • Skagway
  • Glacier Bay Cruising
  • Ketchikan

Departures from

  • Aberdeen
  • Edinburgh
  • London Gatwick
  • London Heathrow
  • Manchester
  • Newcastle

Departures between

03 Sep 2012 to 09 Sep 2013

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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme

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