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The Rocky Mountaineer & Canadian Rail + Alaska Cruise

Climb aboard the legendary Canadian and Rocky Mountaineer for a spectacular trip before witnessing awe-inspiring scenery on a cruise of the Inside Passage and on to Alaska.

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Itinerary
Map
Ship
Cabin and Deck Plans
Optional Excursions

The Rocky Mountaineer
It's the perfect way to see Alaska
Bird's eye view of Vancouver
Horseshoe Falls, Niagara
Niagara Falls close-up
The glaciers near Juneau are awe inspiring
Inside Passage wildlife
The 'Canadian'
Bullet Lounge, the 'Canadian'
Take a glorious peak at the Inside Passage
Mendenhall Glacier (optional from Juneau)
Observation car, the 'Canadian'
Winnipeg
Mendenhall Glacier (optional)
Skagway's Mascot Saloon
Winnipeg
Edmonton
Skagway's Old Railroad House
Alaska's Glacier Bay is magnificent
Edmonton's capitol
Banff National Park
Looking for whales
Tracy Arm View
Bow Falls
Cascade Mountain overlooking Banff
Cruising in Glacier Bay
Vancouver
Kamloops and the Thompson River
Kamloops
Enjoy 2 extra nights in Vancouver
The Fraser Canyon at Hell's Gate
Hell's Gate airtram
Vancouver and the Pacific Coastal mountains
Vancouver

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 - VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.

This morning, wake up to the promise of an unforgettable excursion - to the Canadian Niagara Falls, one of the world's greatest natural splendours. Towering to 180 feet, the 12,000-year-old Falls are nothing less than awe-inspiring. As well as soaking up spectacular views of the falls from the rim of the gorge, your sightseeing includes a trip on the Maid of the Mist, which cruises close to the thunderous columns so you can experience their power from the deck. Afterwards, return to Toronto, where this evening, you're invited to join our optional dinner outing to enjoy stunning vistas over the city's illuminated 1,815-feet high CN Tower. Transfer to the station for your late evening departure on the 'Canadian', VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, for your classic three-day trip through Canada's heartland. Travelling first class, you'll be accommodated in the Canadian's superb 'Sleeper Touring' railcars - its original 1950's art deco carriages, now refurbished in modern style. 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.

Today, watch spellbound as your train glides effortlessly through the ever changing vistas that form the heart of this beautiful country. Alternatively, enjoy some of the train's excellent amenities, perhaps chatting over coffee in the comfortable Skyline Car, soaking up the 360º views from the observation dome or relaxing in the luxurious Bullet Lounge. Later, settle into your private sleeping berth for a restful night of moonlit train travel. (B, L, D)

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

After a brief stop in Winnipeg, the largest city in Canada's Prairies, re-board the 'Canadian' for a memorable journey through the country's stunning, open plains. This evening, savour the on-board cuisine once more, with supper in its exclusive 'Sleeper Touring' dining car. (B, D)

DAY 5: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train - Jasper.

Tuck into a hearty on-board breakfast before a short morning stop in Edmonton, Alberta's capital. Next, continue on towards the scenic highlight of your journey - the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Watch the open prairies as they melt first into deep forests before changing to the glorious snow-tipped peaks, emerald lakes and gleaming glaciers of this epic range. This unspoilt wilderness is rich in wildlife, so you may spot mountain goats, caribou and even grizzlies on your way! This afternoon, arrive in Jasper and disembark for your two night stay. Surrounded by soaring mountains, this charming resort is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy an orientation tour and later why not take our optional raft excursion on the Athabasca River? This leisurely afternoon ride takes you over gentle river rapids amid phenomenal scenery. (B, L)

DAY 6: Jasper.

Make the most of your surroundings today, starting with our optional cruise around stupendous Maligne Lake, the Rockies' second largest glacier-fed lake which is ringed by ice-clad mountains and thick forests. Stop during your cruise to take in Maligne Canyon, whose sheer limestone walls plunge down 164 feet. This evening, perhaps walk one of the many local hiking or wildlife trails.

DAY 7: Jasper - Columbia Icefield - Banff.

Today, bid farewell to Jasper for your journey through Jasper National Park to Banff. This epic Park is the most northerly in the Rockies and combines haunting serenity with jaw-dropping mountains, glistening glaciers and crashing falls. On the way, stop at the Columbia Icefield, a 325-kilometre sheet of snow for an exciting snowcoach ride over the 1,200-foot thick Athabasca Glacier, a 6 kilometre tongue of ice. Next, revel in the mountain and lake scenery as you travel the Icefield Parkway to Banff.

DAY 8 to 9: Banff.

Nestling in Banff National Park, Banff draws nature-lovers year round with its outdoor attractions. You have two whole days to explore this scenic area, so why not start with a thrilling optional helicopter ride, giving you a unique birds-eye view over the snow-clad peaks. Don't miss the optional gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for amazing views, and a stop at beautiful Bow Falls.

DAY 10: Banff - Rocky Mountaineer - Kamloops.

Another rail adventure begins today as you board the iconic Rocky Mountaineer for an unforgettable, two day, all-daylight journey. Enjoy a delicious breakfast as your train sets off along the legendary Kicking Horse route, which traces the historic transcontinental railroad linking Canada's East and West. On the way, marvel at rugged Yoho National Park, where your train passes through the incredible Spiral Tunnels, a series of winding mountain tunnels. Other highlights include the spectacular Rogers Pass, which winds through glittering glaciers and dark tunnels. After continuing past ranchlands and picturesque Shuswap Lake, arrive in Kamloops, gateway to British Columbia's interior. (B, L)

DAY 11: Kamloops - Rocky Mountaineer - Vancouver.

All aboard again today as the Rocky Mountaineer follows the Thompson River and majestic Fraser Canyon - a stunning, 600-foot walled gorge. En route, you'll see the legendary Hell's Gate, a thundering fall which powers millions of gallons of water through the narrowest point of Fraser Canyon. From there, travel through the dramatic Pacific Coastal Mountains, arriving in Vancouver in the early evening. (B, L)

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: Cruise departure.

Transfer to your cruise ship, MS Volendam, 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.

2013 Departures Now On Sale

2013 departures now on sale. Save £100 per couple - Book by 31 May 2012. Free insurance - Book by 30 June 2012.

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The Rocky Mountaineer & Canadian Rail + Alaska Cruise

MS Zuiderdam
Large inside cabin, MS Zuiderdam
Large outside cabin, MS Zuiderdam
Deluxe verandah cabin, MS Zuiderdam
Vista Dining Room, MS Zuiderdam
Pinnacle Grill Restaurant, MS Zuiderdam
Lido Bar, MS Zuiderdam
Explorer's Lounge, MS Zuiderdam
Crow's Nest Lounge, MS Zuiderdam
Sports Bar, MS Zuiderdam
Vista Lounge, MS Zuiderdam
Queen's Lounge, MS Zuiderdam
Greenhouse Spa hydro pool, MS Zuiderdam
Ocean Bar and Atrium, MS Zuiderdam

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
Large inside cabin, MS Volendam
Large outside cabin, MS Volendam
Verandah Suite, MS Volendam
Rotterdam Dining Room, MS Volendam
Pinnacle Grill, MS Volendam
Lido Pool area, MS Volendam
Explorer's Lounge, MS Volendam
Crow's Nest Observation Lounge, MS Volendam
Frans Hals Show Lounge, MS Volendam
Fitness Centre, MS Volendam

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

MS Zuiderdam

MS Zuiderdam Sports Deck
MS Zuiderdam Observation Deck
MS Zuiderdam Lido Deck
MS Zuiderdam Navigation Deck
MS Zuiderdam Rotterdam Deck
MS Zuiderdam Upper Verandah Deck
MS Zuiderdam Verandah Deck
MS Zuiderdam Upper Promenade Deck
MS Zuiderdam Promenade Deck
MS Zuiderdam Lower Promenade Deck
MS Zuiderdam Main Deck

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 Sky & Sports Decks
MS Volendam Lido Deck
MS Volendam Navigation Deck
MS Volendam Verandah Deck
MS Volendam Upper Promenade Deck
MS Volendam Promenade Deck
MS Volendam Lower Promenade Deck
MS Volendam Main Deck
MS Volendam Dolphin Deck

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

The Rocky Mountaineer
It's the perfect way to see Alaska
Bird's eye view of Vancouver
Horseshoe Falls, Niagara
Niagara Falls close-up
The glaciers near Juneau are awe inspiring
Inside Passage wildlife
The 'Canadian'
Bullet Lounge, the 'Canadian'
Take a glorious peak at the Inside Passage
Mendenhall Glacier (optional from Juneau)
Observation car, the 'Canadian'
Winnipeg
Mendenhall Glacier (optional)
Skagway's Mascot Saloon
Winnipeg
Edmonton
Skagway's Old Railroad House
Alaska's Glacier Bay is magnificent
Edmonton's capitol
Banff National Park
Looking for whales
Tracy Arm View
Bow Falls
Cascade Mountain overlooking Banff
Cruising in Glacier Bay
Vancouver
Kamloops and the Thompson River
Kamloops
Enjoy 2 extra nights in Vancouver
The Fraser Canyon at Hell's Gate
Hell's Gate airtram
Vancouver and the Pacific Coastal mountains
Vancouver

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.

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