Then journey to Kelowna, attractively set on the shores of Okanagan Lake and surrounded by orchards and vineyards. Climb Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park then enter Yoho National Park and ascend Kicking Horse Pass before arriving in magnificent Banff National Park—Canada’s fir read morest national park. Have free time to hike, bike, enjoy the natural hot springs or get breathtaking views from above on an optional helicopter excursion. Stop to see the gorgeous turquoise waters of Lake Louise then travel to Icefields Parkway to ride the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield, the largest expanse of ice in the Canadian Rockies.
Set sail from Vancouver through Alaska's spectacular Inside Passage, discovering the charming ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and historic Skagway. Experience breathtaking coastal scenery, rich Indigenous heritage and opportunities to encounter Alaska's remarkable wildlife.
Marvel at the towering glaciers and pristine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park before cruising the icy waters of College Fjord, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dramatic fjords. Your journey concludes in Whittier, the gateway to Anchorage and Alaska's magnificent Chugach Mountains.
Itinerary
Welcome to Vancouver! Your Tour Director is on hand from 3-6:00 p.m. to answer any questions.
Once you get settled, perhaps head out and start exploring this vibrant, culturally diverse city nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains. Take a walk to the harbourfront or check out the city's thriving culinary scene that offers a wide array of delicious cuisines.
This morning, enjoy an included city tour that highlights Stanley Park, Chinatown, the harbour, beaches, and more. Have the rest of the day to explore this vibrant city. Perhaps take a water taxi to Granville Island to visit its bustling Public Market and waterfront cafés or spend time in historic Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and iconic Gastown Steam Clock.
Depart Vancouver and journey through British Columbia's fertile valleys and rich mountain forests to Okanagan Lake. Travel along the lake to the resort city of Kelowna, beautifully situated on the lake shore and surrounded by orchards and vineyards.
Head north through the Okanagan Valley, famous for its peaches and vineyards, and climb up 4,364-foot-high Rogers Pass, a National Historic Site in Glacier National Park. Make a photo stop at the Pass to enjoy the vistas of rugged mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Enter Yoho National Park and ascend Kicking Horse Pass at 5,332 feet. Reach Banff National Park, Canada's first national park, nestled in the heart of the magnificent Canadian Rockies.
Go on an orientation tour this morning and then enjoy the day exploring Banff, Canada's first national park and home to 53 species of mammals. The most commonly seen are deer, elk, and big horn sheep. Hike, shop in the townsite, or relax at the hot springs. Perhaps treat yourself to a once in a lifetime experience on an optional helicopter ride for spectacular views of the Canadian Rockies! Or if you prefer keeping your feet on the ground, join the Panoramas & Peaks* optional excursion to see breathtaking Moraine Lake in the famed Valley of the Ten Peaks.
*This optional excursion begins operating in early June.
First, to Lake Louise, its turquoise waters a perfect natural mirror that reflects the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Then travel northward, and see precipitous gorges, snowcapped summits, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens come into view. Stop for a one-of-a-kind experience at the Columbia Icefield to ride the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet thick! Enjoy an orientation tour of the town of Jasper upon arrival.
Today is free to enjoy everything Jasper has to offer—from quaint shops to meandering wildlife. Find serenity on the glacial blue waters of Maligne Lake this morning on an optional narrated cruise to Spirit Island*, revealing the history, geology, flora, and fauna of the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Later, go with the flow on an optional scenic float trip down the Athabasca River.
*This optional excursion begins operating in late May/early June.
Leave Jasper and follow the Fraser River to the base of Mount Robson, the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, peaking at 12,972 feet. Continue following the Yellowhead Highway south along the North Thompson River—a route pioneered by fur trappers. Overnight in the mountain resort village of Sun Peaks.
Head south, following the once treacherous Cariboo Wagon Trail. Via Lillooet, “Mile 0 of the Gold Rush Route,” your motorcoach will follow the shores of Seton and Duffey Lakes with a late-afternoon arrival in Whistler. Have an evening at leisure to start exploring this wonderful resort town with its stunning mountain scenery.
Spend the day in Whistler, nestled at the base of breathtaking Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains. Have free time to explore the many sites of the 2010 Winter Olympics that were held here. Or have your own adventure with a choice of optional excursions, including a Ziptrek Adventure through an old-growth temperate rainforest, a guided Tree-Trek Canopy Walk via suspension bridges and boardwalks high above in the treetops, or ride the Guinness World Record holding Peak 2 Peak Gondola* between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains!
*Operation of the Peak 2 Peak Gondola is seasonal and may not be available on all departure dates.
Set sail across the Strait of Georgia, known for its Mediterranean-type climate, for beautiful Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia. Afternoon sightseeing includes world-famous Butchart Gardens with its 55 acres of floral displays, and then a tour of the picturesque city featuring Bastion Square, Inner Harbour, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles.
A day at leisure gives you the chance to discover this splendid city. Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, shop on Government Street, or take a leisurely stroll around the harbour. Or get back to nature on an optional Wildlife and Whale-Watching Expedition while cruising the pristine waters of the San Juan and Gulf Islands, seeking whales, porpoises, seals, and eagles.
Your first journey concludes today with a scenic ferry crossing to the mainland and heart of Vancouver's waterfront.
You'll need to make your own way to the Canada Place cruise terminal, to embark your Princess cruise ship.
Surrounded by spectacular natural scenery, Vancouver offers a wonderful blend of urban attractions and outdoor experiences. With its compact, walkable city centre, picturesque waterfront and stunning mountain backdrop, it's easy to see why Vancouver is such a popular gateway to Alaska.
Love Sabatini’s? (Or really good Italian dinners?) You’ll be happy to hear this popular specialty restaurant has returned to its roots. Think traditional Italian comfort cuisine. Our new menu embraces the old: tried-and-true family recipes our chefs brought with them from Italy, plus exquisite Italian wines and cocktails. You can even enjoy some shareable plates exclusively at Sabatini’s Trattoria.
Ketchikan sits at the southern end of Alaska’s Inside Passage - the canned salmon capital of the world, it’s a hub for fishing and outdoor sports. It’s also home to three tribes of Northwest Coast Indians, making it a great place to get a taste for the local culture.
Top Things to Do in Ketchikan:
- visit Totem Bight State Park
- venture past the town limits into Tongass National Forest
- visit Ketchikan's own Saxman Native Village
- a myriad of outdoor adventures from fishing to zip-lining!
Juno, commonly known as Juneau, is the capital city of Alaska. Only accessible by sea or air, Juneau's history, culture, and topography have resulted in many interesting activities for visitors to enjoy, all in the heart of Alaska's majestic mountains, rivers, glaciers, and forests.
Top Things to Do in and around Juneau:
- dog sledding
- explore the gorgeous Mendenhall Glacier
- whale watching
- Alaskan Halibut fishing
Skagway was Alaska's largest town with a population of about 20,000 during the gold rush in 1898. Hotels, saloons, dance halls and gambling houses prospered. But when the gold dwindled, so did the population.
Today, Skagway has less than 1,000 residents and it still retains the flavor of the gold rush era.
Top Things to Do in and around Skagway:
- steam train from Skagway aboard the "Scenic Railway of the World"
- excursion to the Klondike Summit
- gold panning & dog sledding
The marine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park includes tidewater glaciers, snow-capped mountain ranges, ocean coastlines, deep fjords, and freshwater rivers and lakes. Glacier Bay is equally rich in wildlife. An Alaska cruise that ventures up the Bay usually yields sightings of black and brown bears and mountain goats, especially in small ships that cruise close to the shore. Humpback whales have been increasing in the water of the Bay, and orca or killer whales are seen cruising through the water in search of harbor seals.
Embark on an unforgettable journey your the cruise glides through College Fjord's icy waters, with sweeping landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and mirror-like sea. Marvel at the 16 tidewater glaciers, and witness the captivating calving displays, where chunks of ice break off into the sea, all from the comfort of the ship.
College Fjord stands out not only for its breathtaking scenery but also for its unique naming tradition. The glaciers of College Fjord are named after renowned American Ivy League colleges, such as Harvard and Yale, adding a touch of academic charm to nature's grandeur.
Observe the diverse marine life of the fjord, including playful seals and majestic whales, with the pristine, nutrient-rich waters creating a thriving ecosystem. Get lost in the beauty of the fjord and prepare for a remarkable cruise highlight.
Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and urban appeal. Nestled between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet, Anchorage provides stunning vistas and abundant wildlife. Start your day with a visit to the Anchorage Museum, which showcases Alaskan history, art, and culture. A stroll through the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline and a chance to spot moose or even beluga whales.
For a taste of local cuisine, head to the bustling Anchorage Market & Festival, where you can sample fresh seafood and unique Alaskan treats. Don't miss the Alaska Native Heritage Center to learn about indigenous cultures through exhibits and performances. Anchorage’s vibrant downtown offers eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and opportunities to explore Alaskan craftsmanship.
Whittier is 60 miles (about an hours drive) south of Anchorage, and is one of the Anchorage area's two major cruise ports. The trip south traverses the spectacular Turnagain Arm fiord and Portage Valley, passing the resort town of Girdwood along the way.
There are many small turnouts along the way that are photo-perfect. The small community of Girdwood is a great spot to take a quick hike or a ride up the aerial tram. Whittier itself offers fishing, and wildlife and glacier day cruises on top of being a major port of call for cruise passengers.
What is a connected trip?
Our Connected Trips seamlessly combine carefully selected land tours, river cruises and ocean cruises to create more complete and rewarding travel experiences. Whether it's exploring a destination by land and sea, combining a small group adventure with a relaxing cruise, or discovering more of a region through different styles of travel, the possibilities are endless.
Tour Inclusions and Reviews (Days 1-13)
- Guided city sightseeing in Vancouver
- Scenic drive through Yoho National Park and Glacier National Park
- Entrance fee to Banff National Park and Jasper National Park
- Orientation tours of Banff, Jasper, Whistler, and Victoria
- Tickets for the Icefields Explorer Experience at Columbia Icefields
- Admission to Butchart Gardens, Vancouver Island
- Ferry to/from Vancouver Island
- The world is within reach with everything you need for perfectly affordable touring. Cosmos includes hand-selected accommodations, guided sightseeing, and seamless transportation between destinations—with value-minded travel lovers in mind. Explore with expert Cosmos Tour Directors and Local Guides, and private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available).
- Vancouver: Sandman Suites on Davie (First-Class)
- Kelowna: Ramada by Wyndham Kelowna Hotel & Conference Centre (First-Class)
- Banff National Park: Banff Rocky Mountain Resort (First-Class)
- Banff National Park: Banff Inn (Superior Tourist-Class)
- Jasper National Park: Lobstick Lodge (First-Class)
- Sun Peaks: Sun Peaks Lodge (Moderate First-Class)
- Whistler: Listel Whistler Hotel (Superior First-Class)
- Victoria: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites (First-Class)
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Early departures may not be able to visit Columbia Icefield which opens in early May, take the Maligne Lake & Spirit Island optional excursion which opens in late May to early June or take the Moraine Lake optional excursion which opens in early June. Visiting and participating in other activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions and vendor dates of operation.
- Maximum elevation on tour: 7,500 ft.
We had no idea what to expect from Cosmos and were pleasantly surprised. We had an exceptional driver Todd and Tour Director Doug who was a font of interesting information throughout the tour and made sure that everyone was comfortable. Canada is beautiful! Each and every day revealed so many highlights, so in a nutshell – the whole tour was a string of highlights, well organised and certainly really good value for money; in fact we’ve seen and experienced much more than we could expect, imagine or wish for!
The CosmosGo app is very easy to use and provides lots of information at one’s fingertips and what is more, the tour details stay on the app as a Past Trip. Accommodation everywhere was very good and well located with regards to obtaining food. In addition we made stops along the way each day to buy food as needed. We experienced pleasant weather with mostly clear skies throughout and were part of a lovely, easy going group of people from the USA, Canada, UK, Gibraltar and Australia. We have no hesitation in highly recommending this tour and Global Journeys!
(on several occasions) moose, elk, mule deer, orcas, ground squirrels, coyote cubs, marmot, bald eagle fledglings.
The accomodation was generally very good, the stopover towns that included free days were very well chosen. There was a good range of optional extra tours. Highlight for me was finally getting all the way to Jasper this time, travelling along the Icefields parkway, one of the top 4 most beautiful highways in the world & also the Ice Explorer experience on the Athabasca glacier, not to mention the wildlife sightings. Early morning snow in Banff then the weather clearing so we could do the gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain, the views down into the valley & the boardwalk to the summit.
Whistler was almost as beautiful as I remember, however Autumn/Fall is definitely the best time with the lovely colours in the leaves, although the tulips provided a lovely splash of colour this time. Sun Peaks was a beautiful little alpine ski village. Mt. Robson was a sight to behold. The Capilano suspension bridge, skywalk & boardwalk in North Vancouver are a must see & Granville Is. markets on the waterfront were fantastic. Soooo many highlights really, never-ending spectacular scenery, some great memories & wonderful new friendships made.
Sharon's commentary was fantastic. Her extensive knowledge of each area we visited, the history, facts, stats was mindblowing. Her great sense of humour was enjoyed by all. She was very well organised, patient, extremely helpful & easy to get along with. Nothing was any trouble to her. Mike's driving skills were impressive. We always felt safe irrespective of what terrain or weather we were travelling in. Overall, 10/10 for this amazing tour. Very highly recommended.
Enjoy inside visits to Canada's the must-see sites with a great mix of included excursions, free time and affordable value. Read more
Cosmos build free time into every one of their holidays, so you can eat, shop, and explore the way you want. Read more
Cosmos' easy going, fun-filled and multilingual Tour Directors and Local Guides love exploring as much as you do. Read more
Princess
One of the smaller ships in the fleet, Coral Princess showcases incredible destinations without compromising on facilities. Read more
Enjoy an array of dining options, from Italian fare to the flavours of New Orleans with authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine. Read more
Hit series come to life on board and on shore, with programs curated in partnership with Discovery, Animal Planet, and more. Read more
Warm up your vocal cords and get ready for The Voice of the Ocean or kick back and enjoy the talented performers on board. Read more
Find relaxation and joyful rejuvenation in the serene spaces, including the retreat of The Sanctuary reserved for adults only. Read more
Fill your days with fun thanks to the abundance of facilities on board designed for recreation and relaxation. Read more
Dates & Pricing
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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Global Journeys. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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