Overview
Along the way, pan for gold at Fairbanks' Gold Dredge #8, visit the home of an Iditarod champion for a sled dog demonstration, and read more watch for whales, caribou, moose, bears, and other wildlife that thrive across Alaska's vast landscapes. From glacier-carved coastlines to rugged mountain ranges, this journey showcases the remarkable beauty and frontier spirit of America's Last Frontier.
Extend your adventure with a leisurely cruise through the breathtaking Gulf of Alaska and Inside Passage. Scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park combines with memorable ports of call in Juneau, Haines or Skagway, and Ketchikan, where frontier history, Native culture, and spectacular scenery await. Your package includes Holland America's Have It All Premium Cruise Package for an enhanced Alaska land-and-sea experience.
Itinerary
Welcome to Anchorage!
Meet your Tour Director between 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the hotel reception area.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - Explore more in Anchorage with a dinner out in this iconic Alaskan city. Your Tour Director can point you in the right direction.
Sights & Sounds
Meet your fellow travel companions at this morning's welcome orientation. Travel through Palmer in the Matanuska Valley, where cabbages can grow to an amazing 70 pounds (32 kg) in the 24-hour daylight. Venture over Tahneta Pass for wonderful vistas of Matanuska and Worthington Glaciers. Continue to the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve Visitor Center, the largest National Park in the United States and visit the Ahtna Cultural Center to learn about Ahtna Athabascan history, traditions, and culture. Stop at Bridal Veil Falls before arriving in the seaside port of Valdez.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Located near the head of a deep fjord in Prince William Sound, Valdez is a mix of tidewater glaciers, rainforests, towering mountains, and wildlife on land and sea. Orcas, humpback whales, otters, sea lions, and birds are among the many animals you might spy from this spectacular seaport.
True Fish Stories
This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Old Town Valdez with a local guide. Then board your boat for a cruise on Prince William Sound. Cruise along the 3-mile face of Columbia Glacier with a watchful eye out for wildlife, including seals, sea otters, birds, and even whales! Before returning to Valdez, see the Trans-Alaska Pipeline Terminal, where supertankers are loaded with crude oil from Prudhoe Bay.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Gain insight into Alaska Native traditions and the events that Valdez with a local guide from the Valdez Museum. Discover the history of the Gold Rush and Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and the impact earthquakes and oil spills had on the area.
Arctic Adventure
Enjoy great scenery all the way as you travel along Richardson Highway. Stop at Delta Junction Roadhouse, a living history homestead and museum, original roadhouse, and farm animals. See the longest elevated stretch of the trans-Alaska pipeline, the Tanana Pipeline River Bridge, a 1200-foot span with a unique suspension design. Then, head west on the Alaska Highway to Fairbanks, the state's second-largest city. Enjoy a free evening.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Travel through the vast landscapes of Interior Alaska, following historic transportation routes that helped shape the state's development. From pioneer roadhouses to the engineering marvel of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, today's journey reveals the stories of Alaska's frontier spirit and modern innovation.
Gold Rush & Mushers
Visit Gold Dredge #8 and ride the narrow-gauge railroad. Then, try your luck as you pan for gold. Later today, board the Sternwheeler Discovery for a cruise on the Chena River, with a stop at the Chena Village to learn about Athabascan Native culture. You will also have the chance to meet Iditarod mushers and their famed dog teams to learn about breeding, training, and the big race! This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Experience frontier living in an Athabascan village on the Chena River. Traditional spruce-log cabins and cultural demonstrations offer insight into a way of life shaped by the land for thousands of years. Learn about Athabascan traditions, survival skills, storytelling, and enduring connections to Interior Alaska while discovering how communities continue to preserve and celebrate their heritage today.
Riding the Rails
Board the world-famous Alaska Railroad for a journey through untamed wilderness. Today's ride ends at Denali National Park, where North America's highest peak, 20,310-foot Denali, majestically dominates the park's 6 million acres. The afternoon is free. This evening, enjoy an exclusive presentation on Denali National Park by a naturalist and dinner at a local restaurant.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Enjoy an exclusive presentation by a local naturalist who shares stories, wildlife insights, and expert perspectives on Denali National Park.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Board the Alaska Railroad train for spectacular views through its panoramic windows designed for soaking in the stunning scenery on this full-day journey that truly showcases America's 49th state. Keep an eye out for views of Denali and wildlife along the way.
Wilderness Wonders
Enjoy free time this morning. Consider an optional photography excursion or a helicopter ride over the park. Then, prepare for an unforgettable journey into the park with a Tundra Wilderness tour into the park with a Naturalist Driver Guide.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Venture deep into Denali National Park and Preserve with a naturalist driver guide in search of fantastic wildlife and natural wonders. Watch for grizzly bears, caribou, moose, and other iconic species while exploring six million acres of protected wilderness beneath North America's highest peak.
A Dog's Life
Travel south toward Anchorage stopping at Happy Trails Kennels, home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser and his sled dogs. Continue to Anchorage for a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center. As part of Globus family of brands Lighthouse Project, this historic site is one example of our commitment to supporting the people and places we share with you. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner. Over dessert, enjoy a special presentation by an Alaskan bush pilot.
LOCAL FAVORITE - After a delicious farewell dinner, you'll be treated to dessert and a presentation by an experienced Alaskan bush pilot who shares real-life tales of adventure in the wilderness you may have only heard about in movies or books!
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Visit Happy Trails Kennels, home of four-time Iditarod champion Martin Buser and his family. Learn about the dedication, training, and teamwork required for long-distance sled dog racing while meeting the remarkable canine athletes that make it possible. Watch a mushing demonstration, explore a mock Iditarod checkpoint, and gain insight into the unique bond between mushers and their dogs.
Fjord Highlights
Witness one of the world's most scenic drives as you follow the south shore of lovely Turnagain Arm. Upon arrival in Seward, board your vessel for a cruise on the glacial waters of Kenai Fjords National Park.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Spectacular Kenai Fjords National Park encompasses more than 600,000 acres of protected wilderness, much of it covered by ice and snow. From the massive Harding Icefield to the tidewater glaciers that carve deep fjords along the coast, this remarkable landscape showcases the power of Alaska's natural forces. A cruise through the fjords offers opportunities to witness calving glaciers, spot marine wildlife, and experience one of the state's most dramatic coastal environments.
Life in the Wild
Travel to Whittier, a remote village nestled along breathtaking Prince William Sound and home to a stunning array of wildlife, including bald eagles, sea otters, and orcas! Then, wave goodbye to your Tour Director and Driver before embarking on a 7-night cruise south through the Inside Passage to Vancouver, BC.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Whittier has the unusual distinction of being a community where much of daily life takes place under one roof. Most residents live in the 14-story Begich Towers, originally built during the Cold War era for the U.S. Army. With many services and amenities located within or connected to the building, Whittier offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Alaska's most unique communities.
Gulf Dreams
Enjoy scenic cruising through the Gulf of Alaska and Hubbard Glacier, complete with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served daily, plus a variety of activities and entertainment on board.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Covering nearly 600,000 square miles, the Gulf of Alaska stretches from the Alaska Peninsula and Kodiak Island to Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage. Today's scenic cruising also brings you face-to-face with Hubbard Glacier, one of the largest and most active tidewater glaciers in North America.
Ice Dancing
Attend the Glacier Bay Primer Talk onboard the ship for fascinating details about the ecology, history, and how the advancing glacial ice forced the Huna Tlingit people from their homes. Cruise through Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, consider local savory salmon for dinner before the Alaska Stage Show, a captivating, animated stage experience bringing to life the cultural history of Glacier Bay and Tlingit traditions.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Cruise through Glacier Bay, where the creaks and groans of living ice, the calls of seabirds, and the splash of breaching humpback whales create an unforgettable soundtrack. Towering peaks, ancient forests, magnificent tidewater glaciers, and abundant wildlife define this dynamic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Keep your binoculars and camera ready as you approach the mile-wide Margerie Glacier for the chance to witness dramatic ice calving. From humpback whales and bald eagles to brown bears roaming the shoreline, every moment reveals another wonder of this extraordinary wilderness.
The Rush for Gold
At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, the port town of Skagway served as the primary gateway to the legendary gold fields and quickly grew into Alaska's largest settlement. It was then a raucous frontier hub packed with trading posts, saloons, and guesthouses. As the gold rush faded into the 1900s, so did Skagway—but today it has been reinvigorated as a gateway for a new kind of visitor: those looking to explore Alaska's rich history, pristine wildlife, and unrivaled natural beauty.
Please Note: Haines may be an alternative port and will be determined by Holland America onboard.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - At every turn, you'll find yourself immersed in Skagway's gold-rush history, from the infamous Red Onion Saloon, steeped in colorful frontier legends, to the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. Climb through rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and towering glaciers on one of North America's most scenic rail journeys toward Whitehorse in Canada's Yukon Territory.
The Wild Places
Cruise to the remote and spectacular capital city of Juneau. The city is known for outdoor recreation and fresh seafood and is an ideal place for an optional excursion to visit Mendenhall Glacier or Tracy Arm. Consider a float trip or guided kayak experience in the coastal waterways of Alaska for a water-level view.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Surrounded by water, forest, and mountains, Juneau is one of Alaska's premier destinations for outdoor adventure and wildlife viewing. Ride the tram to Mount Roberts for sweeping views and the chance to spot bald eagles and deer, or head to nearby Auke Bay, where whale-watching excursions often encounter humpback whales, orcas, and other marine wildlife. For an unforgettable experience, consider a floatplane adventure to remote wilderness areas such as Admiralty Island or Chichagof Island, renowned for their abundant brown bear populations.
Port of Call
Ketchikan clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain. Consider a guided rainforest walk in the Tongass National Forest and a visit to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center to explore the rich Alaska Native culture and coastal rainforest ecosystem during your time in Ketchikan.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Ketchikan has long been an important center of Alaska's salmon fishing industry. Sample fresh seafood and discover the rich cultural heritage of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples. Marvel at intricately carved totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Historical Park, then experience the living traditions of Saxman Native Village, where traditional carvers and dancers share their heritage. Explore historic Creek Street, a colorful boardwalk built over Ketchikan Creek, lined with shops featuring local art, smoked salmon, and Alaska-made souvenirs.
Glaciers and Giants
Alaska's Inside Passage is a protected network of waterways that winds through glacier-cut fjords and lush temperate rain forests along the rugged coast of Southeast Alaska.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska's most iconic wildlife, from humpback whales and orcas in the rich coastal waters to bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears roaming the shoreline. One of the world's most scenic cruising routes, the Inside Passage winds through spectacular landscapes stretching from Misty Fjords National Monument to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Schedule flights departing from Vancouver International Airport after noon.
Trip Inclusions
- Visit to Matanuska Valley and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the largest national park in the United States
- Cruise through Prince William Sount to the face of Columbia Glacier, one of Alaska's most impressive tidewater glaciers
- Visit to the [LF] Valdez Museum for a docent-led tour, exploring the region's Native heritage, gold rush history, and resilience following the 1964 earthquake
- Docent-led visit to Delta Junction Roadhouse and views of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. an engineering marvel stretching across the state
- Gold-panning experience and ride aboard the narrow-gauge railroad at Gold Dredge #8, offering insight into Alaska's gold rush era
- Cruise on the Chena River with a visit to a recreated Athabascan village and mushing demonstration featuring Iditarod sled dogs
- Rail journey aboard the Alaska Railroad in Deluxe Dome Service from Fairbanks to Denali National Park, showcasing panoramic views of Alaska's wilderness
- [LF] Naturalist presentation and Tundra Wilderness tour in Denali National Park, with opportunities to spot wildlife in one of North America's great wilderness areas
- Visit to Happy Trails Kennels, home of four-time Iditarod Champion Martin Buser, for a mushing demonstration and insight into Alaska's sled dog traditions
- Dinner featuring a [LF] presentation by an Alaskan bush pilot sharing stories of life and aviation in the remote wilderness
- Guided cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park with views of glaciers and opportunities to spot whales, sea otters, seabirds, and other marine wildlife
- 7-day Alaskan cruise on the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, and Tracy Arm fjords, featuring Holland America's ‘Have It All Premium Cruise Package,' including signature beverage package, dinner in a specialty restaurant, $100 shore excursion credit, and Wi-Fi package
- Breakfast daily, 11 Lunches, 11 Dinners
- Anchorage: Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa (Superior First-Class):
The hotel is located in the heart of Anchorage and just moments from Anchorage's best restaurants, museums and attractions. The hotel has a fitness center, hot tub, business center, concierge service, gift shop, lounge, and 24 hour room service. - Valdez: Totem Hotel & Suites (Moderate First-Class):
The newest hotel in Valdez blends modern accommodation and style with Alaskan hospitality. Guests will enjoy rooms with premium linens, fluffy towels, TV, coffee maker, microwave, and mini-fridge. Hotel facilities include a lobby area market, fitness center, indoor pool, and Wi-Fi access. The hotel is within walking distance of local restaurants, shops and attractions. - Fairbanks: Pike's Waterfront Lodge (Moderate First-Class):
Along the banks of the impressive Chena River sits Pike's Waterfront Lodge. You'll rest easily in comfortable rooms, all with Aveda aromatherapy room amenities and many featuring scenic views, a steam room & sauna, riverside deck, restaurant, and a cozy lounge. The hotel is minutes from the Fairbanks Alaska airport and next door to famous Pike's Landing restaurant. It's a convenient and stunning spot for your time in Fairbanks. - Denali National Park: Denali Park Village (Moderate First-Class):
Approximately seven miles south of Denali National Park & Preserve sits the Denali Park Village Lodge. Positioned along the banks of the Nenana River, and spread over 20 acres, the lodge offers hiking trails throughout the facility from lighter trails to the more rugged. You'll be close to the action of Denali, yet enjoy the evening solitude as you relax to the sound of the river sweeping by. The new Summit Lodge is eco-friendly and features a high-timber lodge look and feel and is home to the Gold Rush Dining Room, Lucky Miss Saloon, Quigley's Coffee Station, Summit Gift Shop and 24-hour concierge desk.
- 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.
- At least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.
- While wildlife in Alaska is frequently seen year-round, May through early June and September departures offer greater opportunities for wildlife viewing. Departures after mid-August offer fall foliage. The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are most visible in late August and September, weather permitting.
- This tour visits remote regions where some facilities are not up to the first-class standards you expect from Globus. We have selected the best available hotels that satisfy our high standards of cleanliness and comfort.
- Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions. The order of sightseeing subject to change.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great holiday. Savour the flavours of Canada & Alaska through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of Canada & Alaska. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Cruise Line
Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium read more massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown. Approximately 143–225 sq. ft.
These expansive staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with read more plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown. Approximately 175–282 sq. ft.
Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, read more two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed - Holland America's signature Mariner's Dream™ bed - with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and shower with premium massage showerheads. The configuration of staterooms may vary from the images shown. Approximately 213-379 sq. ft. including verandah.
Trip Reviews (8)
We thought the optional excursions were mainly flights which were quite expensive and others were aimed at people who enjoyed going down the rapids in a rubber boat, and did not suit the older people. We liked the Denali park and the train journey from Fairbanks to Denali. All our lunch stops, river cruises and informative displays of how people lived in the earlier days, were excellent. We would definitely go on another Globus tour in the future if possible.
Dates & Pricing
Welcome Back Credit
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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 Globus. 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.
