Welcome to Canada. We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel, where a welcome dinner awaits this evening.
Itinerary
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wilderness of Canada and Alaska, where towering mountains, glacial landscapes and untamed beauty await your discovery. Enjoy an epic Rocky Mountaineer rail journey through the Canadian Rockies, two nights at the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a magnificent cruise through the Inside Passage and more.
Select Small Group departure dates available with no more than 24 guests.
Tour program
Arrive Victoria
Victoria, The Butchart Gardens
Today begins with a special Signature Experience. With some free time this afternoon, spend the rest of the day however you please.
Signature Experience – The Butchart Gardens Before Hours
Visit The Butchart Gardens before the public is granted access and enjoy breakfast in the original Butchart residence. More than 100 years in the making with a former quarry as the initial canvas, this space was transformed by Jennie Butchart into a haven overflowing with lush greenery and colourful blooms. Relish the opportunity to wander among the floral displays without the crowds.
Victoria, Georgia Strait, Whistler
Take your BC Ferries service across the Georgia Strait. Afterwards, enjoy a scenic drive along the Sea to Sky Highway en route to Whistler. Skirt the shores of Howe Sound and then carve into the Coast Mountains and wind through lush rainforests before arriving in Whistler.
Whistler
Start the day with a Signature Experience. The afternoon is left for you to decide how you want to explore with an included Freedom of Choice activity.
Signature Experience – Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and feast on a breakfast inspired by traditional First Nations food. Explore the museum, discovering your First Nations animal spirit with the help of your guide.
Freedom of Choice – Peak 2 Peak Gondola
Be swept to entirely new heights on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. The Cloudraker Skybridge also takes you 130 metres from Whistler Peak to the West Ridge, across the Whistler Bowl.
Freedom of Choice – Tree Trek
Explore Whistler’s ancient forest on a tree trek. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you wander through the tall pines, walking along an incredible network of suspension bridges and boardwalks.
Freedom of Choice – Ziptrek Bear Tour
Soar through the treetops during an exhilarating zipline adventure on Ziptrek Ecotours’ Bear Tour. This spectacular course takes you over the valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Peak across four ziplines and a series of suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails.
Freedom of Choice – Mountain Jeep Tour
Set off on a Jeep tour and see Whistler from a completely different altitude. Take in glorious views of Whistler Village, lakes, golf courses and the peaks of the Coast Mountains.
Freedom of Choice – Heli Flightseeing
Be awed by the sights surrounding Whistler from the air during a helicopter flight and marvel at an aerial view of the Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
Freedom of Choice – Electric Mountain Bike Rental
Exploring Whistler on an electric mountain bike is a wonderful way to spend a summer day. Feel the fresh air as you coast past lush green landscapes and mountains.
Whistler, Sun Peaks
Depart Whistler early this morning and journey through the stunning Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, stretching from the Pacific Coast to the Cariboo Mountains. In the 1860s, the discovery of gold here sparked a rush that drew prospectors from around the world. Stop at the scenic Duffey and Seton lakes before visiting the charming town of Lillooet. Then, continue east to the picturesque alpine town of Sun Peaks.
Sun Peaks, Mount Robson, Jasper
Travelling along the Yellowhead Highway today, you’ll stop to see the incredible sight of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Take in the spectacular scenery of Maligne Canyon on your way to Jasper. In the evening, choose where to dine at your lodge.
Jasper
Discover Jasper your way with a range of Freedom of Choice activities to select from.
Freedom of Choice – Harley-Davidson Sidecar Tour
Experience the thrill of the open road as you coast through Jasper’s breathtaking wilderness on a chauffeured motorcycle sidecar tour.
Freedom of Choice – Maligne Valley Tour with Hike
Journey to Maligne Canyon, a stunning natural wonder teeming with iconic Canadian wildlife. On a trail hike, look for osprey, eagles, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, elk, deer and bears.
Freedom of Choice – Maligne Valley Tour with Cruise
Set against the backdrop of jagged mountain peaks, cruise across the glacial waters of Maligne Lake to Spirit Island, a destination only accessible by boat.
Freedom of Choice – River Rafting
This is the perfect introduction to rafting. Small rapids and calm waters ease you into the activity, and your licensed guide is around to point out areas of interest and wildlife along the way.
Freedom of Choice – Jasper SkyTram
Jasper’s peak attraction provides an unforgettable view of the Athabasca Valley and Jasper National Park. Transport on the SkyTram shuttle is included.
Jasper, Athabasca Glacier, Lake Louise
Take in spectacular vistas at every turn as you travel through the Rockies and along the Icefields Parkway to Athabasca Falls. Continue onwards to the Columbia Icefield, where you'll board an Ice Explorer for an exhilarating journey onto the Athabasca Glacier. Later, arrive at breathtaking Lake Louise and be greeted by a scene of pure alpine beauty – turquoise waters shimmering beneath towering snow-capped peaks. Tonight, you'll stay at the world-renowned Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, overlooking the 'Jewel of the Rockies'. Select one of the hotel’s restaurants for dinner this evening.
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake
Travel to Moraine Lake this morning (season permitting), located in the incredible Valley of the Ten Peaks. Spend time marvelling at the glacier-fed waters and sublime mountain scenery. Later, return to Lake Louise and enjoy a Signature Experience. The evening is free for you to spend at leisure.
Signature Experience – Lake Louise Mountain Heritage Guide
On the shores of Lake Louise, join an expert Mountain Heritage Guide and learn about the area’s rich natural history.
Lake Louise, Banff
Take a guided tour through the town of Banff before enjoying a Signature Experience in the afternoon. Tonight, take your pick from your hotel's exceptional collection of restaurants.
Signature Experience – Meet a Mountie
On an exciting morning in beautiful Banff National Park, you’ll have the chance to meet one of Canada’s renowned Mounties and hear tales from the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Banff
Set out on your preferred Freedom of Choice activity this morning. The remainder of the day is left free for you to explore however you please.
Freedom of Choice – Banff Locals, Lakes & Gems
Join this exclusive small-group tour and venture off the beaten path to discover Banff National Park’s hidden gems. You’ll also enjoy more time to explore Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lake and the stunning Lake Minnewanka.
Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride
Head to the top of Sulphur Mountain and take in Banff from above, climbing nearly 700 metres in elevation as you are carried through the pines. Once you reach the peak, you can head off for a stroll along the boardwalk.
Freedom of Choice – Heli Flightseeing
Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the Rocky Mountains. Soar past snowy peaks and jagged mountains, enjoying breathtaking views of pristine lakes and alpine meadows.
Freedom of Choice – Bow River Float Trip
Embrace the tranquil atmosphere as you float down the serene Bow River, keeping your eyes peeled for any signs of cheeky wildlife on the banks. This activity is suitable for most fitness levels.
Freedom of Choice – Hockey Player Experience
When in Canada, it’s only fitting that you experience a day in the life of an ice hockey player. Get to know the Canmore Eagles as you tour their dressing rooms, try on their gear and step onto the ice.
Freedom of Choice – Fairmont Spa Entry
Harking back to the hot spring that first called travellers some 100 years ago, soothe your tired muscles in the mineral pool and pulsating waterfalls at Fairmont Banff Springs.
Banff, Rocky Mountaineer, Kamloops
Begin your Rocky Mountaineer rail journey in GoldLeaf Service and soak up the views from your bi-level glass-dome carriage. Marvel at the engineering feat of the Spiral Tunnels as you traverse the iconic Kicking Horse Pass.
Kamloops, Rocky Mountaineer, Vancouver
Your journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer continues west today. Depart Kamloops and follow the Thompson River, passing Hell’s Gate and its raging whitewater. Take in the mighty Fraser River before arriving in Vancouver.
Vancouver
Embark on a sightseeing tour of beautiful Vancouver this morning, where you'll discover the city's must-see attractions, including the cobblestone streets of historic Gastown, vibrant Chinatown, and vast Stanley Park. You'll also visit Granville Island, the bustling heart of Vancouver's cultural scene. The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to explore at leisure.
Vancouver, Embark Ship
Board your ship and set off for your journey along Alaska’s iconic coastline.
Inside Passage
Spend today on board, gliding past rocky headlands and over the icy waters of the Inside Passage, one of the most picturesque sea lanes in the world.
Juneau
Alaska’s capital, Juneau, sits at the foot of Mount Roberts and Mount Juneau on the Gastineau Channel. Flowing from the Juneau Icefield, the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier lies just beyond the city's doorstep. Widely regarded as one of the most remote and breathtaking state capitals in the United States, this picturesque destination is surrounded by pristine waters, lush forests and rugged mountains, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Disembark and explore at your leisure, or join an optional excursion to discover more of Juneau’s wonders (additional expense).
Skagway
Arrive in Skagway, the Inside Passage’s northernmost point. During the peak of the Klondike Gold Rush, this bustling port town became the main gateway to the goldfields, rapidly growing into Alaska's largest settlement. It's the perfect place to discover Alaska's rich history, enchanting landscapes and abundant wildlife. See heritage buildings, now protected as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and perhaps set off on an excursion (additional expense).
Glacier Bay National Park
Awaken to the striking scenery of Glacier Bay National Park. Take in the calving tidewater glaciers and learn about the area's geological wonders from local rangers.
Ketchikan
Dock in Ketchikan today, a vibrant coastal town set on the tranquil Tongass Narrows, proudly known as the salmon capital of the world. Immerse yourself in Alaska Native culture and spend time exploring as you please. Perhaps discover the Totem Heritage Center's collection of 19th-century totem poles or stroll along historic Creek Street.
Inside Passage
Enjoy a final day on board and make the most of the ship's amenities. Marvel at the stunning views along the British Columbia Coast as you glide past rocky headlands and across the icy waters of the Inside Passage. This picturesque route offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the breathtaking beauty of one of the world’s most famous sea lanes.
Disembark Ship, Depart Vancouver
Your spectacular journey comes to an end today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.
Cancellation Policy
Changes or Additions to Your Holiday - If you want to change any part of your holiday arrangements after the invoice has been issued, we will do our best to make the change, but it may not be possible. Any request for changes must be made in writing by the person who made the original booking, or his or her travel agent. If it is possible to make the change, it will be subject to an administration charge and payment of any further costs incurred as a result of the change.
Cancellation Policy - For all holiday packages the following APT cancellation fees apply:
Days of Notice: Fee Per Person
100 days or more Loss of deposit
99-61 days 50% of holiday package price
60 days or less 100% of holiday package price
All cancellations must be received in writing by APT and are not effective until this notification has been received. If your holiday has commenced, 100% of the full holiday package price is charged. There is no refund for unused services or if portions of the holiday package are missed.
Additional cancellation fees may also be charged in respect of accommodation reserved outside the holiday package dates. These cancellation fees are in addition to any fees that may be levied by APT and your travel agent (if any). You acknowledge that the amounts estimated under the Cancellation Policy are reasonable and represent a genuine pre-estimate of APT’s loss. If you request changes after APT has issued your documents, APT may charge you a fee of AUD$70 per person in addition to any applicable cancellation fees.
Cancellation of Airfares - An APT cancellation fee of $50 per person applies for ticketed airfares, in addition to any airline cancellation fees that are applicable.
Changes to Ticketed Airfares - If you wish to amend the date or routing on your ticketed air booking, an APT amendment fee of $30 per person for the first change and $85 for any subsequent changes will be charged in addition to airline change fees and additional taxes that are applicable. If you wish to amend an already issued Singapore Stopover package (where applicable), a $30 per person APT change fee will apply along with any applicable airline fees. If, for any reason, a name change to a ticketed Airfare is required, a $125 per person name change fee will apply for every change in addition to any applicable airline fees.
IF WE WANT TO CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY
Website and Brochure Accuracy - APT has endeavoured to ensure that the information given on this website and in our brochures about accommodation, itineraries etc., is correct to the best of its knowledge at the time of going to print. However, advertised descriptions and facilities and prices may change. We recommend that you confirm the details of your chosen holiday package at the time of booking. Additionally, flight times, carriers and routes in the brochure are given for guidance only as there may be changes. Final details will be shown on your tickets. Holiday package or excursion itineraries may change or be different from those described as a result of local conditions, weather conditions, annual events. APT will endeavour to notify you of any significant changes prior to your departure.
Flight Changes - The flight timings shown in our brochure, on our website and detailed on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are set by airlines and affected by events outside our control. Scheduled and charter flight timings, and days of operation are also subject to change. APT will advise you of any significant changes as soon as it is informed by the airline. Minor timing changes will be shown on your flight tickets,. Any change in the identity of the airline, flight timings or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying any applicable cancellation fees except where specified in these booking conditions.
If We Change or Cancel Your Holiday Before Your Departure - APT endeavours to provide you with all the services confirmed to you at the time of your booking. However, we plan arrangements a long time in advance of your departure date using independent suppliers such as airline, hotels etc., over whom we have no direct control. On occasions changes do have to be made, and APT reserves the right to cancel or amend holiday packages/excursions accordingly.
Force Majeure - Force Majeure means the occurrence of an event that is beyond APT’s reasonable control and which could not have been reasonably prevented by APT, which includes, but is not limited to: (a) war, armed conflict, criminal damage, riot, civil strife, industrial dispute, terrorist activity or the threat of any such acts; (b) natural disaster (including but not limited to flooding, fire, earthquake, landslide), adverse weather conditions, high or low water levels; (c) nuclear or other industrial accident causing environmental pollution or contamination; or (d) change in law, meaning, enactment, amendment (including repeal) in the law or administration of any law in Australia or any jurisdiction or territory relevant to the booking contract, which includes changes in statute, regulation, determination, by-law, declaration, licence and the common law as applicable from time to time.
Termination of Booking Contract or Change of Travel Arrangements Due to Force Majeure - If APT, in its reasonable opinion, considers that any Force Majeure event prevents APT (whether directly or through its employees, contractors, subcontractors and agents) from lawfully or safely providing any products or services subject of the booking contract with you, APT may immediately by written notice: (a) terminate the booking contract (in whole or in part); or (b) change your travel arrangements as reasonably practicable to ensure your safety and invoice you for any additional costs.
Limitation of Liability in the Event of Force Majeure - In the event of a force majeure event making it impossible or unsafe for APT to deliver all or part of the Holiday Package, APT will refund the customer for the unperformed part of the Holiday Package less any reasonable losses incurred before cancellation. Losses may amount to a substantial proportion of the booking price. APT will use reasonable endeavours to minimise losses incurred by customers.
Customers must take out travel insurance to protect themselves against loss in the circumstances.
ON HOLIDAY
For more detailed information, please refer to the General Information and Conditions within the brochure which contains your specific itinerary.
Noise & Vibration - APT takes reasonable steps to minimise noise and vibrations on its river cruise ships. You acknowledge and accept that some noise and vibration may be experienced on vessels and that APT is not liable to you for any such noise or vibration.
Docking Position - During port stops river cruise ships may dock side by side, obstructing views and requiring you to pass through other ships to embark or disembark.
Local Purchases - APT is not responsible for any items you may purchase locally i.e. jewellery/furniture etc. You acknowledge that you are solely responsible for any import duty or freight costs.
Personal Belongings and Lost Items - For security reasons valuables should be kept to a minimum and packed in your hand luggage along with your medicines, camera, film, electrical or battery-operated appliances, as well as basic essentials such as a change of clothing and toiletries. It is your responsibility to look after your property at all times and you must ensure you are adequately covered by comprehensive travel insurance in the event of any loss.
Disruption to Cruising and Itinerary Arrangements - Itineraries are intended as a guide only and are subject to alteration without notice. Alternations may be necessary for various reasons including, without limitation, road, river or weather conditions, strikes or other reasons beyond APT’s control. If conditions render any routes unsafe for navigation, APT reserves the right to provide alternative services including, but not limited to, accommodation on the docked ship or substitute land arrangements.
Under normal river conditions, itineraries will operate as far as possible as detailed on this website. However, sometimes for reasons beyond our control, it may be necessary to make alterations to your itinerary. For example, without limitation, if there is a water level problem on a river or canal, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by coach and alternative sightseeing may be included. APT will not be liable for any direct or indirect costs that you incur as a result of any event or other factor beyond our control which necessitates a change in your itinerary. Additionally, you are not entitled to any refund for any alterations to your itinerary that are caused or contributed to by any flood or water level events or such other events which are beyond our control. Where disembarkation is necessary, services such as Wi-Fi and complimentary all-day beverages cannot be provided. Complimentary beverages are guaranteed during evening meals.
APT cannot guarantee exact arrival and departure times for carriers and operators used by APT and APT will not be liable for failure to make connections with any other services or attractions beyond its control.
ON RETURN FROM YOUR HOLIDAY
Data Protection Policy - Your personal data will be passed on by APT to any relevant independent suppliers connected with your holiday package who need to know it so that your holiday can be provided and may also be provided to government/public authorities such as customs, immigration and the security services if required.
All personal data you give us (including sensitive personal data) will be kept. We will use only names and contact details for marketing purposes unless you notify us that you do not wish to receive future marketing material by writing to APT, Level 4/ 1230 Nepean Highway, Cheltenham, Victoria, 3192. By providing personal or sensitive information to us, you are agreeing to the terms of our Privacy Policy.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Limitation of Liability - 1. Our holiday packages include the services of independent providers, such as hoteliers, airlines, cruise companies and other operators, who are not agents, servants or employees of APT. Although we take care in selecting the independent service providers and the optional excursions conducted by some independent service providers, APT is not responsible for the conduct of the independent service providers, their servants and agents or for any ramifications of that conduct. Optional excursions may, depending on your holiday package, include activities such as climbing, exploring, bike riding, swimming and snorkelling. You accept and assume the risk involved with these activities.
2. If, in the opinion of any representative of APT, your mental or physical condition, or general behaviour is such as to affect your own health and safety, render you incapable to care for yourself, cause you to became a hazard to yourself or other passengers or result in you becoming objectionable to other passengers or staff, you will not be permitted to embark or continue on the whole or any part of the holiday package. Abuse or harassment of any kind toward crew, contracted suppliers or other guests may result in immediate removal from the tour or cruise. APT is not liable to you for any costs associated with such decision and you will not be refunded for any part of the holiday package.
3. APT accepts no responsibility for any death, injury, illness, loss (including loss of enjoyment), damage, detention, delay (including mechanical breakdown) beyond its control.
4. Any term, condition or warranty express or implied by statute or otherwise in respect of the holiday packages contained on this website or in brochures are excluded to the full extent permitted by law. Nothing in these booking conditions excludes, restricts or modifies the application of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) as amended, consolidated, supplemented or replaced.
5. To the full extent permitted by law, APT’s liability arising under or in connection with these booking conditions: (a) is limited to the re-supply of the products or services or the payment of the cost of re-supply of the products or services to you; and (b) excludes liability for any indirect or consequential losses suffered by you or any third party, howsoever caused, including but not limited to pure economic loss or any special, extraordinary or punitive damage to you or any other party.
6. Your travel agent will forward deposits and other payments to us on your behalf, but your travel agent is not our agent for the purpose of receipt of monies. Receipt of deposits and subsequent payments by the travel agent does not constitute receipt of those monies by us and the travel agent has no authority expressed or implied to receive monies on our behalf. There is no liability on the part of APT in respect to any monies paid to your travel agent unless and until APT notifies you (by way of a booking confirmation advice or payment receipt advice) that monies have been received by APT. APT reserves the right to cancel any ticket or booking or refuse to carry any passenger where payment has not been received by APT within the specified time.
Responsible Service of Alcohol - Our staff are trained in the Responsible Service of Alcohol and are obligated by law to refuse service to any guest who is intoxicated or behaves in an aggressive or offensive manner.
Medical Assistance - APT does not employ medical staff. If you require medical attention. Local medical services can be contacted immediately. You are responsible for the type or quality of the medical services you may require.
APT Club - APT’s new Platinum, Gold and Silver loyalty programme was introduced in February 2012. Details including the range of benefits are available on this website.
Smoking - For other passengers’ comfort there is no smoking on coaches or river cruise ships, except in designated areas.
Service Enquiries - If a problem occurs during your holiday you should, in your own interests, advise your tour/cruise director so that steps can be taken to resolve the matter. If you remain dissatisfied, any complaint must be made in writing to APT within 30 days.
Luggage Limits - Each passenger is entitled to take one piece of luggage that does not exceed 160 cm (63 inches), or weigh more than 20 kg (44 pounds). Dimensions for checked baggage are calculated by adding together the width, height and depth of the piece of baggage. An extra charge will be imposed to cover porterage handling of any additional luggage. Your tour/cruise director will advise you of the exact additional charge.
Seat Rotation on Coach Tours - To ensure all passengers enjoy forward and window facing seats, we have incorporated a daily seat rotation system.
Tour Details
Accommodation
Two Nights, Delta Hotels Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, in a Deluxe Water View Room
Two Nights, The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler
Sun Peaks Grand Hotel
Two Nights, Jasper National Park, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Two Nights, Banff National Park, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Two Nights, Banff National Park, Fairmont Banff Springs, in a Fairmont Mountain View Room
Kamloops, hotel as assigned by Rocky Mountaineer (three-star accommodation)
Two Nights, Vancouver, Fairmont Waterfront Hotel
Seven Nights, Holland America Line’s Koningsdam or Zaandam, in a Verandah Stateroom
Transport
Holland America Line
Transfers, porterage, port charges and gratuities
GoldLeaf Service aboard Rocky Mountaineer
Insurance
Optional
Other activities and services are not included.
Flights
Flights are not included.
Additional Services
A maximum of 40 guests in your APT group
Fairmont Lakeview Room at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
GoldLeaf Service aboard Rocky Mountaineer
Guaranteed verandah on your Holland America Line cruise
Transfers, porterage, port charges and gratuities
At Whistler’s Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, learn about First Nations animal symbolism and enjoy breakfast
Additional Services
Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
Please ensure your onward flight from Vancouver departs no earlier than 1 pm
Change of Itinerary: 6 May and 13 May 2026 cruise ship is the Zaandam
Change of Itinerary: 16 May, 23 May, 4 July & 29 August 2026 will stay at Sutton Place Hotel instead of Fairmont Waterfront
Change of Itinerary: 25 April & 9 May: Day 19 is now sailing to Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier instead of Glacier Bay
Please note departures: 16 May, 11 July, 25 July and 22 August 2026 are small group departures with a maximum of 24 travellers
Prices are for land/cruise and rail only. Flights not included (unless specified)
Meals
Locally inspired dining – a total of 43 meals
Guide
Expert APT Tour Director and Cruise Liaison
Good to know
Currency
Canadian Dollar
Canada