Most Alaska cruises begin or end in Vancouver, which is also the start or end point of the Rocky Mountaineer, and this cosmopolitan city alone is enough reason to extend your cruise at least with an overnight stay. A city surrounded by natural beauty, Vancouver boasts a thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings and a scenic waterfront perfect for strolling or cycling.
Rocky Mountaineer is the only passenger rail service operating on the historic rail route between Vancouver and Banff, and their First Passage to the West route offers journeys between two and 14 days in length, the longer journeys combining the iconic rail route with extended hotel stays or sightseeing tours.
On their 5-night Classic Banff itinerary, begin in Vancouver with a two-night hotel stay. Board the Rocky Mountaineer and spend a day travelling through the scenic Fraser Valley and dramatic peaks of the Coast Mountains before arriving in charming Kamloops for an overnight stay. The next day your journey continues eastwards to the Canadian Rockies as you enjoy lakeside views, mountain passes and historic tunnels, before your arrival to the beautiful mountain resort town of Banff where you will enjoy a two-night stay.
You might instead choose the Journey through the Clouds route between Vancouver and Jasper, taking in the majestic Pyramid Falls from a viewpoint only accessible by rail, and the awe-inspiring views of Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Or perhaps the Rainforest to Gold Rush route appeals, visiting the world-famous mountain resort of Whistler before travelling through mighty canyons once explored by gold prospectors.
All journeys operate in both directions, so whether you're embarking or disembarking in Vancouver, you can opt for a route to add on either before or after your voyage. Rocky Mountaineer operates for around 6 months of the year, between April and October, so perfectly coincides with the summer Alaska cruising season.
Now what about the train itself? There is something so special about travelling by rail; the train effortlessly gliding through vast and inaccessible landscapes while you immerse in the views from the comfort of your carriage.
Rocky Mountaineer's GoldLeaf Service offers bi-level glass-dome coaches so you can enjoy the view from your seat on the light-filled upper level whilst the lower level is used for dining, and you can expect a gourmet menu of chef-prepared meals using local ingredients. There is also an exclusive outdoor viewing platform so you can breathe the crisp mountain air or get that perfect picture, plus you can enjoy refined service on board from attentive and knowledgeable hosts, and accommodation in luxury hotels.
If exploring Alaska and Canada by sea and rail sounds like the perfect trip, then Regent Seven Seas Cruises in particular have an excellent pre-cruise Rocky Mountaineer itinerary which can be easily added on to select cruises when booking. Or simply call and speak to our knowledgeable team who can create the perfect package for you...
