Rail and Sail Tour, 13 nights

Tour Itinerary

Vancouver

2 nights at Bestwestern Plus Sands by the Sea (Standard), Coast Coal Harbour (Superior), Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (Deluxe)

After a comfortable flight, arrive at Vancouver International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. Kick-start the sightseeing this afternoon or relax in the hotel lounge with a drink, perusing the information kit handed to you upon check-in. The next day is also yours to explore this fascinating city, spectacularly set between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Attractions include historic Gastown, tranquil English Bay and the world-famous totem poles in Stanley Park. Highly recommended is the Hop-on, Hop-off Trolley Tour, a great way to get around!

Vancouver - Kamloops (via Rocky Mountaineer)

1 night at Thompson Hotel (Standard, Superior and Deluxe)

Enjoy a private transfer this morning to the train station for the beginning of your rail and sail adventure! Courtesy of the Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll be whisked in supreme comfort through the majestic landscape of Western Canada. Follow the rushing torrents of the Fraser and Thompson Rivers deep into the rugged interior, listening to the history and legends of the West as you travel.

Kamloops – Banff

2 nights at Rundlestone Lodge (Standard), Mount Royal Hotel (Superior), Fairmont Banff Springs (Deluxe)

After a good night’s rest, it’s back on-board to relish the spectacle of snow-capped peaks, vividly-coloured lakes, glistening glaciers and alpine meadows as the train continues its journey through the national parks of Glacier, Yoho and Banff. Marvel at the majesty of the mountain ridge as you enter the charming resort town of Banff, a world-famous, year-round outdoor playground. Spend the afternoon treading the cobbled streets, shopping perhaps or relaxing in one of the many cafes and restaurants. The next day is yours to explore Canada’s oldest national park – there’s a plethora of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails or take a ride on the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a bird’s eye view of six mountain ridges – truly the ride of a lifetime!

Banff – Jasper

2 nights at Lobstick Lodge (Standard), Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre (Superior), Fairmont Jasper Park (Deluxe)

Wave goodbye to Banff and travel north along the famous Icefields Parkway into the spectacular wilderness of Jasper National Park. Every inch of the way is breathtaking with indomitable peaks to amaze you, valleys stretching as far as the eye can see, cascading waterfalls and flower-filled meadows. En-route you’ll stop at the Columbia Icefield for another fantastic ride on an Ice Explorer atop the ancient Athabasca Glacier – an unforgettable experience! The next day hike past serene lakes and gentle meadows perhaps, canoe on beautiful Maligne Lake or soak your cares away at Miette Hot Springs, complete with two hot pools, 2 cool pools, a hiking trail and cafe.

Jasper – Prince George (via rail)

1 night at Sandman Inn & Suites Prince George (Standard, Superior and Deluxe)

Another memorable trail journey awaits you today, this time across British Columbia’s northern region to the waters of the Pacific Ocean. Look out for Mount Robson, Canada’s highest peak and watch the horizons widen as the train descends from the Rockies into the rugged interior plateau. Following the Fraser River into Prince George, enjoy an overnight stay in this charming town.

Prince George – Prince Rupert (via rail)

1 night accommodation at Pacific Inn (Standard), Crest Hotel (Superior and Deluxe)

Continuing west, you’ll follow in the footsteps of First Nation people and fur trader’s en-route to Prince Rupert, another charming British Columbia outpost, beautifully set on the northern Pacific. Treats en-route include the turbulent currents of the Skeena River, the wide-open valleys and, of course, the ever-present mountain ridges.

Prince Rupert – Port Hardy (inside passage cruise)

1 night at Airport Inn Port Hardy (Standard and Superior), Quarter Deck Inn and Marina (Deluxe)

Swap the train for a cruise today along the glorious Inside Passage, a veritable paradise for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts! Sail through a maze of enchanting islands, deep fjords, densely forested shorelines and massive ice-flows. Bald eagles follow your journey whilst sea lions slumber on the rocks and whales traverse the offshore waters. Stay the night in Port Hardy, an incredible as-yet undiscovered natural playground with beautiful beaches and dense woodland.

Port Hardy – Victoria

2 nights at Executive House Hotel (Standard), Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa (Superior), Fairmont Empress (Deluxe)

Another cruise this morning, along the Island Highway through forest-clad mountains and a coastline dotted with charming fishing villages. Stops are made en-route at Campbell River – the salmon capital of the world, to admire the outdoor murals in Chemainus and the totem poles in Duncan. Arrive in Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city, during the afternoon with the rest of the day free to spend your way. The next day is also free for sightseeing. Highlights include the parliament buildings, Bastion Square, fabulous museums and flower-filled gardens galore, including world-famous Butchart Gardens, boasting over 50 acres of landscaped gorgeousness!

Victoria – Vancouver

1 night at Bestwestern Plus Sands by the Sea (Standard), Coast Coal Harbour (Superior), Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (Deluxe)

There’s ample time this morning to explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour some more or to do a spot of last-minute shopping. Afterwards, you’ll travel by floatplane across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver – truly exhilarating with a thrilling landing on water! Another night is yours to enjoy before heading home the next morning with some incredible memories to accompany you!