Rockies to Alaska: A Journey into the wild with HX Expeditions (Tour code: 16776)

Picture yourself onboard the world’s leading luxury rail experience. From the moment you set foot onboard, experience hosts that will go above and beyond to make your journey as comfortable as it is unforgettable. The custom-designed glass-dome coaches provide you with panoramic views – or get a bit closer by stepping into the outdoor viewing area. See the sights by day, sleep in a hotel at night. With Rocky Mountaineer, you get the best of both worlds: maximum views, and maximum comfort.

GoldLeaf Service Inclusions:

• Bi-level dome with seating above and dining below
• Full glass-dome windows with panoramic views
• Gourmet à la carte meals in the lower-level dining room
• Reclining, comfortable pre-assigned seating
• Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Attended by up to four Hosts, plus a full culinary team
• Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Gourmet sweet and savoury snacks
• Large exclusive outdoor viewing platform
• Luggage handling

Goldleaf Service | Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

MS Roald Amundsen is a next-generation expedition ship, purpose-built for exploring some of the world’s most remote and spectacular regions. Named after the legendary Norwegian explorer, the vessel reflects a pioneering spirit while leading the way in more sustainable travel, featuring advanced hybrid technology to reduce emissions. Designed for comfort and discovery, the ship serves as a modern base camp at sea, with inviting public spaces, panoramic lounges and expert-led expedition facilities that enhance every aspect of the journey.

The Polar Outside Cabin offers a comfortable and thoughtfully designed retreat between daily adventures. Featuring a window that fills the space with natural light and ocean views, these cabins are ideally located on lower decks close to embarkation areas for convenience. With a functional layout, en-suite bathroom and smart storage solutions, the cabin provides a relaxing and practical space, perfect for travellers who value comfort, efficiency and a connection to the stunning scenery outside.

Credit: HX Expeditions

Arrive in Calgary and make your own way to your downtown hotel. The gateway to the Rockies, Calgary is a vibrant city where western heritage meets modern energy. Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace, from riverside walks along the Bow River to the lively restaurants and shops of the city centre.

Overnight in Calgary at the Westley Calgary Downtown (or similar)

Calgary | Credit: Tourism Calgary / Kelly Hofer

Depart Calgary and travel west into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where dramatic mountain peaks and alpine landscapes unfold along the way. On arrival in Banff, check in for a four-night stay. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore Banff’s charming streets, boutique shops and inviting cafés, all set against a spectacular mountain backdrop.

Overnight in Banff at Mount Royal Hotel (or similar)

Banff | Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and wildlife of Banff National Park. Travel through the Bow Valley with your expert guide, who will share insights into the region’s fascinating history, geology and ecosystems, while keeping watch for wildlife such as elk and deer in their natural habitat.

Visit some of Banff’s most iconic locations, including Bow Falls, Lake Minnewanka and the striking Hoodoos rock formations, before riding the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. At the top, take in panoramic views across the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks and explore the interpretive boardwalks, offering an engaging and immersive alpine experience.

Overnight in Banff at Mount Royal Hotel (or similar)

Banff Gondola | Credit: Pursuit

Set out on one of the world’s most scenic drives along the legendary Icefields Parkway. Journey through a landscape of towering mountains, vast glaciers, turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls, with plenty of stops to capture the breathtaking scenery.

At the Columbia Icefield, experience the thrill of travelling onto the Athabasca Glacier aboard a specially designed Ice Explorer. Continue to the Glacier Skywalk, where a glass-floored platform extends out over the Sunwapta Valley, delivering incredible views of the rugged wilderness below. Along the way, enjoy an alpine picnic lunch and even taste fresh glacier water, making for a truly memorable day in the Rockies.

Overnight in Banff at Mount Royal Hotel (or similar)

Ice Explorer | Credit: Pursuit / Mike Seehagel

Explore some of the most celebrated landscapes in the Canadian Rockies on a full-day journey through Banff and Yoho National Parks. Begin with a visit to the world-famous Lake Louise, renowned for its vivid turquoise waters and dramatic mountain setting.

Continue to Emerald Lake, a serene alpine gem where you’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch surrounded by pristine wilderness. Discover the Natural Rock Bridge, sculpted by powerful rushing waters, and view the famous Spiral Tunnels, an engineering marvel set within the mountains. Throughout the day, your guide will bring the region to life with stories of its landscapes, wildlife and rich history.

Overnight in Banff at Mount Royal Hotel (or similar)

Emerald Lake | Credit: CRMR

Board the iconic Rocky Mountaineer and settle into your comfortable, glass-domed carriage as your rail journey begins. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery, passing rushing rivers, dramatic canyons and forested valleys. Highlights include the Kicking Horse Canyon and Rogers Pass, as your onboard hosts provide engaging commentary and exceptional service. Arrive in Kamloops for an overnight stay.

Overnight in Kamloops

Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Continue your journey westward, following the Thompson River through the striking landscapes of British Columbia’s interior. Marvel at the changing scenery as you pass through desert-like terrain, lush farmland and the impressive Fraser Canyon before arriving in the vibrant coastal city of Vancouver.

Overnight in Vancouver at Hyatt Regency Vancouver (or similar)

Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Today, discover the highlights of Vancouver on a guided sightseeing tour. Explore this stunning coastal city where urban sophistication meets incredible natural beauty. Visit iconic landmarks including Stanley Park, with its famous totem poles and scenic seawall, and pass through vibrant neighbourhoods such as Gastown and Chinatown.

Continue to the spectacular Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where you’ll walk high above the Capilano River on the famous suspension bridge, surrounded by towering rainforest. Take time to explore the park’s treetop walkways and cliffside pathways, offering a unique perspective of the coastal forest. This immersive experience perfectly blends Vancouver’s cultural highlights with its breathtaking natural surroundings.

Overnight in Vancouver at Hyatt Regency Vancouver (or similar)

Aerial of Vancouver | Credit: Destination Vancouver / Albert Normandin

Morning at leisure in Vancouver before boarding your state-of-the-art HX Expeditions vessel. Settle into your cabin and take time to explore the ship’s facilities before meeting the expert Expedition Team. As you sail away from Vancouver’s picturesque harbour, enjoy a welcome briefing and dinner on board, your unforgettable Alaskan adventure is officially underway!

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Credit: HX Expeditions / Ted Gatlin

Spend today cruising through the breathtaking waterways of the Inside Passage, a sheltered coastal route surrounded by forested islands and rugged shoreline. From the deck, watch for abundant marine life including humpback whales, orcas and dolphins, while your Expedition Team shares insights into the region’s unique ecosystems and wildlife.

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Credit: HX Expeditions / Ted Gatlin

Today brings you to the awe-inspiring Misty Fjords, a remote and untouched wilderness of dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls and dense rainforest. Weather permitting, venture closer on small expedition boats or kayaks, immersing yourself in the tranquillity of this spectacular landscape while keeping an eye out for bears, seals and soaring eagles.

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Misty Fjords | Credit: HX Expeditions / Oscar Farerra

Step ashore in Klawock, a small coastal community rich in Indigenous culture and heritage. Discover one of Alaska’s largest collections of totem poles and gain insight into the traditions of the Łingít people. Optional excursions may include cultural experiences, forest walks or wildlife viewing in this scenic region.

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Credit: HX Expeditions

Embrace the true spirit of expedition cruising with a flexible day exploring the remote fjords, channels and islands of Southeast Alaska. Guided by your Expedition Team, opportunities may include zodiac cruising, guided hikes or shore landings, allowing you to experience untouched wilderness up close.

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Credit: HX Expeditions

Experience one of the trip’s highlights as you explore the glacial wonders of Icy Bay. Towering tidewater glaciers dominate the landscape, and with luck, you may witness dramatic calving as ice breaks into the sea, a truly unforgettable display of nature’s power.

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Icy Bay | Credit: HX Expeditions / Ted Gatlin

Arrive in the scenic town of Valdez, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Chugach Mountains. Choose from a variety of optional activities such as kayaking among ice floes, hiking through pristine wilderness or learning about the region’s fascinating history and culture.

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Credit: HX Expeditions / Oscar Farerra

Cruise through the pristine waters of Prince William Sound, home to an incredible concentration of glaciers and marine wildlife. Enjoy a day of scenic cruising, wildlife spotting and possible expedition landings, all set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and icy blue waters.

Overnight onboard MS Roald Amundsen

Prince William Sound | Credit: HX Expeditions

Your expedition cruise concludes in Whittier, a small port town surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. After breakfast, disembark the ship and continue your onward journey, taking with you lasting memories of Alaska’s incredible wilderness and landscapes.