Soak up the breathtaking sights of Canada and Alaska, journeying on the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer before a seven-night cruise along Alaska's wild coastline

Meeting the Tour Manager at London Heathrow this morning, your adventure gets under way as we board a flight across the Atlantic to Calgary. Arriving around midday local time, we check in to our hotel and spend the night in this shimmering city of the Canadian west.

Calgary has a modern skyline but is steeped in the western culture that earned it the nickname 'Cowtown.' Heading out for dinner independently you'll find a diverse choice of cuisine, from upscale steakhouses to stylish cafes.

Today we travel along the Trans-Canada Highway. We pass through Native American reservations, before the imposing foothills of the Rocky Mountains gather round the route. Our destination is Banff, a quintessential Rockies town nestled beneath the imposing Cascade Mountain. We check into our hotel in mid-afternoon and the rest of the day is free to spend as you wish.

As one of the main tourist destinations in the Canadian Rockies, there are many things to do in Banff, with many shops and restaurants in its walkable town centre. Dining independently this evening, you could pop into one of the attractive eateries.

Our day begins with a Gondola journey up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain to enjoy views across beautiful Banff.

We then take a coach excursion to astonishing Lake Louise. This turquoise glacial lake is framed by towering snow-capped mountains often reflected in the serene waters. As one of the most photographed sights in the Canadian Rockies, this remarkable view has become intrinsically linked with the region but is equally impressive in person. There is time to soak up this glacier-fed lake and its spellbinding backdrop before spending free time over lunch in Lake Louise village.

We continue to the vivid Emerald Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Yoho National Park - stopping enroute at Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint. On returning to our hotel, we meet a retired member of the Canadian Mounted Police Force in uniform, affectionately known as a 'Mountie', who talks about their time in service, before we dine independently.

With a day at leisure, you can explore the mountain resort town of Banff at your own pace.

Founded in 1883 near a planned railway tunnel, Banff is surrounded by wonderful wilderness and spectacular scenery. As Canada's premier year-round destination, there are various excursions available from here (payable locally), including guided visits to Lake Minnewanka - a glistening turquoise lake, known by the First Nations people as the 'Lake of the Spirits' - and the wide, low, but powerful Bow Falls.

Banff itself attracts many tourists, for shopping as well as nature and, with its creative community, has an alternative side to it. You may prefer to stay local and soak up the charms of the Main Street, a row of half-timbered independent shops and a variety of restaurants.

This town is renowned as one of Canada's foodie capitals with its 'mountain-to-table' movement and wild game dishes. Enjoy innovative local cuisine in a cosy and stylish eatery of your choice as we dine independently.

Boarding the Rocky Mountaineer early this morning, we begin the first of our superb daylight journeys through some of Canada's most jaw-dropping scenery. Our trip to Kamloops is named the 'First Passage to the West' route. Travelling in SilverLeaf Class, in unique, glass-domed cars with breakfast and lunch included at our seats, we marvel at panoramic views of Canada's spectacular scenery unfolding in front of us on this relaxed journey.

Leaving Banff, we pass Castle Mountain, known for its castle-like appearance with flat-topped peaks. We then climb into the Kicking Horse Pass, an important route that was key to the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway before travelling through the Spiral Tunnels.

Crossing the Continental Divide, the train moves from Alberta into British Columbia. This point marks the division between rivers flowing into the Pacific Ocean and those that flow eastward to the Atlantic. We then descend into Yoho National Park, where we are treated to views of towering cliffs, deep canyons, and waterfalls.

Leaving the rugged terrain of the mountains behind, the landscape begins to soften and we arrive in Kamloops for a night at a local hotel. After checking in, there is time to explore and dine independently.

Our wonderful Rocky Mountaineer experience continues this morning on another dramatic stretch of the line through varied landscapes. Enjoying breakfast and lunch on board, we journey along the impressive Thompson and Fraser Canyons, past the rushing waters of Hell's Gate, as we keep our eyes open for native Canadian wildlife.

From the rugged Rockies and dense forests, through arid, desert landscapes and into the Fraser Valley's fertile fields, the scenery is as dazzling as it is varied. From the Cascade Mountains, the route begins its descent towards the lush rainforests of the Pacific coast, before we arrive in Vancouver for a two-night stay.

The city is considered one of the world's most desirable places to live, thanks to its incredible setting. Blending the vibrancy and culture of a cosmopolitan city with spectacular scenery, Vancouver quietly impresses its many visitors.

Our hotel is a short distance from both Downtown and the harbour. After check in there is a free evening to try some of western Canada's cuisine, like seafood.

We get to know the city this morning as a local guide joins us on a four-hour sightseeing tour of Vancouver's most characterful districts.

As Vancouver's original Downtown, the area known as Gastown is the city's most historic area. Redbrick Victorian buildings dot the tree-lined streets surrounding pretty Maple Tree Square. Many coffee shops, art galleries, upmarket fashion boutiques, and the famous Gastown Steam Clock can be found in this area named after talkative Hull-born sailor and barman 'Gassy' Jack Deighton.

Crossing East Hastings Street, we arrive in Chinatown - the largest in Canada - where we take in the sights and sounds of the streets and squares. From here, we venture to Stanley Park, a green oasis with magnificent scenes of water, mountains, sky, and trees along its famous Seawall. While here, we view colourful totem poles that celebrate the region's Native American history.

The rest of the day is free to explore independently. You could travel to Granville Island to sample its food markets or view the boutique shops and cafés. This evening, you have the opportunity to enjoy Vancouver's restaurants at leisure.

After a relaxing morning, we are transferred to Vancouver's port to board the MS Celebrity Solstice for a spectacular seven-night cruise through the Inside Passage to Alaska.

Our vessel is elegant and comfortable, featuring stylish accommodations, and is equipped with a relaxing spa and a variety of restaurants. After settling into our cabins, we wave farewell to the Canadian mainland as we head into the Strait of Georgia, surrounded by verdant islands as we head north towards Alaska.

All food is included on our cruise, and this evening we sit down for our first meal on board the ship - admiring the beautiful views of Vancouver Island and the coastline of British Columbia on our way to the Inside Passage. Historically an important sea route for prospectors during the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, it has since become one of the most popular and striking cruising routes in the world.

Awaking this morning in the extraordinary landscapes provided by the Inside Passage, we cruise onwards towards Alaska. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner on board today as we wind through this UNESCO-protected network of waterways, following in the slipstream of adventurers and prospectors.

Passing stunning fjords and deep inlets along the wild and rugged coastlines of British Columbia and southeast Alaska, this is an area of pristine waters, snow-capped mountains and glacial waters. This region was first charted by King's Lynn-born sailor Captain George Vancouver between 1791 and 1795, for whom our port of departure was named. Vancouver, who sailed with James Cook's second voyage, was well thought of by indigenous peoples. His maps of the Inside Passage were so detailed and accurate that they were used by many future generations.

As well as its history and beautiful scenery, this is also renowned as a haven for marine animals - and we may be lucky enough to spot wildlife from the deck of our ship.

Sailing into the breathtaking Icy Strait Point near the native Tlingit village of Hoonah, we admire stunning views of snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear waters. As we glide along, keep your eyes pealed to spot humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, and bald eagles.

Lunch is served as we travel to the Alaskan state capital, Juneau. Completely inaccessible by road, this former gold rush city is set against a backdrop of mountains, and you have a free afternoon here to explore its picturesque waterfront area and charming frontier-era streets. Dinner is served back on board this evening.

Depending on your departure date, today you will either visit Skagway or experience the Hubbard Glacier.

Once the lawless hub of the Klondike Gold Rush, Skagway served as the entry point for the gold fields and people rushed here in the hope of making it rich. This frontier town quickly turned into Alaska's largest settlement, full of saloons and traders and while peaceful now, the town retains its authenticity as its buildings have been authentically preserved.

The Hubbard Glacier is located about 30 miles north off the coast of Yakutat and is one of Alaska's most exciting natural treasures. As we cruise, you can experience the wilds of Alaska as our ship makes its way through icy waters. Turning from Yakutat Bay into the narrow Disenchantment Bay, we come face-to-face with the towering Hubbard Glacier.

Today, we cruise to the Alaskan state capital, Juneau. Completely inaccessible by road, this former gold rush city is set against a backdrop of mountains, and you have a free afternoon here to explore its picturesque waterfront area and charming frontier-era streets.

On board, you could relax by the outdoor pool or peaceful lawn. Alternatively, you could enjoy a drink in our beautiful surroundings at the on board Sunset Bar. Dinner is served on board this evening.

Clinging to the forested banks of the Tongass Narrows, Ketchikan is known as the 'First City' of Alaska as it was the first main settlement most visitors reached on their way north.

We dock here, where you have the rest of the day to explore. Apart from being the Salmon Capital of the World, Native Alaskan culture and art flourishes here and, with the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, this may be one of the best spots on our cruise to see these intricately carved cultural artefacts. The Totem Heritage Centre is easy to reach and an interesting place to visit, with its large display of poles, retrieved from abandoned villages.

A little further north, you'll find Totem Bight State Park, which has another collection of famous poles, and a native community house. The town itself has a museum, souvenir shops and local art - and there are plenty of dining options to sample the town's celebrated salmon.

On the last full day onboard this fabulous Alaskan cruise, we set sail back to Vancouver today, passing through the legendary Inside Passage. Relax onboard as we glide through a maze of isolated islands blanketed in dense rainforests. Although appearing remote and inhospitable, these lands have been the home of many indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Tlingit.

Named after the British explorer who mapped this area, Vancouver Island is one of Canada's largest. It shelters the Johnstone Strait and Strait of Georgia from the wild Pacific and guides us towards our destination.

After breakfast, we leave our cruise ship and disembark in Vancouver, where you are free to explore until mid- afternoon. You could return to some of the neighbourhoods we explored on our guided tour to spend time at leisure in Gastown's galleries, museums or coffee shops, or take a stroll along the waterfront towards Stanley Park.

In the late afternoon, we bid farewell to Vancouver as we transfer to the airport for our overnight flight back to the United Kingdom.

As our plane touches down at London Heathrow this morning, our spectacular Canadian and Alaskan holiday comes to an end.

By road, rail and sea, we have traversed the breathtaking Rocky Mountains and sailed the Inside Passage to witness many jaw-dropping natural wonders. Exploring Banff and Vancouver revealed Canadian culture while a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer showcased incredible landscapes. Our cruise through Alaska's glacial bays, fjords and old Gold Rush towns was a perfect ending to our adventure.

As our expedition concludes, you are free to make your way home with these unforgettable new memories.

The world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer train offers a unique and memorable trip through one of the most diverse countries in the world. On board, you'll see spectacular vistas that you can't experience through any other mode of travel, all viewed through a stunning panoramic glass dome so you won't miss a thing.

As you board the Rocky Mountaineer you are treated to a 5-star welcome with the highest attention to detail. There are two excellent levels of service, Silverleaf and Goldleaf. We travel in SilverLeaf Service as standard, which a single level dome carriage providing magnificent panoramic views. Meals are expertly prepared by award-winning chefs and served at your comfortable seat, with gourmet breakfast and lunch options served alongside complimentary local wine or beer.

Upgrades to the Goldleaf service are available, which offers two-storey carriages, unparalleled comfort and 360° views from fully glass-domed carriages. On both services the food is outstanding, but on the Goldleaf Service you can head downstairs to the restaurant for your gourmet meals. The train only operates in daylight hours so you don't miss a second of the incredible Canadian countryside.

This 3-star mountain lodge and spa is nestled in the heart of Banff city centre. Facilities include a steakhouse restaurant and bar which serves dinner and drinks. The hotel's spa has several treatment rooms and residents can enjoy access to the hotel's hot pool, steam room and exercise facilities. Guest rooms feature a flat-screen television, mini-fridge, a safe, and free Wi-Fi. The centre of Banff is 10-minutes' walk from the lodge.

Located on the edge of Banff town centre, the 3-Star Elk and Avenue Hotel offers contemporary comfort within easy reach of many of the town's attractions and eateries. Warm and welcoming, the hotel features a sauna, hot tub and seasonal terrace - perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The on-site restaurant celebrates locally grown Canadian ingredients and wood-fired cooking, while the adjoining coffeehouse serves exceptional coffee, teas and freshly made wholesome food in a relaxed, Canadian coffee-house setting. Guest rooms are bright and modern, and come equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV and a minibar.

Discover the essence of Vancouver from the heart of the city at this downtown hotel, where the iconic One Wall Centre graces the North Tower and stands as a symbol of the city's skyline. The hotel's prime location places you a stone's throw away from attractions such as Stanley Park, English Bay, the seawall, Yaletown, and the vibrant Robson Street.

Retreat to your haven of comfort in the hotel's rooms, where the Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience beds invite relaxation. Enjoy the convenience of free Wi-Fi as you immerse yourself in the charm of Vancouver.

Located in the heart of Vancouver's bustling downtown district, this 3-Star hotel offers a fantastic base for exploring this vibrant city. Head to Robson Street for shopping, with a mix of high-end and independent boutiques to browse or explore the local museums and art galleries to soak up some culture. Century Plaza also offers an on-site Italian steakhouse, fitness centre, indoor pool, salon and coffee bar. Each air-conditioned guest room is equipped with free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, minifridge, hairdryer and tea and coffee-making facilities.

In the heart of downtown, this 4-Star hotel is located on historic Stephen Avenue near to the Calgary Tower. There are four on-site restaurants and a fitness center. Air-conditioned guestrooms are equipped with flatscreen TV, safe, fridge, ironing facilities, tea & coffee-making equipment, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.

Sit back and unwind in relaxing spaces, with top-class amenities and award-winning onboard experiences. On board you'll enjoy elegant accommodations, a variety of dining options, including unique restaurants with menus created by our chef, and the most awarded wine collection at sea. Refresh your senses with a wide range of soothing treatments at The Spa. Rest, recharge, and enjoy every moment on board Celebrity Solstice, where every detail is taken care off so you can fully relax and enjoy your holiday.

Upgrade to GoldLeaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer and enjoy an à la carte menu as well as access to the custom-designed bi-level Dome Coach and covered open-air vestibules. Price from £595 per person.

• Upgrade your flight to Premium Economy from £500 per person each way

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.