America's Last Frontier is in a category all its own, with its immense mountain ranges, ancient glaciers, remote expanses, and cities steeped in mining history. Rugged Alaska is home to the largest mountain in the country in Denali National Park, and some of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis. Nearly 34,000 miles of gorgeous coastline envelop all of this, offering a magnificent perspective whether you are looking out toward the water or inland from the sea. Because the views are so dynamic and the wilderness is so vast, there is no better way to get acquainted with this wild state's offerings than with an Alaska train and cruise vacation.
These thoughtfully composed packages offer the best of both travel experiences. On land, venture through the great state aboard the iconic Alaska Railroad, whose 470-mile route extends from coastal Seward to Fairbanks deep in the interior. This flagship route offers remarkable views of Turnagain Arm as it ventures through the state's southern portion and provides direct access to Denali National Park further north.
As you take to the water, Alaska's Inside Passage plays host to your luxurious cruise ship. Visit iconic cities like Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Skagway, and immerse yourself in the splendors of local culture. Between ports of call, watch in awe as your ship glides past calving icebergs and marine life, including sea otters and whales, frolicking in the icy water.
Alaska train and cruise vacations are unique because travelers have many options for where to begin their trip. For a purely Alaskan expedition, guests can choose a journey that begins and ends in the state. Itineraries can also start with rail travel and touring in the continental United States or Canada for an epic land and sea journey.
(32 reviews)
By land and by sea, discover a land of untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery in Alaska. Begin by boarding the elegant Holland America Ship in Vancouver, sailing north to reveal forested shores, glaciers and the quintessential towns of Alaska's Inside Passage. Uncover the charms of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, and then disembark in...
(83 reviews)
Embark on this spectacular discovery of natural wonders by land and sea. From the mountain town of Banff in the Canadian Rockies, marvel at the spellbinding beauty of Lake Louise before boarding the iconic Rocky Mountaineer. With two daylight-only journeys, we travel to Vancouver, from where an unforgettable cruise through the Inside Passage...
(14 reviews)This 10-day rail-cruise adventure combines some of the most breathtaking scenery on the west coast by land and sea with a relaxed and well-paced itinerary to meet every lifestyle. The Coast Starlight links Los Angeles to Seattle, the Gateway to Alaska. Widely regarded as one of the most spectacular U.S. train routes, you will travel more than...
(31 reviews)Set your sights on the best of the Canadian Rockies, as you arrive in Calgary and transfer to the rest town of Banff. Enjoy a sightseeing tour quintessential Banff sites, such as the hot springs; a gondola ride and much more before transferring to Lake Louise for an overnight. The next morning soak up the scenery and board an Ice Explorer for a...
(8 reviews)The Empire Builder travels the legendary 2,206-mile route from Chicago, across the northern United States west to Seattle, the Gateway to Alaska. But this picturesque rail journey is only the start of this unforgettable 11-day vacation. Upon arrival in Seattle, transfer on your own to your hotel and enjoy the highlights of Seattle. Then board...
(16 reviews)An epic route of towering mountains, glistening glaciers and remote terrain beckons on this remarkable rail and cruise vacation. Start your journey in the Canadian Rockies, venturing west on the renowned Rocky Mountaineer. This train follows a daylight-only route that captures the magical landscapes of Canada. Arriving in the seaport city of...
(8 reviews)Set sail on one of Holland America's luxurious cruise ships for a seaside trip from Vancouver, Canada to Skagway, Alaska. Sailing through the Inside Passage takes us to Juneau and Skagway, and from here, the journey continues on land to Whitehorse, Dawson City, Fairbanks and finally, to the crowning jewel of this journey, Denali National Park.
(8 reviews)Your journey starts in Chicago where you will begin the 2,206-mile journey to Seattle aboard Amtrak's legendary Empire Builder. On the way, stop at breathtaking Glacier National Park, where you will have time to take in the gorgeous landscape of this famous National Park. Continue the journey to Seattle, where you will set sail aboard the...
(9 reviews)The beauty of Canada's ever-changing landscape and the glory of the open water lie ahead on this 15-day, dual-country adventure. The tour begins as you arrive in Toronto - Canada's largest city. Spend the day exploring this cosmopolitan city on your own. The following morning, board VIA Rail's Canadian for a 4-night complete trans-Canada rail...
Dec 27, 2023 · By Great Rail Journeys
Ah, Alaska! A land where summer unfolds like a fairy tale, where the sun stretches across the sky, refusing to set, painting landscapes so diverse they seem otherworldly. Here, history whispers tales of resilient cultures against a backdrop of nature's most dramatic scenes. In Alaska, summer is more than a season; it's a grand adventure under endless daylight.
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Oct 04, 2022 · By Great Rail Journeys
If you are planning your next vacation and want an exciting journey not too far from home, here are five compelling reasons you should join an Alaska cruise—including one that adds Alaska land touring by train; the best of both worlds.
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Apr 16, 2019 · By Great Rail Journeys
Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West route is touted for its unique ability to connect East and West Canada over 3,200 kilometers of track.
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Sep 28, 2019 · By Great Rail Journeys
Train and cruise vacations are natural companions. Whether aboard the deck of a cruise ship or relaxing in the comfort of a train cabin, these trips give back your greatest commodity: time.
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