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Alaska by Land and Sea Featuring 3 nights in Denali

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You are viewing the 2027 itinerary. Select your departure year
20262027
13 days From $3,504 per person
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From cruising the famed Inside Passage to exploring the jaw-dropping scenery of Denali National Park, this tour brings you the best of wild Alaska

Travel on your own following a well-planned itinerary

2027 Tour code: HA-ALSN-27

About the tour

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 Whittier for a trip along the Turnagain Arm to Anchorage and a scenic rail journey inland to explore Denali National Park. With exciting tours and magnificent vistas, this 13-day voyage is the best way to experience Alaska.

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Unforgettable Experiences

Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage
Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage
Witness Alaska’s best views from the water as you cruise the iconic Inside Passage, making stops in ports of call like Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway and admiring Glacier Bay and College Fjord.
Visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center
Enjoy a scenic coach journey along the Turnagain Arm as you travel from Whittier to Anchorage, pausing en route to witness Alaskan wildlife at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.
Following a scenic rail route to Denali
Following a scenic rail route to Denali
Settle into your seat in a domed-glass carriage and watch scenes of Alaska’s untamed wilderness unfold as the McKinley Explorer train takes you deep into the state’s interior to Denali.
Uncovering Denali National Park’s stunning features
Uncovering Denali National Park’s stunning features
From beautiful peaks to astonishing animals, uncover Denali National Park’s best features on the Tundra Wilderness Tour, which follows the road corridor to the East Fork Cabin along the East Fork River.
Weaving along Fairbanks’ waterways on the Riverboat Discovery
Weaving along Fairbanks’ waterways on the Riverboat Discovery
Board the Riverboat Discovery for a cruise along Chena and Tanana Rivers from Fairbanks, seeking local wildlife and uncovering indigenous culture at Chena Indian Village.

What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - Boarding your Holland America ship in Vancouver

Some of North America's most dramatic scenery lies ahead as your Alaska cruise vacation begins today in Vancouver on Canada's West Coast. If time allows upon arrival, you can enjoy a chance to find lunch locally or explore Stanley Park or historic Gastown. Otherwise, make your way to the waterfront to board your comfortable Holland America cruise ship in time for your afternoon departure into the waters of the Pacific.

You might like to find a spot on the deck to watch as your vessel glides through the first narrows of Burrard Inlet and under the Lion's Gate Bridge, eventually reaching open water. Take some time to settle into your cabin and get acquainted with the onboard amenities. All meals are included during your time aboard the ship, including dinner this evening as you set sail. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Dinner
Day 2 - A first look at the Inside Passage

Waking this morning in the extraordinary landscapes provided by the Inside Passage, you cruise onward toward Alaska. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner onboard today while winding 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 ice formations. This region was first charted by English-born sailor Captain George Vancouver between 1791 and 1795, and during his expedition, he created maps so detailed and accurate that they were in use for more than 70 years.

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

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Arriving at your first port of call, Ketchikan

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.

Docking here this morning, you have until mid-afternoon to explore at leisure. Apart from being the Salmon Capital of the World, Native Alaskan culture flourishes here. Ketchikan has the world's largest collection of standing totem poles, and this may be one of the best spots on your cruise to see these intricately carved cultural artifacts.

The Totem Heritage Center is easily reachable from the shore and features a considerable display of poles from abandoned villages. A little further north, Totem Bight State Park has another collection of poles and a native community house. The town itself has a museum, souvenir shops and local art galleries, and there are plenty of dining options to sample the town's celebrated salmon.

For a more structured day, you could instead book one of Holland America's optional excursions (additional charges may apply) to enjoy before setting sail again this afternoon. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - A day in Alaska’s capital, Juneau

Enjoy awe-inspiring water views this morning as your vessel approaches the Alaskan state capital, Juneau, arriving mid-morning. Completely inaccessible by road, this former Gold Rush city is set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

You have a free day to explore its picturesque waterfront area and charming frontier-era streets. Visit the Alaska State Museum to gain a greater insight into the cultures that have shaped this beautiful land, or walk to the State Capitol Building to tour its interior. You could join the GoldBelt Tram, located right on the cruise dock, on its climb to the summit of Mount Roberts. The views across Juneau and the water from the top are outstanding.

Staying downtown, wandering through the local stores provides a feel for modern Juneau, and there are plenty of breweries and restaurants to stop in as you shop. Of course, guided excursions, including to Mendenhall Glacier, are also bookable today (additional charges may apply).

Whatever you choose to do in and around this fascinating city, dinner is served back on board this evening. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Delving into Skagway’s Klondike Gold Rush past

Set between mountains rising on either side of the serene waters of Taiya Inlet, Skagway is our port of call this morning. Once the lawless hub of the Klondike Gold Rush, Skagway served as the entry point for the gold fields, and people flooded here in hopes of making it rich. This frontier town quickly turned into Alaska's largest settlement, full of saloons and traders. While peaceful now, Skagway retains its authenticity as its buildings have been authentically preserved.

With a free day here, you could wander the town's historic boardwalk, which looks much the same as it did in the 1850s, browse the galleries or watch local life go by from a coffee shop or saloon. You could shop at stores, such as Lynch & Kennedy's Dry Goods, whose false front gives way to Army barracks, or stop at The Red Onion Saloon, which served guests for more than 125 years.

Today's optional excursions include gold panning and riding aboard the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad (additional charges may apply). The ship departs after dinner this evening. Overnight Ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 - Awe-inspiring views in Glacier Bay

A feast for the ears and the eyes, Glacier Bay is one of the region's most spectacular locations and the ship's destination today. Marvel at the beauty of the bay's numerous tidewater glaciers, rugged fjords and snowy mountain peaks, soundtracked by the creaks of "living ice" and the shrill of gulls and eagles overhead. Glacier Bay's ice formations are around 4,000 years old and are protected by UNESCO.

Spending the day onboard the ship allows you to cruise peacefully through this evocative Alaskan environment. In these untouched and pristine surroundings, you can witness the stark majesty of nature, from thick, mossy forests and crystal-clear glacial waters to the marine life that inhabits them. Keep watch for species of whales, including humpback whales, as well as orcas, sea lions and otters. Venture out on the deck with your camera to observe an unforgettable highlight of your Alaskan cruise. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Uncovering the majesty of College Fjord

Another cruise highlight lies ahead as your ship navigates through Prince William Sound to College Fjord, an area of dramatic natural beauty in the northern portion of the sound. Follow a route first charted by railroad tycoon Edward Henry Harriman and a team of scientists, including John Muhr, in 1899, while witnessing surreal panoramas of ancient ice.

Cruising through College Fjord puts many glaciers within view, with some areas allowing you to see up to eight at a time - those on the left being named for esteemed women's colleges and those on the right bearing the names of men's colleges. Harvard Glacier is the largest within the aptly named fjord. Because Prince William Sound is an active calving area, your views here may be accompanied by the pops, rumbles and booms of glaciers, creating an all-encompassing cruising experience during your last day onboard. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - To Anchorage via the Alaskan Wildlife Conservation Center

Through the night, your cruise continues through Prince William Sound to the ship's final port of call, Whittier. The immensity of Alaska's nature is all around this small town, making it the perfect transition between sea and land. Look upon beautiful mountains and the glacial water as you make your way to land for the next leg of this memorable journey.

Step aboard a motorcoach to begin the route inland, traveling through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel - the longest tunnel in North America at 2 1/2 miles - before skirting Portage Lake and continuing north. Upon arriving in Girdwood, enjoy a visit to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, where you can admire native wildlife in their natural habitats.

Back on the road, the scenic journey is framed by views of the Chugach Mountains and presents the beautiful Turnagain Arm before eventually cutting inland to Anchorage. Check into your hotel for the night, and then the evening is yours to unwind or explore the city's many eateries, which highlight cuisine from around the globe and fresh Alaskan seafood. Overnight Anchorage.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 9 - Seeing the wilds of Alaska by rail

Prepare for another perspective on Alaska's unbridled beauty as you are transferred to the railway station this morning to join the McKinley Explorer, operated by Holland America Line. Take your seat in the upper-level dome car, and watch through the panoramic windows as the train begins its journey toward Denali.

The train crosses the Knik River and reveals stunning views of the Chugach Mountains. Watch for distant glimpses of the nation's highest peak, Denali, as the train nears Talkeetna and an astounding perspective on the plunging Hurricane Gulch while crossing its 296-foot bridge. Dedicated hosts in each train car narrate the journey and offer stories as the route continues to unfold.

Later this afternoon, panoramic scenes of the Alaska Range frame the backdrop, and the train winds along Healy Canyon and the Nenana River, arriving in Denali in the mid-afternoon. An included transfer takes you to your hotel for the next three nights, and after checking in, you can enjoy the lush surroundings. Overnight Denali.

Day 10 - Astounding views in Denali National Park

Today, set out into Denali National Park for a memorable exploration of Denali Park Road on an amazing Tundra Wilderness Tour.

Standing at more than 20,000 feet tall, Denali is North America's highest peak and Alaska's most iconic landmark. Your route takes you 43 miles along the roadway, with outstanding opportunities to view the staggering peak and the park's wild inhabitants. Among the animals that roam this astonishing landscape are bears, caribou, moose and wolves.

A certified naturalist acts as your driver guide and narrates your journey toward the East Fork Cabin on the East Fork River. You have a chance to step off and admire the surroundings before retracing the 43 miles back through the Denali backcountry to your lodge. With the rest of the day at leisure, you can relax in the serene surroundings, or you can use the lodge's shuttle to visit the Denali National Park Visitor Center. For dinner tonight, you could enjoy one of the on-site restaurants at your accommodations. Overnight Denali.

Day 11 - A day at leisure in Denali

With a full day at leisure, your options for exploring this vast natural landscape are endless. The Holland America Denali Lodge is perfectly positioned amidst the Alaskan wilderness, and there are numerous hiking trails accessible from the property. More extensive hiking options await in the six million acres of Denali National Park, located just a mile away. You could take the lodge's shuttle to the Visitors Center, and after purchasing admission to Denali National Park, continue into the park using the park's free bus lines.

Take in the jaw-dropping panoramas from stunning lookout points, and enjoy hidden views from trails of various difficulties. If you prefer to set out with a guide, you can inquire about ranger-led walks at the Visitor's Center.

Staying at the lodge instead, you could relax at Denali Square, an outdoor entertainment and lounge area surrounded by beautiful scenery. There is also a gift shop on-site. Overnight Denali.

Day 12 - Discovering Alaskan culture along the Chena River

Leaving the wilderness behind this morning, an included coach transfer takes you to Alaska's "Golden Heart City," Fairbanks. Set beside the winding Chena River, the town has many cultural attractions reflecting life in the Last Frontier. One such element is the Riverboat Discovery, a historic paddlesteamer that gives you your first look at Fairbanks this afternoon.

Step aboard for a journey along the Chena River to its confluence with the Tanana. During the trip, we learn about the culture and history of the area from your knowledgeable guide. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the local wildlife and the bush planes that take off from these rivers. Disembarking the ship, you enter Chena Indian Village to learn about the history and culture of the area's indigenous people. Lunch is included with this remarkable cruise experience.

Back on the shore, you can check into your hotel for the night and get to know Fairbanks at your own pace. On your final night in Alaska, you might like to visit a restaurant serving Alaskan salmon, elk or reindeer. Overnight Fairbanks.

Includes
  • Lunch
Day 13 - Traveling home

By ship and train, sea and land, this journey has unveiled the beauty of Alaska over nearly two weeks of exploration. After departing from Vancouver, your Holland America cruise ship navigated the spectacular waters of Alaska's Inside Passage, pausing to explore Ketchikan's indigenous influences, Juneau's culture and Skagway's Gold Rush past before venturing through Glacier Bay and Prince William Sound to Whittier.

From Whittier, the journey took to land, traveling alongside the Turnagain Arm to Anchorage by coach and onward to Denali aboard the McKinley Explorer. Having explored Denali National Park on a memorable tour and Fairbanks aboard a steamboat, your journey comes to a close this morning. Upon checking out of your hotel, you are free to begin your travels home independently.

Additional information

Additional Information

It is your responsibility to check and fulfill the passport, visa, health and immigration requirements applicable to your itinerary. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel, or incur any other loss because you have not complied with any passport, visa, immigration requirements or health formalities. You agree to reimburse us in relation to any fines or other losses which we incur as a result of your failure to comply with any passport, visa, immigration requirements or health formalities.

Please note

Additional Port Tax of up to $325 per person not included. Pricing is based on standard level cabin category on Holland America Ship and may be subject to change at time of booking.

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours, they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. Please reference our Mobility Ratings Information, and if you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-929-7245.

Ship

 MS Westerdam
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