Welcome to Prestige Travel
We offer unparalleled service and expertise to our customers, with first-hand, in-depth knowledge of our destination. We are long-time members of ABTA and the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) and all our holidays which include international flights from the UK are ATOL protected. We offer 100% financial security.
The Prestige Tailor-Made Experience
Our Canadian specialists are on-hand to create your perfect holiday. The aim of this brochure is to inspire and help with your holiday plans. We love to share our passion for Canada & Alaska, so if you have something in mind not featured just give us a call - with so many holiday experiences available it’s impossible to fit all in one brochure.
What does it mean to book an expertly curated holiday with Prestige Travel?
Beautifully crafted itineraries: no two holidays are the same; this is your individual, much-anticipated holiday and is planned by one of our team who are on hand from quote stage through to your return.
On the ground support: we have everything covered while you are on holiday. While we check and double check all arrangements to ensure your holiday runs smoothly, our trusted partners are based in Canada so can easily be contacted if necessary and you can contact us too via a 24-hour emergency telephone number.
Holidays created through experience: every one of our Canadian team have visited the country on more than one occasion. When you call us, you speak to advisors who are committed to delivering the highest level of personal service, exceptional product knowledge and holiday planning from conception through to completion. Our experience will ensure you have the best possible holiday experience.
In the know: the tourism industry is continually changing: the opening of a new hotel or a wildlife experience just launched – we will know about it! We can truly say we are specialists who go above and beyond to share our exceptional knowledge gained over many years by our team who promote and visit only Canada…and Alaska!
Green credentials: we are dedicated to making environmental improvements to help foster a sustainably responsible business both in the short term and for years to come. We are continually researching initiatives to help us achieve our goals and will be fully transparent with how we get on with our greener Prestige approach.
Holiday Types
In the second largest country in the world, Canada offers a wealth of experiences from remote wildlife viewing lodges to exciting city stays, so the question is, what is YOUR perfect holiday? Our team are on hand to assist with your holiday planning but here’s some ways to explore Canada and Alaska.
Self Drive Holidays
The self-drive holidays featured in this brochure are based on popular routes with manageable daily driving distances. However, they can all be tailored to suit your requirements such as adding extra nights in one place and less in another, adding a special stay along the way or even operating the route in reverse order. Driving in Canada is pleasurable with wide open and well-signposted roads and is recommended for anyone who wants to be able to stop along the way in the knowledge, that once they reach their destination,a comfortable accommodation awaits them.
Escorted Tours
A ‘sit-back, relax and enjoy’ holiday in the company of like-minded travellers together with the care, guidance and assistance of a Tour Director accompanying you. All arrangements are taken care of, and your Tour Director will provide expert commentary and highlight points of interest along the way. We have a range of tours to choose, from deluxe which include most meals and sightseeing, to value tours where you can add the sightseeing excursions of particular interest to you.
Independent Rail & Coach Holidays
Travelling by coach and rail, these holidays are perfect if you don’t want to drive or be part of an escorted group. Your personalised itinerary will include all necessary services such as accommodation, transfers, rail journeys and sightseeing excursions; you can even add an Alaska cruise or a stay at a grizzly bear viewing lodge. Your holiday – your way!
Family Holidays
Canada offers a host of adventures suitable for families; road trips with excursions such as rafting, ziplining, cowboy cookouts and hiking to wildlife viewing lodges, city stays and even skiing holidays. We can tailor a holiday to suit your children’s ages to ensure all the family enjoy their time in Canada’s natural playground.
Wildlife Viewing Experiences
From day excursions to multi-night packages, wildlife viewing experiences abound in both Canada and Alaska. Black, grizzly, and polar bears, many species of whales, moose, elk and mountain sheep and a myriad of birdlife. Sometimes you’ll even see wildlife along the roadside and it’s not uncommon to get held up in a ‘bear jam’ when driving between Banff and Jasper!
Cruise Holidays
Alaska - ‘The Final Frontier’ awaits you and cruising offers the perfect way to explore coastal communities such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway as well as viewing towering glaciers and jagged mountain peaks. The waters are home to seals, sea lions, sea otters, whales and dolphins and bald eagles soaring overhead. As many cruise ships sail from Vancouver it’s so easy to add a cruise to your Western Canada holiday. We also offer cruises on the Eastern Seaboard between Québec and New England which are particularly popular during fall colour season as well as cruises along the St. Lawrence River between Kingson and Québec City.
Winter Holidays
World-famous ski resorts, Aurora Borealis viewing, scenic rail journeys, wildlife viewing, city stays and exciting adventures such as snowmobiling, ice skating and dog sledding – Canada offers so many different experiences in winter. It’s a season of fun and experiences; from downhill skiing to sitting by a huge log fire sipping hot chocolate, from exploring the pristine wilderness of an old growth forest by dogsled to enjoying a treatment at a luxury spa and from building snow people or having a snowball fight to enjoying a meal at a world-class restaurant, we are confident you will relish your Canadian winter holiday.
Many thanks to all Provinces, suppliers and organisations who have provided the images in this brochure.
Kenai
Seward
ALASKA
Mt. Denali
Anchorage
Fairbanks Tok
Whittier
Mt. Bona
Cordova
Fort Yukon
Banks Island
Victoria Island
Skagway
Juneau
Dawson Norman Wells
Fort Norman
YUKON TERRITORY
Whitehorse
NORTHERN TERRITORIES
Yellowknife
Fort Resolution
Fort Smith
Baker Lake
Haida
Gwaii
Hazelton
Prince Rupert
Prince George
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Port Hardy
Vancouver Island
Tofino
Campbell River
Vancouver
Victoria
Seattle
CANADA
Peace River
ALBERTA
Edmonton
Jasper
Banff
SASKATCHEWAN
Calgary
Medicine
Hat
Saskatoon
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Churchill
MANITOBA
Prince Albert
Regina
Winnipeg
Minneapolis
Canada is the world’s second largest country with ten provinces and three territories which extend from the Atlantic to the Pacific and northward into the Arctic Ocean – it’s no wonder that there are so many holiday experiences to choose from!
Self-Drive Tours
Suggested Routes
Our self-drive itineraries are based on popular routes with manageable driving distances. They can all be curated to suit your requirements, and, in most cases, the route can be reversed. Want to add a night and have less in another place, add excursions or a Rocky Mountaineer rail journey? No problem; just let us know. This is YOUR self-drive holiday planned with our expertise.
Accommodation
In most places there is a choice of hotels so just let us know what standard of accommodation you prefer.
Car Rental
Generally, we have included an intermediate size (unless noted otherwise) vehicle but, again it’s your holiday, and we can include an SUV or MVP if preferred. Please note that any one-way drop fees, fuel, hotel car parking charges or road toll fees are not included; see pages 22 and 23 for more information on AVIS car rental.
Attractions & Excursions
Within some of the itineraries we have included excursions that we consider are ‘must-dos’. However, they can be taken out or additional excursions added. Where possible, we have included any necessary ferry journeys.
National Park Fees
A fee applies for entrance to National Parks; more information on the applicable charges, which you can pre-pay or pay locally, can be found at www.pc.gc.ca
Best of the West 16
This trip fully deserves its name. From the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver on the Pacific Ocean travel east through the Okanagan Valley with its myriad of lakes and orchards, through Glacier National Park to the world-renowned resort regions of Banff and Jasper. Then, via Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Wells Gray Provincial Park and the Cariboo Region travel to the mountain resort of Whistler. Then, board a BC Ferry bound for Vancouver Island, where, in Victoria, be sure to visit Butchart Gardens to view the spectacular floral displays and enjoy a 3-hour whale watching excursion.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 2 nights
2. Kelowna (396 km) 1 night
3. Revelstoke (198 km) 1 night
4. Banff (251 km) 2 nights
5. Jasper (288 km) 2 nights
6. Clearwater (318 km) 2 nights
7. Whistler (422 km) 2 nights
8. Parksville (112 km land only) 1 night
9. Victoria (150 km) 2 nights
10. Ends Vancouver (70 km land only)
days
Departure Dates May to October
Tour Includes
• 15 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 5-hour Vancouver city tour including Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
• 14 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Ice Explorer ride & Glacier Skywalk en route to Jasper
• BC Ferry – Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
• 3-hour whale watching excursion in Victoria
• BC Ferry – Victoria (Swartz Bay) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
The Okanagan region of British Columbia is known for its sunny climate, dry landscapes, and lakeshore communities. It’s home to orchards and scores of excellent wineries whose vines spread across the terraced hills.
Wildlife Discovery 13
For lovers of wildlife and scenery this is the tour for you! Spend time in Vancouver before travelling to Victoria, provincial capital of British Columbia, by BC Ferry. Here you’ll enjoy a 3-hour whale watching excursion as well as time to visit the world famous Butchart Gardens.
Your tour continues with the scenic drive to Tofino, located on one of the world’s most pristine coastlines, where a black bear viewing excursion and whale watching gives opportunities to see an impressive array of wildlife. Then, from Campbell River, a thrilling floatplane journey takes you to the remote Knight Inlet Lodge for outstanding grizzly bear viewing which is sure to be a highlight of your holiday.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 3 nights
2. Victoria (70 km land only) 2 nights
3. Tofino/Ucluelet (320 km) 3 nights
4. Campbell River (290 km) / Knight Inlet Lodge 3 night package. Please see page 53 for more information
5. Vancouver (160 km land only) 1 night
days
Tour Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 2-day hop-on/hop-off sightseeing pass
• 10 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• BC Ferry – Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay)
• 3-hour whale watching excursion in Victoria
• 2-hour whale watching excursion in Tofino/Ucluelet
• 2-hour black bear viewing excursion in Tofino/Ucluelet
• 3 night Knight Inlet Lodge Package
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
In Clayoquot Sound, black bears head to the shoreline at low tide to forage on their favourite food, rock crabs, and other molluscs. This is the ideal opportunity to view the bears in their natural habitat.
Lakes & Lodges of Western Canada 15
Throughout the Rocky Mountains there’s lodge accommodation that takes you away from the standard hotels and they are often located on beautiful lakeshores. These settings offer a host of activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and hiking but there’s so much more to discover in each general area too.
While staying at Field, in Yoho National Park, visit Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest in Canada. In Gold Bridge you can pan for gold, horse ride, or enjoy a wildlife viewing excursion and in Whistler experience the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which links Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains for stunning 360-degree views.
Itinerary
1. Banff 2 nights
2. Field (83 km) 2 nights
3. Jasper (237 km) 2 nights
4. Clearwater (318 km) 2 nights
5. Gold Bridge (398 km) 2 nights
6. Whistler (185 km) 2 nights
7. Vancouver (122 km) 2 nights
days
Departure Dates May to September
Tour Includes
• 14 nights accommodation
• 13 days standard SUV hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Banff Gondola
• Ice Explorer ride & Glacier Skywalk en route to Jasper
• Peak 2 Peak Gondola
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Yoho is a Cree expression of amazement or awe, an apt description for the park’s spectacular landscape.
National Parks & Pacific Coast 15
Experience a wide variety of quintessential western landscapes, unforgettable wildlife viewing and adventure. This comprehensive itinerary stretches from the world-famous Banff and Jasper National Parks, through the Cariboo Region to the mountain resort of Whistler, which, while known as a great ski resort, offers a host of summer activities too.
From there, board a BC Ferry to Vancouver Island for an overnight stay at Parksville before driving across the island to the coastal resorts of Tofino/ Ucluelet. Then, it’s on to Victoria, followed by a return ferry journey to Vancouver to enjoy time in this magnificent city.
Itinerary
1. Banff (127 km) 2 nights
2. Jasper (288 km) 2 nights
3. Clearwater (318 km) 1 night
4. Whistler (422 km) 2 nights
5. Parksville (112 km land only) 1 night
6. Tofino/Ucluelet (224 km) 2 nights
7. Victoria (320 km) 2 nights
8. Vancouver (70 km land only) 2 nights
days
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Tour Includes
• 14 nights accommodation
• 15 days standard SUV hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Banff Gondola
• Ice Explorer ride & Glacier Skywalk en route to Jasper
• Peak 2 Peak Gondola
• BC Ferry – Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
• 2-hour black bear viewing in Tofino/Ucluelet
• 3-hour whale watching excursion in Victoria
• Butchart Gardens admission
• BC Ferry – Victoria (Swartz Bay) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
• 5-hour Vancouver city tour including Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
• Comprehensive documentation pack
Western Explorer & Inside Passage 14
Rugged shorelines, lush rainforests, towering mountain passes and secluded wildlife habitat –all this and more awaits you on this itinerary. The coastal cities of British Columbia range from the sparkling metropolis of Vancouver to the quiet fishing village of Port Hardy. Here, you’ll board your BC Ferry bound for Prince Rupert. Your drive then continues along the scenic Skeena River Valley, eastwards passing wilderness forests and lakes, through the Cariboo Region and the Yellowhead Highway passing Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Your adventure ends with time in both Jasper and Banff National Parks admiring the stunning scenery.
Itinerary
days
Departure Dates Mid-May to late September
To fit in with operational dates of BC Ferry between Port Hardy and Prince Rupert
Tour Includes
• 13 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 5-hour Vancouver city tour including Capilano Suspension Bridge
• 12 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• BC Ferry - Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Swartz Bay (Victoria)
• 3-hour whale watching excursion in Victoria
• BC Ferry Inside Passage from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert
• Ice Explorer ride and Glacier Skywalk en-route to Banff
• Banff Gondola
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
10.
11.
The ferry journey between Port Hardy and Prince Rupert travels the famed Inside Passage. Keep a watch out for orcas, humpback whales, seals and bald eagles along the way.
Rockies Drive and Rail
Explore the two neighbouring provinces of Alberta and British Columbia and enjoy time in Banff and Jasper, two incredible National Parks, the interior of British Columbia as well as the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver.
A highlight is sure to be the 2-day all-daylight Rocky Mountaineer train journey between Jasper and Vancouver which takes you through a dramatically changing countryside as you travel through valleys, canyons, and mountain passes. See lush forests, marvel at pristine lakes, and take in the sight of the magnificent Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Itinerary
Overnight
8 days
Departure Dates May to October
Selected dates to fit in with operational schedule of Rocky Mountaineer
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• 4 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Banff Gondola
• Ice Explorer ride and Glacier Skywalk en route to Jasper
• Transfer from Jasper hotel to station
• 2-day Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service between Jasper and Vancouver including breakfast and lunch both days
• Transfer from Vancouver station to hotel
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Don’t want to drive? We can arrange the same itinerary with sightseeing transfers – call us for more information on this and the Rocky Mountaineer train.
1. Banff (127 km) 2 nights 2. Jasper (288 km) 2 nights 3. Rocky Mountaineer train to Kamloops 1 night 4. Rocky Mountaineer train to Vancouver 2 nightsUnlimited Adventures 16 days
A spectacular adventure packed with world class resorts and a mosaic of landscapes awaits you as you travel from the towering mountains of the Rockies to the rugged coastlines of the Pacific Ocean. From urban Calgary, head for the Rocky Mountains and the wilderness of Banff National Park.
This discovery tour of Canada’s national parks continues along the scenic Icefields Parkway to Jasper followed by Wells Gray Provincial Park. Relax at Tyax Lodge near Gold Bridge, then enjoy the outdoor paradise of Whistler before heading to the Pacific Rim National Park on the west coast of Vancouver. Complete your adventure with time roaming the quaint streets of Victoria and cosmopolitan Vancouver.
Itinerary
1. Banff (127 km) 3 nights
2. Jasper (288 km) 2 nights
3. Clearwater (318 km) 1 night
4. Gold Bridge (397 km) 2 nights
5. Whistler (182 km) 2 nights
6. Tofino/Ucluelet (275 km land only) 2 nights
7. Victoria (194 km) 1 night
8. Vancouver (70 km land only) 2 nights
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Tour Includes
• 15 nights accommodation
• 14 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Banff Gondola
• Ice Explorer ride & Glacier Skywalk en route to Jasper
• Peak 2 Peak Gondola
• BC Ferry – Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
• 2-hour black bear viewing in Tofino/Ucluelet
• BC Ferry – Victoria (Swartz Bay) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Take the Banff Gondola to the pinnacle of Sulphur Mountain for an awe-inspiring 360-degree view of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the charming town of Banff.
days
Mountain Parks Discovery 11
Starting in Calgary this circular itinerary covers less travelled roads through or near six major protected parklands, four mountain ranges and places with such evocative names as Valley of a Thousand Lakes and “majestic” Elk Valley.
Kootenay, Yoho and Glacier National Parks as well as Goat Range and Valhalla Provincial Parks are the ideal environments for either sightseeing by car or walking/hiking. Enjoy a dip in the therapeutic waters of natural hot springs at Halcyon, Crazy Creek, and Ainsworth and experience Gold Rush history at Nelson.
Itinerary
1. Calgary 2 nights
2. Kananaskis (75 km) 1 night
3. Radium Hot Springs/Invermere (278 km) 1 night
4. Nelson (373 km) 2 nights
5. Revelstoke (250 km) 2 nights
6. Field (202 km) 2 nights
7. Ends Calgary (225 km)
Departure Dates May to October
Tour Includes
• 10 nights accommodation
• 11 days intermediate car rental with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Ice Explorer ride & Glacier Skywalk en route to Jasper
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
From Revelstoke visit Craigellachie where, on 7 November 1885, the last spike was driven into the Canadian Pacific Railway, marking the end to construction of Canada’s transcontinental railway.
Vancouver Island Coastal Discovery 8
How best to describe Vancouver Island? It’s a region of contrasts where sandy beaches are backed by temperate rain forests in Pacific Rim National Park. Here, you’ll see stunning sunsets over the vast Pacific Ocean, a wow moment in time.
Enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing including black bears, whales, bald eagles and more. See the stunning beauty of the Inside Passage and the majestic Douglas fir trees at Cathedral Grove – the park’s name will make perfect sense when you see sunlight filtering through the soaring 80-metre trees.
Itinerary
days
Departure Dates May to October
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• 3-hour whale watching excursion in Victoria
• 6 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• 2-hour black bear viewing in Tofino/Ucluelet
• 2-hour whale watching excursion in Tofino/Ucluelet
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Why not extend your holiday and travel further north on the Island for a stay at a grizzly bear viewing lodge or add a stay at Vancouver – call us for more information.
West Coast Wonders by Motorhome 14
The freedom of the open road awaits you! No set itinerary, no deadlines, overnight at scenic campsites by the water or in the forest, enjoy the great outdoors and stay where you want for as long as you want.
A motorhome holiday is great fun for all the family. Our suggested itinerary, shown below, travels through the wine region of the Okanagan Valley, Glacier, Banff and Jasper National Parks, Wells Gray Provincial Park, home to Helmcken Falls, the fourth highest waterfall in Canada and Whistler.
Suggested Itinerary
1. Vancouver 2 nights
2. Okanagan Valley (391 km) 1 night
3. Revelstoke (200 km) 2 nights
4. Banff/Lake Louise area (284 km) 2 nights
5. Jasper (288 km) 2 nights
6. Wells Gray Park area (318 km) 2 nights
7. Whistler (422 km) 2 nights
8. Ends Vancouver (121 km)
days
Departure Dates April to October
Tour Includes
• 2 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 12 days rental of C-Medium Motorhome (sleeps up to 5 people) with unlimited mileage, vehicle preparation fee, personal kit for each person, transfer from selected downtown/airport hotels to depot, CDR (Collision Damage Reducer), and CDW (Collison Deductible Waiver). Motorhome rental is with Fraserway see pages 162 and 163 for more information.
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Motorhome rental not available for pick-up on Sundays nor on the same day as international flight arrival.
Best of the East 16
Our Best of the East itinerary offers a journey through the urban centres and rural splendour of Ontario and Québec, celebrating Canada’s English and French heritage. Visit cosmopolitan Toronto, Montréal, the second-largest French speaking city in the world, historic Québec City, the only walled city in North America and Canada’s capital, Ottawa.
Starting in Toronto, travel along Lake Ontario to the tranquil Thousand Islands resort region then east to take in the unique flavour and architecture of French Canada. The northern journey from Ottawa travels through Algonquin Provincial Park to Niagara Falls, one of the world’s natural wonders.
Itinerary
1. Toronto 2 nights
2. Kingston (260 km) 2 nights
3. Montréal (290 km) 2 nights
4. Québec City (250 km) 3 nights
5. Ottawa (460 km) 2 nights
6. Huntsville (350 km) 2 nights
7. Niagara Falls (330 km) 2 nights
8. Ends Toronto (129 km)
days
Departure Dates Mid-May to mid-October
Tour Includes
• 15 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Toronto airport to hotel
• Toronto hop-on/hop-off city tour
• Toronto harbour boat cruise
• CN Tower admission
• 14 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Kingston 1000 Islands lunch cruise & 24-hour hop-on/hop-off tour
• 3.5-hour Montréal City tour
• 2-hour Québec City tour
• Niagara Falls Adventure Pass
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Thousand Island dressing reportedly gets its name from the Thousand Island region of Canada, a group of 1,864 small islands, situated along the Canada-US border, in the Saint Lawrence River.
Ontario’s Playground 12 days
The province of Ontario offers unlimited outdoor adventures, cosmopolitan cities, sporting fixtures, wilderness and wildlife and our Ontario’s Playground is a great, family-friendly itinerary.
While including time in Toronto, a metropolis to rival New York, with theatres hosting Broadway productions, it also features time in Niagara Falls, Blue Mountain region and a stay at Elmhirst’s Resort near Keene, in ‘cottage country’ – a term used by Ontarians to describe a region dotted with clear lakes perfect for canoeing, kayaking, swimming and other water activities – Elmhirst’s Resort fits that perfectly as its located on the shoreline of Rice Lake and accommodation is in a lakefront cottage.
Itinerary
1. Toronto 3 nights
2. Niagara Falls (130 km) 2 nights
3. Blue Mountain (240 km) 3 nights
4. Elmhirst’s Resort (242 km) 3 nights
5. Ends Toronto (162 km)
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Tour Includes
• 11 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Toronto airport to hotel
• Toronto hop-on/hop-off city tour
• Toronto harbour boat cruise
• CN Tower admission
• 9 days intermediate care hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Niagara Falls Adventure Pass
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
‘CN’ in the name of the CN Tower originally referred to Canadian National, the railway company that built the tower. The views from the observation deck are stunning; see not only the city but Lake Ontario too.
Great Lakes Treasures 17 days
A captivating urban centre, dramatic northern scenery, peaceful woodland landscapes and fascinating Indigenous culture are combined in this adventurous itinerary revealing the unique character of Ontario. The towering city skyline of Toronto and its urban landscape are contrasted against a journey into the majestic northern forests. An unforgettable stay at an indigenous-operated wilderness retreat on the remote Manitoulin Island is one of the highlights of this journey. Visit vibrant northern communities to get a sense of how the resource-rich landscape has shaped the lifestyles of its residents. End your adventure with a stay at Niagara-on-the-Lake, a historic, picturesque community with its elegant homes, quaint inns, galleries, and speciality shops.
Itinerary
1. Toronto 2 nights
2. Huntsville (220 km) 2 nights
3. Killarney (262 km) 2 nights
4. Timmins (413 km) 2 nights
5. Wawa (330 km) 1 night
6. Sault Ste. Marie (227 km) 2 nights
7. Manitoulin Island (343 km) 2 nights
8. Tobermory (69 km land only) 1 night
9. Niagara-on-the-Lake (380 km) 2 nights
10. Ends Toronto (129 km)
Departure Dates June to September
Please note that ferry from South Baymouth to Tobermory is not included and cannot be pre-booked.
Tour Includes
• 16 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Toronto airport to hotel
• 15 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Toronto hop-on/hop-off city tour
• Toronto harbour boat cruise
• CN Tower admission
• Voyage to the Falls boat Tour
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Manitoulin Island, in Lake Huron, is the largest freshwater island in the world, large enough that it has over 100 inland lakes itself!
Eastern Express 10
Embark on this 10-day journey through the urban centres and rural splendour of Ontario and Québec celebrating Canada’s English and French heritage. While in Toronto enjoy a full-day sightseeing excursion to Niagara Falls including the Hornblower Voyage to the Falls boat cruise. After picking up your rental vehicle, travel from Toronto to the nation’s capital, Ottawa, where you’ll see the neo-gothic Parliament Buildings and the Rideau Canal designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Then, travel east and crossing into Québec, the scenic highway continues along the St. Lawrence River to the walled centre of Québec City. Turning inland to the Saguenay region, the rolling hills and dense forests promise to enchant en route to Trois-Rivières and Montréal – the second largest French speaking city in the world. Returning to Ontario, enjoy a 1000 Islands boat cruise at Rockport before reaching historic Kingston which was once Canada’s capital.
Itinerary
1. Toronto 2 nights
2. Ottawa (402 km) 2 nights
3. Québec City (444 km) 2 nights
4. Montréal (256 km) 2 nights
5. Kingston (294 km) 1 night
6. Ends Toronto (263 km)
days
Departure Dates May to October
Tour Includes
• 9 nights accommodation
• Full-day sightseeing tour of Niagara Falls
• 8 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• 1-hour 1000 Islands cruise from Rockport
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Early October is fall colour viewing where the landscapes bursts with vibrant shades of orange, red and yellow. Truly a spectacular sight.
Quintessential Québec 14 days
The province of Québec is Canada’s oldest and largest and has a unique Gallic charm. The vibrant art and culture of French Canada are the driving forces of Montréal and Québec City, expressed through their architecture, museums, restaurants, cobblestoned streets, and historic ports on the St. Lawrence River. Outside of the cities, there are national parks to explore, wildlife to view and, mountain and lakeside resorts for relaxation. Whale watching on the St. Lawrence River is an amazing experience; in the distance you’ll see huge container ships while searching for a variety of whale species – finback, humpback, beluga and minke whales are often seen – along with a host of marine birdlife.
Itinerary
1. Montréal 2 nights
2. Mont Tremblant (120 km) 2 nights
3. Saint Alexis des Monts (172 km) 3 nights
4. Chambord (330 km) 1 night
5. Tadoussac (280 km) 2 nights
6. Québec City (220 km) 3 nights
7. End Montréal (250 km)
Departure
Tour Includes
• 13 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Montréal Airport to hotel
• 12 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Whale watching excursion in Tadoussac
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only walled city north of Mexico. History abounds; visit the Citadel, the Basilica Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Plains of Abraham and wander the cobblestoned streets viewing the 18th and 19th Century architecture.
Classic Maritimes
Explorer 16 days
Canada’s Maritime Provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, form a truly unique region. Influenced by both the Labrador Current and the Gulf Stream, they face both the open Atlantic Ocean and the sheltered Gulf of St. Lawrence. On this itinerary you will experience all “Five Seas” of Atlantic Canada: the mighty Atlantic Ocean, the Northumberland Strait, with the warmest waters north of the Carolinas, the Bay of Fundy, with the world’s highest tides, the Bras D’Or Lake, Cape Breton Island’s huge, salt “inland sea” and the sheltered Gulf of St. Lawrence. Pristine coastline, Celtic cultures, sandy beaches, amazing sea stacks, and incredible seafood; all yours to discover on this Classic Maritimes itinerary.
Itinerary
1. Halifax 2 nights
2. Lunenburg (145 km) 2 nights
3. Smiths Cove (146 km) 2 nights
4. St. Andrews by the Sea (100 km land only) 2 nights
5. Alma (233 km) 1 night
6. Charlottetown (243 km) 3 nights
7. Baddeck (268 km land only) 2 nights
8. Liscomb (204 km) 1 night
9. End Halifax (172 km)
Departure Dates June to September
Ferry from Wood Island, Prince Edward Island to Caribou, Nova Scotia not included
Tour Includes
• 15 nights accommodation
• 14 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Digby to Saint John ferry for passengers and car
• 3.5-hour whale watching by Tall Ship excursion in St. Andrews by the Sea
• Admission to Hopewell Rocks
Provincial Park
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Recommended visits include the fictional home of Anne of Green Gables featured in the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery during your stay in Charlottetown and Fortress of Louisbourg, Canada’s largest National Historic Site while in Nova Scotia.
Newfoundland & Labrador Explorer 15 days
Canada’s most easterly province celebrates European and Indigenous histories amidst a diverse landscape of coastlines, mountains, deep fjords, and untouched nature. Starting in the incredibly colourful city of St. John’s, Canada’s oldest city, where you can stroll along the harbour past Arctic exploration and fishing vessels from all over the world. Your journey then heads to Twillingate where, in summer you can see icebergs and whales, and then to Rocky Harbour, gateway to Gros Morne National Park. Driving north you’ll reach L’Anse Au Claire in Labrador known for its historical and eco-tourism. Travelling back to Newfoundland enjoy sightseeing stops at St. Anthony, and Cow Head.
Itinerary
1. St. John’s 2 nights
2. Trinity (269 km) 2 nights
3. Twillingate (309 km) 2 nights
4. Rocky Harbour (425 km) 2 nights
5. L’Anse Au Clair (240 km land only) 2 nights
6. St. Anthony (133 km land only) 2 nights
7. Cow Head (304 km) 1 night
8. Gander (418 km) 1 night
9. Ends St. John’s (333 km)
Departure Dates Late May to September
Tour Includes
• 14 nights accommodation
• 15 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• 2-hour Iceberg and whale watching cruise from Twillingate
• Admission to Gros Morne National Park
• Return ferry transfers from St Barbe to Blanc Sablon
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
The water around this region is home to 20 species of whales and colonies of gannets, puffins, murres, and kittiwakes who benefit from rich ocean currents and gather in tens of thousands on islands and rocks. There’s a high density of moose and black bear in Gros Morne National Park and the province is home to one of the world’s largest caribou herds.
Yukon
Gold 12 days
The Yukon is a pristine wilderness area with a rich cultural heritage, fascinating gold rush history, legendary road trips, breathtaking scenery, trails to hike and rivers to paddle, all wrapped up in Northern hospitality. Here, you can enjoy the glorious midnight sun and the magical northern lights, a bucket list item for so many travellers. Whitehorse, the capital city, is an eclectic mix of old and new buildings and has an amazing restaurant scene. Between 1896 and 1899, the Klondike region was home to thousands of gold prospectors and Dawson City, retains much of the history of that time. Kluane National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to seventeen of Canada’s tallest mountains including Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak and the largest non-polar icefields in the world. Our itinerary crosses over to Alaska at Tok on the famed Alaska Highway.
Itinerary
1. Whitehorse 2 nights
2. Skagway (176 km) 1 night
3. Haines (8 km land only) 1 night
4. Haines Junction (238 km) 2 nights
5. Tok (467 km) 1 night
6. Dawson City (287 km) 3 nights
7. Whitehorse (532 km) 1 night
Departure Dates May to September
Tour Includes
• 11 nights accommodation (please note that accommodation choices in some areas are limited and we will include properties that are the best available at time of booking)
• 12 days standard SUV hire with 2nd driver, and unlimited mileage (rental will be with Driving Force)
• Alaska Marine Highway Ferry between Skagway & Haines
• 1-hour flightseeing excursion - Kluane National Park
In the Know
Flights to Whitehorse operate via Vancouver so why not add a stay there to complement your Yukon Gold holiday?
Yukon & Alaska Explorer 15 days
Combining visits to Canada’s rugged Yukon and the dramatic state of Alaska, this adventure travels through some breathtaking scenery including Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali. Gold Rush towns such as Dawson City in the Yukon still speak of fortunes made and lost at the end of the 18th century with original and restored building showcasing the daily life of those early prospectors. You’ll drive along famed roads including the Alaska, Top of the World and Klondike Highways, and watch out for wildlife including Dall sheep, bears, and caribou. So many highlights will end with a trip on the world-famous narrow gauge White Pass and Yukon Route Railway.
Itinerary
Departure Dates Early May to September
Tour Includes
• 14 nights accommodation (please note that accommodation choices in some areas are limited and we will include properties that are the best available at time of booking)
• 15 days standard SUV rental including 2nd driver and unlimited mileage (rental will be with Driving Force)
• 1-hour flightseeing tour of Kluane National Park
• Full day White Pass & Yukon Route Railway excursion
In the Know
This tour is also available as an Anchorage round trip with same overnight stays but on an alternative route.
Escorted Tours
General Information
A ‘sit-back and enjoy’ holiday with the added pleasure of being with likeminded travellers together with the care, guidance and assistance of a Tour Director accompanying you. All arrangements are taken care of, and your Tour Director will provide expert commentary and is always on hand to ensure your comfort and enjoyment throughout your tour.
Tour Itineraries
We work with a range of group tour operators, thus provide differing levels of service and inclusions to suit any budget. While tour itineraries can’t be changed, we can add non-escorted pre and post tour arrangements. For example, add a cruise to Alaska to any tour ending in Vancouver, add a stay with friends or family, or perhaps even a stay in Calgary to coincide with operational dates of the Stampede.
Escorted
Rockies Trail 10 days
Starting in Calgary, this tour explores the neighbouring provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. Journey to Banff and Jasper National Parks enjoying the scenery of mountain peaks, glaciers, thundering waterfalls, and deep canyons. At the Columbia Icefield board a specially constructed ice explorer vehicle to ride on the surface of the Athabasca Glacier, a unique experience. Leaving Jasper, travel west along the Yellowhead Highway into the interior of British Columbia following the Thompson River through the Shuswap Highlands to Kamloops. From there it’s a day of dramatic scenery changes through ranch lands to the Coast Mountains and the resort town of Whistler. This is an itinerary full of highlights and another will be the drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, followed by a BC Ferry cruise across the Strait of Georgia to Victoria. The tour ends in Vancouver where you will enjoy a city tour.
1. Calgary 1 night
2.
3.
4.
5.
1 night
1 night
1 night
6. Victoria 2 nights
7. Vancouver 1 night
Departure Dates June to September with guaranteed departures
Tour Includes
• 9 nights accommodation
• Daily (9) breakfast and one dinner
• Calgary, Victoria, and Vancouver sightseeing tours
• Banff region tour
• Ice Explorer ride on Athabasca Glacier
• BC Ferry to and from Vancouver Island
• Butchart Gardens admission
• Experienced Tour Director
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
In the Know
This itinerary fits in perfectly with a 7 night Alaska cruise roundtrip from Vancouver – see pages 69 to 73 for more information.
Banff 2 nights Jasper Kamloops WhistlerRockies Explorer & Alaska Cruise 12
This luxury tour allows you to discover the essence of Western Canada in true comfort and style; enjoy excellent accommodation staying primarily at 5* hotels (except Kamloops), a host of unforgettable dining experiences, enriching sightseeing, and exceptional service. From a guaranteed Lakeview Room at Fairmont Chateau
Lake Louise to GoldLeaf Service aboard the Rocky Mountaineer and Meet a Mountie experience you will appreciate the touches that make this tour so special. Group size is limited to 40 guests to ensure the most rewarding exploration possible.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 2 nights
2. Rocky Mountaineer train to Kamloops 1 night
Overnight 3* accommodation in Kamloops included as part of 2-day Rocky Mountaineer train journey.
3. Rocky Mountaineer train to Banff 2 nights
4. Lake Louise 1 night
5. Jasper 1 night
6. Sun Peaks 1 night
7. Whistler 1 night
8. Victoria 2 nights
9. Depart Vancouver or Alaska Cruise 7 nights
or 19 days
Departure Dates Regular departures
April to September
Tour Includes
• 11 nights accommodation
• Rocky Mountaineer 2-day journey between Vancouver and Banff in GoldLeaf Service
• 19 meals – 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 6 dinners (plus all meals from dinner on day 12 to breakfast on day 19 if taking cruise option)
• Arrival and departure transfers
• Sightseeing excursions
• Gratuities for driver and tour director
• 7 night Holland America Alaksa cruise in a Verandah stateroom if taking the cruise option
In the Know
As part of this tour, you’ll meet a Mountie in Banff, enjoy breakfast at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park’s Cliff House Restaurant in Vancouver and visit Butchart Gardens in Victoria before it gets busy and have breakfast in the original Butchart family residence.
Passage Through the Rockies & Alaska Cruise
From the city of Calgary to Vancouver on the Pacific Coast this tour gives you the opportunity to view a wide range of scenic highlights including Banff and Jasper National Parks, the Cariboo region, and the Coast Mountain Range. This superior tour includes good quality accommodation, must-see sights, and a selection of meals. Highlights include the stunning scenery of the Icefields Parkway, a ride onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier onboard an Ice Explorer vehicle, wildlife viewing on a river safari to Grizzly Bear Valley and a farewell dinner at Butchart Gardens in Victoria.
Itinerary
12 or 19 days
Departure Dates Regular departures April to September
Tour Includes
• 11 nights accommodation
• Arrival and departure transfers
• 15 meals – 11 breakfasts and 4 dinners (plus all meals from dinner on day 12 to breakfast on day 19 if taking cruise option)
• Sightseeing excursions
• Travel by comfortable motor coach
• Gratuities for driver and tour director
• 7 night Holland America Alaska cruise in an Oceanview stateroom if taking the cruise option
In the Know
Why not take the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer for the 2-day all-daylight journey from Jasper to Vancouver travelling in either SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf Service? Breakfast and lunch included both days and, on arrival at Vancouver, you’ll re-join the tour. Additional cost applies.
Western Journey
Travelling by modern motor coach, this great value tour takes you from the ‘cowboy’ city of Calgary, through Banff National Park, the Cariboo region of British Columbia’s interior, the mountain resort of Whistler and ends in Vancouver. Marvel at sparkling glaciers, plunging canyons, and raging rivers, travel the paths explored by fur traders, gold prospectors, cowboys and the mounted officers that policed them. Search for wildlife including elk, mountain goats and mountain sheep and experience Western Canada hospitality in mountain resorts and prairie frontier towns.
Itinerary
1. Calgary 1 night
2. Canmore 2 nights
3. Kamloops 1 night
4. Whistler 1 night
5. Vancouver 2 nights
8 days
Departure Dates May to September with guaranteed departures
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• Daily breakfast (7)
• Calgary, Banff, and Vancouver sightseeing tours
• Transportation by modern motor coach
• Experienced Tour Director
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
In the Know
This tour fits perfectly with Eastern Journey (see page 35) to form a 14 night cross Canada itinerary or why not add a cruise to Alaska?
Eastern Journey 8
A great value tour that takes you on a journey to discover the delights of the major cities in Eastern Canada. The fortified towns, canals and historic forts of Canada’s founding cultures comfortably coexist with cosmopolitan cities boasting world-class attractions, hotels, and restaurants. Urban adventures make way for the splendour of the Laurentian Mountains, the majestic St. Lawrence River and the beautiful Thousand Islands resort region. Highlights include a visit to Niagara Falls, a visit to Canada’s capital, Ottawa, Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and views of Montréal from the summit of Mount Royal.
Itinerary
days
Departure Dates May to September with guaranteed departures.
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• Daily breakfast (7)
• Toronto & Niagara Falls sightseeing tour
• Ottawa, Québec City & Montréal sightseeing tours
• Transportation by modern motor coach
• Experienced Tour Director
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
In the Know
The Rideau Canal connects Ottawa to Lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River at Kingston and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Canadian Highlights
This superior tour starts at Toronto and includes a sightseeing tour with admission to the CN Tower and a full day visit to Niagara Falls. Here enjoy a Voyage to the Falls cruise – get up close to witness the force of nature. Fly to Calgary – gateway to the Canadian Rockies. Travel along the Icefields Parkway and enjoy the stunning scenery, glistening glaciers, waterfalls, turquoise mountain lakes, and deep canyons. A stop at the Columbia Icefields for the Ice Explorer ride onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier allows for a unique experience. Reaching British Columbia, ranch lands are revealed on the drive to Kamloops and the Coast Mountains en route to Whistler. Then see the beautiful Gulf Islands as you cross the Strait of Georgia by BC Ferry to Victoria and as you return to Vancouver for your final night.
Itinerary
13 days
Departure Dates June to September with guaranteed departures
Tour Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• 13 meals – 12 breakfasts & 1 dinner
• Toronto city tour including CN Tower
• Niagara Falls excursion
• Toronto to Calgary flight (economy class)
• Transfers between hotels & airports in Toronto & Calgary
• Banff & Lake Louise region tour
• Ice Explorer ride at the Columbia Icefields
• BC Ferry cruise through the Gulf Islands
• Victoria sightseeing tour including admission to Butchart Gardens
• Vancouver sightseeing tour
• Transportation by modern motor coach
• Local guide in Toronto
• Experienced Tour Director from Calgary to Vancouver
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
Eastern Explorer 12
days
A relaxed paced tour of Eastern Canada with exploration of not only the major cities but Muskoka cottage country and Niagara Falls too. Multicultural Toronto is the starting point, followed by Montréal, Québec City and Ottawa. These cities are very diverse, from the glass skyscrapers of Toronto with CN Tower dominating the landscape to Québec City with its ancient walls and ornate city gates. The journey west from Ottawa is highlighted by a visit to Algonquin Provincial Park and the Muskoka resort region. With so many experiences on this comprehensive tour it will be hard to pick a favourite but a thrilling boat ride to the base of Niagara Falls, lunch at the Sucrerie de la Montagne (an authentic ‘sugar shack’) and farewell dinner at the CN Tower are sure to be on the list!
Itinerary
Tour Includes
• 11 nights accommodation
• 13 meals – 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner
• Toronto, Montréal, Québec City and Ottawa sightseeing tours
• Thousand Islands boat cruise
• Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons visit
• Hornblower Niagara Cruises –Voyage to the Falls
• Transportation by modern motor coach
• Experienced Tour Director
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
Departure Dates May to September with guaranteed departures 1.
In the Know
Sucrerie de la Montagne is an authentic ‘sugar shack’, located amid a 120-acre forest of century-old maple trees and gives visitors a glimpse of life as it was for Québec pioneers.
Atlantic Maritimes
The Maritime provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island are yours to discover on this comprehensive, delightful tour. Learn about the Scottish, Acadian and Indigenous heritage widely celebrated throughout the region. All the main sightseeing attractions are included such as a visit to Hopewell Rocks at Fundy National Park where the force of the world’s highest tides has sculpted some amazing rock formations, visit Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place and Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, and cross the 13 km Confederation Bridge, which links New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.
Itinerary
13 days
Departure Dates Selected Tuesdays from May to October with guaranteed departures
Small group departures also available with maximum 24 passengers
Tour Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• Daily breakfast (12), 4 lunches and 5 dinners
• Shediac Bay Lobster Dinner Cruise
• Hopewell Rocks & Fundy National Park
• Saint John sightseeing tour
• Peggy’s Cove & Lunenburg walking tour
• Charlottetown walking tour
• Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place
• Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
• Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
• Transportation by modern motor coach
• Experienced Tour Director
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
In the Know
The Confederation Bridge is a world engineering feat connecting Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick over the Northumberland Strait and is the longest bridge in the world over ice-covered waters.
Enchanting Islands
The Maritime Islands of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island offer, as you would expect, some amazing coastal vistas including the Cabot Trail that winds around the rocky splendour of Cape Breton’s northern shore and the red cliffs of Prince Edward Island National Park. This comprehensive tour includes time in Halifax, Charlottetown, and Baddeck giving a host of sightseeing activities and excursions for a truly memorable island adventure. Highlights include visits to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a visit to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, Green Gables Heritage Site, the alluring inspiration of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic books, and Louisbourg National Historic Site to discover what life was like in the bustling French fortified town in 1744.
Itinerary
8 days
Departure Dates Selected Sundays from June to October with guaranteed departures
Small group departures also available with maximum 24 passengers
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• Daily breakfast (7), 1 lunch and 4 dinners
• Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg walking tour
• Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place
• Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site
• Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
• Transportation by modern motor coach
• Experienced Tour Director
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
In the Know
Prince Edward Island is the smallest province in Canada and is known as the ‘Birthplace of Confederation’ as it was here that meetings took place with led to the Canadian Confederation on 1st July 1867.
Circle Newfoundland & Labrador
13 days
The province of Newfoundland & Labrador is the most easterly in Canada and is made up of the island of Newfoundland and the continental region of Labrador. Starting in Halifax, this tour includes an overnight ferry crossing to Port-aux-Basques in Newfoundland & Labrador to enjoy the many significant historical and natural sites including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gros Morne National Park and L’Anse aux Meadows where the first Europeans, the Vikings, reached the new world. Along the way, you’ll stand at the northern-most tip of the island of Newfoundland and journey to the eastern-most point in North America. Included boat tours (weather permitting) give the opportunity to see whales, seabirds and, depending on the time of year, icebergs.
Itinerary
Departure Dates Selected Fridays June to September with guaranteed departures
Small group departures also available with maximum 24 passengers
Tour Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• 24 meals – 12 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 9 dinners
• Marine Atlantic ferry crossing (*depending on ferry schedule this may be a daytime crossing with accommodation in Port-aux-Basques)
• Gros Morne National Park
• Red Bay National Historic Site
• Whale watching boat tour in St. Anthony
• Sightseeing tour of Twillingate
• Guided tour of St. John’s
• Signal Hill National Historic Site
• Boat tour to Witless Bay Bird Sanctuary
• Cape Spear National Historic Site
• Transportation by modern motor coach
• Experienced Tour Director
• Baggage handling at hotels (one case per person)
Independent Touring
General Information
Independent tours are for travellers who want all services arranged but don’t want to be part of an escorted group or to self-drive. Our itineraries include a mix of experiences including scheduled coach, rail and ferry services, wildlife and sightseeing excursions, and accommodation – travel in confidence knowing that everything is planned and arranged.
Flexible Itineraries
Our featured itineraries are based on popular routes, but most can be tailored to suit you and may even be reversed. Add additional nights or excursions, bolt-on an Alaska cruise or grizzly bear viewing lodge – our speciality is curating YOUR perfect holiday.
Attractions & Excursions
Within some of the itineraries we have included excursions that we consider are must-dos. However, they can be taken out or additional excursions added.
Transportation Services
Our itineraries include a variety of transportation services such as scheduled and sightseeing coach transfers, Rocky Mountaineer, VIA Rail, private car and even floatplane journeys. While most are available daily, Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail, for example, only operate on specific dates so we will ensure all arrangements work within your itinerary.
Rail & Sail Adventure 13 days
A journey to capture the imagination! Combining two epic rail journeys with a scenic cruise of the Inside Passage, this itinerary gives unique views of some of the most iconic scenery in Western Canada. Starting your adventure in Vancouver, you’ll then board the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer for the 2-day all daylight, unforgettable journey to Banff in the Canadian Rockies. From there a full-day sightseeing transfer takes you to Jasper. Then board VIA Rail for the scenic journey to Prince Rupert, following the Skeena River for much of the journey. Sail the glorious Inside Passage onboard a BC Ferry to Port Hardy for an overnight stay before flying to Vancouver.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 2 nights
2. Rocky Mountaineer train to Kamloops 1 night
Overnight 3* accommodation in Kamloops included as part of 2-day Rocky Mountaineer train journey.
3. Rocky Mountaineer train to Banff 2 nights
4. Jasper 2 nights
5. Prince George 1 night
6. Prince Rupert 1 night
7. Port Hardy 1 night
8. Vancouver 2 nights
Tour Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• Hop-on/hop-off tour of Vancouver
• Transfer from Vancouver hotel to train station
• 2-day Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service between Vancouver and Banff including breakfast and lunch both days
• Transfer from Banff station to hotel
• Full day sightseeing transfer from Banff to Jasper including Ice Explorer ride
• VIA Rail Jasper to Prince George (economy class)
• VIA Rail Prince George to Prince Rupert (economy class)
• BC Ferry Prince Rupert to Port Hardy Inside Passage cruise
• Full day Victoria excursion from Vancouver including Butchart Gardens
In the Know
The Columbia Icefield is an impressive collection of six major glaciers including the Athabasca Glacier which descends towards the Icefields Parkway. While easily visible from the road, a ride on an Ice Explorer vehicle gives unique access to walk on the glacier.
DepartureWest Coast Discovery & Alaska Cruise 15
days
Vancouver, Victoria, and Whistler, while being in the same province, offer a host of different experiences and sightseeing opportunities. In Vancouver a hop-on/hop-off tour allows time to discover its landmarks including Gastown, Stanley Park, Chinatown, and Granville Market which, incidentally, makes a great spot for lunch! From Vancouver, a coach and ferry transfer take you to Victoria, the charming provincial capital of British Columbia. Here, visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens with its magnificent floral displays and enjoy a 3-hour whale watching excursion. The highlights continue with a floatplane journey to the mountain resort of Whistler; the experience of taking off and landing on water is exceptional. Enjoy the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for outstanding views of the Village, Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains and the valley floor. Returning to Vancouver board Celebrity Eclipse for a 7 night cruise to Alaska; glaciers, marine wildlife, frontier towns and stunning coastline scenery await you.
Itinerary
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• Hop-on/hop-off sightseeing tour in Vancouver
• Coach & ferry transfer to Victoria
• 3-hour whale watching excursion in Victoria
• Admission to Butchart Gardens
• Floatplane transfer from Victoria to Whistler
• Peak 2 Peak Gondola
• Private transfer Whistler hotel to Vancouver hotel
• 7 night Alaska cruise onboard Celebrity Eclipse in stateroom category of your choice including full board from dinner on day one to breakfast on final day (see page 69 for more information)
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Hubbard Glacier in Alaska is the longest tidewater glacier in the world and is steadily growing. It flows directly into Disenchantment Bay and on your cruise you’ll experience picture-perfect views. Harbour seals can often be seen relaxing on one of the ice flows.
West Coast Rail Adventure 11
days
From the Pacific shores of Vancouver to Calgary, in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this tour is full of scenic delights. While in Vancouver enjoy a city tour and a full-day excursion to Victoria on Vancouver Island. Then board the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer for the 3-day ‘Rainforest to Gold Rush’ journey to Jasper with overnight stops at Whistler and Quesnel. Highlights of the route include crossing Deep Creek Bridge, one of the highest railway bridges in the world, Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and sweeping views of the Fraser Canyon. After your stay in Jasper travel along the stunning Icefield Parkway for an overnight stop at Lake Louise and then to Banff with time to explore this mountain resort.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 3 nights
2. Rocky Mountaineer Vancouver to Whistler 1 night
Overnight accommodation in Whistler is included as part of 3-day Rocky Mountaineer train journey.
3. Rocky Mountaineer Whistler to Quesnel 1 night
Overnight 3* accommodation in Quesnel is included as part of 3-day Rocky Mountaineer train journey.
4. Rocky Mountaineer Quesnel to Jasper 2 nights
5. Lake Louise 1 night
6. Banff 2 nights
7. Ends Calgary
Departure Dates Selected dates May to October
Tour Includes
• 10 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 5-hour Vancouver city tour
• Full day excursion to Victoria including Butchart Gardens
• Transfer from Vancouver hotel to train station
• Rocky Mountaineer 3-day journey in either SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf Service with breakfast included on day one and breakfast and lunch included on days two and three.
• Transfer from Jasper train station to hotel
• Full day sightseeing excursion from Jasper to Lake Louise including Ice Explorer ride at Columbia Icefield
• Coach transfer from Lake Louise to Banff
• Coach transfer from Banff hotel to Calgary Airport
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada, are an internationally renowned floral display designed around a former limestone quarry transformed into today’s stunning gardens.
Cruise, Rocky Mountaineer & Calgary Stampede 19 days
An unmissable adventure that includes three exceptional experiences: Alaska cruise, Rocky Mountaineer, and the Calgary Stampede! The adventure begins in Vancouver with an Alaska cruise onboard the Celebrity Eclipse, view tidewater glaciers, marine wildlife, rugged snow-capped mountains and visit frontier towns. Enjoy a two-night stay in Vancouver before boarding the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer heading to Jasper on their ‘Journey Through the Clouds’ route. After Jasper, travel to Banff via one of the most scenic highways in the world, the Icefields Parkway. From Banff travel to Calgary for the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’ –the Calgary Stampede.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 1 night
2. Alaska Cruise 7 nights
3. Vancouver 2 nights
4. Rocky Mountaineer train to Kamloops 1 night
Overnight 3* accommodation in Kamloops included as part of 2-day Rocky Mountaineer train journey.
5. Rocky Mountaineer train to Jasper 2 nights
6. Banff 2 nights
7. Calgary 3 nights
Departure Dates Late June to early July
Also available in reverse direction
Tour Includes
• Private transfer from Vancouver airport to hotel
• 11 nights accommodation
• 7 night Alaska cruise on board Celebrity Eclipse (includes full board from dinner on first day to breakfast on final morning)
• 2-day Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service between Vancouver and Jasper including breakfast and lunch both days
• Sightseeing transfer between Jasper and Banff including Ice Explorer ride
• Banff sightseeing excursion including Banff Gondola
• Coach transfer from Banff to Calgary
• Calgary Stampede 2-day ‘Thrill Package’ including tickets for afternoon rodeo events and evening Chuckwagon Races and Grandstand Show
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
For more information on the Celebrity Cruise see page 69, Rocky Mountaineer see pages 156 to 159, and Calgary Stampede on page 97.
Rockies Rail & Alaska Cruise 8
Explore the neighbouring provinces of Alberta and British Columbia and enjoy sightseeing in Banff and Jasper National Parks, the interior of British Columbia as well as Vancouver. From Calgary Airport transfer by coach to Banff; in all directions you’re surrounded by rugged mountains. A sightseeing journey along the Icefields Parkway takes you to Jasper and then board the Rocky Mountaineer for 2-days of ever-changing scenery travelling through valleys and mountain passes on the way to Vancouver.
Itinerary
1. Banff 2 nights
2. Jasper 2 nights
3. Rocky Mountaineer train to Kamloops 1 night
Overnight 3* accommodation in Kamloops included as part of 2-day Rocky Mountaineer train journey.
4. Rocky Mountaineer train to Vancouver 2 nights
5. Tour ends or 7 night Alaska Cruise
or 15 days
Departure Dates Selected dates early May to mid-September
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• Full day sightseeing transfer from Banff to Jasper including a stop at Columbia Icefield with Ice Explorer ride
• Coach transfer from Jasper hotel to train station
• 2-day Rocky Mountaineer ‘Journey Through the Clouds’ route Jasper to Vancouver in either SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf Service including breakfast and lunch both days
• Coach transfer from Vancouver station to hotel
• Full day Victoria sightseeing tour including Butchart Gardens
• 7 night Alaska cruise onboard Celebrity Eclipse in stateroom category of your choice if taking the cruise option (includes full board from dinner on first day to breakfast on final day)
• Comprehensive documentation pack
In the Know
Just two highlights of Rocky Mountaineer’s ‘Journey Through the Clouds’ route are passing Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon.
VIA Rail’s transcontinental flagship train –The Canadian – travelling between Jasper and Vancouver offers a unique adventure; view the stunning scenery from your private cabin or the dome car, and be rocked to sleep by the motion of the train. Beginning in Calgary your adventure continues through Banff and Jasper National Parks with scenic highlights such as Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Columbia Icefield, Athabasca, and Sunwapta Falls. Your two-day VIA Rail journey takes you to Vancouver where you’ll enjoy sightseeing before travelling along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler. Another highlight will be the floatplane journey from Whistler to Victoria; fly high above the Strait of Georgia and an overnight stay in Victoria gives time for whale watching or a visit to Butchart Gardens.
Tour Includes
• 10 nights accommodation (including one on board The Canadian)
• Scheduled coach transfer Calgary to Banff
• 3-hour sightseeing tour of Banff including Banff Gondola
• Full day sightseeing transfer from Banff to Jasper including Ice Explorer ride
• VIA Rail ‘The Canadian’ from Jasper to Vancouver in cabin accommodation including one breakfast, one lunch and one dinner
• Sightseeing tour of Vancouver
• Scheduled coach transfer from Vancouver to Whistler
• Transfer from Whistler hotel to floatplane dock
• Floatplane journey from Whistler to Victoria
• Coach and ferry transfer from Victoria to Vancouver Airport
• Comprehensive documentation pack
Trans Canada by Rail 15
Two epic rail journeys in one adventure! After a stay in Toronto, where you will enjoy a full-day trip to Niagara Falls, board VIA Rail’s famous transcontinental train, The Canadian, heading to Jasper viewing such diverse scenery as the rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield, some of North America’s oldest, rock formations, passing the grain fields of the prairie provinces and finally the imposing Rocky Mountains; this is surely one of the world’s great train journeys. From Jasper, our itinerary takes you to Lake Louise, and then to the mountain resort of Banff. Board the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer on their ‘First Passage to the West’ route; the unique daylight service allows you to view some of the most spectacular scenery in Western Canada on the journey to Vancouver.
Itinerary
1. Toronto 2 nights
days
Tour Includes
• Accommodation for 14 nights (including 3 onboard The Canadian)
• Full day trip to Niagara Falls including Voyage to the Falls boat cruise
• Toronto to Jasper on VIA Rail’s the Canadian in cabin accommodation including two breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners
• Sightseeing transfer between Jasper and Lake Louise including Ice Explorer ride
• Scheduled coach transfer between Lake Louise and Banff
• 3-hour sightseeing tour of Banff
• Transfer from Banff hotel to station
• 2-day Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service between Banff and Vancouver including breakfast and lunch both days
• Transfer from Vancouver station to hotel
• 5-hour sightseeing excursion in Vancouver
• Full day excursion to Victoria including Butchart Gardens admission
7.
Capital Experience 10 days
The major cities in the provinces of Ontario and Québec are ideally linked by VIA Rail’s train system so you can see Canada’s most populous region by travelling in modern rail cars. The cities each have their own appeal; from cosmopolitan Toronto where you will enjoy an excursion to Niagara Falls, to the nation’s capital, Ottawa with its host of National Museums, Parliament building and Rideau Canal. From there journey to Québec’s provincial capital, Québec City with its historic heart and distinct joie de vivre character to bustling Montréal where a modern French-Canadian lifestyle blends with its historic background.
Itinerary
Tour Includes
• 9 nights accommodation
• Hop-on/hop-off sightseeing tour of Toronto
• CN Tower admission
• Full day excursion to Niagara Falls
• VIA Rail Toronto to Ottawa (economy or business class)
• Hop-on/hop off sightseeing tour of Ottawa
• VIA Rail Ottawa to Québec City (economy or business class)
• 2-hour sightseeing tour of Ottawa
Departure Dates Year round except Christmas and during Montréal Grand Prix 1.
• VIA Rail Québec City to Montréal (economy or business class)
• 3-hour sightseeing tour of Montréal
In the Know Montréal is located on the second largest island in the Saint Lawrence River, after Anticosti Island in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
Rail & Cruise in Eastern Canada
After exploring Toronto enjoy a cruise on the Saint Lawrence River, Canada’s most significant waterway traversing Ontario and Québec as well as the US state of New York. The Canadian Empress is a classic Canadian riverboat style vessel; the exterior emulates the classic steamboats of the Victorian era while the interior is a mix of charming early heritage style with contemporary fashion. Highlights of the six-night cruise include the Thousand Island region, rich mudflats that are home to a myriad of bird species, and passing through a series of locks. Following the route the first French explorers took, between Kingston and Québec City, this is no ordinary cruise! During your stay in Québec City, you will enjoy a sightseeing tour then board VIA Rail’s service to Montréal.
Itinerary
1.
15 days
Departure Dates May to September
Tour Includes
• 14 nights accommodation (6 onboard the ship)
• Hop-on/hop-off sightseeing tour of Toronto
• Full day excursion to Niagara Falls including Voyage to the Falls cruise
• VIA Rail Toronto to Kingston (economy or business class)
• 6 night St. Lawrence River cruise including full board from dinner on day one to lunch on final day and coach tours/self-guided tours at ports of call
• 2-hour sightseeing tour of Québec City
• VIA Rail Québec City to Montréal (economy or business class)
In the Know
Kingston is a historic city located at the beginning of the St. Lawrence River and the southern mouth of the Rideau Canal. It was once a strategic military outpost, which can be explored at Fort Henry National Historic Site, and was the First Capital of a United Canada in 1841.
Toronto 3 nights 2. St. Lawrence River Cruise 6 nights 3. Québec City 3 nights 4. Montréal 2 nights Itinerary also available in reverse.Halifax and Eastern Canada by Rail 10 days
Starting in Halifax, Nova Scotia and ending in Montréal, Québec this tour highlights the diversity of these two provinces. Halifax is located on one of the world’s largest natural harbours making it a natural choice for a British garrison town, the history of which is evident at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. It’s an eminently walkable, garden city, with recommended visits to the Canadian Museum of Immigration and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to discover the city’s seafaring heritage and connection to the Titanic. From Halifax board VIA Rail’s The Ocean train for the overnight journey to Québec City, following the shores of the mighty St. Lawrence River. Your adventure continues to Montréal where the old city blends seamlessly with the new.
Itinerary
1. Halifax 3 nights
2. VIA Rail The Ocean 1 night
3. Québec City 3 nights
4. Montréal 2 nights
Itinerary also available in reverse
Departure Dates May to September
Tour Includes
• 9 nights accommodation (one onboard the train)
• 3-hour Peggy’s Cove excursion
• VIA Rail The Ocean between Halifax and Québec City including one each of breakfast, lunch and dinner
• 2-hour Québec City tour
• VIA Rail Québec City to Montréal (economy or business class)
• 3.5-hour Montréal city tour
• Departure Dates
• May to October
In the Know
Poutine is a dish that includes French fries and cheese curds topped with brown gravy which originated in Québec. In both Québec City and Montréal you’ll see many restaurants feature this on their menus.
Wildlife & Wilderness
Beyond Canada’s cities lies wilderness areas acclaimed for some of the world’s best and most accessible wildlife viewing experiences.
British Columbia offers floating lodge or resort stays, surrounded by stunning landscapes for amazing bear viewing opportunities; grizzly, black and the elusive Kermode (spirit) bears and marine wildlife such as seals, sea lions, sea otters with bald eagles soaring overhead. These lodges are reached by picturesque boat rides or scenic floatplane flights, so getting there is almost as exciting as the wildlife viewing!
Manitoba is all about polar bear and beluga whale viewing from Churchill in the Hudson Bay. Each year, in summer, thousands of beluga whale make the Hudson
Bay their home where they raise their young, feed on the ample supply of capelin and frolic in the water. This is also prime bird viewing season with over two hundred nesting or migrating bird species plus seals, Arctic hare, red and Arctic fox. Polar bears can be seen in the summer months as they leave the pan ice to forage along the shore, but prime viewing is in October and November when they gather along the water’s edge waiting for the sea ice to form.
Often, you’ll see wildlife along the roadside, especially in national and provincial parks, but for multiple day viewing we have some exceptional packages detailed on the following pages.
Knight Inlet Lodge
Experience one of the best grizzly bear viewing lodges in British Columbia – view bears in their natural habitat. Your first night will be at Campbell River then next morning you’ll enjoy a 30-minute floatplane flight to the floating lodge which is tucked into Glendale Cove at the end of a 100-mile-long inlet.
This floating lodge features 18 comfortable guest rooms, dining room, lounge, interpretive centre, and support buildings. All meals and snacks are included while at the lodge.
Bear Viewing Seasons
In spring the bears leave their winter dens and start feeding on sedges, succulents, grasses, and barnacles around the estuary and this is the time to see tiny cubs with their ever-cautious mothers. In summer, bears stay in the area eating berries and foraging on the shoreline for molluscs. In spring and summer, viewing is from boats where you get close for a great view without disturbing them. In late August, viewing is from platforms at the spawning channel where bears are feasting on salmon, fattening up ready for hibernation. All viewing is done to see bears in their natural habitat without having a negative impact on them.
3 to 7 day packages
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Minimum age 6 for summer boat viewing and 8 for autumn platform viewing.
Package Includes
• One night at Comfort Inn & Suites, Campbell River
• Transfer from Campbell River hotel to floatplane dock
• Accommodation at lodge depending on package selected
• Return floatplane transfer between Campbell River and the lodge
• Full board while at the lodge including wine with dinner
• Bear viewing (number of tours depends on length of time at lodge)
• Scenic boat ride of Glendale Cove
• Use of kayaks on organised estuary tours
• Evening interpretive programmes
• Staff gratuities, research, and environmental fee
Arrival Options
Fly between Vancouver and Campbell River (extra charge applies). Knight Inlet Lodge will arrange pick-up and drop-off at Campbell River Airport. If driving there is ample parking at the floatplane dock.
Farewell Harbour Lodge 4 to 6 day packages
This family owned and operated lodge sits in a sheltered inlet on Berry Island at the edge of Broughton Archipelago, a marine park renowned for its physical beauty and proximity to some of the best orca and grizzly bear viewing in British Columbia.
The primary lodge building features a lounge, dining room, bar and wrap-around deck boasting spectacular views of the harbour. The lodge has 12 comfortable rooms each with a private bathroom.
Bear and Whale Viewing
Your full day bear viewing, in search of grizzly and black bear, is done from boats or on land, depending on the tide, and not from viewing platforms. Also included is an excursion to Johnstone Strait, renowned for its resident pod of orca, but also home to humpback whales, Steller sea lions, seals, Pacific white sided dolphins, Dall’s porpoises, and a myriad of bird life including the mighty bald eagle. This area teems with wildlife especially from July onwards when salmon return to the area. Evening interpretive programmes will talk about the wildlife and the Indigenous people who have called this area home for thousands of years.
Departure Dates June to early October
Minimum age 10
Package Includes
• Round trip boat transfer between Alder Bay and Farewell Harbour Lodge
• Accommodation at the lodge depending on length of package selected
• All meals from dinner on day one to lunch on final day including wine with dinner
• Grizzly bear viewing excursions (number depends on length of stay)
• Full day marine tour
Arrival Options
Fly between Vancouver and Port Hardy (extra charge applies) and transfers from the airport to Alder Bay Marina can be arranged.
If driving to Alder Bay, there is ample free parking at the marina.
In the Know
Johnstone Strait is home to the largest resident pod of orca in the world, with a population of around 200.
Great Bear Lodge 5 day package
Located 50 air miles from Port Hardy, on the northern tip of Vancouver Island, this fully self-contained floating lodge is situated at the mouth of a major salmon river in the Great Bear Rainforest. Its location guarantees a true wilderness experience and exceptional wildlife viewing. An afternoon floatplane flight from Port Hardy takes you to the lodge for a three-night stay with your first bear viewing that same day. On your final day a late afternoon flight returns you to Port Hardy for an overnight stay.
The lodge comprises of eight bedrooms each with its own bathroom and shower, dining room and natural history museum. Natural wood decks provide a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beauty of the scenery.
Bear Viewing
Accompanied by an experienced wildlife biologist you will view bears as you float by boat or watch from specially designed optimal viewing areas during scheduled morning and afternoon sessions. Keep a watch for black bear, pine martens, mink, and bald eagles too. Guests arriving in autumn (fall) will also be able to witness migrating salmon from a series of enclosed blinds and open viewing platforms.
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Minimum age 15
Tour Includes
• Floatplane flights between Port Hardy and Great Bear Lodge
• 3 nights accommodation at the lodge
• 1 night at Port Hardy hotel
• Full board from dinner on day one to lunch on day four including wine with dinner
• Evening interpretive programme
• Bear viewing sessions
• First Nations Fee
• Gratuities
Arrival Options
Flights between Vancouver and Port Hardy are available (extra charge applies) and Great Bear Lodge offers complimentary transfers from the airport to floatplane dock. Pre-tour accommodation may be required at Port Hardy to fit in with flight schedule.
In the Know
Grizzly bears are adapt at fishing and will feast on any variety of salmon that spawn in the Great Bear Rainforest including chum, pink and coho. Coastal bears obtain up to 90% of their total annual dietary requirements during the salmon run.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort 4 or 5 day packages
Klahoose Wilderness Resort, sits on the remote shores and calm waters of Homfray Channel, is only accessible by water and offers an Indigenous cultural experience. It’s an authentic all-inclusive eco-resort in the coastal wilderness of the Klahoose people. It’s a resort that reflects the Klahoose traditional values and offers an immersive exploration into a pristine region rich in diverse wilderness, cultural significance and wildlife including grizzly bear viewing tours in Toba Inlet.
Accommodation comprises of four lodge rooms each with a private bathroom and three one- or two-bedrooms cabins. All rooms have ocean views. The main building features a lounge with large open fireplace and comfortable seating, dining room and expansive decks overlooking the water.
Wildlife and Grizzly Bear Viewing Seasons
From May to mid-August a Cultural and Wildlife Boat Tour exploring Toba Inlet is included and from mid-August, grizzly bear viewing tour(s) in the Toba Inlet are included. Regardless of the season, there are kayaks and paddle boards to use, ocean swimming, and forest walks. A truly ‘away from it all’ experience in a stunning location.
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Minimum age 10 from mid-August onwards
Package Includes
• Transfers between Powell River Airport or Lund and Klahoose Resort
• Accommodation for three or four nights
• All meals from dinner on day one to breakfast on final morning including wine with dinner
• Klahoose Cultural and Wildlife Tour or Grizzly Bear Viewing depending on season
• Self-guided activities such as use of kayaks and paddle boards
• Gratuities
Arrival options
Flights between Vancouver and Powell River are available (extra charge applies) and transfers between the airport and Lund can be arranged.
If driving we recommend an overnight stay at Powell River or Lund, on the Sunshine Coast, both easily reached from Vancouver.
In the Know
The Sunshine Coast offers stunning coastal scenery and is considered a hidden gem.
Pacific Rim Whales and Bears 8 days
An adventure packed with thrilling wildlife viewing; experience the diversity of wildlife found in the forests and waterways of Vancouver Island. This is a bucket-list holiday for families and couples alike offering up-close encounters with wildlife in one of the world’s most accessible areas.
Your adventure starts in Vancouver with time to explore; visit Stanley Park, have lunch at Granville Market, and enjoy the waterfront area where floatplanes taking off and landing on water can be seen. Then travel by coach and ferry to Victoria where your wildlife viewing starts with a whale watching experience. We also recommend a visit to the world famous Butchart Gardens.
From Victoria journey to the Tofino/Ucluelet region where black bear and whale watching excursions are included. Surfing is a favourite pastime in this region so why not try it for yourself?
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Minimum age 6
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• Scheduled coach/ferry transfer from Vancouver to Victoria
• 3-hour whale watching in Victoria
• Scheduled transfer from Victoria to Tofino
• 2-hour bear watching excursion in Tofino
• 2-hour whale watching excursion in Tofino
• Transfer from Tofino hotel to airport
• Scheduled flight from Tofino to Vancouver Airport
In the Know
Whale watching from Tofino is primarily Gray Whale viewing and from Victoria it’s primarily Orca (Killer Whales) viewing. On both excursions keep a watch out for bald eagles, sea otters, seals, and sea lions.
Instead of transfers this itinerary is ideal for self-driving, giving you freedom to explore at your leisure.
Sonora Resort 3
Sonora Resort is a polished jewel amid the wild beauty and pristine waters of Desolation Sound. Luxury is guaranteed at this Relais & Chateaux resort where uncompromising eco-adventure travel meets all-inclusive luxurious accommodations, unparalleled service and five-star facilities. Activity or relaxation take your pick, enjoy a fishing expedition, an eco-nature boat tour, a visit to the spa, a game of tennis or sit on the deck with a glass of wine taking in the immaculate scenery as the resort is surrounded by ocean and mountains; truly an idyllic location.
Sonora’s luxurious lodges offer spacious guestrooms all very tastefully furnished with one king or two queen beds, sumptuous bathrooms and modern amenities. Within each lodge there’s a comfortable common area with vaulted ceiling, stone fireplace, and balcony to enjoy the resort’s picture-postcard setting.
Itinerary
days
Departure Dates May to mid-October
Minimum age 6
Package Includes
• Round trip helicopter/floatplane transfers from Vancouver to Sonora Resort
• 2 nights accommodation (Gold Room)
• Gourmet meals from dinner on day one to lunch on final day
• Beverages including house wine, beer, and soft drinks
• 1-hour eco-adventure boat tour
• Use of resort facilities including tennis court, outdoor pool and hot tubs, hiking trails, mountain bikes, trout pond with fishing tackle, putting green and golf simulator, fitness facility, steam rooms, and cinema.
In the Know
If preferred, travel from Campbell River to Sonora Resort by water-taxi, a scenic 1-hour boat transfer, with wildlife including seals, sea lions and bald eagles often seen along the way.
Summer in Churchill and the wildlife comes out to play! Over 60,000 beluga whales make the Hudson Bay their summer home; with over 3,000 in the mouth of the Churchill River, to feed on the ample supply of capelin and Arctic char, to mate and give birth in the warm, shallow waters. Polar bears have left the melting sea ice and often can be seen swimming or relaxing on rocks and there’s over 200 nesting or migrating bird species, seals, Arctic hare, and Arctic fox to look out for. Summer is, quite simply, an amazing time to be in Churchill.
Your adventure starts in Winnipeg and the following morning a scheduled flight takes you to Churchill where you’ll be met and taken to the lodge. During the next few days you will enjoy various adventures including viewing beluga whales from a boat with under-the-sea windows. After your stay in Churchill, fly back to Winnipeg for a final night.
1. Winnipeg 1 night 2. Churchill 4 nights 3. Winnipeg 1 night
days
Departure Dates July and August
Minimum age 12
Tour Includes
• 2 nights accommodation in Winnipeg
• 4 nights accommodation at Lazy Bear Lodge, Churchill
• Meals including daily breakfast, one packed lunch and one dinner
• Return flights between Winnipeg and Churchill
• Guide services in Churchill
• 6-8 hour Hudson Bay Coastal Boat Tour
• 3-4 hour Tundra Tour
• 3-hour Beluga Whale Boat Tour
• 2-hour Cultural and Heritage Tour
In the Know
Lazy Bear Expeditions offer a unique way to view beluga whales from their new boat that features under-the-sea viewing windows!
Flights to Winnipeg operate by way of Toronto, Montréal or even Calgary so why not add a stay in one of these cities? Or, for the ultimate wildlife viewing itinerary, add a grizzly bear viewing lodge stay in British Columbia.
Ultimate Polar Bear Adventure
6 days
Churchill, located on the west shore of Hudson Bay, is famous for the many polar bears that head to the shore waiting for ice to form and is known as ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’. It’s one of the few human settlements where polar bears can be observed in the wild guaranteeing a truly memorable adventure.
After an overnight stay in Winnipeg, fly to Churchill to be met and transferred to the lodge. Enjoy two polar bear viewing excursions as well as a dog mushing experience and a Cultural and Heritage Tour of historic Churchill. Following your 4-day stay, fly back to Winnipeg for your final night.
Itinerary
1. Winnipeg 1 night
2. Churchill 3 nights
Departure Dates October to November
Minimum age 8
Package Includes
• 2 nights accommodation in Winnipeg
• 3 nights accommodation at the Lazy Bear Lodge, Churchill
• Return flights between Winnipeg and Churchill
• Meals including five breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner
• Two polar bear viewing excursions
• Cultural and Heritage Tour
• Dog mushing experience
In the Know
Lazy Bear Expeditions polar bear viewing excursions explore the Churchill Wildlife Management Area which, along with Wapusk National Park, protect significant parts of the Hudson Bay coastline, a key habitat for polar bears.
The city of Winnipeg is geographically located at the centre of North America and the historic Forks Area is where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet.
Classic Churchill Polar Bear Adventure
Explore the frozen plains in search of polar bears in a Tundra Buggy, an all-terrain vehicle normally used by scientific researchers to study Arctic wildlife in their natural habitat. Your expert, Frontiers North guides, know the best locations in Churchill to spot bears, Arctic fox, Arctic hare, and ptarmigan.
After an overnight stay in Winnipeg, capital city of Manitoba, fly to the northern frontier town of Churchill which sits on the edge of the Hudson Bay; built on deep Indigenous roots it’s home to Canada’s most iconic wildlife - the polar bear. With two full-days of bear viewing, a Churchill and area tour, a dog sledding excursion and visits to both the Polar Bear International House and the Itsanitaq Museum, you are guaranteed a memorable stay. Your adventure ends with a return flight to Winnipeg for a final night stay.
6 days
Departure Dates October to November
Minimum age 3
Tour Includes
• 2 nights Winnipeg
• 3 nights Churchill
• Return flights between Winnipeg and Churchill
• Churchill and area tour
• Churchill Itsanitaq Museum admission
• Polar Bears International House visit
• Two Tundra Buggy bear viewing excursions
• Dog sledding excursion
• Full board from breakfast on day two and lunch on day five
• Frontiers North Interpretive Guide
In the Know
Rather than staying in a hotel why not sleep out on the tundra aboard the Tundra Buggy Lodge and, each day, head out in search of polar bears and other wildlife? Just call us for more information.
Unlimited Adventures
Discover Canada’s spectacular nature and adventure, on foot, by horse, by kayak or by boat…
Head for the hills on a guided multi-day backcountry lodge and riding adventure, enjoy sea kayaking, view the stunning Northern Lights in the Yukon, stay at a
working guest ranch, or even a self-drive holiday with a host of day excursions included – the choices are endless, and we have included just a small selection of Unlimited Adventures for your consideration.
Northern Lights of the Yukon
4 or 5 day package
Due to its geographical position the Yukon offers excellent opportunities to observe the Aurora Borealis otherwise known as the Northern Lights. See the night sky come alive with shimmering shades of green, blue, red, and yellow. Away from the city lights of Whitehorse, a comfortable cabin gives a warm shelter while waiting for the lights to appear; your guide will be keeping a close watch on the sky, so you won’t miss anything! They’ll also offer advice and tips on how to photograph them. Sometimes they are not visible with the naked eye but, strangely, your camera will capture them.
Whitehorse, capital city of the Yukon, is the largest city in Northern Canada and is located at Historic Mile 918 on the Alaska Highway. During your stay enjoy its outdoor adventure, live theatre, gold rush history, visit the historic S.S. Klondike sternwheeler and learn about its Indigenous culture.
Itinerary
Departure Dates August to April
Minimum age 5
Package Includes
• Meet and greet at Whitehorse airport
• Transfers between Whitehorse Airport and hotel
• 3 or 4 night accommodation in Whitehorse
• Orientation meeting
• Sightseeing tour of Whitehorse
• Aurora Borealis viewing excursions (number depends on length of stay)
• Transfers between hotel and viewing location
• Hot drinks and snacks during Aurora viewing
In the Know
Flights to Whitehorse operate via Vancouver and Calgary so this package fits in ideally with a stay on British Columbia’s west coast or exploration of Banff and Jasper National Parks.
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon so multiple viewing excursions give the best chance of seeing them.
Sundance Guest Ranch Wells Gray Guest Ranch
Giddyup! Family-owned and operated, the Sundance Guest Ranch heartily welcomes you to relax and enjoy a casual ‘western’ way of life. Conveniently located just four hours by car from Vancouver or one hour from Kamloops in a beautiful setting overlooking the Thompson River Valley, the ranch is home to a herd of over eighty horses. Friendly wranglers lead daily morning and afternoon trail rides catering to all levels of riders. Other facilities include an outdoor pool, tennis courts, hiking trails, volleyball net and games room.
Departure Dates Mid-April to October
Minimum age 8 for riding
Daily Rate Includes
• Full board based on 3 meals per 24-hour stay (children under 15 eat lunch and dinner separately from adults)
• Two guided trail rides, two hours per day in groups according to experience, use of horses, saddles, tack, and guides
• Ranch activities and facilities
• Gratuities
In the Know
A three-day stay is recommended to fully embrace the setting, riding, and ranch activities.
Set in the protected lands of Wells Gray Provincial Park, this historic working ranch has specialised in authentic cowboy holidays for many years. Discover that the days of the open frontier live on at the Black Horse Saloon and outdoor Chuck Wagon patio. Adventure activities like horseback riding, canoeing, rafting, and sightseeing are all part of the ranch’s daily summer routine (supplement applies for all activities) with guides leading riding groups to trails on remote mountains, valleys, and lakes in spectacular settings.
Departure Dates May to September
Minimum age 10 for riding
Daily Rate Includes
• Accommodation in a standard or deluxe log cabin
• Daily continental breakfast
• Use of all ranch facilities and amenities
In the Know
A minimum two-night stay applies but we highly recommend staying longer as there is so much to see and do. All horseback rides are guided and last from one hour to a full day with lunch on the trail. Riding is not included in the daily rate.
Western Canada Adventures 15 days
The provinces of British Columbia and Alberta offer a host of day activities that fit perfectly into a self-drive holiday. Adventures include a bike tour, whale watching, canoeing, ziplining, rafting, boat cruise, Ice Explorer ride, guided hike, and horseback ride. Your adventure starts in Vancouver, then pick up your rental car and drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler in the Coast Mountains. The drive then takes you through the Cariboo region to Clearwater, gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park, then past Mount Robson to Jasper in the Rocky Mountains. After a stunning drive along the Icefields Parkway, you’ll reach Banff where the great outdoors is the main attraction.
Itinerary
Departure Dates May to October
Tour Includes
• 14 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver airport to hotel
• 3-hour Stanley Park Tour by bike – Vancouver
• 4-hour whale watching excursion – Vancouver
• 13 days intermediate car hire with zero excess, GPS, and 2nd driver
• Peak 2 Peak Gondola – Whistler
• 2-hour zipline adventure – Whistler
• 3-hour canoe adventure – Whistler
• 1.5-hour jeep safari – Blue River (en route to Jasper)
• Spirit Island cruise – Jasper
• 2-hour white water rafting – Jasper
• 3.5-hour wildlife discovery tour – Jasper
• Ice Explorer & Glacier Skywalk – en route to Banff
• 2-hour Sundance Loop horse ride – Banff
• 7-hour Signature Hike – Banff
In the Know
Some activities have a minimum child age, but we can look at alternatives to make this superbly family friendly.
Backcountry Lodge & Riding Adventure
The ultimate horseback adventure in Banff National Park – explore the wilderness riding along historic pack trails with overnight stays at quintessential mountain cabins. With sky-piercing mountains stretching out across the landscape your ride will pass by the shimmering waters of the Bow River, Brewster, and Healy Creeks, along the historic Erling Strom Trail and climb Allenby Pass, this is a backcountry adventure that allows you to take in the glorious scenery all around you, in the quiet environment of the Rocky Mountains. Your overnight stays are at the remote Sundance and Halfway Lodges with all meals provided.
Itinerary
8 days
Departure Dates Selected days Mid-June to early September
Minimum age 9
Package Includes
• Scheduled coach transfer from Calgary Airport to Banff
• 2 nights accommodation (pre and post adventure in Banff)
• 2 nights accommodation at Sundance Lodge
• 3 nights accommodation at Halfway Lodge
• Meals – full board including five breakfasts, six lunches and five dinners
• Daily riding excursions of 4 to 6 hours
• Backcountry Park Fees
• Professional guides during riding adventure
• Scheduled coach transfer from Banff to Calgary Airport
Shorter adventures are available including 2-hour Sundance Loop ride, and one or two night stays at Sundance Lodge.
Best of Banff and Jasper Hiking Tour 9 days
Enjoy easy to moderate hikes in the most outstanding places of the Rocky Mountain National Parks with overnight stays at comfortable hotels in Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. Accompanied by experienced guides, on this small group adventure, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas along the famous Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper which form the backdrop for specially selected day hikes. Snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, tumbling waterfalls, and wildlife – all yours to discover.
Itinerary
Departure Dates Selected days early June to late August
Minimum age 12
Package Includes
• 8 nights accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Transfers - Calgary to Banff, Banff to Lake Louise, Lake Louise to Jasper and Jasper to Calgary
• Admission to National Parks
• Licensed and experienced guide on all hikes
In the Know
Enjoy a day of hiking knowing that a comfortable bed and hot shower awaits you! Wake up refreshed and, after breakfast, ready for another day in the stunning Rocky Mountains.
Cruising
A journey like no other – it’s no wonder that cruise holidays are so popular; it’s an ideal way to visit new destinations without the need for constant packing and unpacking. Relax on-board and wake up to new and exciting ports of call – just imagine cruising to Alaska and seeing enormous glaciers, wildlife such as whales, dolphins and bald eagles and visiting historic towns such as Skagway with its Gold Rush history.
We offer a range of cruise lines ranging from expedition type vessels to luxurious small ships and everything in between and destinations including Alaska, the St. Lawrence River and the eastern seaboard of Canada and the USA.
This brochure features a selection of cruise experiences but if you don’t see what you’re looking for please call us – we are full of inspiring ideas!
Celebrity Cruises Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise
Alaska is spectacular in every way; from soaring eagles to breaching whales and from snow-capped mountains to calving glaciers – onboard the Celebrity Eclipse there is so much for you to enjoy and discover. Depart from Vancouver and sail the Inside Passage on your way to Alaska’s most popular destinations. Highlights will include cruising the Hubbard Glacier, the longest tidewater glacier in the world, Juneau, Alaska’s capital which is only accessible by water or air and Ketchikan, famous for its houses built over water and the world’s largest collection of totem poles which have been carved by the Tingit people.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 1 night
2. Alaska Cruise 7 nights
• Embark Vancouver
• Inside Passage cruising
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska / docked
• Hubbard Glacier cruising
• Juneau, Alaska / docked
• Ketchikan, Alaksa / docked
• Inside Passage cruising
• Disembark Vancouver
9 days
Departure Dates Saturdays May to September
Tour Includes
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 1 night accommodation in Vancouver
• 7 night Alaska Cruise in your chosen stateroom category
• All meals on cruise from dinner on day one to breakfast on final morning
• Entertainment on board
• Gratuities for cruise staff
• Classic drinks package
• Surf Wi-fi
In the Know
Why not extend your holiday with extra nights in Vancouver or add a Rocky Mountaineer rail journey to the Rocky Mountains? Our specialist team will be pleased to help plan this for you.
Holland America’s Alaska Glacier Bay Cruise 9 days
Cruise the scenic Inside Passage. Encounter Skagway’s Gold Rush history. Spend a day cruising incomparable Glacier Bay National Park and listen out for ‘White Thunder’ the Tingit name for the sound of ice crashing into the sea. Explore Alaska’s capital Juneau. Watch out for wildlife including bald eagles soaring overhead, porpoises following in the ship’s wake, and seals lazing on ice floes. On board you’ll enjoy world-class entertainment, delicious dining options and enriching activities.
Itinerary
• Embark Vancouver
• Inside Passage cruising
• Juneau, Alaska / docked
• Skagway, Alaska / docked
• Glacier Bay cruising
• Ketchikan, Alaska / docked
• Inside Passage cruising
• Disembark Vancouver
Departure Dates Tuesday & Fridays April to September
Tour Includes
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 1 nights accommodation in Vancouver
• 7 night Alaska cruise in your chosen stateroom category
• All meals on cruise from dinner on day one to breakfast on final morning
• Entertainment on board
• Option to include at an additional charge –signature drinks package, surf Wi-fi, one night speciality dining and US$100 towards one shore excursion
In the Know
Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve offers an amazing day of cruising with the spectacular scenery sure to be a highlight.
1. Vancouver 1 night 2. Alaska Cruise 7 nightsRegent Seven Seas Alaska Cruise
9 days
Thousands of miles of spectacular shoreline and massive glaciers, snow-capped mountains and towns that retain their Gold Rush heritage –a cruise with Regent Seven Seas on their intimate ships allow for deeper exploration and a front row seat to the untamed majesty. The cruise operates on a one-way basis starting in either Vancouver or Seward and vice-versa. The Regent Experience is all-inclusive; unlimited beverages including an in-suite mini-bar, gratuities, specialty restaurants, unlimited Wi-fi, and shore excursions.
Itinerary
1. Anchorage 1 night
2. Alaska Cruise 7 nights
• Transfer to Seward for embarkation
• Hubbard Glacier cruising
• Sitka, Alaska / docked
• Skagway, Alaska / docked
• Juneau, Alaska / docked
• Ketchikan, Alaska / docked
• Inside Passage cruising
• Disembark Vancouver
Also available in reverse direction from Vancouver to Anchorage
Departure Dates June to September
Package Includes
• 1 nights accommodation in Anchorage
• Scheduled transfer from Anchorage to Seward
• 7 night Alaska Cruise in your chosen suite category
• All meals on board the cruise from dinner on day one to breakfast on final day
• All drinks, entertainment, Wi-fi, and gratuities on board the cruise
• Shore excursions (can be booked directly with Regent Seven Seas 180 days prior to cruise)
In the Know Sitka was founded by Russian fur traders in 1799 and was the historic centre of Russia’s Alaskan empire until the US purchased Alaska in 1867.
Silversea Alaska Cruise 9 days
Renowned for extraordinary worldwide voyages aboard intimate, luxury cruise ships, Silversea Cruises bring you all that you would expect and more from one of the world’s finest luxury cruise lines. Alaska’s pristine coastline, Gold Rush history, endemic wildlife, and enormous glaciers are perfectly complemented by your on board experience; luxury personified.
Itinerary
1. Vancouver 1 night
2. Alaska Cruise 7 nights
• Embark Vancouver
• Inside Passage cruising
• Ketchikan, Alaksa / docked
• Juneau, Alaska / docked
• Skagway, Alaska / docked
• Sitka, Alaska / docked
• Hubbard Glacier cruising
• Disembark Seward
• Transfer to Anchorage Airport
Also available in reverse direction. Vancouver round trip (14 nights) are available on selected dates.
Departure Dates May to September
Tour Includes
• 1 nights accommodation in Vancouver
• 7 night Alaska Cruise in your chosen suite category with butler service
• All meals on board the cruise from dinner on day one to breakfast on final day
• All drinks, entertainment, gratuities, and Wi-fi
• Shore excursions (can be booked directly with Silversea 180 days prior to cruise)
In the Know
Small in size but big on preservations, Skagway offers an authentic glimpse of the Gold Rush era. A visit to the Red Onion Saloon is a must!
Un-Cruise Adventures
An Alaska cruise experience like no other. This is small-ship adventure cruising where the scenery and experience is your entertainment. The cruises centre around adventures, wildlife, and exploring the culture and history of the places you visit.
Each night your expedition team will lay-out the choices for the next day; hiking, intertidal shore walk, kayaking or a skiff ride – do as much or as little as you like, join an activity, or sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Alaska’s scenery offers endless photographic opportunities; glaciers, icebergs, dramatic fjords, pristine forests, and soaring mountains. Keep a watch out for wildlife including orca, humpback whales, sea otters, seals, and sea lions as well as a myriad of birdlife including bald eagles.
Glacier Bay National Park 8 days
Itinerary
1. Embark Juneau
2. Ice Strait & Neka Bay
3. Glacier Bay National Park
4. Glacier Bay National Park
5. Chichagof Island
6. Frederick Sound
7. Tracy Arm & Sawyer Glaciers
8. Disembark Juneau
Departure Dates April to September
Both Cruises Include
• 7 nights on board in your chosen cabin category
• All meals from dinner on day one to breakfast on final morning
• All drinks
• All activities
In the Know
Un-Cruise ships are comfortable and welcoming, hosting a maximum of 86 guests, in a variety of cabin categories. More information is available on request.
Prince William Sound Explorer 8 days
1. Embark Whittier
2. Icy Bay Glaciers
3. Captain’s Choice
4. Cordova
5. Columbia Glacier & Valdez
6. Unakwik Inlet & Meares Glacier
7. College Fjord & Barry Arm
8. Disembark Whittier
Departure Dates Late May to August
St. Lawrence River Cruise 7 days
On board the Canadian Empress, a classic Canadian riverboat, cruise the calm waters of the St. Lawrence River, enjoying the magnificent, ever-changing scenery. On this cruise, between Kingston and Québec City, you will follow the route of the first French explorers as they blazed a trail through Lower Canada to Upper Canada. You will also appreciate the role of the St. Lawrence River as the connection between English and French Canada, and the distinct cultures of the various regions. The Canadian Empress epitomises the intimacy of river cruising and offers comfortable staterooms, dining room, lounge and bar, and observation decks.
Itinerary
Also available in reverse direction from Québec City to
Departure Dates May to September
Arrangements Include
• 7 nights on board in your chosen cabin category
• All meals and snacks from dinner on day one to breakfast on final day
• Domestic beer or wine with dinner
• Shore tours and transportation
• Evening entertainment
See page 50 for a 15-day itinerary that includes this cruise with stays in Toronto, Québec City and Montréal.
In the Know 1. Embark Kingston 2. Brockville / docked 3. Upper Canada Village / docked 4. Coteau Landing /docked 5. Montréal / docked 6. Trois Rivières / docked 7. Disembark Québec City Kingston.Holland America’s Canada & New England Cruise 12 days
Get to know Montréal before boarding your ship for a scenic cruise along the St. Lawrence River to Québec City where you’ll have time to explore the walled Old Town. Your cruise then continues in the Gulf of the St. Lawrence to Charlottetown which its impressive Victorian houses, buildings and parks. Next port of call is Sydney on Cape Breton Island followed by Halifax, a city defined by its maritime heritage, and Bar Harbor in Maine, a quintessential New England coastal town. The cruise docks at Boston, New England’s largest city which is home to historic buildings and attractions along the Freedom Trail.
Itinerary
1. Montréal 2 nights
2. Cruise 7 nights
3. Boston 2 nights
• Embark Montréal
• St. Lawrence River Cruising
• Québec City / docked
• Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island / docked
• Sydney, Nova Scotia / docked
• Halifax, Nova Scotia / docked
• Bar Harbor, Maine / docked
4. Disembark Boston, Massachusetts 2 night stay
Also available in reverse direction Boston to Montréal
Departure Dates May to September
Package Includes
• 2 nights accommodation in Montréal
• 7 night cruise in your chosen stateroom category
• All meals on cruise from dinner on day one to breakfast on final morning
• Entertainment on board
• 2 nights accommodation in Boston
In the Know
Other cruise lines operate a similar Canada and New England itinerary; please call for options.
Why not add a stay in Toronto with a visit to Niagara Falls then board VIA Rail for the journey to Montréal to extend your holiday plans. Alternatively from Boston, board Amtrak for the journey to New York.
British Columbia
Why Visit?
• Vancouver – gateway city for Alaska cruises and Rocky Mountaineer
• Amazing wildlife viewing – whales, bears and more!
• Stunning scenery – Pacific coast, desertlike interior and mountains galore
• Unique lodges, resorts, and ranches
• Orchards, vineyards, and lakes of the Okanagan Valley
• Indigenous culture
• World-renowned ski resorts including Whistler and Sun Peaks
• Abundance of year-round outdoor experiences
Vancouver
Located between snow-capped mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Attractions include Stanley Park with its natural, cultural and historical landmarks, Granville Market, which makes an ideal stop for lunch, FlyOver Canada and on the North Shore there’s Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain.
Visitors can enjoy world-class accommodation, dining and shopping, a host of outdoor adventures, live entertainment and sporting events.
Vancouver offers easy access to Whistler, Victoria, and Vancouver Island, Alaska cruises sail from the downtown port, and it’s the gateway for VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer rail journeys. Start, or end, your holiday in Vancouver but do allow ample time to enjoy all the city has to offer.
Fairmont Waterfront Hotel
World-class luxury hotel with unparalleled West Coast views
Location: Downtown overlooking the cruise terminal
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge, outdoor pool, hot tub, health club, steam room, parking
Number of Rooms: 489
Pan Pacific Hotel
Stunning views across Burrard Inlet from the outdoor pool
Location: Atop Canada Place adjacent to cruise ship terminal
Facilities: Restaurants, bar, coffee shop, outdoor pool, gym, sauna, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 503
Rosewood Hotel Georgia
First opened in 1927, a historic building that retains its original grandeur
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, cocktail lounge, lobby lounge, garden terrace, health spa, indoor pool, parking
Number of Rooms: 156
Wedgewood Hotel
Luxury boutique hotel, a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux
Location: Robson Square, downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, fitness centre, steam room, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 83
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Known as the ‘Castle in the City’
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge, indoor pool, spa, gym, parking
Number of Rooms: 556
Sutton Place Hotel
Elegant hotel offering European charm and hospitality
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor pool with sun terrace, coffee shop, fitness centre, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 397
Sheraton Wall Centre
Stylish hotel in a great location; gateway to all things in Vancouver
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant & bar, indoor pool & hot tub, coffee shop, fitness room, parking, free wi-fi
Number of Rooms: 733
Georgian Court Hotel
Boutique hotel blending style and service with modern elegance
Location: Downtown near BC Place Stadium
Facilities: Two restaurants, bar, fitness centre, hot tub, steam room, parking
Number of Rooms: 180
Coast Coal Harbour
Modern spin on the standard hotel experience
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, outdoor pool, fitness centre, hot tub, guest laundry, parking
Number of Rooms: 220
Hilton Vancouver
At the edge of the vibrant Yaletown district
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, whirlpool, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 207
Listel Hotel
Enjoy the distinctive local art featured throughout the hotel
Location: Downtown on Robson Street
Facilities: Restaurant, fitness centre, parking
Number of Rooms: 129
Rosedale on Robson
Friendly, good-value all-suite hotel
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness room, laundry facilities and parking
Number of Rooms: 275
Excursions
Granville Island Market Tour
Departs: Daily year-round except Christmas season
Duration: 2 hours
This is where the locals shop; its noisy, chaotic and a food lovers paradise. Sample a cornucopia of fine foods from nearby farms and food artisans including cheeses, charcuterie, candied salmon, bread and yummy donuts!
Vancouver City Tour & Capilano Bridge
Departs: Daily May to October
Duration: 5 hours
Enjoy an introductory tour of Vancouver including historic Gastown, Chinatown, Robson Street and Stanley Park. Then cross the Lions Gate Bridge to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in the North Shore rainforest. The 450-ft long bridge crosses over the Capilano Canyon and is one of the top attractions in the city.
Sea to Sky Whistler Village Tour
Departs: Daily May to September
Duration: 12 hours
By coach, travel along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler and, on arrival, you’ll have around 4 hours free time. Your excursion also includes highlights such as Shannon Falls, the 3rd highest waterfall in British Columbia, and the Sea to Sky Gondola which gives spectacular views of Howe Sound.
Victoria Tour
Departs: Daily May to October
Duration: 7 hours one-way or 13 hours return
Travel by coach and ferry to Victoria, on Vancouver Island, enjoying the glorious scenery of the Gulf Islands and possible marine wildlife sightings on your journey. Admission to Butchart Gardens is included and you’ll have free time to explore Victoria too.
Vancouver Whale Watching
Departs: Daily April to early October
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Hop aboard the Salish Sea catamaran for a guided whale watch and wildlife viewing excursion departing from Granville Island. Cruise the Gulf and San Juan Islands to view whales, sea birds, seals and sea lions in their natural habitat.
Hop-on/Off City Tour
Departs: Daily May to October
Duration: 48-hour pass
Explore Vancouver at your own pace by hoping on/off the bus as you please. Highlights of the 16 stops include Stanley Park, Granville Market, Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown, and English Bay.
Victoria
Easily reached by a scenic ferry journey or by floatplane from Vancouver, Victoria is a colourful city located around it’s Inner Harbour.
Victoria has been British Columbia’s provincial capital since 1871, and retains much of its colonial heritage including the Parliament Buildings and the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel. The city’s Asian tradition can be seen in Chinatown and Victoria retains deep ties to its Indigenous culture which is evident on a visit to Thunderbird Park.
Highlights of a visit to Victoria include the world-famous Butchart Gardens with its beautiful floral displays and whale watching with boats regularly sailing from the Inner Harbour.
Fairmont Empress Hotel
Turn of the century elegance and one of Victoria’s landmark buildings
Location: Stunning, directly across from the Inner Harbour
Facilities: Restaurants, lounge, tea lobby, indoor heated pool, whirlpool, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 477
Magnolia Hotel
European-style boutique hotel
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, fitness centre, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 64
Oswego Hotel
Boutique hotel; peaceful setting in a quiet side street
Location: Residential area of James Bay
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, fitness centre, laundry, parking
Number of Rooms: 80
Inn at Laurel Point
Resort-style waterfront hotel
Location: Overlooks the Inner Harbour
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, patio, indoor pool, sundeck, gardens, parking
Number of Rooms: 200
Excursions
Butchart Gardens
Departs: Daily, May to December
Duration: 3.5 hours
Explore these wonderful themed gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada, at your own pace; visit the Japanese, Rose, Sunken and Italian Gardens to marvel at the various displays. Includes shuttle service from outside the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Afternoon Tea at Butchart Gardens
Departs: Daily, June to mid-September
Duration: 4 hours
Leave Victoria’s Inner Harbour by seaplane on a thrilling 15-minute panorama tour over the city en route to the Butchart Gardens private dock. On arrival, you’ll enjoy an award-winning afternoon tea experience in the Dining Room restaurant. Then enjoy free time to explore the renowned gardens before your limousine transfer to downtown Victoria.
Whale Watching
Departs: Daily, April to October
Minimum age 6 for Zodiac excursion
Duration: 3 hours
Enjoy an exhilarating excursion in search of orca and humpback whales as well as seals, sea lions, porpoises, sea otters and sea birds. Ride aboard a covered boat or Zodiac joined by a certified marine biologist who will give information and answer any questions you may have.
Urban Kayak Tour
Departs: Daily, May to mid-September
Duration: 2.5 hours
See the city and nature up close; seals, sea otters, floatplanes, bald eagles, house boats and so much more.
From your unique perspective, the guides describe Victoria’s historic waterways and the wildlife that make the harbour their home.
Sunset Whale & Wildlife Tour
Departs: Daily, mid-May to early October
Duration: 3 hours
See whales in a whole new light! This excursion departs in the early evening in search of whales and other marine wildlife in the soft light of the setting sun. You’ll be accompanied by a Naturalist/Biologist who will impart their knowledge about the wildlife you see.
Victoria Scenic Flight
Departs: Daily, May to September
Duration: 30 minutes
Travelling by floatplane is a way of life in British Columbia and this excursion gives you the opportunity to experience the thrill of taking off and landing on water. On this circular flight over the city and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, you’ll have unique views of the buildings around the harbour, the grand houses perched on the rugged coastline and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
Tofino & Ucluelet
Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, are the small, picturesque resorts of Tofino and Ucluelet which are separated by the Pacific Rim National Park.
Tofino is a mix of wide sandy beaches and old growth forest, fishing and sightseeing boats, loggers and surfers, casual eateries and eclectic fine dining. Ucluelet, offers a much quieter area with very few shops and restaurants but, as its just 30-minutes away by car from Tofino, you can easily travel between the two.
The area offers a host of wildlife viewing opportunities including whales and black bear, and outdoor activities such as surfing, kayaking, and hiking.
Wickaninnish Inn
Rustic elegance on the edge of nature; perched between the ancient rainforest and the Pacific Ocean
Location: Idyllic, facing the sands of Chesterman Beach, 5 km from Tofino
Facilities: Restaurant, café lounge, bar, library, yoga classes, spa, fitness room, free parking
Number of Rooms: 75
Long Beach Lodge
Experience the natural beauty of this luxurious resort
Location: On the edge of Cox Bay 7 km from Tofino
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge bar, fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, laundry, free parking
Number of Rooms: 61
Tofino Resort & Marina
Full-service waterfront hotel
Location: Downtown Tofino
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, nature viewing, free parking
Number of Rooms: 63
Black Rock Resort
Set in nature and designed for comfort
Location: Ucluelet, on a rocky headland on the shores of the Pacific Ocean
Facilities: Restaurant, oceanfront bar, hot tub, spa, free parking
Number of Rooms: 133
Excursions
Whale Watching
Departs: Daily March to October
Excursion available from Tofino or Ucluelet
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy the scenic views along the wild coastline of Clayoquot Sound aboard a covered boat on the way to the feeding areas of gray, humpback and orca whales. Other marine wildlife sightings may include sea otters, seals, sea lions, as well as bald eagles.
Bear & Whale Safari
Departs: Daily April to September Zodiac vessel only; minimum age 5
Duration: 6 hours
Travel from the open Pacific Coast to the secluded fjord inlet of Clayoquot Sound’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Black bears forage in the intertidal zone looking for rock crabs and molluscs and can unobtrusively be observed from the Zodiac. The magnificent gray and humpback whales can be found feeding in local bays or on the open ocean with sea otters and sea lions often seen resting and feeding close to the outer islands.
This is a two-part wildlife safari with a land-side break in between the excursions.
Black Bear Viewing
Departs: Daily April to October
Excursion available from Tofino or Ucluelet
Duration: 2 hours
Encounter one of the most fearsome yet fascinating animals that roam the West Coast of Vancouver Island, the black bear. At low tide (which could mean an early morning start), board a covered boat and speed along the lush coastline to the bear’s feeding grounds. When the tide goes out, the bears emerge from their forests to forage along the shores in search of their favourite food, rock crabs, and other molluscs. This is the ideal opportunity to view the inquisitive black bear in their natural habitat.
Sea Kayak & Rainforest
Departs: Daily April to September
Duration: 4 hours
This fully-guided excursion travels around Tofino Harbour through protected, interior waters to Meares Island. Here, your guide will lead an interpretive walk along the Big Tree Trail through the ancient rainforest of the area. After the walk, a lunch (not included recommended to bring a sandwich or snack with you) stop will be made then paddle back to base. Wildlife sightings may include sea and migratory birds, river otters, seals and bald eagles.
Sea Kayak & Hot Springs
Departs: Daily May to October
Duration: 6.5 hours
Travel by water to the north end of Clayoquot Sound, then take a 2 km walk along a boardwalk trail, through an ancient rainforest, to natural thermal soaking pools (average temperature 42C) where you’ll spend around 2 hours relaxing in the waters. The excursion also includes stops at a sea cave, eagles’ nest and wildlife viewing including the chance of seeing gray whales although humpback and orcas are a possibility.
Whistler
Just two hours north of Vancouver, in the Coast Mountains, this year-round resort is perhaps best known for its winter sports, primarily downhill skiing.
However, in summer it offers a myriad of outdoor activities including mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, rafting, golfing bear viewing, Peak 2 Peak Gondola and ziplining – perfect for families and couples alike who want to soak up the mountain atmosphere.
The pedestrian village offers superb amenities including world-class hotels and restaurants, galleries, boutiques, casual eateries, a cinema, and the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre where you can learn about Whistler’s two First Nation cultures – the Squamish Nation and the Lil’Wat Nation.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Combines classic elegance with a modern alpine setting; a ‘Chateau in the Mountains’
Location: At the base of Blackcomb Mountain
Facilities: Restaurants, bar, coffee shop, deli, indoor & outdoor pool, spa, fitness centre, tennis court, golf course, ski rentals, parking
Number of Rooms: 550
Westin Resort & Spa
All-suite luxury hotel
Location: Whistler Village
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge, spa, health club, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, hot tub, spa, guest laundry, shops, parking
Number of Rooms: 400
Delta Whistler Village Suites
A family-friendly, centrally located, hotel
Location: Whistler Village
Facilities: Restaurant, heated outdoor pool, whirlpools, health club, spa, ski rentals, parking
Number of Rooms: 207
Aava Hotel
Resort-style hotel
Location: Whistler Village
Facilities: Outdoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, parking
Number of Rooms: 192
Excursions
Peak 2 Peak Gondola
Operates: Daily, mid-May to mid-September
Duration: ride is 12 minutes. Spend as much time as you want exploring at the summit.
Spanning the distance between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola is an engineering marvel and offers unparalleled views of the mountains, valley and Whistler Village. While at the summit, there’s walking trails, restaurants and indoor interpretive displays to discover.
Canoeing Adventure
Departs: Daily, May to October
Minimum age 6
Duration: 3 hours
Paddling the River of Golden Dreams is a summertime classic; experienced guides will teach you basic skills. From Alta Lake you’ll paddle into the lush river mouth though waterlilies and around bends of greenery.
Zipline Adventure
Departs: Daily, mid-May to September
Minimum age 6
Duration: 2.5 hours
Exhilarating and exciting; the legendary Bear Tour environment features five ziplines, a network of four suspension bridges, boardwalks and forest trails showcasing stunning views of Fitzsimmons Creek. Perfect for first time zipliners!
Family Friendly Rafting
Departs: Daily, late April to September
Minimum age 5
Duration: 3 hours
As you travel the glacier-fed Cheakamus River, nestled in an old growth forest, experience the excitement of gentle rapids surrounded by the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains. Includes 1.5 hours of rafting on class 1-2 rapids.
Black Bear Viewing
Departs: Daily, June to October
Duration: 2.5 hours
Enjoy an off-road black bear viewing by Land Rover accompanied by a professional nature guide. Starting in late April, black bears emerge from hibernation and begin to feed on the new spring growth of grasses. Take in the majestic panoramic views of the Coastal Mountain Range while keeping a watch out for bears, deer and even coyote’s that call this area home.
Mountain Explorer ATV Tour
Departs: Daily, June to September
Minimum age 19 to drive, 6 as passenger
Duration: 2 hours
Take a guided ride on an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) through the Hidden Valley between Blackcomb and Whistler Mountains. Experience spectacular views of surrounding valleys, glacier peaks, forest canopy and the local wildlife. Perfect for first-time riders.
Alpine Meadows Resort
Location: Clearwater, near Wells Gray Park
Wow: remote and exceptionally beautiful location with a lakeside setting
Facilities: restaurant, patio, lounge, jacuzzi, BBQ station, laundry facilities, playground, parking. Minimum 2 night stay recommended
Number of Rooms: 47
Board basis: includes continental breakfast
Tyax Wilderness Resort
Location: near Gold Bridge, around 5 hours drive north of Vancouver.
Wow: on the shore of beautiful Lake Tyaughton in the Chilcotin Mountains region
Facilities: restaurant, bar and lounge, jacuzzi, fitness centre, patio, hot tub, parking. Minimum 2 night stay recommended
Number of rooms: 29
Emerald Lake Lodge
Location: Field, in Yoho National Park. Just 42 km west of Lake Louise in Alberta
Wow: the lodge is on the shore of Emerald Lake –named, as you would guess, from the remarkable colour of the water
Facilities: reading and sitting rooms, games room, restaurant, lounge, verandahs offering stunning views, hot tub, parking
Number of rooms: 85 rooms in 24-cabin style buildings
Oak Bay Beach Hotel
Location: Victoria, Vancouver Island
Wow: stunning views of the Pacific Ocean
Facilities: four dining options, bar and lounge, outdoor heated mineral pools, patio, yoga, parking
Number of rooms: 100
Cathedral Mountain Lodge
Location: Field, Yoho National Park, around 85 km from Banff, Alberta
Wow: accommodation in authentic log cabins
Facilities: Great room and dining room, canoeing, parking
Number of rooms: 31
Board basis: includes continental breakfast
Painted Boat Resort Spa
Location: Maderia Park on the Sunshine Coast, just 2 hours drive northwest of Vancouver
Wow: Overlooks a serene, well-protected, deep-water marina
Facilities: restaurant, spa, outdoor pool, fitness centre, hot tub, parking
Number of rooms: 30
The Royal Kelowna
Location: downtown Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley
Wow: rooftop infinity pool gives sweeping views of the lake valley
Facilities: outdoor pool, fitness centre, hot tub, steam room, parking
Number of rooms: 64 one- and two-bedroom suites
Echo Valley Guest Ranch
Location: Jesmond, 5.5-hour drive from Vancouver, 4-hour from Whistler and 2.5-hour from Kamloops
Wow: unique location at the meeting place of four distinct geographic regions and all-inclusive experience
Facilities: restaurant, bar, hiking, riding, fly fishing, indoor pool, hot tub, spa, yoga, parking
Number of rooms: 20 in lodges and private cabins
Board basis: all-inclusive – meals and activities
Minimum age 13 (this is primarily an adults-only ranch)
Alberta
Why Visit?
• Majestic Rocky Mountain scenery in Banff and Jasper National Parks
• Columbia Icefield – walk on the surface of the Athabasca Glacier
• Wildlife viewing – black bears, moose, elk, and mountain sheep.
• Calgary – home to the world-famous Stampede
• The Icefields Parkway –considered one of the world’s top drives
• Natural hot springs
• Indigenous culture
• World class skiing and year-round outdoor activities
Calgary
Best known as home to the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show in the World’ otherwise known as the Calgary Stampede, held annually each July.
But there is so much more to Calgary than cowboys; gateway to the Canadian Rockies, with Banff just a short 1.5-hour drive away, Calgary is a city worth discovering. Visit the Calgary Tower, the Glenbow Museum showcasing Indigenous culture, early settler life and modern-day art, step into a pre-1914 prairie railway town at Heritage Park Historical Village and visit Studio Bell home of the National Music Centre which tells the story of music in Canada.
Within short driving distances from Calgary there are two UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit; Dinosaur Provincial Park at Drumheller, where over 35 species of dinosaur have been discovered and Head-Smashed-in Buffalo Jump, one of the best-preserved buffalo jumps in North America.
Fairmont Palliser Hotel
Calgary’s Grand Canadian Heritage Hotel
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurants, lounge bar, fitness centre, indoor pool, steam room, parking
Number of Rooms: 407
Delta Calgary Downtown
Thoughtfully appointed modern hotel
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, lobby lounge, indoor pool, fitness centre, outdoor deck, parking
Number of Rooms: 394
Sandman Signature Hotel
Convenience - Light Rail Transit stop directly outside the hotel
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, café, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, parking
Number of Rooms: 301
Hotel Le Germain
Luxury boutique style hotel known for its elegance, comfort and quality
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, gym, roof terrace, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 143
Hotel Arts
Recently renovated, boutique-style hotel
Location: Midtown, close to the Stampede Grounds
Number of rooms: 185
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, coffee shop, indoor/outdoor pool, fitness centre, parking
Hilton Garden Inn
Away from the downtown core, but close enough to easily get around
Location: East Village, close to RiverWalk and City Hall Light Rail station
Number of rooms: 198
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, room service, rooftop terrace, indoor pool, fitness centre, hot tub, parking
Excursions
Calgary Heritage Tour
Departs: Daily, May to early September
Duration: 6 hours
Enjoy a bus tour to visit Heritage Park Historical Village where you will enjoy a streetcar ride to the main gate where your self-guided tour begins. Later, you’ll return to downtown Calgary. Heritage Park has over 180 attractions and exhibits and your pass provides full access to all the village has to offer. Bus tour is around 1.5 hours and visit to Heritage Park around 5 hours.
Xploring Calgary Bus Tour
Departs: Daily, late May to early September
Duration: 3 hours
View the sights of Calgary’s modern urban centre including Canada Olympic Park, Lougheed House, Stampede Park, downtown Calgary and more. Various photo opportunities will be made.
Stampede Art & The Wild West
Departs: Daily, May to September
Duration: 2 hours
On this walking tour, view the public art in Stampede Park and learn the story of Western Canada, the origins of Calgary, and the Stampede. Follow the history of the Treaty 7 First Nations, hear about the ‘dream’ that created the Calgary Stampede, and explore the Western culture that is uniquely Calgary.
Downtown Walking Tour
Departs: Daily, May to December
Duration: 2 hours
Calgary is a blend of frontier town and a lively urban centre and, on this walking tour, you’ll get a unique introduction to the city. The tour will delve into the city’s history, its public art, sculptures, restaurants, +15 system and more.
Calgary Stampede 4 days
Each year, Calgary welcomes the world to a spectacular celebration of western heritage –this is the Stampede, also known for good reason as ‘The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’.
This is the largest rodeo in the world and attracts professional cowboys who compete in a multitude of events including bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing. In the evening the highlight event is the exciting Chuckwagon Races followed by a Grandstand Show and then a spectacular firework display.
However, the Stampede offers so much more there’s a host of agricultural exhibits, musical performances, and, not to be missed, a visit to Elbow River Camp where you will experience Indigenous culture first-hand.
Itinerary
1. Arrive and transfer (not included) to your chosen hotel for a 3 night stay
2. Morning at leisure; afternoon rodeo events
3. At leisure; evening Chuckwagon Races & Grandstand Show
4. Arrangements end
Departure Dates Early July
Tour Includes
• 3 nights accommodation at your chosen hotel
• Reserved seating for one afternoon’s Rodeo events
• Reserved seating for one evening at the Chuckwagon Races & Grandstand Show
• Two days gate admission to Stampede Park
• Two Skyride tickets across Stampede Park
• Events programme
• Cowboy hat
In the Know
If you want less time at the Stampede, for example both the rodeo and evening events on same day, we can provide tickets which will allow gate admission to Stampede Park. Price varies according to seat location and date and only available for purchase with accommodation.
Banff
Just a short, 1.5-hour drive from Calgary, is Banff; a resort town nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Set alongside the banks of the Bow River and surrounded by mountains, Banff is a year-round resort with a range of attractions, shops, boutiques, cafés, museums, and galleries.
The great outdoors beckons you to explore the many scenic highlights including Bow Falls, the Hoodoos, Lake Minnewanka, Banff Gondola, the Cave and Basin National
Historic Site and the Upper Hot Springs. The list of activities is endless too, golf, hiking, rafting, canoeing, wildlife viewing, and riding. In winter, there’s skiing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, ice canyon walks and wildlife viewing to relish.
With Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake close by, Banff makes a perfect base to explore a bit further afield.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
An iconic Scottish baronial style hotel known as ‘The Castle in the Rockies’
Location: 20-minute walk from Banff town
Facilities: Multiple restaurants, 24-hour deli, lounges, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, 27-hole golf course, spa, tennis courts, parking
Number of Rooms: 757
Rimrock Hotel
Luxury hotel offering great views of the mountains and Bow Valley
Location: Above Banff town on the slopes of Sulphur Mountain
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge, spa, health club, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centre, hot tub, spa, guest laundry, shops, parking
Number of Rooms: 333
Moose Hotel
With its design of mountain elegance with rich, natural materials the Moose Hotel, perfect for an alpine escape
Location: Town centre
Facilities: Restaurant, indoor pool, exercise room, spa, rooftop hot tub, parking
Number of Rooms: 174
Royal Canadian Lodge
Enjoy the tradition of a grand mountain lodge at this boutique property
Location: Town centre
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, hot tub, steam room, spa, parking
Number of Rooms: 99
Banff Caribou Lodge
Mountain lodge style hotel with a great steakhouse restaurant and a full-service spa.
Location: Town centre
Facilities: Restaurant & bar, spa, hot pool, gym, parking
Number of rooms: 189
Peaks Hotel
Banff’s newest hotel, opened in 2021. Modern sophistication meets mountainside comfort
Location: Town centre
Facilities: Leisure and reading rooms also shared facilities with their sister hotel Banff Park Lodge include restaurant and lounge, indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, guest laundry, parking
Number of rooms: 71
Elk and Avenue Hotel
Modern spaces blend style and comfort in this classic mountain hotel
Location: Town centre
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, café, sauna, whirlpool, guest laundry, parking
Number of rooms: 164
Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Alpine style lodge nestled amongst fir, pine and spruce trees, surrounded by epic vistas
Location: Tunnel Mountain, 1 km from town centre
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge, games room, steam room, outdoor hot tub, parking
Number of rooms:108
Excursions
Banff Gondola
Departs: Daily, year round
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy a breathtaking ascent to the pinnacle of Sulphur Mountain for an awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama; exceptional views of six mountain ranges, Bow Valley, and Banff town.
Signature Hike
Departs: Daily, June to mid-October
Duration: 7 hours
Hiking in the Canadian Rockies is one of the best ways to explore the natural landscape and beauty of Banff National Park. With a guide, hike for four to six hours to one of four locations: Larch Valley, Plain of Six Glaciers, Lake Agnes, or Stanley Glacier (location depends on day of week). A packed lunch, and use of hiking pole included.
Three Sisters Peaks Helicopter Tour
Departs: Daily, year-round
Duration: 25 minutes
Longer tours are available, information on request
An excellent introduction to the dramatic views of helicopter sightseeing of Spray Lakes, Spray Valley, the forested slopes of Mount Buller and the mountains of the Goat Range.
Mountain, Lakes & Waterfalls
Departs: Daily, May to mid-October
Also available from Lake Louise
Duration: 9 hours
Visit some of the most scenic spots in the Rockies as you travel through Banff and Yoho National Parks. Highlights will include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Spiral Tunnels, and Takakkaw Falls. Includes lunch.
Ride the Sundance Loop
Departs: Daily, late April to early October
Duration: 2 hours
Escape into the Rockies for a two-hour trail rail following the Bow River and traversing the side of Sulphur Mountain. The ride gives opportunities to photograph the stunning views of the valley from the shore of the river to the heights of the upper trail. Suitable for all riding levels.
Evening Wildlife Safari
Departs: Daily, May to early October
Duration: 2 hours
Join this excursion in search of some of the wildlife that inhabit the area around Banff including elk, bighorn sheep, and deer. The excursion travels through a variety of landscapes to give the best viewing opportunities.
Excursions
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
Departs: Daily, May to mid-October
Duration: 4 hours
On this afternoon sightseeing tour, you will visit Lake Louise, the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’ and Moraine Lake –both in Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Icefields Parkway Tour
Departs: Daily, May to mid-October
Duration: 11 hours
Journey along the stunning Icefields Parkway where lakes, waterfalls, mountain peaks and canyons dot the landscape. At the Columbia Icefield you’ll venture onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier by means of a massive Ice Explorer vehicle and visit the Glacier SkyWalk. Includes picnic lunch. Banff round trip.
Banff to Jasper one-way tour
Departs; Daily, May to mid-October
Also available from Lake Louise
Duration: 10 hours
Discover Canada’s most scenic mountain road, the Icefields Parkway. See spectacular glaciers, cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks. This is a wildlife corridor so keep your eyes peeled! At the Columbia Icefield, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier in an Ice Explorer vehicle, where else in the world is a walk on a glacier so accessible? Also includes Glacier SkyWalk, lunch, and photo stops along the way.
Cowboy Cookout
Departs: Daily, lunch or dinner early May to mid-September
Minimum age 8 to ride
Duration: 3 hours
Enjoy an afternoon or evening in the great outdoors on this true western excursion. Horse riders travel along the trail at the base of Sulphur Mountain and non-riders enjoy a scenic covered-wagon ride along the Bow River. Everyone meets up for BBQ cookout (lunch or dinner) at 3 Mile Cabin by the Sundance Canyon Trail.
Explore Banff with Gondola & Cruise
Departs: Daily, early May to mid-October
Duration: 6.5 hours
A guided sightseeing tour introduces you to scenic highlights such as Surprise Corner, Hoodoos, Two Jack Viewpoint and Tunnel Mountain Drive. Included is a trip up the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the Bow Valley and surrounding mountains, and a cruise on Lake Minnewanka.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the world’s most photographed lakes and is known as ‘the Jewel of the Rockies’. The blue-green waters of the lake are surrounded by the magnificent Victoria Glacier at one end, the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise at the other and soaring mountains all around.
The village of Lake Louise has a few shops, hotels and visitor facilities and is around 4 km from the lake itself. There is limited parking at Lake Louise and, in summer, a shuttle service operates. To visit Moraine Lake it is also necessary to take a shuttle unless you have accommodation booked at the Lodge. For shuttle service, which should be pre-booked to guarantee space, to Lake Louise and/or Moraine Lake see the Parks Canada website.
Canada AlbertaFairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Luxurious and welcoming hotel on the shore of Lake Louise; a more picture-perfect setting is hard to imagine
Location: The name says it all!
Facilities: Choice of restaurants, pub, lounge, indoor pool, spa, fitness centre, shopping arcade, 24-hour deli, parking
Number of rooms: 539
Moraine Lake Lodge
Luxury lodge offering cabin accommodation, award-winning dining, stunning scenery, and outdoor experiences – the ultimate ‘get away from it all’
Location: On the shore of Moraine Lake in the Valley of Ten Peaks. Around 15 km from Lake Louise.
Facilities: one of the top restaurants in Banff National Park, café, canoeing, library, parking
Number of rooms: 33
Lake Louise Inn
Good base for the exploring the area with comfortable accommodation; great for families and couples alike
Location: Lake Louise village, around 4 km from the lake
Facilities: restaurant, pub, fitness centre, indoor pool & hot tub, parking
Number of rooms: 247
Mountaineer Lodge
Motel style property nestled within the pine forest with good views of the Rocky Mountains
Location: Lake Louise Village, around 4 km from the lake
Facilities: breakfast room, indoor hot tub, steam room, parking
Number of rooms: 80
Jasper
Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most northerly of Alberta’s National Parks and the friendly, picturesque town of Jasper offers the perfect base for exploring the array of natural attractions such as Maligne, Medicine and Pyramid Lakes, Athabasca and Sunwapta Falls, and Whistlers Mountain.
A host of outdoor activities such as rafting, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking and wildlife viewing, await you as well as star gazing; Jasper was designated as a Dark Sky Preserve in 2011, due to its limited light pollution.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
A grand, historic Canadian lodge, surrounded by natural beauty end intro at beauty.
Location: On shore of Lac Beauvert around 7 km from Jasper town
Facilities: Restaurants, lounge, pub, deli, heated outdoor pool, sauna, steam room, golf course, year-round activities, parking
Number of rooms: 446
Forest Park Hotel
Signature hospitality with spacious guest rooms, decadent dining, and leisure facilities
Location: On edge of Jasper town, around 15-minute walk to centre
Facilities: Restaurant, lounge bar, indoor pool, hot tub, fitness centre, sauna, parking
Number of rooms: 152
Chateau Jasper
Alpine lodge style offering warm western hospitality, comfortable accommodation, and modern amenities
Location: Just a 10-minute walk to town centre
Facilities: Restaurant (breakfast service only), indoor pool, fitness centre, whirlpool, parking
Number of rooms: 119
The Crimson
Modern, mountain lodging, spacious accommodation, close to shops and restaurants
Location: Just a 5-minute walk to town centre
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, hot tub, parking
Number of rooms: 99
Excursions
Nature Tour with Cruise
Departs: Daily, late may to October
Duration: 5 hours
Tour one of Jasper’s most spectacular areas including Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake. On reaching Maligne Lake you’ll enjoy a 90-minute cruise bound for the world-renowned Spirit Island.
Jasper to Banff one-way Tour
Departs: Daily, May to mid-October
Duration: 9 hours
Travel the Icefields Parkway through the natural beauty of Jasper and Banff National Parks. View glaciers, waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and deep canyons. At the Columbia Icefield venture onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier by means of an Ice Explorer vehicle and enjoy stunning views from the Glacier Skywalk. Photography stops will be made, and tour includes lunch.
Wildlife Discovery Tour
Departs: Daily, May to October
Duration: 3.5 hours
Explore the Maligne Valley and discover spectacular natural beauty coupled with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities such as osprey, bighorn sheep, elk and even the possibility of black bear or moose.
Easy Family Rafting
Departs: Daily, May to early October
Minimum age 3. Other rafting tours are available; please ask for details
Duration: 2.5 hours
This fun and easy rafting/scenic float trips travels down the Athabasca River, a designated Canadian Heritage River. Together with a guide you will follow the same route used by fur traders in bygone years. Suitable for all the family!
Jasper Foodie Tour
Departs: Daily, May to October
Duration: 3 hours
Enjoy a guided 1.5 km walk over three hours where you will visit four restaurants and taste carefully handpicked dishes accompanied with an alcoholic drink. Along the way learn about Jasper’s history.
Jasper Tramway
Departs: Daily, May to mid-October
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Enjoy a ride to the top of Whistlers Mountain for unprecedented views of surrounding mountain ranges, glacial fed lakes, the Athabasca River and Jasper town. Includes shuttle transfers from downtown Jasper or admission only if self-driving.
Yukon
Why Visit?
• Klondike Gold Rush history particularly at Dawson City
• Aurora Borealis viewing
• White Pass & Yukon Railroad – travel back in time on this historic service
• Adventurers’ playground – outdoor activities abound
• Kluane National Park – home to Canada’s highest peak Mount Logan
• Wildlife Viewing – moose outnumber people in the Yukon!
• Indigenous culture
• Drive the Dempster Highway – the only Canadian road to the Arctic Circle
Whitehorse Experience 4
For travellers who want a taste of northern Canada, this short package provides an ideal sampler. Whitehorse, capital city of the Yukon, is known as the ‘Wilderness City’; it’s a mix of coffee shops, museums, quirky heritage buildings, public art, and an amazing choice of restaurants. Visit the S.S. Klondike, the last sternwheeler operating on the Yukon River, the MacBride Museum, the Beringia Interpretive Centre and drop in at the Yukon Brewery for a tasting! A highlight will be the full-day White Pass & Yukon Rail trip; transfer to the Whitehorse station and board the narrow-gauge railway for the journey to Skagway, Alaska. You’ll pass through areas that still echo with the hardships and fortunes of the past such as Glacier Gorge, Dead Horse Gulch, and Bridal Veil Falls. Return to Whitehorse by coach.
Itinerary
1. Arrive and transfer (own arrangements) to your downtown hotel
2. White Pass and Yukon Rail excursion
3. At leisure for independent exploration
4. Arrangements end with hotel check out
days
Departure Dates Late May to mid-September
Package
•
•
Linking the port of Skagway and Whitehorse in the Yukon, The White Pass and Yukon Railroad was built between May 1898 and July 1900 and is an International Civil Engineering Landmark alongside other landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty.
6 days
Aurora Klondike Experience
Just a two-and-a-half-hour flight from Vancouver, takes you to Whitehorse, capital city of the Yukon and one of the best viewing spots to witness the Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. The spectacle of magnetic and electrical charges in the air, colours the sky a multitude of hues including blue, green, and red and is truly an awe-inspiring sight.
From Whitehorse, fly to Dawson City and embrace the spirit of the Gold Rush – between 1896 and 1899 the Klondike region was home to thousands of prospectors – and the city retains much of the history of that time.
Itinerary
1. Arrive Whitehorse and transfer (own arrangements) to your downtown hotel. Evening Aurora viewing excursion
2. At leisure for independent exploration. Evening Aurora viewing excursion
3. Fly to Dawson City, transfer to your hotel and evening Aurora viewing excursion
4. City & Goldfields of Dawson tour and historic Dawson City walking tour. Evening Aurora viewing excursion
5. Morning at leisure, fly to Whitehorse for overnight stay
6. Arrangements end with hotel check out
Departure Dates Early September to end October
Early January to end March
Arrangements Include
• 3 nights accommodation in Whitehorse
• 4 guided Aurora Viewing excursions
• Flights between Whitehorse & Dawson City
• Airport transfers in Dawson City
• 2 nights accommodation in Dawson City
• 3-hour City & Goldfields of Dawson Tour
• 1.5 hour Historic Dawson City Walking Tour
• 4-day winter clothing package (jacket, pants, mitts, toque & boots)
• Full documentation pack
In the Know
No visit to Dawson is complete without a trip to Diamond Tooth Gerties, Canada’s first casino. Enjoy its unique Klondike period style, and entertainment just like the original stampeders!
Best Western Gold Rush Inn
A historic Whitehorse hotel in a central location close to attractions, shopping, and restaurants
Location: Downtown Whitehorse
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, guest laundry, parking, airport shuttle
Number of rooms: 99
Edgewater Hotel Inn on the Lake
Ideally located across from the historic White Pass & Yukon Route Train Station
Location: Downtown Whitehorse
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, parking
Number of rooms: 33
The Downtown Hotel
Historic hotel combining turn-of-the-century atmosphere with modern comfort
Location: Downtown Dawson City
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, guest laundry, airport shuttle, parking
Number of rooms: 59
Southern Lakes Resort
Spectacular lakefront resort with beautiful, private log cabins. Year-round resort and great location for Aurora Borealis viewing
Location: On Tagish Lake, 1.5-hour drive southeast of Whitehorse
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, parking
Number of rooms: 5 private log cabins
A natural log structure with views of Marsh Lake against a mountain background
Location: Marsh Lake, a 40-minute drive southeast of Whitehorse on the Alaksa Highway
Facilities: Restaurant, parking
Number of rooms: 8
Raven’s Rest Inn
Perfectly located for exploring Kluane National Park & Reserve
Location: Haines Junction, 1.5 hours northwest of Whitehorse
Facilities: Complimentary bike use, parking. No on-site restaurant and 2 night minimum stay applies
Number of rooms: 12
Ontario
Why Visit?
• Ottawa, Canada’s capital & historic centre
• Niagara Falls – one of the world’s natural wonders
• The 1000 Islands – woods and waters on Lake Ontario
• St. Lawrence River cruising
• Stunning autumn colours to rival New England
• Manitoulin Island – authentic Indigenous culture
• Blue Mountain Resort – great year-round family friendly resort
• Cosmopolitan Toronto – a metropolis to rival New York
• Award winning wineries, spas and golf courses
Toronto
The largest city in Canada, Toronto, is also the financial and cultural centre of the country. Here, you’ll find world-class theatre, restaurants, hotels, and shopping together with museums, and art galleries.
Visit the CN Tower and dare to walk on its glass floor or even take the ‘Edge Walk’ outside the tower where you dangle over the edge of a 356m drop!
For best views of the downtown area including the CN Tower we recommend taking the short ferry ride to the Toronto Island where there’s also swimming beaches, restaurants, boardwalk, cafés, canoes & kayak rentals, gardens, and playground to enjoy.
Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Opened in 1929 this classic chateau-style hotel was built by Canadian Pacific Railway
Location: Downtown, directly opposite Union Station
Facilities: Restaurants, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, whirlpool, spa, shops, parking
Number of rooms: 1,363
King Blue Hotel
A contemporary landmark on Toronto’s iconic corner of King Street and Blue Jays Way
Location: In the Entertainment District, close to CN Tower
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 125
Delta Toronto
A stylish downtown hotel with some rooms offering great views of the CN Tower
Location: In the Entertainment District, close to CN Tower
Facilities: Restaurant, indoor pool, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 567
Sheraton Hotel
Escape from the bustle of downtown and enjoy the lush gardens, cascading waterfall, and outdoor bar at this hotel
Location: Downtown across from City Hall
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor/outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 1,372
Pantages Hotel
A boutique hotel whose personality is inspired by the theatre focused neighbourhood
Location: Downtown near the Pantages Theatre
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, fitness centre
Number of rooms: 86
Chelsea Hotel
The Corkscrew Waterslide is a firm favourite with children!
Location: Downtown, just a 5-minute walk to Eaton Shopping Centre
Facilities: Restaurants, bar, indoor pool, waterslide, fitness centre, whirlpool, sauna, children’s activity centre, seasonal outdoor sundeck, parking
Number of rooms: 1,590
Excursions
Niagara Falls Day Tour
Departs: Daily year-round except Christmas
On days the cruise is not operating, it will be substituted with the Journey Behind the Falls
Duration: 10 hours
Spend a day visiting one of Canada’s most spectacular sights – Niagara Falls. Included is the thrilling boat ride on the Niagara Cruises Voyage to the Falls for a unique view of the spectacular Horseshoe Falls. Other highlights include lunch, a trip along the beautiful Niagara Parkway and free time at Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Hop-on/Hop-off City Tour & Boat Cruise
Departs: Year-round except Christmas
Duration: Valid for 24 hours
Build your own Toronto experience with the freedom of a hop-on/hop-off city tour aboard a double decker bus. The friendly and knowledgeable tour guides educate you on the fun facts and history of Toronto as they take you through the city. The ticket also includes a boat tour (available seasonally) of the Toronto Harbour and Islands.
Niagara Winery Tour
Departs: Daily year-round except Christmas
Actual winery visits subject to change
Duration: 10 hours
Explore the beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake region and taste award winning wines at Konzelmann Estate, Pillitteri Estate and Inniskillin Winery. Your tour will take you along the historic Niagara Parkway to the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake to enjoy free time for lunch (not included) and sightseeing in the quaint town.
CN Tower Admission
Departs: Daily year-round
Duration: Stay for as long as you like!
Standing at over 553m tall, this symbol of Toronto, offers panoramic views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario. Dare you walk the glass floor? The admission ticket provides elevation to the LookOut and Glass Floor levels.
Harbour Cruise
Departs: May to September
Duration: 45 minutes
Enjoy stunning views of Toronto’s skyline including the CN Tower and waterfront area, together with the Toronto Island parkland and waterways and Toronto Island airport on this fully narrated scenic harbour cruise.
Niagara Falls & Niagara-on-the-Lake
Naturally the Falls themselves, as one of the natural wonders of the world, are the main reason for visiting and they do indeed provide an overwhelming spectacle. Get up close and personal on a boat trip to the Horseshoe Falls, enjoy the Behind the Falls experience or even take in the view from above with a Niagara Helicopters excursion.
Enjoy other attractions in the Niagara region include MistRider Zipline to the Falls, Canadian Niagara Power Station, jet boating on the Niagara River, world-class wineries, and Niagara-on-the-Lake, voted Canada’s prettiest town.
Sheraton Fallsview Hotel
Enjoy spectacular views from the restaurant and Fallsview guest rooms
Location: directly across from the Falls
Number of rooms: 669
Facilities: restaurant, bar, coffee shop, indoor and outdoor pool, gym, sauna, spa, parking
Marriott Fallsview Hotel
Upscale hotel boasting superb views from their Fallsview rooms and restaurant
Location: closest hotel to the Falls
Number of rooms: 432
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, spa, sauna, parking
Crowne Plaza Fallsview
Traditional hotel offering exquisite Fallsview dining at one of the best restaurants in Niagara Falls
Location: few minutes walk to the Falls
Number of rooms: 234
Facilities: restaurant, bar, coffee shop, indoor pool, sauna, parking
Queens Landing Hotel
Grand Georgian style mansion close to the Niagara River
Location: on the waterfront in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Number of rooms: 140
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, hot tub, fitness centre, parking
Prince of Wales Hotel
Landmark hotel with an air of Victorian elegance
Location: in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake
Number of rooms: 110
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, sauna, spa, parking
Excursions
Niagara Falls Adventure Pass
Available: Daily, April to October
Duration: 10 hours
This pass gives admission to many of Niagara Falls most popular attractions while avoiding long wait times including While Water Walk, Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara’s Fury, The Creation of the Falls and in-park transportation on the WEGO bus.
Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour
Departs: Daily, May to November
Duration: 15 minutes
Aboard a luxury catamaran, enjoy a boat tour of the great gorge, to view the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the mighty Horseshoe Falls. An experience not to be missed.
Niagara Region Sightseeing
Departs: Daily, year-round except Christmas
On days the cruise is not operating, it will be substituted with the Journey Behind the Falls
Duration: 6 hours
An exciting day including a boat cruise to the thundering Horseshoe Falls, lunch at a restaurant offering views of the Falls, journey along the Niagara Parkway, see Niagara Gorge, the Floral Clock, the Whirlpool Rapids, and enjoy free time in historical Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Niagara Helicopter
Departs: Daily, year-round except Christmas (weather permitting)
Duration: 9 minutes
Considered a ‘must-do’ this flight allows you to view the falls from above and gives breathtaking views of not only the Horseshoe Falls but the Niagara River, Whirlpool Rapids, Rainbow Bridge, and the American Falls.
Zipline to the Falls
Available: Daily, April to December
Minimum age 7
Duration: 1 hour
Four high-speed, side-by-side, ziplines descend 670m from Queen Victoria Park giving picture-perfect views of the both the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls.
Ottawa
Canada’s capital, Ottawa, is a mix of historic landmarks such as the iconic Parliament Buildings and the Rideau Canal, museums such as Canadian Museum of Nature, and the Canadian Museum of History and War, and art galleries including the National Gallery of Canada.
But, it has more to offer than landmarks and history; the city offers eclectic dining, an amazing market, river and canal cruises, walking and cycling tours and high-class accommodations – all in the downtown core.
Excursions
Rideau Canal Cruise
Departs: Daily, mid-May to mid-October
Duration: 1.5 hours
The Rideau Canada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, winds it way 202 km from Kingston, at the head of Lake Ontario to Ottawa. Discover the region, history and rich cultural heritage on this cruise.
Hop-on/Hop-off City Tour
Departs: Daily, May to October
Duration: One or two day pass
ByWard Market Tour
Departs: Daily, year-round except Christmas
Duration: 2.5 hours
Taste your way through Ottawa’s most historic neighbourhood and discover the market’s key sights. This guided walking tour features six tastings including the iconic BeaverTail, a delicious fried dough pastry, and one alcoholic beverage.
Ottawa River Cruise
Departs: Daily, mid-May to mid-October
Duration: 1.5 hours
Cruise along the Ottawa River, view the city and natural beauty of the surrounding region, and enjoy majestic views of Parliament Hill, Rideau Falls, and the Prime Minister’s residence.
Historical Highlights
Walking Tour
Departs: Daily, year-round except Christmas
Minimum 2 participants required
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Ottawa at your own pace. With twelve stops you can explore the Parliament Buildings, the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, the Prime Minister’s residence, ByWard Market and the Canadian Mint to name a few.
Duration: 2 hours
Canada’s capital is an eminently walkable city and your knowledgeable guide will take you to the grounds of Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, Sparks Street, the ByWard Market and other locations in the downtown core, to explain the city’s history, graceful architecture and political characters.
Fairmont Chateau Laurier
A magnificent building reminiscent of a French château overlooking the Ottawa River
Location: Downtown, beside the Parliament Buildings
Facilities: Restaurants, bar/lounge, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 426
Le Germain Hotel
Elegant and luxurious boutique hotel
Location: Downtown, near ByWard Market
Facilities: Restaurant, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 115
The Lord Elgin
Constructed in 1941, The Lord Elgin is one of Ottawa’s landmark buildings
Location: Downtown, short walk to Parliament Hill
Facilities: Restaurant bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, parking
Number of rooms: 355
The Metcalfe
Boutique hotel offering a perfect balance between modern design and historical architecture
Location: Downtown, easy walking distance to Parliament Hill
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms:108
Elmhirst’s Resort
This resort offers a host of activities with accommodation in private cottages
Location: Rice Lake, near the town of Keene, 90-minute drive from Toronto
Wow: Cottage accommodation facing the lake
Facilities: Dining room, pub, indoor pool, sauna, tennis courts, beach, playground, host of water activities, parking
Number of rooms: 30 cottages
Arowhon Pines
The epitome of a Canadian retreat
Location: Algonquin Park, 3-hour drive from Toronto
Wow: Lakeside location with a host of outdoor activities. The perfect getaway retreat.
Facilities: Dining room, nature viewing, kayaks, fishing
Number of rooms: 50 bedrooms nestled in 13 log cabins. Accommodation is on full-board basis
Deerhurst Resort
An all-season luxury resort
Location: On Peninsula Lake in the Muskoka region, around a 3-hour drive north of Toronto
Wow: Summer activities include golf, watersports and tennis and winter cross country skiing, ice skating and showshoeing
Facilities: Restaurants, lounge, indoor pool, whirlpool, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 410
Westin Trillium House
A grand Georgian Bay lodge
Location: In the heart of Blue Mountain Village, 2 hours northwest from Toronto
Wow: Modern and luxurious family-friendly lodge
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, children’s activity area, parking
Number of rooms: 226
Québec
Why Visit?
• Canada’s oldest & largest province with a unique Gallic charm
• Québec City – an UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its city walls
• Montréal – the world’s second largest French speaking city
• Saguenay Fjord – one of the world’s longest inlets
• Magnificent Laurentian mountain region for year-round activities
• Stunning autumn colours to rival New England
• Whale watching on the St. Lawrence River
• Indigenous culture
Montréal
A dynamic city where the old town blends seamlessly with a modern metropolis of glass and steel and where trendy boutiques sit side-by-side with quaint bistros and brasseries. Once a village in the middle of the St. Lawrence River, Montréal is now the second-largest French speaking city in the world offering eclectic cuisine, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, jazz clubs, and world-class shopping and hotels.
Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel
Luxury hotel combines a 1960’s classic style with a bright and dynamic interior
Location: Downtown directly above Central Station. There is a hotel entrance from the station so very convenient for guests using VIA Rail
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, gourmet market, indoor pool, fitness centre, parking
Number of Rooms: 950
Hotel Le Saint Sulpice
A stunning boutique hotel with all suites having a charming view of either Old Montréal’s cobblestone streets or the hotel gardens
Location: Old Montréal
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, garden terrace, parking
Number of Rooms: 108
Le Nelligan
A luxury boutique hotel in a 19th Century historic building –traditional architectural features combined with modern accommodation
Location: Old Montréal
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, rooftop terrace, fitness centre, parking
Number of Rooms: 105
Le St-Martin Hotel
Particulier
A boutique hotel in the heart of the city centre; after a busy day sightseeing enjoy the heated outdoor thermal pool
Location: Downtown
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, fitness centre, parking
Number of Rooms: 123
Sens Hotel Montréal Omni Mont-Royal
An elegant, charming hotel offering good value, quality accommodation
Location: Downtown on famous Sherbrooke Street
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 108
Elegant hotel in a chic urban setting in Montréal’s Golden Square Mile historical district
Location: Downtown on Sherbrooke Street
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, fitness centre, whirlpool, parking
Number of rooms: 299
Excursions
Montréal City Tour
Departs: Daily, year-round except Christmas
Duration: 3.5 hours
Some of the highlights of this tour are a stop at the beautiful Notre Dame Basilica (admission not included), historic Old Montréal, an outside view of the Olympic Complex, the campus of McGill University, residential and business districts, and the panoramic view from an observation point on top of Mount Royal.
Old Montréal Walking Tour
Departs: Specific days May to April
Duration: 1.5 hours
Discover the sights of Old Montréal and learn about the history and architecture of the area. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and winding alleys of the historic district in the company of a professional guide.
Escapade to Québec City & Montmorency Falls
Departs: Daily, May to mid-October
Wednesdays mid-October to April
Duration: 12 hours
Discover the historical treasures and wonderful “joie de vivre” atmosphere of Québec City during this full day excursion. Your guide provides narration as you tour through the only walled city in North America. Highlights include the Upper and Lower Towns, the Parliament Buildings, the Plains of Abraham, the Citadel, Chateau Frontenac, Place d’Armes, Québec National Assembly, the Basilica. A visit to Montmorency Falls, 30 m higher than the world-famous Niagara Falls, is also included in the tour.
Laurentian Mountains Tour
Departs: Specific days May to October
Duration: 10 hours
Journey north of Montréal to the magnificent Laurentian Mountains and uncover a landscape dotted with freshwater lakes and picturesque villages. Enjoy a 50-minute cruise on the serene Lac des Sables, free time at Mont St. Sauveur Village which is nestled in the Laurentian Mountains and a visit to Mont Tremblant, with time to explore the village at your leisure or ride the gondola (not included) to the peak of the ski slopes. Visitors in early October will enjoy the wonderful autumn colours.
Québec City
The only walled city in North America, and the Provincial capital, Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and awash with history, landmark buildings, and glorious vistas. With its host of attractions, restaurants, bars, boutiques, cobblestone streets and Dufferin Terrace boardwalk, you’ll not only explore the city’s past but also enjoy its present-day amenities.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac
The city’s most famous landmark –this historic castle-like building dominates the landscape and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1980
Location: standing high on the Cap Diamant Cliffs, overlooking the St. Lawrence River and within the walls of Old Québec.
Facilities: restaurants, bar & lounge, indoor pool, spa, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 611
Hotel Manoir Victoria
Friendly service and contemporary elegance in the heart of the historic, culturally vibrant, and gastronomic activity of Old Québec
Location: Old Québec
Facilities: restaurant, bar, lounge, bistro, indoor pool, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 156
Hotel Chateau Laurier
An independently owned hotel offering comfortable accommodation together with exceptional service
Location: near the gates of Old Québec and the Plains of Abraham
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, whirlpool, parking
Number of rooms: 271
Hotel Clarendon
Inaugurated in 1870, this hotel offers a distinctive historic experience alongside the comfort and services of a modern hotel.
Location: Old Québec
Facilities: restaurant, bar, parking
Number of rooms: 144
Auberge St Antoine Hotel Palace Royal
A boutique hotel in an enviable location – a ‘Relais and Chateau’ property
Location: Old Port District
Facilities: restaurant, bar, sauna, parking
Number of rooms: 95
A traditional hotel where you can relax in the indoor garden with its swimming pool and palm trees
Location: short walk to Old Québec, near the Fontaine de Tourny
Facilities: restaurant, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, parking
Number of rooms: 234
Excursions
St. Lawrence River Cruise
Departs: Daily, June to September
Duration: 1.5 hours
See a different view of Québec City as you cruise on the St. Lawrence River. Hear the story of ‘New France’, and the origins of Québec’s most famous landmarks while enjoying views of the Château Frontenac, Cap Diamant, Ile d’Orleans and Montmorency Falls.
Guided Walking Tour of Fairmont
Le Château Frontenac
Québec City Tour
Departs: Daily, year-round except Christmas
Duration: 2 hours
The perfect introduction to the history and traditions of this ancient walled city – view the Latin Quarter, the Plains of Abraham, the Citadel, the National Assembly, Place Royale, and the Basilica. The tour will give a good overview which can be followed by independent sightseeing.
Departs: Daily year-round except Christmas
Duration: 1 hour
Discover the famous people, such as Sir Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt who visited in 1943, and historical events that have shaped the identity of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac as well as its architectural development.
Guided Walking Tour
Departs: Daily, year-round except Christmas
Duration: 2 hours
Embark on a historical walking tour of Old Québec and learn about its colourful past beginning in 1608; its architecture and location which has shaped the lives of the people that have inhabited it throughout the centuries.
Québec Whale Watching
Departs: Daily, May to October
Duration: 11 hours
Travel through the Charlevoix Region to Baie-Ste-Catherine for an exciting 3-hour whale watching cruise. The naturalist guide will tell you about the Beluga and Finback whale environment, underwater marine life, and the Saguenay Fjord. Lunch not included but a stop is made in Baie-St-Paul where you can buy lunch.
Sacacomie Lodge
A charming, elegant, full-service wooden lodge
Location: In the Maurice region of Québec in St-Alexis-des-Monts, midway between Montréal and Québec City
Wow: Stunning location on the shore of Sacacomie Lake.
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor pool, geothermal spa, nature viewing, parking
Number of rooms: 106
Le Germain Charlevoix
Outdoor activities, luxury accommodation and local gastronomy awaits you
Location: Baie-Saint-Paul, 1-hour drive from Québec City and 3.5-hour drive from Montréal
Wow: The hotel’s Nordic Spa.
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, sauna, spa, outdoor pool, parking
Number of rooms: 145
Auberge Lac a L’eau Claire
Location: St-Alexis-des-Monts, midway between Montréal and Québec City
Wow: Beautiful lakeside setting offering a host of water activities
Facilities: Restaurant, dining room, bar, indoor pool, sauna, whirlpool, spa, nature viewing, parking
Number of rooms: 55
Fairmont Tremblant
Perfectly located at the foot of the majestic Tremblant peaks
Location: Mont Tremblant, just 1.5-hour drive from Montréal and 2-hour drive from Ottawa
Wow: World-class resort in the heart of Tremblant’s pedestrian village
Facilities: Restaurant, bar, indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, whirlpool, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 314
Atlantic Canada
Why Visit?
• Short flying time – London to Halifax in 6 hours!
• Distinct maritime heritage that continues today. Dine on fresh, locally caught seafood
• Walk the ocean floor at the Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides
• Wildlife viewing including moose, whales, black bear and a myriad of marine birds
• Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia – some of the finest coastal scenery in the world
• Visit Charlottetown – birthplace of the Confederation in 1867
• See icebergs and, even whales at the same time, in Newfoundland
• Beautiful swimming beaches, colourful houses, pretty fishing villages, vibrant cities, national parks , exceptional hospitality – Atlantic Canada has it all!
Atlantic Canada comprises of four provinces sharing many similarities such as their maritime history, coastal scenery and abundant seafood, but each province has its own appeal too.
Nova Scotia
Halifax, capital of Nova Scotia, was founded in 1749 as a British garrison town and is located on one of the world’s largest natural harbours. Discover the province’s connection to the Titanic and its seafaring heritage with a visit to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Other attractions and areas to visit include Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Fortress of Louisbourg, Digby, and, drive the world-famous Cabot Trail located on Cape Breton Island.
New Brunswick
Stretching between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick is the Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides. At Hopewell Rocks in Fundy National Park you can walk the ocean floor at low tide to see the dramatic sea stacks that have been created by the force of the 160 billion tonnes of water that flows in and out of the bay.
Visit Shediac, the ‘Lobster Capital of the World’, take a whale watching excursion aboard a tall ship from St. Andrews by the Sea, and spend time in Saint John, the provincial capital.
Prince Edward Island
It may be Canada’s smallest province, but Prince Edward Island offers a wealth of sightseeing opportunities, glorious sandy beaches, world-class golfing, city attractions in Charlottetown and eclectic dining. Step back in time with a visit to Green Gables Heritage Place with its 19th century farm the alluring inspiration for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s famous Anne of Green Gables novel. In Charlottetown, visit Province House National Historic Site, where meetings were held that led to the formation of Canada in 1867.
Newfoundland & Labrador
Canada’s most easterly province, Newfoundland & Labrador, is awash with music, theatre, history, wildlife viewing, and stunning scenery. Take a boat trip to view icebergs, whales and puffins. Stroll the incredibly colourful streets of St. John’s; the city hosts a vast selection of restaurants, theatres and music venues, while holding fast to its Celtic culture. Drive the Viking Trail to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Gros Morne National Park and L’Anse aux Meadows, a fascinating Viking settlement.
Sutton Place Hotel
Luxurious modern hotel with an elegant, contemporary style
Location: downtown Halifax
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, hot tub, parking
Number of rooms: 262
The Prince George Hotel
Sophisticated and charming hotel with unparalleled level of service
Location: downtown Halifax
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, parking
Number of rooms: 203
Cambridge Suites
All-suite property in a great location at the foot of historic Citadel Hill
Location: downtown Halifax
Facilities: restaurant, rooftop patio, bar, whirlpool, fitness room, sauna, parking
Number of suites: 200
Hotel Halifax
Elegant hotel conveniently located in this eminently walkable city
Location: downtown Halifax on the harbourfront
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, whirlpool, parking
Number of rooms: 295
Inverary Resort
A resort hotel in the heart of Cape Breton on the sparkling shores of the Bras D’Or Lakes at the start and end of the world-famous Cabot Trail
Location: Baddeck, Nova Scotia
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 97
Harbourview Inn
A charming century-old inn situated in the tranquil country setting of Smith’s Cove on the Fundy Shore and Annapolis Valley region of Nova Scotia
Location: Smith’s Cove, Nova Scotia
Facilities: bar, outdoor pool, tennis court, parking
Number of rooms: 13
Westin Nova Scotian
Modern, upscale hotel on the waterfront and conveniently attached to the VIA Rail station
Location: Downtown Halifax in the Seaport District
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 310
Auberge Gisele’s Inn
Ideally located at the start, or end, of the Cabot Trail, and overlooking the magnificent Bras d’Or Lake
Location: Baddeck, Nova Scotia
Facilities: restaurant, bar, parking
Number of rooms: 78
Queen Anne Inn
A beautiful Victorian Mansion built in 1865, just minutes from the heart of historic Annapolis Royal
Location: Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia
Facilities: includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 12
Alicion B&B
This 19th Century home is located on a quiet corner within easy walking distance to all attractions, restaurants, and shops in Lunenburg
Location: Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Facilities: includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 4
Tattingstone Inn
Country inn located on Main Street, Wolfville within walking distance to the village centre and 10-minute drive to Grand Pre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Location: Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Facilities: includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 13
L’auberge Doucet Inn
A historic home located along Cape Breton’s famous Cabot Trail with panoramic views of the harbour, Cape Breton Highlands, and the ocean
Location: Cheticamp, Nova Scotia
Facilities: includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 10
The Great George
A unique boutique property offering genuine island hospitality, old world charm, and a relaxed refined atmosphere
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Facilities: includes breakfast, bar, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 50
The Holman Grand Hotel
Luxurious eco-friendly boutique hotel; aesthetic charm, absolute tranquillity, and world-class service
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, whirlpool, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 80
Delta Hotels by Marriott
Ideally located just steps from the Saint John harbour front, City Market, restaurants, and shops
Location: downtown Saint John, New Brunswick
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, whirlpool, sauna, parking
Number of rooms: 250
The Algonquin Resort
A great blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Majestic presence, maritime hospitality, and invigorating seaside allure
Location: St. Andrews by the Sea, New Brunswick
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool and tennis courts, hot tub, spa, parking
Number of rooms: 233
Falcon Ridge Inn Innisfree B&B
Country inn located directly at the entrance to Fundy National Park, with a view of the Bay of Fundy. The famous Hopewell Rocks are around a 40-minute drive
Location: Alma, New Brunswick
Facilities: includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 4
Within easy walking distance to Hopewell Rocks and situated on 10 acres of gardens and forested trails
Location: Hopewell Cape, New Brunswick
Facilities: includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 5
Jag Boutique Hotel
Nestled between lively George Street and the historic and scenic Water Street, this boutique hotel is conveniently located to explore the city
Location: downtown St. John’s, Newfoundland
Facilities: restaurant, lounge, fitness centre, parking
Number of rooms: 83
Delta Hotels by Marriott
A modern hotel, with good facilities, overlooking the harbour
Location: downtown St. John’s, Newfoundland
Facilities: restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, whirlpool, squash court, parking
Number of rooms: 403
Artisan Inn
A country inn/vacation homes, overlooking the harbour in the historic outport town of Trinity. Ideally located to explore the Bonavista Peninsula
Location: Trinity, Newfoundland
Facilities: restaurant, parking
Number of rooms: 7 plus holiday homes
Captain’s Legacy
A collection of traditional houses overlooking the old fishing and boat-building harbour of Ship Cove. Around a 1.5-hour drive east from Terra Nova National Park and 10-minutes from Trinity
Location: Port Rexton, Newfoundland
Facilities: Restaurant, bar/lounge, parking
Number of rooms: 32
Harbour Lights Inn
Overlooking the harbour, and just a short walk to restaurants, shops, and boat tours
Location: Twillingate, Newfoundland
Facilities: Includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 9
Tuckamore Lodge
This rustic style lodge is located on Southwest Pond, in the heart of the Great Northern Peninsula
Location: Main Brook, Newfoundland
Facilities: Restaurant, includes breakfast, parking
Number of rooms: 12
Northern Light Inn
Ideally located around 8km from Blanc Sablon – St. Barbe ferry to Newfoundland
Location: L’Anse-au-Clair, southern Labrador
Facilities: Restaurant, pub, parking
Number of rooms: 69
Neddies
Harbour Inn
Country inn located on a waterfront in Norris Point, overlooking beautiful Bonne Bay in the heart of Gros Morne National Park
Location: Gros Morne / Norris Point
Facilities: Restaurant, common room/ sunroom with stunning view of Bonne Bay, fitness room, sauna, hot tub
Number of rooms: 15
Marble Inn Resort
Located on the Humber River, within walking distance of Marble Mountain and around a 45-minute drive to Gros Morne National Park
Location: Corner Brook, Newfoundland
Facilities: Restaurant, café, indoor saltwater pool, sauna, parking
Number of rooms: 54
Excursions
Whale Watching by Tall Ship (New Brunswick)
Departs from Saint-Andrews-by-theSea: Daily mid-June to mid-October
Duration: 3.5 hours
Hop aboard the Jolly Breeze for a whale watching and Tall Ship adventure. Sailing across Passamaquoddy Bay and into the Bay of Fundy, look out for seals, whales, and marine birds. Cruise guides educate and entertain – active participation in taking the helm or hoisting sails is encouraged.
Peggy’s Cove Tour (Nova Scotia)
Departs from Halifax: Daily June to mid-October
Duration: 3 hours
Peggy’s Cove has been an artist and explorer’s paradise for well over 150 years. This picture-postcard village, located on rugged Atlantic shoreline, stands on solid rock above the crashing surf, and its lighthouse is the most photographed lighthouse in the world. Enjoy some free time to exploring the rocks, the trails, the village, and the gift shops.
The Island Drive Tour (Prince Edward Island)
Departs from Charlottetown: Daily, May to September
Duration: 4 hours
This tour features some of the most picturesque Island landscapes to be found, from rolling farmland to seaside villages, and from lighthouses to the renowned Cavendish Beach. Tour Green Gables House: this old farm site inspired L.M. Montgomery’s first novel, Anne of Green Gables published in 1908.
Tall Ship Silva Cruise
(Nova Scotia)
Departs from Halifax: Specific days June to September
Duration: 1.5 hours
Your adventure beings on the Halifax waterfront as you set off into the big harbour where you’ll have a unique perspective of some of Halifax’s most notable landmarks including Georges Island, the Halifax Waterfront, Historic Properties, and more. Guides will share anecdotes of some of the city’s rich history including accounts of Halifax Explosion, and historical facts about the Silva.
Lunenburg Tour (Nova
Scotia)
Departs from Halifax: Specific days mid-June to September
Duration: 6 hours
Enjoy a guided tour of Lunenburg, home to Nova Scotia’s largest fishing fleet, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On arrival take a walking tour of the town or admission to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.
Iceberg Quest Boat Tour (Newfoundland)
Departs from St. John’s: Daily, May to September
Similar excursion also available from Twillingate
Duration: 2 hours
In search of icebergs and whales you’ll cruise to Cape Spear, North America’s most easterly point. The pristine waters are home to the world’s largest concentration of humpback whales. Lookout for icebergs, Atlantic puffins, and other marine wildlife.
Alaska
Why Visit?
• Denali National Park, home to Mount Denali, America’s tallest peak
• Ride the rails on the iconic Alaska Railroad
• Enjoy a cruise from Vancouver; view tidewater glaciers calving, visit historic towns and look out for marine wildlife
• Drive the Alaska Highway, a bucket-list adventure famous for its rugged scenery, wildlife, and remote destinations
• From Skagway, ride the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, – a historic narrow-gauge railroad from the gold-rush era and one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world
• Indigenous culture abounds; Ketchikan boasts the largest number of totem poles in Alaska
Alaska’s National Parks 8
Alaska’s national parks offer a wealth of sightseeing opportunities, and this comprehensive itinerary enables you to explore in the company of like-minded travellers together with a driver guide.
Starting in Anchorage you’ll travel north to Denali with the route taking you along the scenic Parks Highway with sightseeing stops along the way. At Denali you’ll enjoy a tour into Denali National Park looking out for the myriad of wildlife that call the area home. From Denali, board the Alaska Railroad (dome car seating) for the journey to Talkeetna. From there, it’s back on the coach for the drive to Seward, gateway to the Kenai Fjords National Park, where you’ll enjoy a cruise of the majestic Kenai Fjords National Park. Returning to Anchorage you’ll have time to visit the Anchorage Museum before enjoying a closing night dinner.
Itinerary
days
Departure Dates Thursdays mid-May to August
Tour Includes
• 7 nights accommodation
• 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch on boat cruise, 2 dinners
• Ground transportation (group size 1 to 9 will be in van with driver guide or full-size motorcoach with guide for group size 10 to 50 people)
• Alaska Railroad from Denali to Talkeetna (dome rail car)
• Anchorage sightseeing including museum admission
• Glacier & Wildlife cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park
• Bus tour into Denali National Park (4 to 6 hours)
• National Park fees
• Baggage handling (one case per person)
In the Know
Denali National Park is explored by organised tours and are a great way to see the landscape and wildlife of the park which was created in 1917 to protect Dall sheep from over-hunting. The park is home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali.
Alaska Scenic Roadways
The USA’s largest state, Alaska, is eminently driveable and on this itinerary, you will follow some of Alaska’s designated Scenic Byways including Richardson, Parks, and Seward Highways.
The tour also includes a 30-minute sightseeing flight between Chitina and McCarthy in a bush plane, a 2-hour guided Historical Kennicott excursion, and a bus tour into Denali National Park. Alaska is spectacular in every way, wilderness regions, incredible wildlife, and stunning mountain scenery. This self-drive tour allows you time to stop for sightseeing or refreshments at your leisure.
Itinerary
1. Anchorage 1 night
2. Sheep Mountain (171km) 1 night
3. McCarthy/Kennicott (215km) 2 nights
4. Fairbanks (495km) 2 nights
5. Denali (200km) 2 nights
6. Wasilla/Palmer (340km) 1 night
7. Seward (272km) 2 nights
8. Homer (288km) 2 nights
9. Anchorage (373km) 1 night
15 days
Departure Dates daily late May to end August
Tour Includes
• 14 nights accommodation (please note that accommodation choices in some areas are limited and we will include properties that are the best available at time of booking)
• 14 days rental of standard SUV including unlimited mileage, LDW with zero deductible, and taxes
• Roundtrip flights in a bush plane
Chitina – McCarthy
• 2-hour guided Historical Kennicott Tour
• Bus tour into Denali National Park (4 to 6 hours)
• Comprehensive documentation kit
In the Know
Seward is located on Resurrection Bay, a fjord of the Gulf of Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula. From here we recommend taking a boat tour into Kenai Fjords National Park in search of marine wildlife including whales while viewing tidewater glaciers.
Glaciers & Wildlife Tour 10 days
The Alaska Railroad, one of the USA’s most famous railroads, provides an epic journey and is an ideal way to travel; sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery. With an average speed of around 30mph, the journey is leisurely and offers the best viewing and photo opportunities.
Our itinerary includes two scenic routes including the Coastal Classic between Anchorage and Seward, and the Denali Star, Alaska Railroad’s flagship train between Denali, and Anchorage. The tour also includes a boat tour into Kenai Fjords National Park, and a bus tour into Denali National Park.
Itinerary
Departure Dates daily mid-May to mid-September
Tour Includes
• 9 nights accommodation (please note that accommodation choices in some areas are limited and we will include properties that are the best available at time of booking)
• Alaska Railroad in your choice of standard or dome rail car seating from Anchorage to Seward, and Denali to Anchorage
• Bus transfers from Seward to Talkeetna and Talkeetna to Denali
• 6-hour boat tour into Kenai Fjords National Park with lunch
• Bus tour into Denali National Park (4 to 6 hours)
• Comprehensive documentation kit
In the Know
As the train operates on a daily schedule, this itinerary can be amended – perhaps start in Seward to fit in with cruise ship arrival or shorten the length of stay to 4 nights to include Anchorage and Denali only.
Glaciers & Gold Rush 16
Discover the fascinating history of the Klondike Gold Rush and the stunning natural beauty of Alaska on this unique cruise and guided tour.
Sail from Vancouver on a 7 night Alaska cruise onboard a Holland America Line ship bound for Seward. The cruise itinerary includes visits to Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway and a day of cruising in Glacier Bay National Park where you can see tidewater glaciers calving (ice splitting off). On arrival at Seward, you’ll depart on a transfer to Denali via Anchorage and Talkeetna and, during your stay, enjoy a trip into the National Park. Your tour continues to Fairbanks, then crossing the border to Canada you’ll arrive at Dawson City in the Yukon. A highlight of your stay will be a drive on the Demster Highway, with great views of the towering Tombstone Mountains. After an overnight stay at Whitehorse fly to Vancouver where arrangements end.
Itinerary
days
Departure Dates Selected Saturdays: June to August Tour commentary may be in dual language
Tour Includes
• 8 nights accommodation
• 7 night Alaska cruise (includes meals from dinner on day one to breakfast on final morning) in stateroom category of your choice
• Transfer from Seward cruise terminal to Denali Hotel
• Experienced tour guide from Seward to final day
• Transportation by modern van (6 to 9 guests) or midsize coach (10 to 20 guests)
• Day trip to Denali National Park
• Admission to ‘Diamond Tooth Gerties’
• Flight (economy class) from Whitehorse to Vancouver
• National Park fees in Alaska
• Comprehensive documentation kit
In the Know
Seward is located on Resurrection Bay, a fjord of the Gulf of Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula. From here we recommend taking a boat tour into Kenai Fjords National Park in search of marine wildlife including whales while viewing tidewater glaciers.
1. Vancouver 1 night 2. Alaska Cruise 7 nights 3. Denali 2 nights 4. Fairbanks 1 night 5. Dawson City 3 nights 6. Whitehorse 1 nightWinter in Canada
Why Visit?
• World-class ski resorts such as Whistler and Banff
• Ice skate on Lake Louise or Ottawa’s Rideau Canal
• Host of activities such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ziplining, ice climbing and sleigh rides
• Take a dip in a natural hot spring; there’s a great one in Banff
• Enjoy the view of snow peaked mountains from a Gondola
• Join in the fun of a winter carnival – Winterlude in Ottawa or Carnaval de Québec
• Visit Niagara Falls and enjoy the Festival of Lights, and the frozen Falls
• A city break in Toronto and Montréal offers great value and both have an underground pedestrian network of shops, restaurants, and bars keeping you warm while you shop
• Enjoy a wildlife viewing excursion from Banff
Fairmont Hotels of the Rockies 9
Winter has always been a quintessential part of the Canadian experience; it’s a season of fun and experiences and this itinerary allows you a winter adventure staying at luxurious Fairmont Hotels in four of Alberta’s best-known areas – Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, and Calgary.
While in the Rockies there’s a host of activities to enjoy such as ice walks, sleigh rides, hot springs, dogsledding, snowshoeing, gondola rides and ice skating. You may also want to fit in some downhill skiing! Be active or just relax and enjoy the facilities at each of the hotels, all located in stunning settings. For your final night in Calgary, perhaps enjoy dinner at the top of the Tower in the revolving restaurant and do some last-minute shopping on the morning before your return flight to the UK. This truly is a winter experience like no other.
Itinerary
1. Fairmont Banff Springs 3 nights
2. Fairmont Château Lake Louise 2 nights
3. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge 2 nights
4. Fairmont Palliser, Calgary 1 night
days
Departure Dates December to April
Same itinerary is available staying at other hotels
Tour Includes
• 8 nights accommodation at Fairmont Hotels
• Coach transfer from Calgary Airport to Banff
• Banff Gondola admission
• Coach transfer from Banff to Lake Louise
• Coach transfer from Lake Louise to Jasper
• Coach transfer from Jasper to Calgary
• Private transfer from Calgary to airport In
Winter in the Rockies is full of fun and adventure even if you’re not a skier! On this itinerary you’ll travel through the snow laden wonderlands of Banff and Jasper National Parks.
Vancouver, Whistler & Northern Lights
Enjoy two days of Vancouver sightseeing at a host of stops using your hop-on/off pass including Stanley Park, Granville Island, which makes a great place for lunch, historic Gastown, Robson Street for shopping and the Entertainment District. Then transfer to snowy Whistler in the Coast Mountains for a few days of winter fun and activity. Famous as world-class ski resort, it offers a vast selection of snow-based activities, museums, hotels, spas, and restaurants – truly a winter wonderland!
From Whistler, transfer to Vancouver Airport and fly to Whitehorse, capital city of the Yukon. For a 3 night Northern Lights viewing adventure. Discover the Aurora Borealis, known as the Northern Lights, an atmospheric event that colours the sky in a multitude of majestic hues. Known as the ‘Wilderness City’, Whitehorse is a mix of coffee shops, museums, quirky heritage buildings, public art, and an amazing choice of restaurants which you can explore.
13 days
Tour Includes
• 12 nights accommodation
• Private transfer from Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 2-day hop-on/off sightseeing pass in Vancouver
• Coach transfer from Vancouver to Whistler
• Whistler attractions:
• 2.5-hour zipline adventure
• Admission to Squamish L’il Wat Cultural Centre
• 2-hour Mountain Explorer Snowmobile Tour
• 3-hour Medicine Trail Snowshoe Tour
• 3 to 4-hour Finer Things Dinner Tour
• Coach transfer from Whistler to Vancouver Airport
• Northern Lights of the Yukon package see page 63 for more information
In the Know
Instead of Whistler excursions we can arrange Whistler/Blackcomb lift passes or a combination of excursions and lift passes.
Rockies Winter Wonderland 7 days
Banff is a year-round destination, offering some of the finest mountain scenery in the world, with three ski resorts in the area. However, for non-skiers the town comes alive with a host of snow-based activities, great value accommodation, spas, shopping, and dining options.
Fun and adventure for all the family with the forest and alpine plains creating the ultimate winter playground. Much of the local wildlife don’t hibernate so there’s a chance to see elk, deer, and even coyote in their natural environment.
We offer a host of accommodation options in Banff ranging from 3* lodge style to 5* luxury at either Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Rimrock Hotel. Offering great value in winter you can take advantage of fabulous lodging at prices as stunning as the scenery.
Itinerary
Departure Dates Daily, December to March
Tour Includes
• Scheduled return coach transfers between Calgary Airport and Banff
• 6 nights accommodation
• 40-minute sleigh ride
• 4-hour Johnson Canyon Ice Walk
• 3-hour Discover Banff & its Wildlife Tour
• 4-hour Snowshoeing to Paint Pots Excursion
In the Know
Instead of excursions we can arrange Tri-Area Lift passes (Banff, Lake Louise and Sunshine) or a combination of excursions and lift passes.
1. Banff 6 nightsVancouver
to the Rockies 11 days
With its mild climate, world-class hotels, restaurants, and shopping, Vancouver makes an ideal city break regardless of the time of year. Rent a bike to explore the seawall around Stanley Park or board a hop-on/hop-off bus tour stopping off to sightsee Stanley Park, Granville Market and historic Gastown.
Board VIA Rail’s ‘The Canadian’ for the overnight journey to Jasper – during the day sit back to view the amazing scenery and at night, be lulled to sleep in your comfortable cabin. Scenic highlights include the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Caribou Mountains and viewing Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
When in the Rockies you’ll enjoy the exhilarating winter wonderland of both Jasper and Banff National Parks.
Itinerary
Departure Dates December to April
Itinerary also available in reverse
Tour Includes
• Private transfer Vancouver Airport to hotel
• 9 nights hotel accommodation
• Overnight sleeping accommodation onboard VIA Rail
• 3-hour Wildlife Discover Tour in Jasper
• Express coach transfer from Jasper to Lake Louise
• Express coach transfer from Lake Louise to Jasper
• 3-hour Discover Banff and Its Wildlife Tour
• Coach transfer from Banff to Calgary Airport
In the Know
Instead of Whistler excursions we can arrange Whistler / Blackcomb lift passes or a combination of excursions and lift passes.
Canada Winter Holidays 148
11 days
VIA Rail’s train system connects the major cities of eastern Canada including Toronto, Ottawa, Québec City and Montréal, making it so easy to sightsee without having to drive yourself! Year-round this is an ideal way of spending quality time discovering each city’s unique personality.
Starting in cosmopolitan Toronto explore the city by hop-on/hop-off bus tour and visit the world-famous CN Tower. A full day sightseeing tour to Niagara Falls allows you to see this great wonder of the world.
Board VIA Rail for the scenic journey to Ottawa, the nations capital, where you can enjoy a cruise on either the Ottawa River or Rideau Canal, explore the many museums or indulge in a food tour of ByWard Market. From Ottawa another rail journey takes you to Québec City, the only walled city in North America. The city is awash with history, landmark buildings and glorious vistas. Your final rail journey is to Montreal, with its eclectic dining, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and numerous jazz clubs.
1. Toronto 3 nights
2. Ottawa (4.5 hours by train) 2 nights
3. Québec City (5.5 hours by train) 3 nights
4. Montreal (3.5 hours by train) 2 nights
Departure
Dates Daily,
Tour Includes
• 10 nights accommodation
• Hop-on/hop-off Toronto city tour
• Full day excursion to Niagara Falls
• Toronto to Ottawa VIA Rail (economy class)
• Ottawa to Québec City VIA Rail (economy class)
• 2-hour Québec City tour
• Québec City to Montréal VIA Rail (economy class)
• 3.5-hour Montréal city tour
In the Know
Ski Banff
Easily reached by coach from Calgary, Banff offers world-class skiing at three areas, known as the Big 3, all accessible by ski shuttle buses. Each resort offers something unique:
Mount Norquay, is the closest to Banff town and tends to be less crowded as many skiers head to the bigger resorts and higher slopes of the other two.
Banff Sunshine is just 15-minutes away from Banff and offers skiing over three mountains – Mount Standish, Lookout Mountain, and the imposing Goat’s Eye Mountain.
Ski Sun Peaks
Located in the heart of British Columbia, Sun Peaks is one of the best family ski resorts in North America. Take advantage of the enjoyable doorstep skiing, set around the predominantly ‘ski-in/ski-out’ village. Reached by a direct flight from either Calgary or Vancouver, then a shuttle from airport to the resort, Sun Peaks is Canada’s second largest ski area and renowned for its light, dry, ‘easy-to-ski’ powder. We can arrange return airport transfers, accommodation, lift tickets and equipment rental for any length of stay. You may also wish to consider adding excursions such as snowshoeing or dog sledding, as well as staying in Calgary or Vancouver for a few nights.
Lake Louise Ski Resort is 60 kms away from Banff and perhaps the best-known as it hosts world cup ski events each year.
We can arrange return airport transfers, accommodation, lift tickets and equipment rental for any length of stay. You may also wish to consider adding excursions such as snowshoeing, sleigh ride, Banff tour and Gondola, and wildlife viewing. If skiing only at Lake Louise, we recommend staying closer to the ski resort perhaps at Fairmont Château Lake Louise or Lake Louise Inn.
Ski Whistler
Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, Whistler offers exceptional conditions and the Peak 2 Peak lift seamlessly links both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains while perfectly groomed slopes lead right into the centre of Whistler itself.
There’s more than enough skiing for a 2-week break with many slopes just below the tree line with a host of long, cruisy runs. Better skiers will love the big bowls of Whistler especially in fresh powder. Blackcomb is higher and leading down on the glacier there are some giddy couloirs and plenty of good bump runs on both mountains.
We can arrange return airport transfers, accommodation, lift tickets and equipment rental for any length of stay. You may also wish to consider adding excursions such as snowshoeing, dog sledding, or snowmobiling as well as staying in Vancouver for a few nights to explore the city.
Getting to & around Canada
There’s a variety of airlines operating flights to Canada and we can offer them all including Air Canada, British Airways, Westjet and Air Transat.
Once in Canada, by car or motorhome, train or coach, ferry, or floatplane there are so many ways to get around and explore this wonderfully immersive country. Both Air Canada and Westjet offer a network of connecting flights across the county and, in British Columbia, Pacific Coastal Airline operate routes between cities such as Vancouver and Campbell River.
Rail Journeys
Canada boasts some of the world’s most iconic rail journeys including Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery along your journey.
Car & Motorhome Rentals
The open road beckons! Set your own pace and stop when and where you want. With well-maintained and sign-posted roads we are sure you will enjoy your driving experience.
Coach Transfers
Between Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper you can travel by luxury coach with sightseeing stops made along the way. If you don’t want to drive yourself, these transfers offer a great alternative.
Ferries
Travelling between British Columbia’s mainland and Vancouver Island is so easy with BC Ferries offering a variety of scenic journeys including the famed coastal Inside Passage. Between Victoria and Seattle enjoy the Victoria Clipper passenger service.
Floatplanes
In British Columbia floatplanes are an integral part of the transportation system. Operating from Coal Harbour in downtown Vancouver you can journey to Victoria, Nanaimo, and Whistler; the experience of taking-off and landing on water is undoubtedly one that will create lasting memories.
Airlines
Canada’s largest airline offers an extensive range of destinations and three levels of onboard service making it an ideal choice for flights to, and within, Canada.
Non-stop services to Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, Montréal and Halifax from London Heathrow are available, with easy connections to Victoria, Québec City, St. John’s and many more.
Three levels of travel classes ensure your comfort while in the clouds:
International Economy Class
Generous seat pitch, touch-screen entertainment, one piece of checked luggage, and complimentary hot meal with selection of wines or spirits.
Premium Economy Class
Spacious seating with greater recline in a separate cabin, two pieces of checked luggage, priority check in, boarding and baggage handling and enhanced meal service.
Signature Class
The very definition of luxury travel. Relax and unwind with state-of-the-art amenities, sumptuous cuisine and unparalleled service.
Executive or Classic Pods, with lumbar support which convert to a fully lie-flat bed, touch-screen entertainment with noise cancelling headphones, gourmet cuisine and fine wines, access to Maple Leaf lounges, concierge service, priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.
We are proud to be a British Airways Preferred Partner who are the UK’s national flag carrier. They fly non-stop from London Heathrow to Vancouver, Toronto and Montréal. A choice of three travel classes give the same great, uniquely British, experience allowing you to choose your perfect way to fly.
World Traveller
A comfortable economy cabin with seat back entertainment, in-flight meals and drinks, and one piece of checked luggage.
World Traveller Plus
Comfortable wider seats with more legroom in a separate, quieter cabin, priority meal service, personal entertainment system, priority boarding and two pieces of checked luggage.
Club World
A premium level of comfort and service which makes every journey unique and unforgettable.
Dedicated check-in desks, access to private lounge, priority boarding, enhanced luggage allowance, spacious seat which converts into a full flat bed in a separate cabin, personal entertainment system with noise-cancelling headphones and delicious food and drink options
Westjet offers great value fares with direct flights (some summer only) from London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Dublin and Edinburgh to Calgary. Easy connections are available to cities such Vancouver and Victoria as well as USA, Mexico and the Caribbean.
Three travelling classes as follows:
Economy Class
Comfortable seats, food and beverage service, touch-screen entertainment, self-dimming windows, blanket, pillow and headphones and one piece of checked luggage.
Premium Class
Separate check-in, and boarding, larger seats in a separate cabin, elevated meal service, social area with snacks and beverages, blanket, pillow and amenity kit and two pieces of checked luggage.
Business Class
Priority check-in, security, and boarding, two pieces of checked luggage, lounge access where available, lie-flat seating, turn down service and luxurious bedding, dine on-demand menu, and exclusive amenity kit.
Canada’s leading holiday airline offers two choices of cabin; Economy and Club Class, their exclusive cabin with just 12 seats. They fly direct from London Gatwick to Toronto, Montréal and Québec City and are the only airline offering the latter route. Direct seasonal flights to Toronto also operate from Dublin, Manchester and Glasgow. Travelling to Canada’s west coast including Calgary and Vancouver, Florida and California is easy with ample connecting flights.
Economy Class
Leather seats with lumbar support, meal service with wine or beer, in-flight entertainment, and one checked piece of luggage.
Club Class
To enhance your flight experience why not upgrade to Club Class? With just twelve seats in the cabin they sell fast so early booking is recommended. Dedicated check-in desk, priority boarding and baggage handling, comfortable ‘armchair’ style seat, choice of meals and wines, amenity kit, bar and snack service, two pieces of checked luggage.
Other Flight Options
United Airlines – operating on a joint venture arrangement with Air Canada you can enjoy a ‘two-nation’ holiday with convenient flight connections between most major cities in both Canada and the USA.
Icelandair – operates flights from a variety of airports including Heathrow, Manchester, Glasgow, Gatwick via Reykjavik to Toronto, Montréal, Vancouver, Anchorage and Seattle. Why not take the opportunity to enjoy a stopover in Iceland?
VIA Rail
There is no better way to see the beauty of Canada unfold than close up and onboard VIA Rail. Canada is crossed by some of the world’s most iconic rail journeys; from the Atlantic to the Pacific, from the Great Lakes north to Hudson Bay and from Jasper to Prince Rupert, travel through awe-inspiring scenery as you sit back, and relax.
The Ocean
Travelling between Montréal or Québec City (Ste-Foy Station) and Halifax this is a wonderful sleeper service. During the day watch the world go by from a comfortable seat then, at night, be lulled to sleep in your cosy cabin. The Ocean is perfect for visiting both Québec and the Atlantic region; if you want to explore New Brunswick disembark at Moncton and re-board at a later date with Halifax your final destination.
The Corridor
With downtown links between 17 cities of Québec and Ontario, The Corridor service offers an easy way to travel, year-round, between major centres while sitting back and enjoying the glorious Canadian countryside.
Two travelling classes to choose from:
Economy – comfortable, reclining seats and trolley service offering snacks, light meals, and beverages for purchase.
Business – pre-boarding lounge, priority boarding, and meal service appropriate to the departure time.
Popular routes include travelling between Toronto and Ottawa, Toronto and Montréal, Toronto and Kingston, Ottawa and Québec City, Ottawa and Montréal and Québec City and Montréal.
Jasper to Prince Rupert
Operating between Jasper, Prince George, and Prince Rupert this 2-day, 1,160 km journey is your picture window on the spectacular mountain scenery of Alberta and northern British Columbia. With its dramatic and diverse landscapes, the route takes in some of the most stunning scenery in Canada – from the mountain resort town of Jasper through the Yellowhead Pass with an overnight stop in Prince George (overnight accommodation not included) to the Pacific coastal port of Prince Rupert, from where BC Ferries sail to Port Hardy.
The Canadian
Experience the romance of the rails on the iconic 5-day journey between Toronto and Vancouver travelling onboard VIA’s flagship train – THE CANADIAN.
Leaving Toronto, you will travel across Northern Ontario dotted with its many lakes, the wide-open prairies with their wheat filled fields, the spectacular Canadian Rockies, and the Fraser Valley before reaching Vancouver, on the Pacific Coast. Canada is extravagant in its scenic diversity and each day, on this journey, brings a different vista all viewed from a comfortable seat.
There’s the option to break up with journey with stops along the way such as Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton and Jasper, re-boarding on a later date. The most popular stop is Jasper to spend time in this Rocky Mountain resort; you can then re-board the train to continue your journey to Vancouver or travel by car or coach to Banff thus experiencing the
stunning Icefields Parkway, widely recognised as one of the most scenic drives in North America. From Banff travel to Vancouver on-board another iconic rail journey, the Rocky Mountaineer, or end your holiday arrangements in Calgary for a flight home.
Sleeper Plus – choose from berth accommodation or cabins, enjoy meals prepared by the on-board chef and access to the Park car with its upper observation deck and lounge.
Prestige Sleeper – this is train travel at its finest and provides an unforgettable rail journey. Your cabin has its own washroom and shower, large picture window and minibar together with service of a dedicated Concierge, priority boarding, access to checked baggage and reservations in the dining car, reserved seating in the Panorama
Rocky Mountaineer
Board the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer for ‘one of the most spectacular train trips in the world’ on their two and three day all-daylight journeys.
This is rail travel at its finest - experience the stunning scenery of British Columbia and Alberta, following historic train routes constructed over 100 years ago. Sit back, relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of forests, deep canyons, winding rivers, majestic mountain ranges and glacier-fed lakes.
With stations in Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper in Alberta and Vancouver in British Columbia, it’s so very easy to travel between the two provinces and is the perfect accompaniment to a tour of Western Canada.
A selection of independent tours which include the Rocky Mountaineer can be found within this brochure but, as arranging fully curated holidays is our passion and speciality, if you don’t see an itinerary that suits your plans, just let us know.
Award-winning GoldLeaf Service – exceptional in every way! Enjoy panoramic views from your seat in the upper-level of the custom-designed bi-level dome coach; gourmet meals created by Michelin trained chefs and exemplary service from your on-board hosts.
Includes:
• Enjoy panoramic views from your assigned seat in the upper-level of a bi-level dome coach
• Daily gourmet breakfast and lunches served in the lower level of the dome coach with your choice of meals from an a la carte menu
• Snacks and all beverages
• Overnight moderate accommodation in Kamloops, Whistler or Quesnel (depending on your chosen route)
• Baggage delivery to your overnight hotel accommodation
• Service and storytelling-style commentary
• Motorcoach transfers between selected hotels and rail stations at the start and end of your journey
• Motorcoach transfers between the train station and accommodation during overnight stops
• Gratuities
Discover SilverLeaf Service, travelling in their custom-designed, single-level dome service with comfortable seating and panoramic window views.
Includes:
• Daily delicious breakfasts and lunches served at your seat
• Snacks and all beverages
• Overnight moderate accommodation in Kamloops
• Baggage delivery to your overnight hotel accommodation
• Service and storytelling-style commentary by your on-board hosts
• Motorcoach transfers between selected hotels and rail stations at the start and end of your journey
• Motorcoach transfers between the train station and accommodation during overnight stops
• Gratuities
Please note that SilverLeaf Service is not available on the Rain Forest to Gold Rush Route
First Passage To The West
Westbound Itinerary – Banff or Lake Louise to Vancouver with overnight stay in Kamloops. Also operates in reverse.
Day 1 - Banff or Lake Louise to Kamloops: today journey through a spectacular array of scenery as your travel between the glacier and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Highlights include the Continental Divide, the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, Rogers Pass and Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railways was driven. Overnight moderate accommodation in Kamloops provided by Rocky Mountaineer. Breakfast & lunch included.
Day 2 – Kamloops to Vancouver: continue your journey west seeing dramatic changes in scenery from the desertlike environment around Kamloops, through winding river canyons and pristine forest. Highlights include the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon with arrival at Vancouver late afternoon. Breakfast & lunch included.
Journey Through The Clouds
Westbound Itinerary – Jasper to Vancouver with overnight stay in Kamloops. Also operates in reverse.
Day 1 – Jasper To Kamloops: as you journey west then south you will be surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide and by the river valleys of the Monashee and Cariboo mountains. Highlights include passing Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, pyramid falls, the climb over yellowhead pass and the journey along the North Thompson river as you approach Kamloops. Overnight moderate accommodation in Kamloops provided by Rocky Mountaineer. Breakfast & lunch included.
Day 2 – Kamloops To Vancouver: another day of dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment around Kamloops, through winding river canyons and pristine forests to the Coast and Cascade Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser River Valley. Highlights include the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Breakfast & lunch included.
Rainforest To Gold Rush
Westbound itinerary - Jasper to Vancouver with overnight stays in Quesnel and Whistler. Also operates in reverse.
Day 1 – Jasper to Quesnel: your journey today passes through the Rocky Mountain Trench, with the steep Rocky and Cariboo Mountains either side. Then onto the rolling hills and vast forests to Quesnel, gateway to the North Cariboo region. Highlights including passing Mount Robson, Yellowhead Pass and Moose Lake. Overnight moderate accommodation provided by Rocky Mountaineer. Breakfast & lunch included.
Day 2 - Quesnel to Whistler: enjoy breathtaking and varied scenery, from the desert-like conditions of the Fraser Canyon to the rolling hills and vast ranch lands of the Cariboo Plateau. A definite highlight will be crossing Deep Creek Bridge, one of the highest railway bridges in the world. Overnight moderate accommodation provided by Rocky Mountaineer. Breakfast & lunch included.
Day 3 – Whistler to Vancouver: a morning at leisure to explore Whistler Village before travelling to Vancouver. Journey through the stunning scenery of the Sea to Sky Corridor with highlights.
including Cheakamus Canyon, the dome peak of Mount Garibaldi, Brandywine Falls and stunning views of Howe Sound. A canapé-style meal is provided. On arrival at North Vancouver platform you will be transferred to your Vancouver Hotel.
Rocky Mountaineer In The USA Rockies To The Red Rocks
Westbound – Denver to Moab. Also operates in reverse. Journey through two days of extraordinary landscapes between Moab, Utah and Denver, Colorado. Vast canyons, inspiring deserts, natural archways and enchanting hoodoos are just a start. Available in SilverLeaf Service, this Rocky Mountaineer rail route is filled with highlights best seen by train, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield and crossing the Continental Divide. This extraordinary rail journey ideally links with time in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, a visit to Las Vegas, an Alaska cruise from Seattle or a host of other itinerary options. Call us for more information.
AVIS Car Rental
Set your own pace with wide, open, well-signposted roads – driving distances are more manageable than in the UK and you’ll enjoy the driving experience in Canada. To make it even easier you can pre-book GPS (Global Positioning System) at the time of your car reservation.
We do not recommend having a car if staying in a city nor driving a long distance on arrival into Canada. Hotel parking charges can be quite expensive and, if exploring a city, you won’t need a car anyway.
Regardless of which province(s) you are visiting, self-driving lets you stop for photos or refreshments at your convenience.
Luggage information is for guidance only and based on medium sized cases
Rental information & conditions
Our rates include:
• Unlimited mileage for most vehicle types
• One additional driver
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) with zero excess
• $1 million third party liability insurance
• Airport fees
• Taxes on pre-paid items
Excluded items:
• Hotel parking fees
• Fuel
• Child seats
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• Personal Effects Insurance (PEI)
• One-way fees
• Roadside Safety Net (RSN)
• GPS unless pre-purchased
Rental Period: Prices are quoted per day and hire periods are calculated on a 24-hour basis. Start date of the rental determines the price. Minimum rental is 2 days.
Drivers: Lead driver must present a credit card in their own name, passport, and a full valid driver’s license which must have been held for minimum of 1-year. The license must be in English. Minimum age is 21 and an additional charge (payable locally) applies to drives between the ages of 21 to 24 inclusive. Not all car groups are available to drivers under the age of 25.
Additional Drivers: Must be over the age of 25, have a valid license, credit card and be registered on the rental agreement. Third driver is charged at around $10 per day payable locally.
Car Rental Agreement: When picking up your vehicle you will be required to sign a rental agreement and credit card details taken. This will be used for any damage, payment for one-way drop fees and any additional services you
may purchase at time of rental. This contract is between you and AVIS, and we will not accept any responsibility for charges added to your agreement. All charges listed on your rental agreement should therefore be checked carefully.
Fleet: Vehicles are reserved by category and not by specific model. If the category reserved is not available a similar or higher-grade vehicle will be substituted without additional charge. We will not accept any claim because of a change to the vehicle category. Should you upgrade your vehicle locally your credit card will be charged accordingly. All cars are non-smoking, and a high charge will apply if this is not adhered to. All vehicles have automatic transmission.
Car Size: It is essential that you choose a car with adequate boot space for your luggage. We will not accept responsibility for inadequate boot space.
Fuel: All cars are rented with a full tank of fuel and must be returned with a full tank to avoid a refuelling charge. Alternatively, you can choose to pay for the fuel at the time of rental (Fuel Purchase Option) and return the car empty.
Child Seats: These are required, by law, for children up to the age of 12. These should be requested at time of booking as subject to availability and charge of around $13 per day is payable locally.
Parking/Traffic Violations: It is your responsibility to advise AVIS of any parking/traffic violations when returning your vehicle. Your credit card will be charged for any fines/penalties incurred as well as an administration fee. Charges may not be advised at the depot and can show on your credit card statement after your return home.
One-Way Rentals: All one-way rentals must be booked in advance and are subject to availability at time of booking. A limited number of vehicles are allocated to one-way rentals so early booking is highly recommended. If a charge applies to your one-way rental, we will advise the approximate amount when you book but this is subject to change. The actual amount together with applicable taxes will be charged to your credit card and may differ to any approximate amount mentioned previously.
All rental terms and conditions are subject to change.
Fraserway Motorhome Rentals
When it comes to exploring the Canadian landscape, motorhome rental offers the ultimate in ‘freedom’ – no set itinerary, no deadlines, overnight where you want at scenic campsites by the water or in the forest and enjoy the great outdoors. Stay where you want for as long as you want – not only is it a great adventure but fun for all the family.
Locations Calgary
• Whitehorse Stations are open Monday to Saturday and are closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Vancouver opens Sundays for limited hours between May and September.
Driver Requirements
Minimum age is 21. No charge for extra drivers but all must have a full and valid UK driver’s license at time of vehicle pick up. The reservation must be in the lead drivers name who will need to present a valid credit card.
Pick-up / Drop-off
Vehicles can be collected between 08.30 and 15.00 (subject to vehicle readiness) and must be returned between 08.30 and 11.30.
Rental Period
Minimum rental period is 7 nights.
One-Way Rentals
Only permitted between certain depots and fee applies which will be included at time of quote.
Fully Inclusive Price
Rental price is calculated daily, and the day of collection and drop-off are charged as full days. Price includes:
• Daily rental charge
• Liability insurance
• Collision Damage Waiver with zero excess
• Unlimited km
• Vehicle preparation fee
• Convenience kit per person
• Additional drivers
• Shuttle transfers (see below)
Transfers
Fraserway offers complimentary shuttle transfers from, and to, major airports and selected downtown hotels (not Toronto downtown) and must be pre-booked at least 5-days prior to vehicle pick-up. Service is available between 08.30 and 13.00.
Vehicle Substitution
Occasionally similar or larger motorhomes may be substituted, and no claim will be accepted for additional costs because of a change to the vehicle model or size.
Extra Large Motorhome
Daytime layout
The Class C X-Large motorhome is perfect for a larger family or group. It has a separate bedroom at the back of the RV, and in the living area, both the dinette and seating area become beds at night. Plus, another sleeping area in the cab-over bed, providing space for everyone. Amenities include the kitchen area and a bathroom with a separate shower.
Recommended for 4 adults and 2 children
Large Motorhome
The Class C Large motorhome includes all the amenities of the smaller motorhomes but adds a slide-out feature. That increases your living area giving your motorhome a more spacious feeling. It can sleep up to five people with the dinette bed and over-cab bunk, plus a permanent bed in the rear of the RV.
Recommended for 4 adults and 1 child
Medium Motorhome
The Class C Medium can be comfortable for two adults, but with its increased bunk capacity, works well for up to five people. Comes equipped with a kitchen area, storage, dinette, and a bathroom with a separated shower.
Recommended for 4 adults and 1 child
Sleeping layout
Daytime layout
Sleeping layout
Daytime layout
Sleeping layout
British Columbia
Ferry Services
BC Ferries – Between Vancouver and Victoria or Nanaimo
With your rental vehicle (car or motorhome) or as foot passengers there are a variety of ferry routes operated by BC Ferries including:
• Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Swartz Bay)
• Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay)
• Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Nanaimo (Duke Point)
Ferries operate on a first-come, first-served basis so we always pre-book a specific departure time to avoid lengthy waits. The journey time is around 1 hour 40 minutes.
BC
Sail from the ports of Port Hardy on Vancouver Island (northbound) or Prince Rupert on the west coast (southbound) and cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Inside Passage. Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, jagged fjords, and glistening glaciers. Look out for whales, porpoises, and bald eagles. Onboard services include dining room, lounge, gift shops and numerous seating areas. Supplements apply for day cabin and vehicle. Both northbound and southbound sailings depart at 07.30 and travel time is around 16 hours.
Victoria Clipper – Between Victoria and Seattle
Travel in comfort and style between Victoria’s Inner Harbour and Seattle’s waterfront aboard the ‘Victoria Clipper’, a high-speed catamaran. This service is for passengers only (i.e., no vehicles) and operates year-round with a journey time of around 3 hours.
Floatplane Transfers
Particularly in British Columbia, floatplanes are an integral part of the transportation, and you can’t help but be impressed by the sight of one taking off or landing on water. The opportunity to fly in one is truly a unique experience that you will never forget. They offer a quick, scenic way to travel and are available between:
• Vancouver Coal Harbour (downtown) & Victoria Inner Harbour
• Victoria Inner Harbour & Whistler Green Lake
• Vancouver Coal Harbour (downtown) & Whistler Green Lake
• Vancouver Coal Harbour (downtown) & Tofino Harbour
• Victoria Inner Harbour & Tofino Harbour
Please note that some luggage restrictions apply, to be advised at time of quote.
Scheduled Flights
Pacific Coastal Airlines and Air North operate a variety of routes between cities as follows:
• Vancouver & Campbell River
• Vancouver & Port Hardy
• Vancouver & Williams Lake
• Vancouver & Tofino
• Victoria & Tofino
• Vancouver & Whitehorse
• Whitehorse & Dawson City
• Vancouver & Yellowknife
Please note that some luggage restrictions apply, to be advised at time of quote.
Private Transfers
A ‘hassle free’, travel in comfort, direct service available between:
• Vancouver Airport & hotels
• Vancouver Airport & Whistler
• Victoria Airport & hotels
• Tofino Airport & hotels
• Tofino Airport & Ucluelet
• Tofino/Ucluelet & Campbell River
• Victoria & Campbell River
Scheduled Transfers
Mainly operated by comfortable coach, these transfers operate on a ‘set’ schedule.
• Vancouver Airport or downtown & Whistler
• Vancouver Airport or downtown & Victoria (includes ferry journey)
• Victoria & Tofino or Ucluelet
• Tofino & Nanaimo
• Vancouver downtown & Seattle
Ferries – The Inside PassageThe Rockies
If you don’t want to self-drive there’s a host of transfer options available that allow you to travel seamlessly throughout the Rockies such as:
Scheduled Coach Transfers
Easy, economical transfers are available from/to a variety of locations operating on a ‘set’ schedule between:
• Calgary Airport or downtown & Banff
• Calgary Airport or downtown & Lake Louise
• Calgary Airport or downtown & Jasper
• Banff & Lake Louise
• Banff & Jasper
• Lake Louise & Jasper
• Edmonton Airport & Jasper
Sightseeing Coach Transfers
Sit back and relax as you journey through the spectacular scenery of the Rocky Mountains. Sightseeing stops will be made along the way including the Ice Explorer ride onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier when travelling between Banff or Lake Louise and Jasper (in either direction).
• Banff & Jasper
• Lake Louise & Jasper
• Banff & Lake Louise
The Rest of Canada
Private Transfers
Available between:
• Toronto Airport or downtown & Niagara Falls
• Toronto Airport & downtown
• Montréal Airport & downtown
• Québec City Airport & downtown
• Ottawa Airport & downtown
• Montréal downtown & Québec City downtown
• Halifax Airport & downtown
Scheduled Coach Transfers
Available between:
• Toronto Airport & downtown
• Toronto Airport or downtown & Niagara Falls
• Montréal downtown & Québec City downtown
VIA Rail
The various routes offered by VIA Rail are detailed on pages 153 to 155 and, travelling between cities is a great way to see the beauty of Canada up-close while relaxing in your comfortable seat. Some of the most popular routes are between:
• Corridor service – Toronto & Ottawa
• Corridor service – Toronto & Kingston
• Corridor service – Québec City & Montréal
• Corridor service – Ottawa & Québec City
• The Ocean – Québec City & Halifax
• The Ocean - Montréal & Halifax
• The Canadian – Toronto & Jasper
• The Canadian – Toronto & Vancouver
• The Skeena – Jasper & Prince Rupert
Private Transfers
Available between:
• Calgary Airport & downtown
• Calgary Airport or downtown & Banff
• Calgary Airport or downtown & Lake Louise
• Calgary Airport & Jasper
Scheduled Flights
We can arrange a selection of scheduled flights to connect all provinces and major cities. Using internal flights allows you to see more of Canada and some of the most popular are between:
• Toronto & Calgary
• Toronto & Vancouver
• Toronto & Victoria
• Montréal & Québec City
• Toronto & Halifax
Here’s a selection of transfer options but, if you don’t see what you’re looking for just let us know.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
We ask that you carefully read this information, only by doing so can both you and we, ensure that your Prestige holiday is everything you expect, and we wish to deliver. We are delighted to offer advice at any time and all services are subject to availability at time of booking.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Hotel Facilities: throughout our brochures we refer to facilities offered by hotel such as swimming pools, restaurants, spas etc. The availability of such facilities are under the day-to-day control of the hotel management and therefore we cannot guarantee availability of facilities. Some facilities mentioned may incur any additional charge. Some hotels host conferences, weddings etc which may mean restricted use of facilities/amenities for which we do not accept any liability. On high-rise buildings, window cleaning services may be restricted, and we do not accept any responsibility for ‘dirty windows’.
Classification of Hotels: there is no universal accommodation grading system with North America. The grading system we have applied is an indication of hotel quality and standard only. Standard of hotels in remoter parts of North America may not be equal to those where a larger selection is available.
Lodges & Ranches: the major attraction of these properties are their locations and characteristics and, by their very nature, difficult to grade – where applied it includes an assessment of the overall experience.
Hotel Rooms: all accommodation is sold on a room-only basis unless otherwise specified. Except where indicated otherwise our rooms are allocated on ‘standard’ basis and can be in any part of the hotel. Specific views are not guaranteed unless otherwise mentioned. Images of hotel rooms are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual room you will be staying in. Rooms may have one or two beds and we cannot guarantee what the bed configuration will be. Nor can we guarantee adjacent/near each other or interconnecting rooms.
Child Age: generally, there is no charge for up to two children sharing a twin-bedded room with two adults paying the applicable rate. Child age varies by property.
Check in & out Times: rooms are generally available after 4pm with check-out around 12 noon. This varies according to property. If you retain your room for a later check-out any charge is at your expense.
Security Deposit: some hotels ‘take’ a security deposit which will be refunded after check-out. This refund may take some time to appear on your credit card statement. We do not accept any responsibility for any such charge or subsequent refund.
Extra Charges: some hotels charge for additional items such as car parking, mini-bar usage etc. All such charges are payable locally.
Building Works: these may be occurring at your hotel, around your hotel or in the city itself. We will not accept any responsibility for disturbance, room view, lack of facilities or amenities, traffic disruption etc due to renovation/building/road works etc that does not seriously impair your enjoyment.
Non-brochure Hotels: if you choose your own accommodations, which we do not feature, we are willing to contact them to obtain rates and make your booking. However, our ground handlers may not have inspected these hotels and therefore we cannot guarantee that these properties will meet any description you have read elsewhere, or that all the amenities and facilities will be as you wish them to be.
FLIGHTS
Airlines/Aircraft: all airlines reserve the right to substitute carriers, aircraft type, seat configuration, seating class on their flights and may
even change the route to incorporate a touchdown at another airport prior to your destination. Such changes, other than a ‘downgrade’ of pre-paid services will not warrant a refund or claim for compensation.
We are required to collect passenger contact details before flight tickets can be issued. Any delay in receiving this information may result in a higher flight cost for which we will not accept responsibility.
Schedule Changes: flight schedules are arranged many months in advance and airlines do sometimes have to make changes. If we are advised of a change prior to departure date, if it is minor (under 12 hours) we will notify you and amend your itinerary accordingly. If it is major, please see our booking conditions.
Delays: in the event of a flight delay or cancellation it is the responsibility of the airline to keep you informed. Depending on the airline they may also be responsible for a meal(s), and accommodation if required. If not provided by the airline, any additional costs incurred, are to be claimed from your travel insurance and are not the responsibility of Prestige Travel.
Special Requests: we have no control on seat allocation by airlines and cannot guarantee you will sit near travelling companion(s). On some airlines we can pre-book seat numbers although a charge may apply. Special meal requests will be passed to the airline, if provided to us, however we cannot guarantee their availability. Should you have very specific meal requests we recommend taking food onboard with you. We cannot guarantee that your flight will be ‘pet free’ as some airlines allow pets to travel with their owners.
Meals & Alcohol: on transatlantic flights some type of meal service is usually provided but is not guaranteed. On domestic flights within North America that is not the case. Some airlines may charge for any drink, not just alcoholic, and it is your responsibility to check on-board services.
PASSPORTS & VISAS
All visitors, except residents of the USA, require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Canada. Apply online at www.cic.gc.ca. If your holiday involves a stay or touchdown in the USA, an electronic visa (ESTA) is required; apply online at www.cbp.gov/esta. All visitors should apply for their travel visas well in advance of holiday departure date. We are not responsible, should your visa application be rejected, for any change/charges after you have booked your holiday. It is the responsibility of all clients to ensure they have valid documentation for their holiday arrangements.
HEALTH/INSURANCE
At time of writing no vaccinations are necessary for entry into Canada or the USA however it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct immunisation should it be necessary. Valid, adequate, travel insurance is a condition of your booking.
CURRENCY/CREDIT CARDS
Credit cards are as common as currency and all hotels, car rental depots and other providers will ask for an imprint at time of check-in, vehicle pick-up etc.
GRATUITIES
Tipping is a way of life in North America; it is usual to add 15% of the bill to service personnel. Tips to tour drivers and directors are not usually included and are at your discretion.
LOCAL TAXES
Prices on menus, consumer goods etc. are subject to national and/or local taxes so be prepared to pay more than is on the advertised price.
NATIONAL PARKS
A National Park User fee is applicable for most national parks at an approx. daily fee of around $11 per person. Please see www.pc.gc. ca for more information. This fee can be paid prior to travel or at entrance to the national park.
WILDLIFE VIEWING
When taking a wildlife viewing excursion you are visiting their natural environment and sightings are not guaranteed. Tour guides will do their best to ensure that sightings are made however, if this does not occur, no refund will be given.
UNUSED SERVICES
No refund will be given for any portion of a pre-packaged itinerary, hotel night, car hire, transfer or excursion which is not used, nor credit given for amendments made after the date of departure.
YOUR MONEY
When you buy a flight-inclusive holiday, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by them on behalf and for the benefit of the Air Travel Trust. This is subject to the agent’s obligation to pay it to us. In the highly unlikely event of our insolvency, any money held at that time by the agent, or subsequently accepted from you by them, is and continues to be, held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us. When you buy a holiday not including flights, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by them on behalf of Prestige Travel.
BROCHURE(S)
Our brochures are the sole responsibility of us, Prestige Travel, as a tour operator. It is not issued on behalf of, and does not commit any independent organisations etc., whose services are featured. We make every effort to ensure our brochure(s) are accurate to the best of our knowledge at time of publication. In any case, some information may have changed, by the time you make your booking, and some products may not be available. The images used are to give a general impression of accommodations, buildings, scenery etc.
LICENSE TO TRADE
The law requires that we must provide financial protection in respect of monies paid to us for package holidays. To comply with this requirement, we hold an AIR TRAVEL ORGANISERS LICENSE (ATOL) 2509 and have a bond lodged with ABTA.
Data Protection
To process your booking and to ensure that your travel arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements we and your travel agent need to use the information you provide (such as name, address, passport information, email address, mobile number, any special needs/dietary requirements, etc.).
We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper security measures are in place to protect your information. We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels, transport companies, etc. The information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs/immigration if required by them, or as required by law. Additionally, where your holiday is outside the European Economic Area, controls on data protection in your destination may not be as stringent as the legal requirements in this country. We will only pass on your information to providers/suppliers responsible for the provision of your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as details of any disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant providers/suppliers.
Please note where information is also held by your travel agent, this is subject to your agent’s own data protection policy. We will hold your information, where collected by us, and may use it to inform you of offers in the future or to send you brochures. If you do not wish to receive such approaches in the future, please tell us.
Our full privacy policy can be found on our website.
The Aito Quality Charter
Prestige Travel is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. Prestige Travel abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.co.uk. Visit the website to find out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.
THE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS – THE QUALITY ALTERNATIVE
The air holiday packages and flights in this brochure are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 2509.
Please see our booking conditions for more information.
100% FINANCIAL PROTECTION
The holidays in this brochure are advertised and operated by Atkins Travel Limited trading as ‘Prestige Travel’, a fully bonded tour operator. Our flight based holidays provide full financial protection by way of our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number (ATOL) 2509 issued by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email: claims@caa.co.uk. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive package from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. Please see our booking condition 17 for information, or for more information about ATOL go to: www.caa.co.uk. Atkins Travel Ltd is a member of ABTA and our package holidays that don’t include a flight are protected by means of a bond held by ABTA The Travel Association, 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ www.abta.com. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA or ABTA will ensure you are not stranded abroad or will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. The contact details for Atkins Travel Limited are Office 11 Haviland House, 17 Cobham Road, Ferndown Business Park, Dorset BH21 7PE (‘the Company’s Office’), enquiry@prestigetravel.co.uk, 01425 480 400. Our office hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 4pm on Saturdays.
1. We want you to have an enjoyable holiday and so that there is no misunderstanding you should read carefully the following Terms and Conditions, together with Important Information on page 166, as they apply to any contract you make with us.
2. We reserve the right to alter the price of any of the holidays shown in our brochure. You will be advised of the current price of the holiday that you wish to book before your contract is confirmed.
3. The contract is between Atkins Travel Limited (‘the Company’) and the person making the booking and/or the person(s) on whose behalf the booking has been made (‘the Client’).
4. In order to confirm a booking we will require you or our authorised agent to:
(a) send us the appropriate deposit, the amount of which will vary and this will be confirmed at the time of booking. See Clause 12(d).
(b) A contract will exist between the Company and you when you pay a deposit/full payment to the Company or its agent or the Company has verbally confirmed the booking and you confirm with the Company that you have the authority of all persons named to contract on their behalf the services requested.
5. The balance of the holiday price shall be paid by the date to be advised but in any event shall not be more than twelve weeks prior to your departure.
6. If the deposit and/or balance is not paid in time, we shall cancel your travel arrangements. If the balance is not paid in time we shall retain your deposit.
7. Once you have booked, whatever happens to the value of the Pound, the price of your holiday will not be subject to any currency surcharges or refunds due to the bank contracts we have in place.
(a) The price of your holiday is, however, subject to surcharges or reductions on the following items: the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, and the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports. However there will be no change within 20 days of your departure. We will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes any amendment charges. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 8% of the price of your travel arrangements, you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality you will not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel because of this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date on your final invoice. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the changes mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you. We will deduct from this refund our administrative expenses incurred. However, please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.
8. As we plan your holiday arrangements many months in advance we may occasionally have to make changes or cancel your booking and we reserve the right to do so at any time. You will be informed without delay of a cancellation (for any reason) by the Company and on such a cancellation except where it occurs due to non payment by you, the Company will offer you the choice of an alternative holiday of at least comparable standard (if available) or a full refund of all monies, payable within 10 days of you requesting such refund. Compensation may be payable on a sliding scale. See No. 9 (c).
9. (a) A major change to the contract is one which would involve a significant change to the holiday (e.g. a significant change in resort).
(b) If the Company makes a major change after it has confirmed the booking the Company will immediately inform you and offer the choice of an alternative holiday of at least comparable standard (if available) or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies, payable within 10 days of you requesting such refund. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be cancelled.
(c) Subject to (d) below if the Company cancels, or makes a major change and you accept a refund rather than an alternative, after the date of payment of the balance of the holiday price it will in addition to the choice offered in sub-paragraph (b) of this clause compensate you as follows:
Period before departure date Compensation due payable per person
More than 84 days NIL
Between 29 and 83 days £10
Between 15 and 28 days £15
Between 8 and 14 days £20
7 days or less £25
(d) The provisions of clause (c) will not apply in the event of a major change or cancellation due to any cause beyond the Company’s control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. The following shall be regarded as causes beyond the Company’s control:
(i) Act of God, explosion, flood, fire or accident.
(ii) War, terrorism or any threat thereof, insurrection, civil disturbance.
(iii) Any government or local authority restrictions or regulations.
(iv) Strikes or other industrial actions (or threat thereof).
(v) Weather conditions, epidemic or pandemic illness.
(e) We will confirm the airline/ferry company identity when you book. If it changes we will advise you. This may be at the airport on the day of departure. A change of airline/ferry company is a minor change to your holiday, as is an alteration of less than 12 hours to the outward/return flight or change of accommodation to the same or higher standard.
10. (a) The Company will consider any reasonable request by you to amend or vary the terms of your travel arrangements but shall not be under any obligation to comply with such a request. Charges will be kept to a minimum, in some cases this may mean amendment or replacement cost of airline tickets. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the person who made the booking or your travel agent.
(b) In the event of a reduction by you in the number of persons taking a self contained apartment, cabin or hotel room (or hire car) the Company may need to charge for any beds, transfers or seats unused as a result of that reduction. Please ask for a price.
(c) You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing as soon as possible and no later than seven days before departure. Both you and the new traveller are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer.
11. (a) All reasonable steps to ensure that the holiday is not cancelled or altered as a result of overbooking by hotels will be made by the company.
(b) If the hotel is overbooked (despite the Company’s reasonable efforts) and the Company is aware of such overbooking before your departure the Company will immediately inform you and offer the choice of an alternative holiday of at least comparable standard (if available) or of a full refund of all monies, payable within 10 days of you requesting such refund and compensation will be payable in accordance with Clause 9 (c).
(c) If the Company does not know of the overbooking of the hotel before your departure you shall on arrival at your destination be offered alternative accommodation. If the alternative accommodation is inferior to that originally booked the Company shall also offer reasonable compensation for disturbance.
12. (a) You may cancel the holiday at any time. The Company will charge you the cancellation fees set out below. Please note the exceptions to these charges set out in (d) below. A cancellation by you must be in writing signed by the person who made the booking or sent the email acceptance and sent to the Company’s Office and acknowledged by the company.
(b) The Cancellation charges (expressed as a percentage of the confirmed holiday price) are as follows:
Period before scheduled departure date during which written cancellation is received by the Company:
Amount of cancellation charge
More than 84 days Deposit only
Between 83 and 31 days 50%
Between 30 and 15 days 75% 14 days or less 100%
Also see (d) below.
(c) You can cancel your booking without paying cancellation charges if the performance of your package, or the carriage of passengers to your destination, is significantly affected by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. In such circumstances, we will arrange for your booking to be terminated and for you to receive a full refund. We will observe advice provided by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office.
(d) Some suppliers such as cruise lines, airlines, escorted tour operators, and rail companies have different cancellation charges that will apply over and above the listed amounts here, we and you are therefore bound by their booking conditions, we will highlight this at the time of booking. Some may demand part or full payment even if a holiday is cancelled. Additionally if we have bought aircraft seats in from another tour operator or a public airfare for you once you confirm your intention to travel, we are committed to pay for those seats or hotel rooms in full. If, therefore, you cancel your holiday at any time after booking, you will be/may be liable for the cost of those seats or hotel rooms in part or full. In these circumstances we, and therefore you, are bound by the booking conditions of the other supplier. We will also require an increased deposit, the amount will be advised at the time of booking. We will remind you of any exception at the time of booking your holiday.
13. The Company shall not be obliged to claim compensation for nor to make any allowances or refund for lost or expired or unendorsed tickets, hotel coupons, or vouchers for any service or accommodation booked. But if any allowance or refund is obtained by the Company it will pass the same on to you less any expenses reasonably incurred in obtaining it.
14. We will make your holiday arrangements with every care. We cannot, however be responsible for any damage or loss of your luggage or other property unless caused by any of our staff or suppliers. We cannot be responsible for any fatal or other injury or illness unless caused by the negligence of any of our staff or suppliers whilst on duty. You must inform us without undue delay of any failure to perform or improper performance of the travel services included in this package. If any of the travel services included in your package are not performed in accordance with the contract, or are improperly performed, by us or the travel service suppliers, and this has affected the enjoyment of your travel arrangements, you may be entitled to an appropriate price reduction or compensation or both. We will not be liable where any failure to perform or improper performance of the travel services is due to: you or another member of your party; or a third party unconnected with the provision of the travel services in the package and is unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, which means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken.
15. All arrangements made by or through the Company in connection with the booking are subject to the contractual terms of the suppliers providing the services that make up your booking. These terms are incorporated into this contract and may limit or extinguish your right to compensation. Further, we are to be regarded as having the benefit of any limit on compensation contained in the relevant international convention. These limit liability for death, injury and loss or damage to baggage. Copies of the contractual terms and international conventions are available on request.
16. If you’re in difficulty whilst on holiday and ask us to help we will provide appropriate assistance, in particular by providing information on health services, local authorities and consular assistance; and helping you to find alternative arrangements and any necessary phone calls/emails. You must pay any costs we incur, if the difficulty is your fault.
17. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable).
If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.
18. We do not run or control or have any other involvement in any excursions in our holiday destinations and we have not inspected them in any way.
All excursion providers are entirely independent of us. If you buy any excursion(s) whilst on holiday, the contract will be between you and the excursion provider. The excursion(s) will not form part of the package or of your contract with us. We cannot accept any liability in relation to any excursion(s) and the acceptance of liability for contracted holiday arrangements in our booking conditions will not apply to them.
19. In the unlikely event of any dissatisfaction with the accommodation or any of the services provided during your holiday the matter must be reported immediately to the local representative or agent of the Company AND the hotelier so that action can be taken to remedy the problem. If we have not been given the opportunity to rectify the complaint at the time this may affect your rights. If the problem is not resolved satisfactorily during the holiday you should submit your complaint in writing to the Company at the Company’s Office as soon as possible after your return home, ideally within 28 days, advising the Company of the action taken and the names of the people to whom the matter was reported. A written report must be obtained from our representative where we have one. Except in personal injury or death claims, our liability shall be limited to three times the cost of the holiday paid to the Company. We are a Member of ABTA, membership number V2715. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. You can also access the Arbitration Service offered by AITO - operated by Dispute Settlement Services (DSS), please ask for details. For injury and illness claims, you can request the ABTA Mediation Procedure and we have the option to agree to mediation.
20. Every effort is made by the Company to give as accurate a description as possible for the hotels, guest houses, villas, apartments, motorhomes and ships in this brochure. All facilities mentioned in the descriptions are generally available for the duration of the brochure but in certain circumstances (particularly in the low and off seasons) their provision may be limited e.g. weather conditions, maintenance, etc. Please note that the provisions of these facilities and any charges imposed for their use are totally outside the control of the Company.
21. These conditions are subject to English Law and the jurisdiction shall rest with the English, Scottish or Northern Ireland courts as appropriate.