Canada - from Vancouver, through the Inside Passage of Alaska then through the Rockies to Banff
We spent our first night in Vancouver, soaking in the lively atmosphere before boarding our next big adventure – a 7-night cruise up Alaska’s Inside Passage on Holland America Line’s Koningsdam. I hadn't sailed on Holland American before, and not in a cruise like this, I had previously only done warm weather European cruises. This one was perfect if you are the sort of person who likes to explore new places, learn about the history and culture and see some amazing wildlife in its nature habitat. The dress code was very casual but you could dress up in the evenings if you wanted. We had one Speciality Dining meal included in our cruise and enjoyed all the dinners in the other restaurants. Lots of variety for all appetites. There was entertainment each night in the theatre - comedian, ventriloquist, dance company and a magician. Something for everyone.
The Inside Passage cruise was simply incredible. From the moment we set sail, the scenery was stunning – dramatic coastlines, snow-capped peaks, and endless views of untouched wilderness. Juneau – famous for its glaciers and whale-watching opportunities (this is where we saw an Orca during a wildlife tour). Skagway – a charming Gold Rush town with a rich history (I can highly recommend the White Pass Yukon Route train journey). Glacier Bay National Park – an awe-inspiring highlight, where we witnessed towering glaciers and pristine wilderness, and Ketchikan – full of culture and vibrant native history. And full of Lumberjacks - this is the place to take in a Lumberjack Show! And the wildlife! We were lucky enough to spot humpback whales, bald eagles, sea otters, and an orca – an unforgettable experience.
Back in Vancouver, after the cruise, we had three days to explore Vancouver properly, and it didn’t disappoint - Grouse Mountain – with stunning views over the city on a glorious day. Stanley Park – which we explored by bike and even enjoyed a morning run around the famous seawall the following day. Granville Island – we got there via a fun and quick little ferry boat ride and found the place full of markets and artisan shops. And Gastown – Vancouver’s historic heart, with its iconic steam clock and great restaurants.
Next, we boarded the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer, travelling in GoldLeaf Service – an absolute highlight of the trip. From Vancouver, we made our way through stunning scenery to Kamloops for an overnight stop before continuing to Jasper. The glass-domed carriages, friendly staff, and incredible food and drink made this experience truly special. On the way, we even spotted a black bear and an elk just before arriving in Jasper. We spent a couple of days exploring Jasper, including a fantastic wildlife tour with Maligne Adventures. They showed us areas affected by last year’s devastating wildfires, a sobering reminder of nature’s power and resilience. Despite the damage, Jasper’s beauty remains, and wildlife like elk and bears still roam freely.
From Jasper, we joined Brewster Sightseeing for a spectacular coach tour along the Icefields Parkway – one of the world’s most beautiful drives. We stopped at the Columbia Icefield, where we actually stood on a glacier, before continuing to Lake Louise. While stunning, it was busy and, thanks to a spot of rain, not at its best that day. My personal favourite stop on this drive was Lake Peyto – its bright, almost unreal blue colour was jaw-dropping. Our final destination was Banff, and it quickly became one of my favourite places. With its fresh air, mountain views, and endless outdoor activities, it’s somewhere I could easily imagine living. The weather was perfect while we were there, allowing us to make the most of everything Banff has to offer.
This trip was busy, full-on, and absolutely amazing. It opened my eyes to just how diverse and beautiful Canada is, from its bustling cities and serene lakes to its wildlife and mountains. Experiencing this with my dad made it even more special, and it’s given me a whole new list of places to return to and explore further. If Canada or Alaska is on your travel wish list, I can’t recommend it highly enough – and I’d be happy to help you create your own unforgettable adventure.
