Home > Trans-Canada Explorer + Alaska Cruise (Zuiderdam)

Trans-Canada Explorer + Alaska Cruise (Zuiderdam)

The best of Canada from East to West followed by a cruise of the awe-inspiring Inside Passage and on to Alaska - this ultimate experience reveals the beauty and diversity of this extraordinary environment.

Itinerary
Ship
Cabin and
Deck Plans
Optional
Excursions
Gallery
Related
Holidays
Prices &
Dates

Your Itinerary

DAY 1: UK - Toronto.

Fly to Toronto where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2: Toronto - Niagara Falls - Toronto.

See Toronto's major landmarks today, including the CN Tower and Roger's Stadium. Later, visit thundering Niagara Falls. View the falls from above and onboard the Maid of the Mist, for a close up view from the river below the falls. Note: The operation of the Maid of the Mist cruise is subject to favourable weather. The last operating date for 2013 is 24 October. After this date the tour through the scenic tunnels will be offered.

DAY 3: Toronto - Kingston - Ivy Lea - Ottawa.

Leave Ontario's capital and stop in Kingston, a city with an exciting history dating back more than 300 years. Continue to quaint Gananoque and Ivy Lea, where you'll enjoy a scenic cruise along the St Lawrence River, past wooded islands dotted with beautiful summer homes. Then proceed along the St Lawrence River to Ottawa, standing at the confluence of the Ottawa, Gatineau and Rideau rivers.

DAY 4: Ottawa.

This morning see the Canadian Mint, the embassy district, stately Parliament Hill and Rideau Falls. Also visit the Royal Canadian Mounted Police stables, a living tribute to Canadian heritage and history. Suggestions for this afternoon include a visit to the magnificent Canadian Museum of Civilisation or the array of restaurants and shops at the lively Byward Market. Note: Due to seasonal hours, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Stables will be closed and unavailable for the following departures: 26 April; 29 August; 5, 12, 19, 26 September; 3 & 10 October.

DAY 5: Ottawa - Quebec City area.

We head into the French-Canadian province of Quebec, where you'll notice a sudden change in language and tradition. A late afternoon arrival in historic Quebec City, the heart of French Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

DAY 6: Quebec City area.

This morning take an optional excursion to Erabliere le Chemin du Roy Sugar Cabin for breakfast and a guided visit with a presentation about maple extraction. Afterwards return to Quebec City for a guided tour of Canada's only walled city, crowned by the great turrets of the Chateau Frontenac. Within the walls is the Place d'Armes, the Laval Seminary, the star-plan Citadelle and ancient Place Royale. Also see the stone houses crowding the narrow streets of Lower Town by the St Lawrence River and the historic Plains of Abraham.

DAY 7: Quebec City area - Montreal.

Head south, and late this morning cosmopolitan Montreal comes into view. As you enter the world's second largest French-speaking city, you'll see the canted tower of the Olympic Stadium. Major attractions on this afternoon's sightseeing tour include once walled Old Montreal, Notre Dame Basilica, the Seminary of St Sulpice, Mont Royal and modern Montreal. In the evening be sure to try out one of the many sidewalk cafés.

DAY 8: Montreal - Calgary.

Transfer to Montreal airport for your flight to Calgary, Canada's 'cowboy' capital.

DAY 9: Calgary - Banff.

On your included tour you will see many of the city's attractions, including downtown, Fort Calgary, the Olympic Ski Jump and the Saddledome. Afterwards head through the foothills and into Banff National Park, gateway to the majestic Canadian Rockies. On arrival join the optional excursion to Sulphur Mountain for a thrilling gondola ride.

DAY 10: Banff.

With the day free, perhaps take the optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies, or visit one of Banff's many natural features including hot springs, hoodoos, lakes and waterfalls.

DAY 11: Banff - Lake Louise - Jasper.

A day of scenic grandeur. First to Lake Louise: its cold turquoise waters are a perfect natural mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Precipitous gorges, snow-capped mountain ranges and lakes of exquisite blues and greens come into view as the coach scales two mountain passes. Another highlight today is a stop for a snowcoach ride on the 1200-foot-thick Columbia Icefield. Afterwards enjoy an orientation tour of Jasper townsite upon arrival. Note: Unfavourable weather conditions may affect the availability of the snowcoach excursion.

DAY 12: Jasper.

Today, join our optional excursion to Maligne Lake and Spirit Island, where you embark on a narrated cruise of the lake. The rest of the day is free to enjoy everything Jasper has to offer - from guided hikes and quaint shops to meandering wildlife.

DAY 13: Jasper - Mount Robson - Kamloops.

This morning leave Jasper following the Fraser River to the base of spectacular Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Overnight in Kamloops.

DAY 14: Kamloops - ferry crossing - Victoria.

Travel through British Columbia's mountain region to its majestic Pacific coastline. This afternoon sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands to Victoria. Sightseeing today includes world-famous Butchart Gardens, Bastion Square and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles. Note: Due to changes in the ferry schedule throughout the season, the visit to Butchart Gardens is planned during the morning of Day 15 on some departures.

DAY 15: Victoria.

The day is yours to explore Victoria further at your own pace. There are many sightseeing attractions to experience, including the Royal British Columbia Museum, afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, whale watching and shopping along Government Street.

DAY 16: Victoria - Vancouver.

Board the ferry to the British Columbia mainland. On arrival it's a short drive to Vancouver, where city sightseeing includes Stanley Park, Gastown and Chinatown. The remainder of the day is free.

DAY 17: MS Zuiderdam Cruise - Departure.

You'll be driven to the Holland America Line Cruise terminal for embarkation. Sailing time is around 5pm. This evening enjoy a lavish a-la-carte dinner. (D)

DAY 18: Inside Passage cruising.

The beauty of the Inside Passage will amaze you as you cruise past 1,000 miles of epic scenery, towering glaciated mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands and virgin forests. There is also plenty of animal and marine life to look out for including sea lions, eagles and porpoises. (B, L, D)

DAY 19: Juneau.

An afternoon arrival in Juneau, Alaska's capital. The city has a Gold Rush story to rival that of Klondike and is only accessible by seaplane or boat. An optional wildlife cruise and salmon fishing will normally be available, and you'll also have the opportunity to take an optional excursion to Juneau's own glacier, Mendenhall. This impressive river of blue ice is about 1.5 miles wide and over 12 miles long! (B, L, D)

DAY 20: Skagway.

Morning arrival in Skagway, Alaska's gateway to the Klondike Gold Rush in Canada's Yukon. Skagway was the turbulent staging point for prospectors and still has old-fashioned weathered boardwalks and old-time saloons. Optional sightseeing includes a ride in a vintage parlour car to see the White Pass and Yukon route. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore some more, before setting sail again late this evening. (B, L, D)

DAY 21: Glacier Bay.

Cruise into spectacular Glacier Bay early this morning, where forests give way to a rugged landscape rising to rocky peaks. Sixteen huge mountains converge to create an awe-inspiring panoramic wonder, a dramatic scene of awesome glaciers and massive icebergs. Wildlife is abundant, and you may spot eagles, seals, mountain goats, moose and bears in their natural habitat. (B, L, D)

DAY 22: Ketchikan.

A morning arrival in colourful Ketchikan, situated on Revillagigedo Island and known as the 'salmon capital of the world'. Here, a picturesque harbour shelters fishing boats and seaplanes. A wide choice of optional excursions will be available, including an outing to see Indian Heritage Villages, Totem Bight State Park and 'flightseeing' to Misty Fjords National Monument. Evening departure from Ketchikan. (B, L, D)

DAY 23: At sea.

Continue cruising south along British Columbia's spectacular coastline. Animal and marine life are abundant in this area and with a little luck you may spot a pod of graceful orca whales. (B, L, D)

DAY 24: Vancouver - UK.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)

DAY 25: Home landing in the UK.

MS Volendam
Large inside cabin, MS Volendam
Large outside cabin, MS Volendam
Verandah Suite, MS Volendam
Rotterdam Dining Room, MS Volendam
Pinnacle Grill, MS Volendam
Lido Pool area, MS Volendam
Explorer's Lounge, MS Volendam
Crow's Nest Observation Lounge, MS Volendam
Frans Hals Show Lounge, MS Volendam
Fitness Centre, MS Volendam

MS Volendam

Embodying Holland America Line's 'Signature of Excellence', MS Volendam is equipped with the most modern technologies and provides a good selection of amenities, facilities and entertainment. Decorated throughout with a garden motif, floral attributes can be found in abundance ranging from priceless paintings and sculpture, to sumptuous fabrics and bouquets of fresh flowers. Accommodating 1,432 passengers in bright, comfortable cabins, MS Volendam also offers elegant public areas and fine dining - ideal for luxurious cruising.

Your holiday price includes a category K inside cabin, or you may choose to upgrade.

For full details, please see our website www.archersdirect.co.uk/cruisesFor full details, please see our website www.cosmostoursandcruises.co.uk/cruises

Public Rooms & Facilities

2 pools (one with sliding glass roof); 2 whirlpools; main dining room; Lido Restaurant; Pinnacle Grill; casual Italian Canaletto; Terrace Grill; 5 bars including Piano and Wine tasting; 3 lounges; internet café; show lounge; tennis and basketball courts; spa and beauty salon; thermal suite; fitness centre and aerobics; Wajang Theatre and Culinary Arts Center; shops; casino; art and photo galleries; launderette; 12 lifts; reception.

Dining

Your cruise includes full board. The main Rotterdam Dining Room has a wide choice of menus with most passengers opting for smart casual dress in the evenings. The Lido Restaurant and the Italian Canaletto offer casual dining most evenings, or guests can enjoy sophisticated dining in the reservations-only 'Pinnacle Grill' (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's a complimentary ice cream bar and the famous late night snack. Please note, we will automatically book early dining unless otherwise requested.

Cabins

All cabins have twin lower beds, convertible to 1 queen-sized bed (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed); air-conditioning/climate control; flat-panel TV; DVD player; telephone; music system; and 24-hour room service. Inside cabins have a shower only while outside cabins have a shower and a bathtub. Your holiday price includes a category K inside cabin, or you may choose to upgrade.

Options/Upgrades

Cabin Categories & Descriptions:

K Large inside lower or middle deck cabin

E Large outside lower deck cabin with picture window

C Large outside middle deck cabin with picture window

AA Verandah Suite with whirlpool bath; sitting area; private verandah; minibar; fridge; floor-to-ceiling windows

Tipping

A gratuity of $11 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.

MS Volendam
Large inside cabin, MS Volendam
Large outside cabin, MS Volendam
Verandah Suite, MS Volendam
Rotterdam Dining Room, MS Volendam
Pinnacle Grill, MS Volendam
Lido Pool area, MS Volendam
Explorer's Lounge, MS Volendam
Crow's Nest Observation Lounge, MS Volendam
Frans Hals Show Lounge, MS Volendam
Fitness Centre, MS Volendam

MS Volendam

Your holiday price includes a category K inside cabin, or you may choose to upgrade.

For full details, please see our website www.archersdirect.co.uk/cruisesFor full details, please see our website www.cosmostoursandcruises.co.uk/cruises

Public Rooms & Facilities

Dining

Cabins

Options/Upgrades

Cabin Categories & Descriptions:

K Large inside lower or middle deck cabin

E Large outside lower deck cabin with picture window

C Large outside middle deck cabin with picture window

AA Verandah Suite with whirlpool bath; sitting area; private verandah; minibar; fridge; floor-to-ceiling windows

Tipping

MS Volendam

MS Volendam Sky & Sports Decks
MS Volendam Lido Deck
MS Volendam Navigation Deck
MS Volendam Verandah Deck
MS Volendam Upper Promenade Deck
MS Volendam Promenade Deck
MS Volendam Lower Promenade Deck
MS Volendam Main Deck
MS Volendam Dolphin Deck

Category E Dolphin or Main Deck large outside cabin with 2 lower beds, bath and/or shower

Category C Lower Promenade deck large outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-sized bed, bathtub & shower, and picture window

Category AA Verandah or Navigation Deck Verandah Suite with 2 lower beds, whirlpool bath, sitting area, private verandah, fridge, and floor to ceiling windows

Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City
It's the perfect way to see Alaska
Bird's eye view of Vancouver
Stunning Niagara Falls
Enjoy a boat ride in the St Lawrence Islands National Parl
The glaciers near Juneau are awe inspiring
Inside Passage wildlife
Ottawa's Rideau Canal and Parliament buildings
A Royal Canadian Mounted Policeman (Mountie) in Ottawa
Take a glorious peak at the Inside Passage
Mendenhall Glacier (optional from Juneau)
Quebec City on the St Lawrence River
Montreal
Mendenhall Glacier (optional)
Skagway's Mascot Saloon
Montreal's skyline
Calgary
Skagway's Old Railroad House
Alaska's Glacier Bay is magnificent
Enjoy a snowcoach ride on the Athabasca Glacier
Jasper National Park
Looking for whales
Tracy Arm View
Victoria
Vancouver
Cruising in Glacier Bay
Vancouver
Why rush? Vancouver is perfect for a 2 day extension
Why not add a 7 night cruise to Alaska?
Enjoy 2 extra nights in Vancouver
Enjoy a dip in the pool while you watch the glaciers drift by!
Enjoy a cocktail in the Piano Bar

Optional Excursions

To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list of optional excursions available to you.

CN Tower - Toronto By Night

360 The Restaurant at the CN Tower, one of Toronto's finest, features unforgettable food combined with a magnificent revolving view of Toronto more than 351 metres (1,151 ft) below. 360 offers market-fresh cuisine, featuring regional ingredients to ensure an incomparable culinary experience. Following dinner, enjoy panoramic views from the observation decks.

$92 (Canadian Dollar)

Niagara Helicopter Sightseeing

Take a thrilling eight-minute ride over the most famous falls in North America. You will be dazzled by the sights of the Rainbow Bridge, Horseshoe Falls, and Whirlpool Rapids. Bring your camera and it's up, up, and away! Helicopter tour duration approximately 12 minutes. Weather permitting.

$125 (Canadian Dollar)

Quebec Countryside Dinner and Montmorency Falls

Your first stop on this guided excursion is Montmorency Falls, a waterfall which is 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls and offers an unforgettable panorama. Next tour the western tip of Ile d'Orleans, followed by dinner at Le Moulin Saint Laurent, originally a water mill with a history dating back to 1675. The cuisine here includes local and regional specialites. Evening tour and dinner is approximately 3 hours.

$62 (Canadian Dollar)

Sugar Shack Breakfast and Maple Syrup Tour

Take off this morning for an all-you-can-eat traditional "Quebecois" breakfast which includes scrambled eggs, baked beans, Canadian bacon, maple sausage, maple smoked ham, potatoes, country bread pancakes, maple syrup, tea, herbal tea , coffee , hot chocolate and milk. This bountiful breakfast is followed by a guided visit of the Sugar Shack and a presentation on Maple Syrup Making.

$20 (Canadian Dollar)

Banff Gondola

The adventure begins with an eight minute journey to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in a modern, fully-enclosed four passenger gondola cabin. The views become increasingly spectacular as you climb 698m (2,292 ft) to an elevation of 2,281m (7,486 ft) at the Summit Upper Terminal. Stay on the look out for wildlife and birds that frequent the Banff Gondola. This is nature's wild playground, so a camera is a must! You can encounter the local wildlife including Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, Golden mantled ground squirrels, Hoary marmots, Clark's nutcracker and the Canada (Gray) jay. Afterwards, we'll visit thundering Bow Falls where plenty of great photo opportunities await you. Be sure to bring a sweater or light jacket as the wind can become quite cool at 2,285 metres above sea level.

$35 (Canadian Dollar)

Royal Canadian Helicopter Tour

$251 (Canadian Dollar)

Mount Assiniboine Glacier Helicopter Tour

Your adventure will take you past the Three Sisters Peaks as you spectacularly escape to the Spray Valley. You will see the magnificent Goat Range where you will observe the radiant aqua blue/green colors of the Spray Lakes. Next, your journey will take you to new heights through the Goat Range Pass and along the Sundance Range of Banff National Park where you will see mountain peaks, alpine meadows and pristine lakes. Finally, you will be transported to the "Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies" which rises majestically to 3,611 meters (11,870 feet) along the Great Divide. The surrounding glaciers and icefalls will astound you and capture your imagination where you will get up close and personal with the Gloria Glacier as it tumbles off of Mount Assiniboine. This is an experience you will not forget! (30 minute flight) Flights are subject to favorable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.

$282 (Canadian Dollar)

Three Sisters Peaks Tour - 12 Minute Helicopter Tour

This will be the most action packed 12 minutes of your life. Your adventure will take you past the Three Sisters Peaks as you spectacularly escape to the Spray Valley. You will see the magnificent Goat Range where you will observe the radiant aqua blue/green colors of the Spray Lakes. Your return flight will provide views of the Bow River as it meanders back towards the Town of Canmore. (12 minute flight) Flights are subject to favorable weather conditions and minimum of 2 passengers.

$125 (Canadian Dollar)

Jasper Raft On The Athabasca River

Bring the entire family and join us for a unique perspective of Jasper National Park. Jasper's best rafting float trips take you down the Athabasca River for those in seek of a complete and fun filled Alberta wilderness adventure. Our 16 kilometer trip passes through many small sets of rapids and calm stretches, which allows your National Park Licensed guide to point out the natural and human history of Jasper. The Athabasca River is the same route that was used by the fur traders many years ago, (David Thompson 1811). Our specially designed rafts offer a safe, comfortable ride that any first time rafter will enjoy. This trip is for everyone from toddlers to seniors. The guides do all the rowing so you can sit back & enjoy the majestic scenery. (2.5 hours)

$64 (Canadian Dollar)

Chinatown Dinner and Lantern Walk

A fascinating tour of Chinatown, one of the oldest in Canada. Your expert local guide will offer you the opportunity to learn about the "East meets West" portals. Themes range from Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac to Brave Pioneers and World Developments. Food sampling along the way with dinner in a first-class restaurant. Finally, at dusk you will be given lanterns and lead through the narrow alleys to Bastion Square. A very unique and memorable way to experience Victoria. (Approximately 3 hours)

$75 (Canadian Dollar)

Victoria Panorama

This is the most popular tour departing from Victoria harbour. This 20-minute flight is an ideal introduction to seaplane aviation. It includes spectacular vistas of downtown Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Enjoy unique views of the buildings ringing the harbor and grand houses perched above the rugged coastline. The exhilarating spray of the water is always a highlight during take-off and landing.

$111 (Canadian Dollar)

Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.

Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City