canadian rockies and alaska’s inside passage

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Photos: Top - credit Jenny Kempa, Below - Holland America Canadian Rockies and Alaska’s Inside Passage Calgary to Vancouver by Land • Vancouver Round Trip by Sea Holland America Line • ms Volendam August 2 - 17, 2016 • 16 Days • 32 Meals Escorted by John Pollard

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Page 1: Canadian Rockies and Alaska’s Inside Passage

Photos: Top - credit Jenny Kempa, Below - Holland America

Canadian Rockies and Alaska’s Inside Passage

Calgary to Vancouver by Land • Vancouver Round Trip by Sea

Holland America Line • ms Volendam August 2 - 17, 2016 • 16 Days • 32 Meals

Escorted by John Pollard

Page 2: Canadian Rockies and Alaska’s Inside Passage

The Canadian West has often been described as one of the most scenic regions on Earth. This enchanting part of Canada features snow capped mountains, hiding lush valleys and small towns and villages. Untouched wilderness surrounds glacier lakes and countless wide open spaces are to be enjoyed. It really has it all for the traveller!

Starting in Calgary we immediately head to Banff and the breathtaking scenery of Banff National Park. Then visiting the renowned Lake Louise before reaching Jasper. From Jasper we travel through the Fraser Valley to Vancouver. With a number of beautiful walks and boat rides you will have plenty of opportunities to snap the perfect picture.

Join us as we discover the wild Canadian West on this truly scenic adventure. Call today!

TOUR / CRUISE ESCORT

Well known to many of our past guests, John Pollard has escorted numerous tours and cruises on our behalf, to such diverse destinations as China, the South Pacific, Alaska, Africa, the United Kingdom and Europe. A graduate of the University of Toronto, John retired after thirty-three years of teaching, to pursue his love of travel. His enjoyment of people and his great interest in travel together with his extensive experience in escorting groups to a wide variety of worldwide destinations, are sure to enhance this delightful journey.

INCLUSIVE FEATURES

8 nights twin bedded accommodation in hotels listed or

similar

32 meals shown as B - 15 breakfasts, L - 8 lunches, D -

9 dinners (Rocky Mountaineer option on Aug 8 / 9

includes 2 additional lunches)

Transportation by air-conditioned motor coach

All sightseeing and entrance fees as described

Services of our Canadian tour escort

All gratuities for included services

7 night cruise on the ms Volendam, based on sharing a

twin bedded stateroom in category selected

Baggage handling shipside

All meals and entertainment onboard

Services of our cruise escort and/or cruise director

All cruise line taxes and fees

Rocky Mountaineer Rates include:

2 days on the Rocky Mountaineer Rail (RMR) in

SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf Service

4 hot meals (2 breakfasts and 2 lunches) on RMR

Complimentary snacks and beverages on RMR

Friendly service and commentary from our rail hosts

Services of local representatives and rail hosts

Baggage handling at rail and hotels

All transfers between hotels, rail, and the ship

Air rates include:

Estimated return economy airfare from cities listed

Transfers between airports and hotels

All current estimated air taxes, fuel surcharges and fees

Airport transfers (home to/from airport) or equivalent

value

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Visit to Cave and Basin National Historic Site

Walk through Johnston Canyon

Visit to Takakkaw Falls and Emerald Lake

Jewel of the Rockies, Lake Louise

Ride on the Ice Explorer to visit the Athabasca Glacier

Breakfast atop Whistler Mountain

Scenic walk in Maligne Canyon

River safari ride through Grizzly Bear Valley

Panoramic city tour of Vancouver

7 nights aboard the gracious ms Volendam cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage.

The magnificent Banff National Park - Credit Lynn Macdonald

One of the many glaciers that can be discovered while cruising Glacier Bay - credit Wayne Doucette

Page 3: Canadian Rockies and Alaska’s Inside Passage

Optional: On August 7 / 8, perhaps travel to Vancouver on the Rocky Mountaineer Rail Adventure. Please see the last page of this brochure for details and pricing.

August 2, Tuesday Calgary / Banff, Alberta Upon arrival we meet our driver and begin making our way to the picturesque town of Banff and Canada’s first National Park. This evening we enjoy a welcome dinner. Ptarmigan Inn (2 nights) D

August 3, Wednesday Banff Explore Banff on a sightseeing tour with stops at Cascade Gardens and beautiful Bow Falls, then ride the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for an unparalleled view of the mountains and valley below. Some time will be included at the Cave and Basin National Historic Site. B

August 4, Thursday Banff / Lake Louise This morning we travel along the famous Bow Valley Parkway, where wildlife sightings are common. Visit Johnston Canyon for a walk through a deep rugged canyon littered with waterfalls before exploring the western part of the mountain chain and cross the Continental Divide into Yoho National Park. Visit Takakkaw Falls and Emerald Lake, filled with glacial run-off water before reaching Lake Louise, jewel of the Rockies. Deer Lodge (1 night) BL

August 5, Friday Lake Louise / Jasper Travel through the heart of the Canadian Rockies along the famous Icefields Parkway. At the summit of Bow Pass we shall see the beauty of Peyto Lake and the Mistaya River Valley below. At the Columbia Icefields we will visit the Interpretive Centre then take a ride on the Ice Explorer for a close up look at the Athabasca Glacier. Visit the powerful and breathtaking Athabasca Falls before arriving at the town of Jasper. Chateau Jasper (2 nights) BL

August 6, Saturday Jasper Start the day with a breakfast atop Whistler Mountain. A full day of sightseeing follows including a gentle walk down Maligne Canyon. A short drive takes us to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Tonight we enjoy a float trip on the Athabasca River. B

August 7, Sunday Jasper / Sun Peaks We will stop at Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies for a chance to take some pictures. A highlight today will be a River Safari ride through Grizzly Bear Valley, in the heart of an inland temperate rainforest. Observe bears and other wildlife in their natural habitat, without the constraints of gates and cages. Our final destination today is Sun Peaks, a cozy European-style four season resort town with great restaurants and shops within strolling distance. Sun Peaks Grand Hotel (1 night) B

August 8, Monday Sun Peaks / Vancouver Today travel the fertile Fraser Valley through the Coastal Mountains and into the rugged BC Interior as we head for Vancouver. This vibrant metropolitan city is nestled between majestic mountains, sparkling ocean and rainforests. Rosedale on Robson (2 nights) B

August 9, Tuesday Vancouver Vancouver is one of the most captivating cities within Canada, with its multicultural fusion and spectacular mountain and ocean setting. Our city tour includes Stanley Park, Chinatown, English Bay as well as some prestigious

residential areas of Vancouver. We will visit Capilano Park and experience the suspension bridge, the tree top adventure and the cliff walk, plus Salish Nations culture. Tonight group members not continuing on the cruise will have a farewell dinner. BD

August 10, Wednesday Embarkation After a leisurely morning we transfer to the ms Volendam for our cruise on the Inside Passage. Embark / Sail 5:00pm BD

August 11, Thursday Inside Passage Cruising The fabled Inside Passage is one of the most scenic sea lanes in the world, and one of the few where deep draft vessels can sail close to steep mountain walls. With most of Southeast Alaska accessible only by boat or plane, the Inside Passage is a lifeline to the outside world. All day long it hums with activity. BLD

August 12, Friday Tracy Arm / Juneau, Alaska Weather permitting our morning will be spent cruising the tranquil waters of Tracy Arm, taking us past Sawyer Glacier. This afternoon we are in Alaska's scenic capital, surrounded by towering peaks. Go panning for gold, visit Mendenhall Glacier, try your hand at salmon fishing - Alaskan style, or explore the region by air in a small plane or helicopter. Arrive 1:00pm / Depart 10:00pm BLD

August 13, Saturday Skagway, Alaska Step back in time to experience another era as we walk the boardwalk, drop into an old-time saloon, hear about the infamous Soapy Smith or embark on the White Pass and Yukon Railway to retrace the Trail of '98, the tortuous route followed by prospectors en route to the Yukon. Arrive 7:00am / Sail 9:00pm BLD

August 14, Sunday Cruising Glacier Bay Starting early this morning, we pass rocky promontories that mark the entry to this very special bay. Watch awestruck, as a pinnacle of ice splits from the glacial cliff and crashes into the sea. Our naturalist guide will give commentary about the pre-historic formations and help us spot wildlife that abounds in the sea and on shore. BLD

August 15, Monday Ketchikan, Alaska We call at the fascinating port of Ketchikan today, with ample time to wander the many interesting shops in search of local crafts and to explore busy Creek Street. Or you may wish to book one of the variety of shore excursions on offer. Arrive 10:00am / Sail 6:00pm BLD

August 16, Tuesday Inside Passage Cruising Our final full day is spent leisurely as we cruise the Inside Passage, past forest clad hills and tranquil inlets. Relax on deck or share memories of the past week with new found friends. BLD

August 17, Wednesday Vancouver / Disembark Arriving Vancouver early this morning, we transfer to the airport and catch our homeward bound flights. By prior arrangement, members can extend their stay in Vancouver

Alaska cruising scenic landscapes - credit Lynn Macdonald

Page 4: Canadian Rockies and Alaska’s Inside Passage

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A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARES

The way we will book flights for this tour will be a little different. The sample fares shown in this brochure are only to be used as a guideline. Final air prices will be subject to rates available when booked and on the number of group members departing from a single gateway city. At the time of booking (time of deposit) we will immediately work with you to choose your flights based on the best available fares and schedules (be sure to advise us of any flight preferences). Booking and paying for flights early will ensure that you receive the best routing and value.

August 7, Sunday Jasper / Kamloops Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from Jasper to Kamloops. Today’s highlights include Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies at 3,954 metres (12,972 feet), Pyramid Falls, the climb over Yellowhead Pass and the journey along the North Thompson River as you approach Kamloops. Hotel tba (1 night) BL

August 8, Monday Kamloops / Vancouver Your journey continues west towards the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver. On today’s journey you will again see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser River Valley. Your rail journey ends on arrival in Vancouver this evening when you shall be transferred to our hotel. Rosedale on Robson (2 nights) BL

SilverLeaf Service: Includes reserved seating in a single level car with windows that reach up into the roof. Delicious hot meals - breakfast and lunch are served to your seat including complimentary beer or wine at lunch. Enjoy complimentary soft drinks and snacks throughout the day plus full service and commentary by staff on the train. Overnight and porter service included in Kamloops.

Silver Leaf Service ................................................... $1,770

GoldLeaf Service (Recommended): Includes seating in the bi-level dome rail car with fully domed windows above and a private dining room on the lower level with large picture windows. Enjoy gourmet a la carte meals in the dining room with 3 hosts and a full culinary team. Alcoholic, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are complimentary throughout the journey. A large open air vestibule is available for viewing. Superior accommodations and full luggage service are provided in Kamloops.

Gold Leaf Service .................................................... $2,480

NOTE: An additional deposit is required for this option

CT RATING 2.5 - Slightly Challenging: This tour includes a number of walks sometimes over uneven terrain and is best suited for active travellers. This rating is based on the coach only version of the itinerary. Those taking the Rocky Mountaineer portion can expect a luxurious and leisurely train experience.

Tour / Cruise Cost in Canadian Dollars (per person) Category/Description/Deck Sharing Twin

K Inside Twin (Main, Veranda, Navigation) ........... $5,145

J Inside Twin (Dolphin, Main) ................................. $5,175

E Outside Twin (Dolphin, Main, Lower Promenade) . $5,445

DD Outside Twin (Main) .......................................... $5,465

DA Outside Twin (Main, Veranda) .......................... $5,485

D Outside Twin (Dolphin, Lower Promenade) ...... $5,515

C Outside Twin (Main) ............................................. $5,535

CA Lanai Twin (Lower Promenade) ....................... $5,845

BB Vista Suite (Navigation) .................................... $6,795

B Vista Suite (Veranda, Navigation) ...................... $6,895

AA Vista Suite (Veranda, Navigation) .................... $6,995

Above rates are cruise/tour only and are per person based on sharing the category chosen and include all of the applicable Inclusive Features. See Deck Plan for full details on various categories available. For Single rates, ask for prices or visit our website.

Sample air add-ons from cities across Canada:

** Vancouver (Vancouver transfers not included) .............. $375 ** Calgary / Victoria ...................................................... $375 Edmonton ..................................................................... $475 Regina / Saskatoon ...................................................... $555 Winnipeg ....................................................................... $735 Toronto ......................................................................... $995 Ottawa / Montreal ...................................................... $1,075

** Prices include a one way fare only.

Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares and air carrier are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Refer to Inclusive Features for details.

Cruise price is based on sharing a twin-bedded stateroom with private bathroom. Prices are based on a minimum 20 members and on rates, taxes and fees effective June 2015. Prices are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Itinerary is based on the air/sea program offered by the cruise line. Due to air schedules passengers from Atlantic Canada may require an overnight hotel before and/or after the cruise (cost not included).

The above prices DO NOT INCLUDE the cost of comprehensive insurance which is available on an optional basis and is highly recommended. Insurance premiums vary with the cost and length of the trip as well as the traveller’s age. For passengers up to and including 74 years on departure date, premiums will range from $318 to $493pp. Cost supplements for members aged 75 - 85 will range from $205 to $432pp. This insurance is effective from the date of purchase and carries limitations on pre-existing medical conditions. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Check our website for the most current information. Refer to the enrollment form for general information and conditions.

Final payment will be due May 23, 2016 Deposit will be $900 per person

Rocky Mountaineer deposit will be $500 per person

To reserve your spot on this cruise, simply complete the enclosed enrollment form, indicating the cruise you wish to join and your home city, and forward it with your deposit to:

CRAIG CANADIAN GROUP TRAVEL LTD

1092 Mount Pleasant Road Toronto ON M4P 2M6

Tel: 416-484-0926 or 1-800-387-8890 / Fax: 416-484-8143

[email protected] / www.craigtravel.com