From Ocean Elegance to Alpine Grandeur

This is a journey of extraordinary contrasts — where refined ocean travel meets one of the most spectacular mountain landscapes on Earth. From the moment we step aboard Holland America Line’s elegant ms Nieuw Amsterdam in San Diego, the pace slows, the scenery expands, and the adventure begins to unfold in style and great comfort.

We enjoy a rare Pacific coastal voyage to Vancouver with a deluxe overnight hotel stay in this beautiful city before we board the legendary Rocky Mountaineer, widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest train journeys over the storied Canadian Pacific Railway. Glass-domed luxury, impeccable service, and ever-changing scenery carry us deep into the heart of the Canadian Rockies — a land of emerald lakes, thundering rivers, towering peaks, and timeless mountain towns. More stunning views await, as our guests enjoy a two-night stay at the fabled Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel, a rare treat.

Our journey is thoughtfully paced and richly rewarding, featuring destinations such as Victoria, Vancouver, Lake Louise, and Banff (We savor two nights in Banff after two nights at Lake Louise!) along with unforgettable experiences, including historic rail routes, glacier-carved landscapes, as well as intelligent sightseeing and delightful restaurants. This is travel at its finest: immersive, elegant, and deeply memorable — a seamless passage from the calm of the sea to the awe of the mountains. This is the first time in over two decades that we have offered Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and this trip is expected to sell out quickly.

This afternoon we step aboard the elegant ms Nieuw Amsterdam of Holland America Line in San Diego and sail toward Vancouver, the gateway to the Canadian Rockies. As evening falls, savor your first taste of Holland America’s celebrated cuisine before enjoying a show, a handcrafted cocktail in one of the ship’s inviting lounges, or a visit to our favorite spot onboard — the Crow’s Nest high above the bridge, where sweeping ocean views set the tone for the adventure ahead. We have always enjoyed the coastal voyages that evoke ocean travel decades ago, point A to point B with a sense of destination.

A full day at sea invites you to truly relax. Linger over breakfast in bed, enjoy lunch on deck, indulge in the spa or pools, attend an engaging lecture, or simply lose yourself in a good book as the Pacific glides by.

Cruising off the Oregon coast, today is all about savoring life at sea. Perhaps a leisurely lunch in the dining room, the timeless ritual of afternoon tea, and an evening of fine dining and entertainment — shipboard living at its most refined.

Today, we arrive in charming and very British Victoria. Stroll through the world-famous Butchart Gardens, step inside the historic Empress Hotel, or explore the picturesque downtown, home to the stately Parliament Buildings and the Royal British Columbia Museum.

This morning, we glide beneath Vancouver’s iconic Lions Gate Bridge before disembarking. A guided city tour introduces us to this vibrant coastal gem before arriving at our hotel. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy — Vancouver always captivates, and there is time to soak it all in. We know Vancouver better than most Canadians and offer some great suggestions for dinner this evening.

An unforgettable rail adventure begins as we board the acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer. Traveling along the historic Canadian Pacific Railway, we pass through the lush Fraser Valley, dense forests, and dramatic river canyons framed by the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Highlights include the thundering waters of Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon and the striking scenery along the Thompson River. This evening, we arrive in Kamloops for an overnight stay. Transfers are included today — and every day.

Today is nothing short of spectacular. We journey deeper into the Canadian Rockies, witnessing historic Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, and endless vistas of glaciers and snow-capped peaks. We disembark at Lake Louise and settle in for a two-night stay at one of the world’s most legendary hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. No matter how much one has traveled, the view of Lake Louise from this grand setting is spectacular and having two days in this stunning setting is wondrous.

A full day to savor one of the most beautiful places on earth. Walk the emerald shoreline of Lake Louise, learn about local wildlife, or simply relax and take in the stillness and grandeur of your surroundings.

More alpine splendor unfolds as we travel along the Trans-Canada Highway to Banff. Stops include Surprise Corner, Bow Falls, and the otherworldly Hoodoos before arriving at our hotel by midday. The afternoon and evening are free to enjoy Banff’s charming streets — perhaps a visit to the Banff Upper Hot Springs, where mineral-rich waters meet mountain views.

Today offers a true luxury: time. Explore Banff at your own pace with shopping along Banff Avenue, a visit to the excellent Whyte Museum, or a stroll through Cascade Gardens. This evening, we ascend Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola, where sweeping views of six mountain ranges and the Bow Valley set the stage for a relaxed farewell dinner — an unforgettable finale.

After breakfast, a scenic drive brings us to Calgary Airport with easy connections to most U.S. destinations — or the option to extend your stay in this dynamic city.