Is it all booked through Fresh Tracks Canada?

Yes! When we book your Rocky Mountaineer tour, it's easy to add on an Alaskan cruise as well. We make the transition from rail to sea seamless by offering special packages that combine Alaska cruises with Canadian train journeys, so you can book your entire vacation in one go. Everything lines up perfectly and you only have to book once, ensuring your trip goes so much more smoothly.

What do I do on the train?

It's up to you! You may simply want to unwind, settle in the glass-domed observation car and sip a cup of coffee while you admire the endless vistas of mountains, rivers and pine forests rolling past the windows. (You can bring a book to read, but guests often find they are too distracted by the views to get much reading done!) Or, you can socialize and get to know your fellow passengers – curious adventurers just like you from around the world. Strike up a conversation over gourmet food and superb Okanagan wine.

Where will the train go?

The Rocky Mountaineer train begins in the unspoiled beauty of the Albertan Rockies and travels southwest through the Cariboo and Monashee Mountains. Some of Canada's most spectacular scenery will roll past your glass-domed train car, from the towering peak of Mount Robson to the crashing water of Pyramid Falls. Stopping in Kamloops overnight, you'll continue on the next day toward the vibrant seaside city of Vancouver. The dry interior of BC gives way to rushing rivers, dense coastal rainforests and majestic mountains. Have your camera ready, it's likely you'll spot wildlife along the way.

Which cruise lines offer cruise tours to Alaska?

Holland America, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line are just a few of the cruise lines offering tours to Alaska from Canada. They tend to have large, luxury vessels. If you want to explore Alaska's coves and inlets, look for a cruise line with smaller ships.

How many days do you need for Alaska cruise vacations?

For the best Alaska cruise and train package, we recommend setting aside at least 5 to 7 days for the cruise portion of your trip. This will give you enough time for whale watching, exploring Glacier Bay National Park and sightseeing along the Alaskan coast.

What is the most scenic part of Alaska?

Alaska has many scenic destinations, including Sitka, the coastline of Chichagof Island, Glacier Bay National Park, Mendenhall Glacier and Denali National Park.

Is it better to go northbound or southbound on an Alaskan cruise?

In terms of what you see on your cruise, it doesn't matter if you sail northbound or southbound. You'll see all the sights on your itinerary either way. Direction does matter if you're deciding whether to add an Alaskan cruise to the beginning or end of your Canadian train vacation. It all depends on your personal preference and the other stops planned on your trip.

Can you see the Northern Lights while on an Alaskan cruise?

It depends on where and when you travel. The best time to see the Northern Lights while cruising Alaska's waterways is September. It gets darker earlier than it does in the summertime, giving you more opportunities to see this natural phenomenon.

What is the best month to go to Alaska on a cruise?

Alaskan cruise season typically lasts from May through September. July and August are the busiest months, so consider traveling in May or September if you want to beat the crowds. A September cruise is also ideal if you want to see the Northern Lights.

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Alaska Cruise and Train Tours

Published Nov 25, 2025

11 min read

Imagine gliding through the Canadian Rockies by train, passing snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, and vast forests before boarding a luxury cruise bound for Alaska’s breathtaking fjords. This combined Alaska Cruise and Train Tour offers the best of both worlds — panoramic rail journeys through Canada’s wilderness and unforgettable days at sea exploring glaciers, coastal towns, and wildlife-rich landscapes.

Experience the magic of Denali National Park, the serenity of Glacier Bay, and the charm of Alaska’s ports like Skagway and Ketchikan. Our travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations design personalized rail plus cruise itineraries that balance adventure, comfort, and scenic discovery. Whether you’re seeking glacier exploration, local culture, or peaceful days surrounded by natural beauty, this journey lets you see the North in its most spectacular form.

Best-selling Alaska Cruise and Train Tours.

Speak with our Canadian Insiders to add a cruise to your train vacation.

Table of contents

Best-selling Alaska Cruise and Train Tours.
Why Choose an Alaska Cruise and Train Tour
Quick Facts
Train and Cruise Experiences
On Board the Holland America
Alaska Cruise and Train Routes
Tips for Planning Your Alaska Adventure
Places to Visit
Frequently Asked Questions

Holland America Cruse lines ms Westerdam in Glacier Bay Alaska

Why Choose an Alaska Cruise and Train Tour

Immersive Scenery

Embarking on an Alaska cruise and train tour means you’ll get to experience Alaska's breathtaking landscapes. From the expansive decks of a cruise ship to the panoramic windows of a train, travelers are treated to unparalleled views of Alaska's rugged coastlines, towering glaciers, and majestic mountains. It is undoubtedly the best way to see Alaska.

Convenience and Expertise

Opting for Alaska cruise and train packages means you won’t have to worry about logistics and lodging. Pre-arranged packages ensure a stress-free Alaska travel experience, allowing travelers to focus solely on soaking in the beauty of the journey. As well, Alaska tour packages and curated activities led by knowledgeable guides on your trip will allow you to delve deeper into Alaska's rich history, culture, and natural wonders.

Diverse Experiences

On an Alaska cruise and rail vacation, you can experience the best of both worlds. Blending onboard luxury with land-based adventures, you can indulge in exquisite dining options to world-class entertainment and thrilling shore excursions while a train tour offers wildlife sightings and encounters with historic towns. Whether it’s taking in the coastline from the cruise, to exploring charming local communities, every moment promises a new and unforgettable experience.

Quick Facts About Alaska Cruise and Train Tours

The rail portion of your trip can come before or after your Alaska cruise.
There are two types of cruise ships to choose from: a larger, more luxurious vessel or a smaller ship that allows you to visit more coves and inlets.
Depending on the route you select, the Rocky Mountaineer stops for the night in either Kamloops, Quesnel or Whistler.
There are two levels of service onboard the Rocky Mountaineer: Goldleaf and Silverleaf.
You have a good chance of spotting wildlife as the Rocky Mountaineer winds through the Rockies. There are 53 different species of mammals here, including wolves, bighorn sheep, black bears, elk and mountain goats.

#1 Travel tip: Small ship cruises
Some small ship cruises depart from Juneau or Sitka (Alaska), so you’ll need to fly there. It’s best to arrive at least one day before your cruise starts.

Katherine Foxcroft
Director of Product: Hotels, Tours and Excursions

Train and Cruise Experiences

Take a train through the Canadian Rockies to an Alaska cruise to blend two unique experiences into one seamless trip. Dense forests, sky-piercing mountain peaks, icebergs floating in the Inside Passage. Combine an Alaska cruise with a train ride to get the best of both worlds.

Alaska Cruise

The rail portion of your trip can come before or after your Alaska cruise. There are two types of cruise ships to choose from: a larger, more luxurious vessel, or a smaller ship that allows you to visit more coves and inlets. Each type of ship has advantages, and it depends on your style of travel and what you want to get out of your Alaska cruise adventure.

A Holland America cruise ship sailing through Glacier Bay in Alaska

VIA Rail Train

The VIA Rail trains connect Canada from Vancouver to Halifax, with four different train routes. Major city stops include Vancouver, Prince Rupert, Jasper, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec and Halifax. The trains run year-round. Depending on the route, they offer daylight or overnight sleeper train experiences.

[Explore: The Canadian Train ]

A VIA Rail train travels through the Canadian Rockies in the summer

Cabins on VIA Rail Canadian Train

You can choose from two types of private sleeper cabins on VIA Rail’s Canadian train. Sleeper Plus Class cabins are for one, two, or four people. You’ll have upper and lower bunk-style beds, a private toilet and sink, plus access to a shower that is shared with a few other people. Enjoy access to the train’s viewing cars, priority boarding, and hot meals served in the dining car. Non-alcoholic beverages are included, while alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.

For an all-inclusive sleeper-train experience, opt for Prestige Class. These luxury cabins have 50% more space than the Sleeper Plus Class cabins and include a double bed next to a larger picture window — perfect for enjoying the views as you travel across Canada! Other perks of Prestige Class include personal concierge service, exclusive access to the Prestige Park Car, priority reservations in the dining car, and pre-dinner appetizer service. All meals and drinks are included, too.

Interior of the Prestige cabin with a set bed and chocolates on the duvet.

Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer connects British Columbia and Alberta, with stops in Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, Vancouver, Whistler, Quesnel and Kamloops. The train runs from mid-April until mid-October. The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only train designed so that passengers can experience the most spectacular views and optimal photo opportunities.

Service Levels Inside the Rocky Mountaineer

	SilverLeaf	GoldLeaf
Coach Style	Single-Level Dome	Bi-Level Dome
Window Style	Oversized dome windows, allowing for excellent viewing of wildlife and other Rocky Mountain scenery throughout your journey	Fully domed windows with panoramic views upstairs. Private dining room on the lower level with large picture windows for the ultimate in comfort and scenery
Onboard Meal Service	Delicious hot entrée meals included, served at your seat	Gourmet a la carte meals included, served in private GoldLeaf dining room
Onboard Host	2 hosts plus 1 culinary team	3 to 4 hosts, plus a full culinary team
Scenic Viewing Area	Outdoor viewing between coaches	Large open-air vestibule
Beverages	Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary through the journey	Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary through the journey
Luggage Service	Luggage delivered to hotel in Kamloops/Quesnel	Luggage delivered to hotel in Kamloops/Quesnel

On Board the Holland America

Step onto one of Holland America's modern, comfortable vessels and begin your voyage at sea. Cruise along the Inside Passage, a legendary scenic corridor teeming with wildlife and sparkling with icebergs.

You'll see small fishing villages, hills covered in a dense blanket of pines and whales breaking the surface of the cold, clean waters. Make your way to historic ports of call such as Skagway (outpost of the Gold Rush), Sitka and Ketchikan.

Services on Holland America:

Gourmet dining options on board, featuring steak and fresh seafood.
World-class entertainment and enriching on-board activities, including cooking workshops, blues concerts and more.
Complimentary 24-hour in-room dining, right in your stateroom.
Nightly turndown service.
Daily housekeeping, fresh fruit and ice service.

A couple stand on the deck of a Holland America cruise ship in Alaska and look at an iceberg

Luxury Cabins on Holland America

Cabin styles for Holland America Cruises depend on the exact vessel. For example, a Lanai stateroom features two lower beds that convert to one queen bed, as well as sliding glass doors that open onto a promenade deck. Another option would be an ocean view stateroom which has floor-to-ceiling windows, a private verandah, seating area, in addition to the two lower beds/one queen bed. A range of amenities are included in all rooms on Holland America ships.

Alaska Cruise and Train Routes

Set off on an unforgettable journey through Alaska's pristine wilderness with a combination of cruise and train routes that offer unique and memorable experiences. Depending on your schedule and preferences, you have the flexibility to enjoy the cruise portion before or after your train journey. As cruises depart out of Vancouver, similar to many train routes, you can easily start your trip with the cruise and finish off with a train trip. Alternatively, you can start your journey with a train ride through the Rocky Mountains. Once you arrive at your final destination, you can fly back to Vancouver and head out on a cruise ship adventure.

The Rocky Mountaineer offers three main routes, which can all be paired with an Alaska cruise:

First Passage to the West

This route connects Vancouver and Banff and is the line the company first established when it was founded in 1990. The Rocky Mountaineer is the only passenger train to travel along this famous, historic section of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Memorable spots along the way include the charming train station at Lake Louise, the Stoney Creek Bridge, the dramatic Fraser & Thompson River canyons and the location where the Last Spike was added to the railway in 1885.

Journey Through the Clouds

This route traverses the latter of the two main Canadian trans-continental railways: The Canadian Northern Railway, which dates back to 1896. It travels between Jasper and Vancouver, taking the breathtaking Yellowhead pass through the mountains. The highlight of the trip is the view of snow-covered Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies.

Rainforest to Gold Rush

This route connects North Vancouver and Jasper, with stops in Whistler and Quesnel. It was previously known as the "Frasier Discovery Route," and the focus is on discovering British Columbia's wild timber country and Gold Rush history. The train passes through the Fraser River Canyon, and it's not uncommon to spot black bears, bald eagles, ospreys and even grizzly bears.

Cruising Through the Inside Passage

Cruise along the cost of Northern BC all the way up to Alaska. This route is sheltered from the Pacific Ocean winds and waves by large islands, such as Pitt Island and Princess Royal Island.

You'll pass remote communities, such as Telegraph Cove, Skagway and Ketchikan, and sail through Glacier Bay National Park — where enormous chunks of ice make a thunderous roar as they crack, split and crash into the sea.

Route map of an Inside Passage Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska — Route Map: Inside Passage Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska

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On Board the Expedition Ships

Expedition Ships are smaller and more agile vessels, with reduced passenger capacity to allow for larger cabins and a less crowded ship.

The small size also allows these vessels to travel to tiny inlets and fjords along the Alaskan coastline that cannot be reached by larger ships. These waters are rich with marine life, including sea lions, orcas and humpback whales — so keep your camera at the ready.

These small ships are always ready for adventure. For example, your vessel may be equipped with a high-tech kayak dock added to the back of the ship, complete with a launching pad that makes it easy for passengers to set off kayaking or stand up paddleboarding in the pristine waters off the Alaskan coast.

Small expedition ship cruises through Southeast Alaska at dusk with snowy mountains behind

Small Ship Expedition Cruise Cabins

Cabins on expedition cruise vessels often feature a king bed or two twin beds, a private bathroom, and other amenities, including binoculars (for wildlife viewing!), reusable water bottles, toiletries, a TV/DVD player, and more. Some luxury cabin types include a view window next to your bed.

Cabin on cruise ship with window looking out to mountains and ocean

Alaska Excursions

Throughout your cruise, you’ll have opportunities to do daily shore excursions and discover more of the area’s land and sea. The onboard staff will help you choose what activities are right for you. Choose from sea kayaking and skiff rides to local village visits and guided hikes through the lush, temperate rainforest. Depending on your exact itinerary, you might explore Glacier Bay National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Tongass National Forest, Denali National Park and more. Every day will be a new adventure!

Group of guests ride in a zodiac boat through an inlet in Alaska with mountains and forest in the background.

Tips for Planning Your Alaska Adventure

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Alaska is spring through fall but it does depend on what you’re looking to see and do. The peak season in Alaska runs during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather is the warmest and all of the tours and summer activities are available. You’ll also get more hours of light, even past 10pm during these months, which means more time to enjoy activities and excursions. Summer in Alaska is also the best time for wildlife viewing.

The peak season also brings in the crowds and the heat, with June /July tending to be the hottest months. If you don’t like crowds or the hotter weather, you might want to visit during Alaska’s shoulder season. Shoulder season in Alaska falls in May (before peak season) and September (after peak season). You’ll likely find discounts for hotels and accommodations during these months. There are also fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Not sure when to travel? Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities are available in every month of the Alaska cruise season and you can expect to see whales, bears, birds, and spectacular scenery. Some of the seasonal highlights include:

April, May: Spring flowers, migrating shorebirds, gray whales

June, July, August: Ice calving, brown bears, spawning salmon, humpback whales

September: Dark skies and Northern Lights, gray whales

Booking

If you are looking to plan a trip, it is important to book early for any Alaska cruise and train tours for 2025. This will ensure that you are able to secure your desired dates, cabins on the cruise and accommodation. In doing so, you’ll also avoid any stress related to tight deadlines. As well, by booking early, you may get some potential early-bird discounts, which can maximize your trip.

Packing Essentials

When embarking on an Alaska cruise and train tour, it’s best to pack accordingly for changing weather, outdoor activities, and layers that are suitable for both cruise and train. See below for some suggested items to pack.

Waterproof and windproof jacket
Insulated, moisture-wicking layers like fleece or wool sweaters
Quick-drying, breathable shirts and pants
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat for sun protection or warmth
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Daypack or backpack for excursions
Binoculars (for wildlife spotting)
Insect repellent
Medications and first aid kit
Travel pillow for comfort during longer train rides
Books or an e-reader for leisure time onboard the cruise and train

Places to Visit

Canada was built along the historic Canadian Rail system, so it makes sense that many major Canadian cities are easily accessible by train. With train stations often centrally located within these cosmopolitan cities or remote towns, it is easy to explore the best of Canada by train.

Vancouver

Many Alaska cruise and train packages begin in Vancouver, a vibrant city with high-end restaurants, museums and cultural attractions. Vancouver combines world-class city amenities with hiking trails and other outdoor adventures, making it one of the best places to begin an Alaska cruise and train trip. If you visit during the summer, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the mild climate.

#2 Travel tip: See cruise ships at Canada Place
If you are visiting Vancouver, walk down to Canada Place, an iconic landmark and the city’s cruise terminal. Enjoy the beautiful views as you stroll along the promenade.

Hannah Poaros-McDermott
Travel Writer and Senior Content Coordinator

Jasper

Enhance your Alaska train/cruise combo with a stop in Jasper, one of Alberta's most beautiful destinations. Jasper is known for its mountain peaks, turquoise waters and hiking trails. The mountain town is also ideal for travellers who want to relax before embarking on an Alaskan cruise.

Couple stands on a dock looking out at Maligne Lake’s turquoise waters and surrounding mountains

Banff

Banff is a lively town filled with restaurants and activities for travellers of all ages. It's also the hub of Banff National Park, which is known for its waterfalls, glaciers, lakes and mountain peaks. Banff is a great stop for any Rockies train and Alaska cruise vacation.

Whistler

Some Canadian Rockies train and Alaska cruise vacations include stops in Whistler, a resort town located in British Columbia. Whistler comes alive in the winter due to its popular ski slopes, but it also has golf courses, spas and activities suitable for laid-back travellers. After a day of sightseeing or shopping, unwind at one of Whistler's restaurants.

Kamloops

Kamloops’ first inhabitants were members of the Secwepemc nation of Interior Salish-speaking peoples and the town served as a trading post before it was incorporated. Whether you visit before or after your Alaskan cruise, Kamloops is a great place to stop on your Canadian rail tour.

Quesnel

If your Alaska cruise and train vacation includes a ride on the Rocky Mountaineer, you'll need a place to stay overnight. Quesnel, a popular destination for nature lovers, fits the bill. It's one of the main stopping points on the route to the Yukon and offers plenty of opportunities to hike, fish and canoe.

What Our Customers Say

The entire experience was awesome!

Our vacation was so much more than I expected! The entire experience was awesome! The region was beautiful, the glaciers and waterfalls were amazing, and we saw lots of wildlife up...

Sue and Mark

IL, USA

It was a great trip!

Choosing our favourite part of our trip is very hard, from our accommodations to the food, and the GoldLeaf service on the train was all up to a 5 star review. Great Job!

Joseph, Renee and Party

CT, USA

You helped make memories for a life time

The whole trip from the first minute to the last was a highlight. Our experience on the train was tremendous. We agree that all was a "10". You helped make memories for a life time...

Susanne and Robert

CA, USA

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Why book your train journey in Canada with Canadian Train Vacations?

We take care of all the details

You want to relax and enjoy your trip, not get overwhelmed by the planning. Let us make all of the bookings for you, including rail tickets, hotels, excursions and activities, meals and transfers.

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Enjoy local expertise and guidance with a personalized itinerary. Your preferences and needs are our priority. We take care of you from the moment you land until the moment you leave.

Get help when you need it

You’ll receive the inside scoop before you even leave home. And you can relax during your vacation because we’re only a phone call away if you have any questions while you’re in Canada.

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Frequently Asked Questions

About the author: Katherine is Director of Product with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for almost 20 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in Calgary and one of her favourite Canadian destination is... Read more

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