Canada Rail & Sail Holiday

Sample Itinerary of Canada Rail & Sail Holiday

Days 1-3

Choose between a number of our preferred airline partners when flying into Vancouver; Air Canada, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic all fly direct, otherwise, American Airlines, United and Delta Airlines all fly indirect with just one change of aircraft en route in each direction. Upon arrival into Vancouver, make your way to the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel for a two night stay.

We have included a hop-on-hop-off trolley tour which is the best way to see the sights and attractions of Vancouver, including Gastown, Chinatown, the Sunken Gardens and Stanley Park. Then enjoy the rest of your day at leisure; we recommend a visit to the harbour in Vancouver or take a walk to Robson Street.

Days 3-4

You will be picked up by an early morning transfer, ready to take you the short journey to the train station where you will board the world famous Rocky Mountaineer. You will begin by heading off for Kamloops via some of the most dramatic and stunning scenery in the world; with the lush green fields of the Fraser River Valley through to the meandering river canyons and dense forests, this will certainly be a day to remember. You will arrive into Kamloops by late afternoon, so check into the Thompson Hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Days 4-6

Next on your holiday in Canada, continue east on the Rocky Mountaineer, past the snow-capped mountains and the sparkly glaciers as you cross the National Parks of Glacier Yoho and Banff, until you reach the town of Banff, home for the next two nights, staying at the Mount Royal Hotel. Take a walk around this picturesque town or have a bite to eat at the Fairmont Banff Springs, or if you fancy a bit of an adventure holiday, enjoy a horse ride or hike through the landscape - the perfect chance to get up close and personal with nature.

Days 6-8

You will be leaving Banff by coach in the morning, to begin your journey north along the stunning Icefields Parkway, known for being one of the most scenic routes in the whole of Canada. As you follow the road round you will be able to take in the towering mountain peaks, the flowing waterfalls and amazingly colourful meadows. The coach will stop at the Columbia Icefield giving you the opportunity to take a ride on the Ice Explorer (not included) if you wish or if not, just sit back and enjoy the dramatic scenery all around. You will arrive into Jasper that afternoon; take a transfer to the Sawridge Inn where you will spend the next two nights.

We would recommend exploring the Jasper National Park with its gentle rolling meadows and glistening lakes, take a ride on the Jasper Tramway a fantastic way to see the park at its best.

Days 8-9

Today you will travel across the British Columbias Cariboo Region to the Pacific Ocean on board the Jasper-Prince Rupert Train. Look out for the peak of Mount Robson covered in clouds, before the horizon widens and the train follows the track down into the rocky interior plateau. Head to the northern side of the Fraser River and on to Prince George, where you will be staying for the night at the Coast Inn of the North.

Days 9-10

Your journey will continue west today on board the Jasper-Prince Rupert Train, follow the banks of the Skeena River as it winds through the valleys and canyons until you arrive at Prince Rupert. Here you will be staying the night at the Crest Hotel.

Days 10-11

Today you will be cruising along the spectacular Inside Passage along the coast of British Columbia, heaven for any wildlife lovers. Cruise south to Vancouver Island through a network of stunning islands each showing off their dramatic scenery. See if you can spot the whales as they traverse the waters, or the sea lions sleeping on the rocks or even the bald eagles soaring in the skies above. You will arrive into Port Hardy late that evening, head to the Airport Inn where you will be staying for the night.

Days 11-13

Your day will begin with a journey along the Island Highway south on to Vancouver Island. Sit back and enjoy the journey as you pass the charming fishing villages dotted along the coastline. Your trip will stop for a visit to Campbell River where you may like to look at the murals in Chemaimus and in Duncan. Travel on to Victoria to the Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa, for a two night stay.

You may wish to make the most of your time at the Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa and indulge in the facilities on offer here. Explore the city, we would recommend a visit to the Butchart Gardens with their spectacular flower displays, or the Parliament Buildings, Bastion Square or the Royal British Columbia Museum, all popular tourist attractions. You may prefer to visit the harbour, have a bite to eat and just take in the beautiful scenery.

Day 13

Start the day by having a relaxing morning at your leisure. Then be ready to board your float plane across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver, an exciting journey and the perfect end to a perfect holiday in Canada. Spend your last day in Vancouver doing a bit of sight-seeing or some last minute shopping before making your way to the airport ready for your return flight home.

All our holidays are tailor-made and can be adapted by changing hotels durations and destinations to suit the individuals tastes and requirements – please do get in touch so we can start planning.