Escorted Group Vacation in Alaska

The tour kicks off at 6:30 PM at Hotel Captain Cook, where we've arranged transportation from Anchorage International Airport to this remarkable hotel, situated with breathtaking views of Cook Inlet, downtown Anchorage, and the Chugach Mountains. We invite you to join us this evening for a delightful welcome reception and dinner.

Embark on a journey to discover the ways of life, customs, and artistic expressions of Alaska's native communities when you visit the Anchorage Museum. There, you'll encounter an extensive collection of artifacts and encounter two immersive multimedia exhibits that illuminate the enduring legacies and pasts of cultures hailing from the vast circumpolar North. After this enriching experience, board a picturesque flight bound for Talkeetna, nestled near the foothills of Denali, North America's tallest peak, formerly known as Mount McKinley. Following your scenic flight, embark on a drive to reach your tranquil wilderness lodge in Trapper Creek, where you'll enjoy a two-night stay surrounded by pristine nature.

Commence your day with a trip to the secluded homestead of Joanne Porterfield, located in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. For over four decades, her family's gardens and farm have thrived beneath the imposing presence of Mount Denali. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting adventure by jet boat into the wild. Later in the day, return to your lodge for a leisurely dinner and an evening of relaxation.

Embark on a scenic drive today that will lead you to Denali National Park, a pristine wilderness that remains one of the world's last unspoiled frontiers. You'll reach your accommodation, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, conveniently situated near the park entrance, just in time for lunch. In the afternoon, pay a visit to Husky Homestead, the residence of Jeff King, a four-time Iditarod champion musher. There, you'll encounter his resilient Alaskan Husky sled dogs, which call the homestead their home and training ground. Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the fine restaurants available at your lodge.

Start your day with an early departure for a captivating "Tundra Wilderness Tour" that will lead you deep into the wilderness of Denali National Park. This remarkable park spans six million acres and is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Your journey will take you through dense forests, alpine tundra, and over high mountain passes. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as moose, caribou, Dall sheep, wolves, and grizzly bears. Weather permitting, you might even catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Denali itself, North America's tallest peak, standing at 20,310 feet. The remainder of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure, and you can savor dinner at your preferred dining spot tonight.

Embark on an expedition through the Alaskan wilderness today, venturing from Denali, following the majestic Alaska Range to your lodge perched on the banks of the Copper River in the charming town of Copper Center. This quaint town serves as a gateway to the expansive Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, renowned as "North America's Mountain Kingdom." For dinner this evening, savor a regional delicacy that's close to every Alaskan's heart – delicious Alaskan salmon.

Embark on a remarkable journey to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, a haven boasting more glaciers and peaks surpassing 16,000 feet than any other location in North America. This pristine landscape is also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning both sides of the USA-Canada border. You'll be treated to a private tour of the park's visitor center, led by a knowledgeable park ranger. Additionally, you'll catch a glimpse of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, a crucial conduit for transporting crude oil from northern Prudhoe Bay to the southern port of Valdez. Afterward, return to your wilderness lodge and enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace.

Begin your day with a drive to Valdez, making a captivating stop at the Worthington Glacier, offering a fantastic chance for some memorable photos. Following this, you'll set sail across the picturesque Prince William Sound, departing from Valdez and making your way to Whittier, where you'll board your Princess cruise ship, marking the commencement of your 7-night cruise adventure. As your cruise ship embarks, keep your eyes peeled for the possibility of spotting majestic whales, graceful seals, and magnificent eagles amidst the scenic beauty of Prince William Sound.

During a day of cruising on the open waters, relish a private tour of the ship's galley in the morning. Then, set sail towards Hubbard Glacier for an opportunity to witness Alaska's longest tidewater glacier from close quarters. The striking blue hue of the glacier results from the ice's remarkable density, which absorbs all colors of the spectrum except for blue. As you navigate the waters, you might consider attending an onboard show, trying your luck in the ship's casino, or immersing yourself in a good book from the library. In the evening, join the ship's captain for a cordial welcome reception, followed by a delightful dinner aboard the ship.

Get ready to be mesmerized by the natural wonders of Glacier Bay National Park. As you sail through its enchanting landscapes, you'll traverse shorelines and navigate among islands that were completely enveloped by ice just two centuries ago. Gaze at the blue-tinged ice cliffs that majestically rise above the sea, and listen to the thunderous echoes as they break off and plunge into the water. Your eyes will be treated to the sight of rugged mountains, lush spruce and hemlock forests, and deep fjords. And, keep a keen lookout for the magnificent humpback whales, orcas, seals, and an array of seabirds. In the evening, don't miss an exclusive cocktail party, complete with delectable hors d'oeuvres and an open bar, followed by a sumptuous dinner as your ship glides towards Skagway.

Explore historic Skagway, once the gateway to the Klondike gold fields, with a vintage vehicle tour. Then, cruise to Haines along the Lynn Canal, North America's longest fjord. Experience thrilling rafting in the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, known for its eagle populations. Journey back in time on the White Pass & Yukon Route narrow-gauge railway, a relic from the gold rush era. Please note: Guests on the Royal Princess will visit Icy Strait Point with various excursion options and will not go to Skagway.

As your ship docks in Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, you'll discover a place nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Gastineau Channel, renowned for its historic gold mines and captivating mountain and waterfront vistas. Begin your onshore adventure with a visit to the formidable Mendenhall Glacier, a mere 13 miles from downtown Juneau. While it may appear motionless, the glacier is in constant motion, shaping the landscapes along its journey downhill.

Following your glacier excursion, enjoy a significant portion of your morning aboard a private whale-watching cruise, a complimentary inclusion, as you venture out into the waters off Juneau. Later in the afternoon, rejoin your Princess ship and continue your journey, sailing onward to Ketchikan.

Today, your cruise will bring you to Ketchikan, a place that serves as the ancestral homeland for the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian tribes. You'll gain insight into how Tlingit heritage profoundly influences the local culture. Witness the abundance of totem poles scattered throughout the city and observe skilled totem carvers at work at Saxman Native Village. Immerse yourself in the captivating performances of traditional Tlingit and Haida dances. You'll also have some free time to explore the town independently, including strolling along Creek Street, a historic boardwalk positioned over Ketchikan Creek, and the picturesque waterfront promenade. Afterward, rejoin your ship to continue your cruise.

Delight in the breathtaking sights of the legendary Inside Passage from the comfort of your stateroom or the various decks and lounges on a full day of cruising through this celebrated waterway. As you pass by the densely forested islands and coastal communities, take in the stunning scenery. You can also choose to unwind with a swim in one of the ship's pools, attend a nature presentation, engage in a board game at the library, partake in a workout session at the fitness center, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or try out the golf simulator.

Conclude your remarkable Alaska cruise by joining us this evening for a farewell cocktail party, followed by a memorable dinner on board your Princess ship.

End of Tour: Vancouver. Disembark from your Princess ship in Vancouver, British Columbia. Flights are recommended to depart after 11:00 AM. You'll have a transfer provided from the dock to Vancouver International Airport.