Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival Day - Montreal - 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer
Bonjour, Welcome to Canada!
Arrive in Montreal and make your way independently to your downtown hotel. After meeting your tour director and checking in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore the vibrant and culturally rich streets of Montréal. Overnight stay in Montreal.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Day 2 - 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer 2026 - Montreal to Toronto - Current
After breakfast, you'll start your guided tour of Montreal, the world's second-largest French-speaking city. Discover highlights of the downtown area, including the Olympic Complex, historic Old Montreal, McGill University, Mount Royal's picturesque neighborhoods, and the city's lively shopping districts.
You will have time to visit the Biodome (at own expense), showcasing five distinct ecosystems of the Americas, and the expansive Botanical Gardens, home to 22,000 plant species, ten exhibition greenhouses, and over 20 themed gardens across 75 hectares.
Enjoy an evening at your own leisure
Inspiring Highlights
Montreal Guided City Tour
Day 3 - 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer 2026 - Montreal to Toronto - Current
After breakfast at your hotel, we will depart Montreal and journey along the scenic St. Lawrence River toward the cultural heart of Quebec—Quebec City. Traveling the historic Chemin du Roy Highway, we pass through charming French-Canadian villages and towns.
Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour inside the old city's fortified walls, featuring views of the grand city gates, Lower Town, The Citadelle, and Battlefields Park.
Enjoy a leisurely evening in this magical city.
Inspiring Highlights
St Lawrence River
Chemin du Roy Highway
Quebec City Guided Tour
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Day 4 - 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer 2026 - Montreal to Toronto - Current
After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a free day in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For those interested, an optional full-day excursion to Tadoussac is available, featuring a thrilling 3-hour whale-watching cruise on the St. Lawrence River, near the mouth of the Saguenay River. On the return journey, stop to admire the breathtaking Montmorency Falls—30 metres taller than Niagara Falls, with a flow of approximately 35,000 litres per second (up to 125,000 litres in spring).
Special InformationPlease note - Optional activity can be booked on-ground with your tour leader at an extra expense.
Day 5 - 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer 2026 - Montreal to Toronto - Current
After breakfast, we say goodbye to Quebec City and travel alongside the picturesque Ottawa River en route to Canada's capital, Ottawa. Our journey winds past the scenic Laurentian Mountains and along the historic Chemin du Roy, passing through quaint Québécois villages and notable shrines.
En route, we stop for a guided visit and tasting at the iconic Chez Dany Sugar Shack. Upon arrival in Ottawa, enjoy a brief orientation followed by a city tour showcasing highlights such as the Rideau Canal—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—Parliament Hill, public gardens, the lively ByWard Market, and City Hall
Enjoy an evening of leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Chez Dany Sugar Shack
Rideau Canal
Parliament Hill
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours
Day 6 - 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer 2026 - Montreal to Toronto - Current
After breakfast today, we travel to Toronto, passing through scenic farmland and following the picturesque rivers and lakes of the Rideau Waterway. Along the way, we stop in Rockport, where you have the option to enjoy a leisurely and scenic cruise through the stunning Thousand Islands.
Upon arrival in Toronto, the remainder of the day is yours to explore this energetic and diverse city. Wander through its vibrant neighborhoods, take in the views from the top of the CN Tower, explore the bustling theatre district, or indulge in one of the city's many renowned dining spots.
Inspiring Highlights
Rideau Waterway
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Please note - Optional activity can be booked on-ground with your tour leader at an extra expense.
Day 7 - 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer 2026 - Montreal to Toronto - Current
This morning, enjoy breakfast with your fellow travelers before setting out to explore the diverse character of Canada's most cosmopolitan city. Highlights include the provincial parliament buildings, Toronto's bustling waterfront, the iconic CN Tower, and vibrant Chinatown.
Later, we depart the city for the scenic Niagara Peninsula, passing charming communities along Lake Ontario's shoreline. Upon arrival at Niagara Falls, take time to admire the breathtaking views and explore the many attractions available. For an unforgettable experience, you may choose to board the thrilling Niagara City Cruises – Voyage to the Falls.
This evening will be spent back in Toronto.
Inspiring Highlights
CN Tower
Niagara Falls
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours
Please note - Optional activity can be booked on-ground with your tour leader at an extra expense.
Day 8 - Toronto Eastern Explorer 2026 Joining day with Flight and Calgary
Farewell your Eastern Canada Tour Director and fellow travellers today, before a day at leisure in Toronto. It's a great opportunity to catch up on some shopping or visit some of the memorable sights that Toronto has to offer.
Day 9 - Toronto Eastern Explorer 2026 Joining day with Flight and Calgary
At the appropriate time, make your own way to Toronto Airport to board your included flight to Calgary.
On arrival to Calgary, make your own way to your downtown hotel where upon checking-in, you have the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is located approximately 20km from downtown Calgary. There are a range of transportation options available. Taxis are available for approximately CAD$45-55 per vehicle.
Please note that today is unescorted, and you will meet your new Western Canada Trip Leader tomorrow.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 23kg (51lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, and you will need to make you're own way to your hotel in Calgary.
Day 10 - Toronto Eastern Explorer 2026 Joining day with Flight and Calgary
Savour a leisurely day in Calgary, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this dynamic city. Explore its bustling streets, renowned for their diverse shopping experiences, or venture out to discover the captivating landmarks and attractions that define Calgary's unique charm.
This evening, meet your Western Canada Tour Director and fellow travellers.
Day 11 - Inspiring Canadian Rockies - Calgary to Banff - 2025 - Allocation 50 - Current
This morning,around 7am, we gather with our fellow travellers over breakfast before embarking around 8:30am on a captivating exploration of Calgary's landmarks, both modern and historic. From the iconic Calgary Tower to the storied Fort Calgary and the imposing skyscrapers of the bustling commercial district, we marvel at the city's diverse architectural tapestry.
As we bid farewell to Calgary, our gaze shifts towards the majestic Rocky Mountains, looming on the distant horizon. Prepare to be enchanted as we traverse through the picturesque foothills, gradually entering the breathtaking expanse of Banff National Park.
Our journey through Banff National Park is a feast for the senses, encompassing highlights such as the charming Banff town site, the commanding presence of Tunnel Mountain, and the awe-inspiring vista of the Banff Springs Hotel. Delight in the natural wonders of Johnston Canyon and the peculiar formations of the Hoodoos, before cruising along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway. Our adventure culminates at the renowned Lake Louise, offering an unforgettable rendezvous with one of the world's most iconic alpine lakes. We return to Banff whilst looking out for bears and moose, before retiring to our hotel in the heart of Banff.
For those wanting to take part in the Banff Gondola, they will be dropped at the Gondola around 3pm. Those who aren't will be then taken to the hotel to check in. The Wagon Ride with Cowboy BBQ Cookout Dinner optional tour will commence around 4:30pm.
Please note, if you would like to do both the Banff Gondola and the Cowboy Cookout, you will need to make your own way from the gondola to the Cowboy Cookout pick-up point.Special Information
Please note - access to Johnston Canyon can be prohibited if weather is icy or wet.
Day 12 - Inspiring Canadian Rockies - Calgary to Banff - 2025 - Allocation 50 - Current
After a delicious breakfast, begin your northward journey along the Icefields Parkway, where you'll be enchanted by an array of breathtaking landscapes. Admire the shimmering blue-green lakes, meandering mountain streams, lush forests, and majestic snow-capped peaks that dominate the scenery.
Today's destination is the Jasper Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre. If you haven't pre-booked the optional Icefield Explorer Snow Coach Ride (own expense), you'll have around 1.5 hours to enjoy other activities. You can book and pay directly for the Skywalk experience, have lunch at the Altitude or Chalet Restaurant, take a hike along the free trails that begin at the centre, or simply relax and explore the Discovery Centre and its outdoor patio with stunning glacier views.
Alternatively, you may opt for a leisurely day in Banff, allowing you to explore the townsite further and fully embrace the mountain lifestyle.
Day 13 - Inspiring Canada - Banff to Vernon - no train
Today's journey takes us along the renowned TransCanada Highway, tracing the path originally charted by railroad engineers and fur traders in the mid-1800s.
Our route traverses Kicking Horse Pass, guiding us from the Rockies into the picturesque Columbia River Valley, before ascending through Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park. The Selkirk Mountains, known for their abundant winter snowfall, boast more than one hundred active avalanche zones.
Continuing onward, we navigate through the majestic Monashee Mountain Range, eventually arriving at the rugged interior town of Vernon. This evening will be at your leisure to experience Vernon.
Inspiring Highlights
Trans Canada Highway
Rogers Pass
Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Day 14 - Inspiring Canadian Rockies - Vernon to Vancouver - 2025 - Allocation 50 - Current
Today marks our departure from the Okanagan Valley and its majestic mountains as we journey through the lower mainland. Few routes in Canada offer such a diverse range of vegetation in such a compact distance as Highway 3 between Osoyoos and Tashima. At the western end, lush rainforests abound, while to the east lies a desert landscape where prickly pear cacti thrive. Our route takes us along the Coquihalla Highway before arriving in Vancouver.
Special Information:All departures in June 2026 will be staying in Whistler instead of Vancouver. Whistler departures will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Whistler and Vancouver.
Day 15 - Inspiring Canadian Rockies - Vernon to Vancouver - 2025 - Allocation 50 - Current
Indulge in a captivating sightseeing expedition of Vancouver, showcasing iconic attractions including Stanley Park with its renowned totem pole collection, picturesque English Bay, the vibrant ambiance of Robson Street, historic Gastown, bustling Chinatown, and the majestic Canada Place and Cruise Ship Pier.
The afternoon and evening is at leisure in Vancouver. There are countless restaurants, shops and bars within walking distance from your centrally located hotel. Your Tour Leader will be on hand to provide recommendations.
Day 16 - Inspiring Canada - Vancouver cruise embarkation
This morning offers you an opportunity for any final shopping endeavours in Canada before your transfer to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal for your voyage to Alaska. Your included transfer to the cruise port departs around 1pm.
Upon checking in to the cruise, commence your exploration of the myriad amenities aboard your ship.
Special InformationAlaska is part of the USA, and an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) or a visa may be required for entry. It is the responsibility of each traveller to ensure they meet the entry requirements for the United States based on the passport they are travelling with. Requirements can vary depending on your nationality, so we recommend checking with your local embassy or consulate well in advance of travel.
Day 17 - Alaska Inside Passage Cruise - Royal Caribbean 2025
Enjoy a leisurely day at sea cruising the spectacular Inside Passage.
Your vessel provides an ideal vantage point for admiring the beauty of British Columbia's Inside Passage. Stretching over 25,000 miles from Seattle to Prince Rupert near the Alaskan border, this archipelago boasts serene waters nestled between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island. As you navigate this route, prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring rugged landscapes and encounter a plethora of wildlife, including orcas, humpback whales, rare white spirit bears, and countless seabirds.
Day 18 - Alaska Inside Passage Cruise - Royal Caribbean 2025
Sitka truly offers the best of Alaska. Its small-town appeal stems from a unique blend of Russian, Tlingit and American history. Its snow-capped peaks and volcanic Mount Edgecumbe pose amongst the state's most postcard-worthy scenes. And its rare wildlife astounds, from Saint Lazaria Island's orange-beaked puffins to Alaska Maritime Refuge's 40 million seabirds. This is off-the-beaten-track Alaska, where you can kayak Sitka Sound alongside swimming sea otters or fly-fish for the world's biggest halibut. Whether it's hiking along Baranof Island trails or listening to tribal stories passed down for generations, in Sitka the midnight sun never sets on adventure.
There are a range of shore excursions on offer today. Join your pre-booked option or arrange something when you get onboard with the Shore Excursions desk.
Day 19 - Alaska Inside Passage Cruise - Royal Caribbean 2025
Tracy Arm Fjord extends over 30 miles alongside the wilderness of Tongass National Forest. Sailing through this deep and narrow passage delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery you'll find in Alaska. See active glaciers carved into 7,000-foot-tall mountain peaks and plunging waterfalls burrowed into evergreen-clad cliffs. Glimpse native wildlife and watch deep blue icebergs float past the ship. Discover the twin Sawyer Glaciers at the end of Tracy Arm Fjord. While viewing the massive face of these tidewater glaciers, spanning more than a half-mile wide, you can hear the roar and feel the rumble of huge pieces of ice calving into the water in a spectacular display.
Tracy Arm Fjord is home to a spectacular array of wildlife. See pigeon guillemots, kittiwakes and arctic terns. Mountain goats graze on rocky slopes, while newborn seal pups sun on ice floes. Glimpse black bears hunting for lunch and soaring eagles— or watch for the fluke of a whale diving below.
We then sail to Alaska's remote capital, Juneau.
You can't get to Juneau easily without a sprint by air or by sea. But once you arrive you'll find majestic views and rich culture in every corner. With its snow capped mountains, misty rainforests, massive glaciers and bounty of wildlife, Alaska's remote state capital is the perfect place to dive into nature. Framed by Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts, the city's picturesque central area offers centuries-old bars, boutique shops and historical landmarks. For a taste of the local culture, visit the historic district and the Alaska State Museum. And for outdoor thrills, you can take your pick of activities ranging from whale watching in Auke Bay Harbour to tundra trekking over Mendenhall Glacier, and even try your hand at gold panning in Last Chance Basin.
Day 20 - Alaska Inside Passage Cruise - Royal Caribbean 2025
Royal Caribbean's Alaska program visits many of the same destinations, however there are some departures that stop in different ports due to operational requirements. These vary based on your cruise embarkation date. Please see the port you will visit today based on your cruise embarkation date below.
Ketchikan(Embarkation Date - 11 May, 25 May, 01 Jun, 15 Jun, 03 Aug)
Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska! Experience the must-see lumberjack show in Ketchikan—an action-packed showcase of rugged skills in chopping, sawing, and log-rolling, immersing you in the region's rich heritage. For fishing enthusiasts, Ketchikan, known as the salmon capital of the world, offers guided trips for salmon reeling, suitable for all levels of expertise.
Indulge in a shopping spree in Ketchikan's downtown district, boasting unique shops and boutiques offering local artwork and handmade goods, perfect for picking up Alaskan souvenirs. Nature lovers can embark on a wildlife safari boat tour through neighbouring fjords and islands, spotting bald eagles, seals, whales, and other captivating wildlife.
Haines(Embarkation Date - 18 May, 17 Aug, 07 Sep)
Haines offers diverse activities for all ages and interests, from wildlife tours to cultural immersion. Prepare for an incredible journey into the untouched beauty of the Haines wilderness. Wildlife photography tours in Haines, Alaska provide endless opportunities to capture stunning shots of bears, eagles, moose, and whales amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. Join bear-viewing tours for a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, fishing along rivers or grazing in meadows.
Icy Strait Point(Embarkation Date - 08 Jun, 29 Jun, 13 Jul, 10 Aug, 24 Aug)
Icy Strait Point is a Native Tlingit-owned Alaskan gem offering a unique blend of adventure and culture. This picturesque port town, accessible primarily by cruise ship, boasts the world's largest zipline, thrilling hiking trails, and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in Tlingit heritage at the restored salmon cannery museum, savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and explore the charming shops. It's an unforgettable destination where adrenaline-pumping activities meet authentic cultural experiences.
Skagway(Embarkation Date - 22 Jun, 20 Jul)
Skagway is a charming Alaskan town steeped in gold rush history. Once a bustling gateway to the Klondike, it now offers visitors a step back in time with its well-preserved historic buildings and wooden sidewalks. The White Pass and Yukon Route Railway provides a breathtaking journey through stunning mountain scenery, while the Chilkoot Trail offers a challenging hike for adventurous souls. Beyond its rich past, Skagway also offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing being popular activities.
At Sea (Hubbard Glacier)(Embarkation Date - 31 Aug)
A day at sea cruising past the Hubbard Glacier, a colossal natural wonder, renowned as North America's largest tidewater glacier. This massive ice formation, located in Alaska's Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, is a breathtaking sight to behold. Its sheer size and power are awe-inspiring, as huge chunks of ice regularly break off and crash into the icy waters below. The glacier's dynamic nature, with its occasional surges and advances, adds to its mystique.
Day 21 - Alaska Inside Passage Cruise - Royal Caribbean 2025
Royal Caribbean's Alaska program visits many of the same destinations, however there are some departures that stop in different ports due to operational requirements. These vary based on your cruise embarkation date. Please see the port you will visit today based on your cruise embarkation date below.
Prince Rupert(Embarkation Date - 11 May, 25 May, 01 Jun, 15 Jun, 03 Aug)
Prince Rupert is a vibrant coastal city nestled in the heart of British Columbia's stunning North Coast. Known as the "Gateway to the Great Bear Rainforest," it offers a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. With its rich history as a bustling port city, Prince Rupert boasts a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city is a paradise, with opportunities for fishing, whale watching, kayaking, and exploring the pristine wilderness. Prince Rupert is a captivating destination that promises unforgettable experiences.
Ketchikan(Embarkation Date - 18 May, 08 Jun, 22 Jun, 29 Jun, 13 Jul, 20 Jul, 27 Jul, 10 Aug, 17 Aug, 24 Aug, 31 Aug, 07 Sep)
Welcome to Ketchikan, Alaska! Experience the must-see lumberjack show in Ketchikan—an action-packed showcase of rugged skills in chopping, sawing, and log-rolling, immersing you in the region's rich heritage. For fishing enthusiasts, Ketchikan, known as the salmon capital of the world, offers guided trips for salmon reeling, suitable for all levels of expertise.
Indulge in a shopping spree in Ketchikan's downtown district, boasting unique shops and boutiques offering local artwork and handmade goods, perfect for picking up Alaskan souvenirs. Nature lovers can embark on a wildlife safari boat tour through neighbouring fjords and islands, spotting bald eagles, seals, whales, and other captivating wildlife.
Day 22 - Alaska Inside Passage Cruise - Royal Caribbean 2025
Today is a full day to relax and enjoy the many activities, restaurants and entertainment your ship has to offer whilst cruising the stunning Inside Passage.
Day 23 - Vancouver departure - Incredible Rocky Mountaineer 2023
Welcome back to Vancouver. Your ship will arrive in port at approximately 7:00am this morning. At the appropriate time, disembark your Alaska cruise and make your own way to the airport for your onward flight. Vancouver's Canada Place Cruise Terminal is located approximately 15kms from Vancouver International Airport.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special InformationAirport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.