Alaska & Glacier Bay Cruise-Nieuw Amsterdam

Day 1 : Fly to Anchorage

We begin our tour enjoying two nights in downtown Anchorage.

Day 2 : Alaskan Scenery

We begin our day traveling along fjord-like Turnagain Arm, on one of the most beautiful stretches of highway in Alaska. Enjoy picture postcard views as we head for the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, a sanctuary dedicated to preserving Alaska's wildlife. Enjoy a special Welcome Lunch and tram ride at Alyeska Resort nestled in the Chugach Mountains. Watch for eagles and moose as we return to Anchorage to enjoy time at your leisure.

Day 3 : The Iditarod Trail

A scenic morning drive takes us to Wasilla in the Matanuska Valley, an agricultural and supply center for Alaska’s remote interior. At the Iditarod Trail Headquarters, we learn about extraordinary sled dogs and the famous Anchorage-to-Nome race. En route to a Denali Park Lodge, we watch for views of Denali.

Day 4 : Denali National Park & Preserve

Today we join a naturalist guide for a thrilling journey into the tundra of Denali National Park & Preserve. At six million acres, it is one of the largest unspoiled regions in the world. Watch for grizzly bear, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. Later, we cross the Alaska Range, with sweeping vistas of untouched wilderness. Upon arrival in Fairbanks, we dine at the famed Alaska Salmon Bake, a true Alaska experience.

Day 5 : Fairbanks

Today we’re introduced to Fairbanks’ history as we trace its development from the gold rush to the discovery of "Black Gold." Get a glimpse of the famed Trans-Alaska Pipeline. At Gold Dredge 8, we learn to pan for gold and keep what we find! Enjoy an all-you-can-eat lunch at Steamboat Landing. We board the Riverboat Discovery III sternwheeler for a narrated excursion on the Chena River and go ashore at a recreated Athabascan Indian camp. The evening is at our leisure in Fairbanks.

Day 6 : The Alaska Highway

Following a delicious included breakfast, depart Fairbanks and relive childhood wonderment during a stop at the Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska. We travel the Alaska Highway which was originally built as a military supply road during World War II and now links Alaska to Canada. Tonight’s accommodations are in Tok.

Day 7 : Yukon Territory

Today we traverse the spectacular Yukon Territory, an untouched region of astounding beauty. We enjoy views of the crystal-clear waters of Kluane Lake and stop at Kluane National Park Visitors Center to learn more about this preserved area. We arrive in Whitehorse, the Yukon’s capital for an overnight stay.

Day 8 : Scenic Rail & ms Nieuw Amsterdam

Spectacular views of mountains, valleys and waterfalls abound during a scenic train excursion on the White Pass & Yukon Route railway. This historic route follows the path of the Klondike gold seekers. We arrive in Skagway and embark on the ms Nieuw Amsterdam for our four-night cruise. The ship stays docked in Skagway into the evening allowing you to go ashore and explore this authentic 1890’s gold rush boomtown.

Day 9 : Glacier Bay Cruise

Day 10 : Ketchikan

Call on Ketchikan today, the Salmon Fishing Capital of the World. This charming port is a cultural hub and has a colorful history. Browse the shops and galleries along Creek Street or schedule an optional excursion offered by Holland America.

Day 11 : The Inside Passage

Snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and hundreds of islands and coastal inlets mark our progress through an astonishing fjord-like waterway today. We trace the southeastern hook of Alaska and Canada's Pacific Coast and witness firsthand how this vital ocean route still links communities today.

Day 12 : Vancouver to Seattle

Disembark in Vancouver, British Columbia and enjoy a scenic drive to Seattle, "The Emerald City." Tonight we toast our amazing journey at a Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner.

Day 13 : Fly Home

We fly home with great memories.