12-Day Coastal BC Inside Passage & Rocky Mountains

Tour Overview

Embark on an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime journey through the untamed wonders of Western Canada and the coastal Inside Passage cruise with a small group of travellers. This immersive experience, starting and ending in Vancouver, traverses through some of the most captivating landscapes in British Columbia and Alberta.

This especially curated itinerary traces iconic routes steeped in Canadian history. From the road along the Fraser River, venture towards the majestic Rocky Mountains in Alberta, and cross the Continental Divide. The journey continues bordering the enchanting Skeena River to the interior of British Columbia, and follows with an awe-inspiring cruise through the Inside Passage on the Pacific Ocean. Finish your adventure by tracing the East Coast of Vancouver Island from Port Hardy to the capital of BC in Victoria. where you will stay overnight before returning to Vancouver.

Each step of the way, you'll engage in distinctly Canadian activities, providing a profound insight into the rich nature of the culture, heritage, and breathtaking landscapes of the country. Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary beauty of this region, and don't forget to bring your binoculars to catch a glimpse of the local wildlife along the way!

• Duration: 12 days, 11 nights
• Travel dates (Thursday - Monday): 
  • May 30 - June 10, 2024
  • July 25 - August 5, 2024
  • August 22 - September 2, 2024
  • September 19 - 30, 2024
• Group size: 22 pax max.
• Tour type: Guided tour
• Price*: Double occupancy from CA$5,299 (US$4,133) per person

Highlights

• Discover the unique beauty of Canada's only desert in the Okanagan Valley
• Marvel at the majestic peaks and breathtaking landscapes of the iconic Canadian Rocky Mountains
• Engage in culturally rich Indigenous experiences, immersing yourself in the diverse traditions of Northern BC and Vancouver Island
• Sail through the renowned Inside Passage aboard the BC Ferries cruise, and through the Salish Sea on a scenic ferry back to the Mainland
• Journey along the East coast of Vancouver Island, from the northern natural landscapes to the urban core of Victoria in the South

Inclusions

• 11-nights hotel accommodations: KELOWNA - 1 Night | BANFF - 2 Nights | JASPER - 1 Night | PRINCE GEORGE - 1 Night | PRINCE RUPERT - 2 Nights | PORT HARDY - 1 Night | CAMPBELL RIVER - 2 Nights | VICTORIA - 1 Night
• Roundtrip mini-coach transportation from downtown Vancouver
• BC Ferries Inside Passage cruise from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy
• Roundtrip ferry ride from Vancouver Island to Alert Bay
• Ferry ride from Victoria to Vancouver aboard BC Ferries
• Experienced, knowledgeable and friendly guide
• Daily breakfast
• Admission to the Ice Explorer Glacier Adventure at the Columbia Icefields
• Admission to the Banff Gondola
• Admission to U’mista Cultural Centre  
• Admission to The Butchart Gardens
• Wine tasting in Kelowna
• Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
• Discounts on optional activities to add on to your itinerary
• All taxes and park fees

Itinerary

Please note that this is a sample itinerary and it is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or road closures. Breakfast is included every morning at your hotels.

Day 1 - Vancouver to Kelowna

Depart from Canada Place in the morning and immerse yourself in the incredible sights of the Fraser Valley. Our route leads us along the Coquihalla Highway towards the Okanagan, where you'll indulge in wine tasting at a local winery. Arrive in Kelowna, your overnight stop, with the evening at your leisure for a stroll along Lake Okanagan or through the charming streets of this desert town.

Day 2 - Kelowna to Banff

From the Okanagan Valley, we continue on to the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. En route, stop at Craigellachie to witness the setting of the Last Spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway, and traverse Roger’s Pass. Visit the stunning Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, considered two of the most beautiful lakes in the region. Check into your downtown Banff hotel with leisure time to explore the town.

Day 3 - Banff

Enjoy a Banff townsite tour, visiting Bow Falls, the HooDoos, and the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, where you will learn about its legends from your knowledgeable guide. Experience the breathtaking Banff Gondola (included), ascending 698 meters (2,292 feet) to the summit of Sulphur Mountain to offer spectacular panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies. Have the rest of the day at your leisure to explore Banff Avenue or engage in optional activities, such as hiking, e-biking, bear watching, and more (additional cost).

Day 4 - Banff to Jasper

Soak in the views during an extraordinary roadtrip along the Icefields Parkway, one of the top 5 most beautiful roads in the world, on your way from Banff to Jasper. Stop at Bow Lake and Athabasca Falls on the way, and experience the thrill of riding the Ice Explorer snocoach onto the Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefields (included). Arrive in Jasper with the evening at your leisure.

Day 5 - Jasper to Prince George

This morning, depart Jasper and travel along Maligne Lake Road to the famous Maligne Lake, where you can stroll the lake edge, enjoy the beautiful views, or take a boat tour to one of the most photographed spots in Canada: Spirit Island (additional cost). Stop to see Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies -at 3,954 m- before reaching Prince George in the evening.

Day 6 - Prince George to Prince Rupert

Follow the Skeena River west towards the coast of British Columbia, arriving in the coastal town of Prince Rupert in the evening. Enjoy the stunning water views and the offerings of the hotel's restaurant and patio.

Day 7 - Prince Rupert

After travelling for a few days, today is time for relaxation. Have the option to visit the Museum of Northern BC or participate in an optional activity for an additional cost, such as a Grizzly Bear Tour or whale watching, depending on the time of year. We recommend going to bed early tonight to be well rested for the Inside Passage cruise in the morning.

Day 8 - Prince Rupert to Port Hardy via the Inside Passage Cruise

Check in for the Inside Passage Ferry Cruise in the early morning, at approximately 5:30 am. Enjoy the 16-hour journey from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy in Northern Vancouver Island. Navigate through the coastal waters of British Columbia and experience awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline, verdant islands, and majestic fjords, including points of interest such as Princess Royal Channel and Chatham Sound. Check in to your hotel in Port Hardy upong arrival at night.

Day 9 - Port Hardy to Campbell River

Drive to Port McNeill, then take a short ferry ride to Alert Bay on Cormorant Island. Explore Alert Bay’s rich Indigenous culture, with half of its residents being First Nations people, and witness the world's tallest totem pole. Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre (admission included), which houses a museum showcasing artefacts from the Indigenous communities, and a deep insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Kwakwakaʼwakw people. Arrive in Campbell River in the afternoon and check in to your waterfront hotel.

Day 10 - Campbell River

Join an early morning walk through Millennium Trail or choose to sleep in today, and have the rest of the day to explore the natural beauty of Campbell River. This town is a mecca for whale watching, and you can participate in a tour for an additional cost. Explore the waters of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait for a great chance to encounter Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Bears, Steller Sea Lions, and so much more. From mid-August to mid-October, there is also the option to go on a bear watching tour on selected dates.

Day 11 - Campbell River to Victoria

Head south from Campbell River towards Victoria with sightseeing stops along the Malahat Highway. Upon arrival in the capital of BC, enjoy a fully guided city tour, including Chinatown and the Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf, Beacon Hill Park, and Mile Zero. Evening at leisure to explore downtown Victoria.

Day 12 - Return to Vancouver

Savour your last breakfast of the tour today and explore downtown Victoria. Here you can choose to add on optional activities like the Royal BC Museum or High Tea at the Empress Hotel. Visit the famous Butchart Gardens (admission included). This 55-acre terrain was meticulously manicured into themed gardens over 100 years ago, showcasing an exquisite array of flowers, plants, and stunning landscapes, making it a captivating haven for nature enthusiasts and garden lovers alike. Continue on to Swartz Bay to board your ferry, and sail through the Southern Gulf Islands for 90-minutes before arriving in downtown Vancouver at around 8 pm.

For more information, bookings, add-on experiences, and other travel needs such as flights, accommodation or travel insurance, please contact sepideh@uniglobespecialty.com