A Rocky Mountaineer and Alaska cruise is never just one set journey. With three train routes through the Canadian Rockies and five very different cruise lines sailing to Alaska, the way you experience it can be as individual as you are. Whether you prefer premium ships with the classic Alaska highlights, all-suite luxury, or an intimate expedition vessel, the choice shapes your holiday completely.
In This Guide
The Rocky Mountaineer Routes
First Passage to the West links Banff or Lake Louise with Vancouver via Kamloops - the most iconic route. Journey Through the Clouds runs between Jasper and Vancouver with dramatic scenery including soaring peaks and glacier-fed rivers. The longest and most varied is the Rainforest to Gold Rush, a three-day journey from Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel, combining coastal rainforest, desert canyons, and the northern Rockies. All three operate in daylight only, so you never miss a view.
The Premium Choices
Holland America & Rocky Mountaineer
Holland America has been sailing Alaska longer than anyone. Paired with the First Passage to the West route, you travel from Banff or Lake Louise to Vancouver by rail before stepping onto a classic mid-size ship for a week at sea. Glacier Bay National Park is the highlight - one of the few cruise lines permitted to sail inside it. Around 2,500 guests, full-board dining, and drinks packages available.
Best for: Travellers who want comfort and reliability, classic ports, and the reassurance of a line that knows Alaska inside out.
Celebrity Cruises & Rocky Mountaineer
Celebrity takes a modern approach to premium cruising. Also paired with First Passage to the West, you journey from Banff or Lake Louise to Vancouver before boarding a sleek, contemporary ship. Celebrity includes Icy Strait Point - a less-touristed port known for wildlife and local culture. Around 2,800–3,000 guests, contemporary styling, and drinks often included.
Best for: Couples, friends, or families who like a contemporary style of cruising with a balance of comfort, scenery, and glamour.
The Luxury Options
Regent Seven Seas & Rocky Mountaineer
Regent offers ultra-luxury at sea. Travel from Banff or Lake Louise in GoldLeaf service - the Rocky Mountaineer's top tier with panoramic glass-dome carriages and gourmet dining - before stepping onto Seven Seas Explorer for an all-suite, all-inclusive voyage through Alaska's Inside Passage. Around 750 guests, unlimited excursions included, and an exceptional 1.3 guests per crew member ratio.
Best for: Travellers who want the very best, with luxury woven into every part of the journey.
Silversea & Rocky Mountaineer
Silversea blends luxury with exploration. This package pairs their intimate ships with the Journey Through the Clouds route, travelling from Jasper to Vancouver. Small enough to visit ports larger ships cannot reach, including Wrangell and quieter inlets. Around 600–728 guests, all-inclusive fine dining, and butler service throughout.
Best for: Discerning travellers who value luxury but also want a sense of exploration and intimacy.
The Expedition Option
Lindblad Expeditions (National Geographic) & Rocky Mountaineer
Lindblad–National Geographic is about discovery. The adventure begins on the Rainforest to Gold Rush route - the most varied of the three - before joining a small expedition vessel to explore the remote coastlines of British Columbia and Alaska with naturalists and photographers on board. Around 60–100 guests, all daily Zodiac expeditions and guided walks included, and a genuine focus on wildlife and immersion.
Best for: Adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to be immersed in nature with expert National Geographic guidance.
How I Help
Choosing between three train routes and five very different cruise lines can feel overwhelming. I take the time to understand your holiday style, the level of comfort you want, and the places you dream of seeing. With around 200 trusted partners I can explore every option without any bias or allegiance, and build the journey that is right for you.
Prices and Planning
Rocky Mountaineer operates April to October and Alaska cruise departures are seasonal, so the exact combinations depend on your travel window. I do not display fixed prices online - this allows me to ensure you always receive the very best value. Share your plans using my enquiry form and I will arrange a no-obligation consultation within one working day, followed by a personalised quotation for your exact dates and preferences.
Trusted Partners & Peace of Mind
I am part of The JLT Group, which means you enjoy the personal service of an independent travel advisor backed by the security of an award-winning company. Every holiday I arrange is fully protected, and my support continues before, during, and after your trip.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Rocky Mountaineer and Alaska cruise package for a first trip?
If this is your first time, a premium package often works beautifully. Larger ships like Holland America or Celebrity include all the classic Alaska ports such as Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, along with a full day of glacier viewing. It gives you a complete introduction to the region.
Which Rocky Mountaineer route is right for me?
Each route has its own personality. First Passage to the West is the most iconic, Journey Through the Clouds is known for its dramatic scenery and wildlife, and Rainforest to Gold Rush is the most varied and longest. The best choice depends on how much time you have and the landscapes you most want to see.
Are excursions included on every cruise line?
It depends on the line. Regent Seven Seas includes unlimited excursions. Silversea includes some, with more available at extra cost. Holland America and Celebrity excursions are paid extras. Lindblad includes all daily Zodiac expeditions and guided walks.
Is food and drink included in the price?
Luxury lines such as Regent and Silversea are fully all-inclusive with dining, drinks, and Wi-Fi. Premium lines like Holland America and Celebrity include full-board dining, with drinks and Wi-Fi available to add on. Lindblad includes all meals and expedition activities.
Can the rail and cruise be tailored to my dates?
Yes. Rocky Mountaineer only operates from April to October and cruise departures are seasonal, so the exact combinations depend on your travel window. I work with around 200 trusted partners to look at every option and shape a journey that works for your dates.
Do I have to choose between premium, luxury, or expedition?
Not at all. It is about what feels right for you. Some people value the classic atmosphere and great value of a premium ship. Others want the ease of all-inclusive luxury. And for the most adventurous, expedition ships are the closest you can get to nature. My role is to help you find the style that fits you best.