Up north there’s a land without fences. Animals outnumber people, the sun shines late into the evening, and nature reigns. This northern frontier still boasts pristine landscapes, majestic wildlife and a coastline that is one of the most enthralling waterways in the world. Beyond Alaska’s fortresslike glacier walls lie scenic ports of call, treasured national parks, and abundant wildlife.

Day 1 Home to Fairbanks
Transfer from our departure cities to Omaha. Fly to Fairbanks. Upon arrival you are transferred to your Fairbanks hotel for a two night stay.

Day 2 Fairbanks
With a full day in Fairbanks, you’ll be treated to two of the region’s most iconic experiences. An authentic Sternwheeler Riverboat cruise takes you to an Athabascan fishing village and dogsled kennels. You’ll also enjoy a visit to the fabled Eldorado Gold Mine, where a highlight is panning for gold. You can stay up late as the sun will be shining until about 11 p.m.!

Day 3 Fairbanks to Denali (D)
Sit back and enjoy a scenic rail journey to Denali, on the McKinley Explorer Rail. Your wilderness lodge awaits your arrival this afternoon. A delightful dinner of Alaskan cuisine is included this evening.

Day 4 Denali
Begin your day on the Tundra Wilderness Tour which takes you deep inside the park where Mt. McKinley and wildlife take center stage. Be sure to bring your camera & binoculars as we are on the lookout for moose, bear, elk and more! Later today, you may want to stop by the Tour Desk to plan an optional activity such as rafting, fly-fishing, or a Denali flightseeing tour.

Day 5 Denali to Seward (L, D)
We board a motorcoach to soak up the sights of the Scenic Byway to Seward. Lunch is included along the way. Next, we board Holland America’s Zaandam, our home for the next seven nights. The spacious staterooms are designed with your enjoyment in mind. Each room includes a signature Mariner’s Dream Bed, flat panel TV & DVD player, choice of two single beds or one queen, and bathroom with shower.

Day 6 Day at Sea (B, L, D)
It’s a perfect day to begin exploring the Zaandam. The ship features four restaurants, two outdoor swimming pools, spa & salon, fitness center, movie theatre, duty-free shops, library, and casino. The cruise staff is sure to have lots of optional activities to choose from. Maybe you’d like to see a lecture on Alaska or your upcoming ports? How about a dance

lesson? Or start your cruise with a massage or other spa service at the salon! The options are endless. Each evening on board features wonderful dining & great entertainment!

Day 7 Glacier Bay National Park (B, L, D)
The Glacier Bay National Park is the jewel of the national park system known for its regal snowcapped mountains, coastal beaches and majestic glaciers. Our day of scenic cruising provides hopes of viewing wildlife such as eagles, puffins, porpoises, seals, sea otters and whales. A local naturalist will be on board to narrate as we visit various glaciers. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars! Maybe you will see and hear the thunder and roar of a glacier calving!

Day 8 Haines / Skagway (B, L, D)
Our first port of call along the inside passage is Haines/Skagway. Skagway, known as the “Gateway to the Yukon,” is surrounded by magnificent wild nature. The romance and excitement of yesteryear linger around every street corner. It’s a great place to take a trip along the White Pass & Yukon Route via train, bus, or bike. Haines is known as the “Home to the Bald Eagle.” Optional excursions include the opportunity to visit the Bald Eagle Nature Preserve to learn more about this majestic symbol of America.

Day 9 Juneau (B, L, D)
For the outdoor adventurer, Juneau is a dream come true. Whether your passion is rafting the Mendenhall River, kayaking areas rich with wildlife, whale watching or hiking the scenic trails, this capital city has lots to choose from. Many tour options are offered for visiting the Mendenhall Glacier which is just outside of town. For the less adventurous, hop a local bus for a city tour including the Alaska State Capitol.

Day 10 Ketchikan (B, L, D)
We dock at Ketchikan, Alaska this morning. The lifeline of this narrow, picturesque city is found in its collection of boat harbors, floatplanes and fishing fleets and along historic Creek Street. Options include salmon fishing, visiting Deer Mountain Hatchery, taking a Ketchikan city tour, or walking downtown to the Discovery Center for films, exhibits and programs on Alaska.

Day 11 Inside Passage Cruising (B, L, D)
Enjoy a day at sea! Participate in the many activities offered by the cruise staff, visit the ship’s boutiques for one last purchase, or sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery.

Day 12 Vancouver/Home (B)
We arrive into Vancouver, British Columbia this morning. Transfers are provided to the airport for our return flight home.