Western Canada Tour & Alaskan Cruise Add-on (Vancouver to Calgary)
Get ready for the ultimate adventure in Canada’s jaw-dropping Great Outdoors. It’s 7 days of thrills, awe-inspiring scenery, and some seriously unforgettable VIP moments. Set sail across Banff’s stunning blue waters in a war canoe, soar over the breathtaking Whistler Valley in a float plane, and more…
This adventure takes you across a lot of ground—after all, Canada is a massive country. Be ready for some longer travel days, like the drive between Whistler and Kelowna, which takes about eight hours. Snow often lingers at higher elevations until the middle of June. This may affect certain activities, like scenic gondolas, boat trips, or mountain hikes. But don’t worry—there will be plenty of great alternative suggestions to make the most of your free time, no matter the season.
As we journey through the mountains, the weather can be a bit unpredictable. Layers are your best friend all year round, as conditions can change throughout the day. And don’t forget to pack warm clothing for cooler nights, as temperatures can really dip after sunset.
Tour Outline
- June 08 – June 15: Alaskan Cruise Aboard the Celebrity Solstice (optional add-on).
————
To give you the flexibility to choose the perfect cabin that matches your style and preferences, the Alaskan cruise must be booked separately. Everyone’s cruising needs are unique, and we want to ensure you have the best experience possible. Click here to book the Alaskan Cruise add-on.
———— - June 15: Welcome to Vancouver (D)
- June 16: Vancouver /Whistler (B/L)
- June 17: Whistler (B)
- June 18: Whistler /Kelowna (B/L)
- June 19: Kelowna /Revelstoke /Banff (B/L)
- June 20: Banff (B/D)
- June 21: Banff /Calgary (B) (end of tour arrangements)
- June 21 – June 25: RI Convention
- June 26: Depart Calgary
What’s Included
- Accommodations in Vancouver for both the cruise add-on and land tour options
- All activities mentioned on the itinerary
- 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
- Hand-picked 4-star and 5-star hotels
- Private transportation
- Arrival airport transfer
- Accommodation in double rooms. Single occupancy option is available
- Experienced English and French guides with you throughout the trip
Group Itinerary
June 08 – June 15
Alaskan Cruise (optional add-on)
- Roundtrip from Vancouver.
- You’ll visit Vancouver, Inside Passage (Cruising), Icy Strait Point, Alaska – Hubbard Glacier, Alaska – Juneau, Alaska – Ketchikan, Inside Passage (Cruising), Vancouver.
June 15
Welcome to Vancouver
Welcome to Vancouver, Canada. Your adventure kicks off with a welcome dinner. However, depending on when you arrive, you can start your experience with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Yaletown, or make your way to Granville Island to wander through its colorful markets brimming with fresh produce and handcrafted treasures. Vancouver is a true gem, nestled between a sparkling ocean harbor to the north and a peaceful river to the south. With the majestic, often snow-capped Coastal Mountains painting the eastern horizon, it’s the perfect backdrop to soak in before your tour begins. Enjoy every moment.
Overnight: Vancouver / Meals: Dinner
June 16
Vancouver /Whistler
- Leave Vancouver behind and travel to Whistler this morning. Explore the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and enjoy an engaging guided tour of the museum, where you’ll dive into the rich stories and traditions of the region.
- Later in the day, embark on an exciting 4×4 adventure in search of wild black bears—though you might spot them in shades ranging from black to cinnamon brown. For even more fun, you can add an optional hike or take a refreshing dip in the wild.
- Your travel time today will be approximately two hours.
- Overnight: Whistler / Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
June 17
Hop aboard a Float Plane
- Take to the skies in a sensational 30-minute flight over Whistler Valley, with a bird’s eye view over the immense mountains, glaciers, valleys and rivers.
- Afterward, take the rest of the day to relax and explore Whistler at your own pace or get your adrenaline fix on an exhilarating white water rafting trip.
- Overnight: Whistler / Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
June 18
Whistler /Kelowna
- Take a scenic drive inland through the stunning coastal mountains on your way to Kelowna in the beautiful Okanagan Valley. Along the way, make a stop at a local winery for a delightful tasting experience. Once you arrive, you’ll find that Kelowna has blossomed into a foodie paradise in recent years.
- Your travel time today will be approximately seven hours.
- Overnight: Kelowna / Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
June 19
Kelowna /Revelstoke /Banff
- Take a scenic drive through breathtaking mountains and lush forests to the charming mountain town of Revelstoke—a haven for mountaineers, hikers, and adventurers alike.
- Feel the thrill as you cross the Golden Skybridge, Canada’s tallest suspension bridge, soaring hundreds of feet above the stunning Columbia Valley canyon. Continue to Lake Louise, where you can marvel at the sparkling emerald-blue waters of this breathtaking alpine lake.
- Finally arrive at the magnificent Banff—Canada’s first and most famous National Park.
- Your travel time today will be approximately nine hours.
- Overnight: Banff / Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
June 20
Spend the day in Banff
- Hop on a gondola ride up the iconic Sulphur Mountain and soak in the breathtaking views. You’ll be treated to a stunning panorama of the entire mountain range and the charming village below.
- Later in the day, soak in the magic of Banff’s world-famous hot spring mineral pools, a favourite of weary travellers since the 1800s. After a day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like sinking into these soothing waters while soaking up stunning mountain views. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge.
- Optional – rent a canoe and take in the stunning scenery of Vermillion Lakes
- In the evening meet for one last group dinner before heading off to Calgary.
- Overnight: Banff / Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
June 21
Banff /Calgary
- With plenty of free time during the day, Banff is yours to explore. Whether you want to do an adventurous activity, or get glammed up for the convention there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy optional activities to suit all interests and energy levels, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the charming main streets, browse the shops, and soak up the beauty of the river.
- Travel to Calgary in the early evening and get yourself settled to enjoy the RI Convention.
- Meals: Breakfast
June 21 to June 24
RI Convention Calgary
- Attend the Rotary International Convention. No events organised by Soca Islands are planned to allow for full engagement with the Rotary Convention activities.
June 26
Depart Calgary
- Bid farewell to the city as you head to the airport for your departure.
Accommodations We LOVE!
Here’s a glimpse of the hotels we occasionally select for this adventure. The specific accommodations for your departure will be disclosed to you one month prior to your departure date.
Holiday Inn Downtown, Vancouver
Robson Street and Pacific Centre Shopping Mall are within 7 minutes’ walk from this hotel. English Bay Beach and the beginning of the Stanley Park seawall is 2 km away. The Canada Place Cruise Terminal is 5 minutes away.
The Crystal Lodge, Whistler
This Whistler property features 6 restaurants and lounges. A sauna and an outdoor hot tub offer guest relaxation. Free Wi-Fi is offered in all guest rooms. Whistler Village Gondola is 5 minutes’ walk away.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna
This resort hotel is located on Okanagan Lake and is surrounded by mountains. The Kelowna Art Gallery is 20 meters away. A restaurant is located on the lakefront patio.
Otter Hotel, Banff
Otter Hotel is situated in Banff, 2 km from The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies and 3.5 km from Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
Delta Hotel Downtown, Calgary
Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown is situated only 1 block away from the scenic trails along the Bow River. Stephen Avenue Mall shopping centre is only a kilometre away.
If you have already booked your hotel for the RI Convention, please let us know.
Payment Plans
Final Payment due on or before April 30, 2025
Soca Islands provides the most flexible payment plan, making booking your Western Canada Tour experience easy and affordable. 25% deposit is due upon booking, followed by regular monthly payments. The total cost must be paid in full on or before April 30, 2025.
Important Notes
Which airport do I need to fly in to and out of?
Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and out of Calgary International Airport (YYC).
- If you’re joining us for the cruise and the Western Canada tour, we kindly ask that you arrive by June 7, 2025.
- If you’re taking part in the Western Canada tour only, please plan to arrive by June 15, 2025.
What time should my flight depart on the last day?
There are no scheduled activities for the final day so you can depart at your leisure.
What fitness levels do I need for this adventure?
There’s some walking on this adventure, but don’t worry – you won’t need to be a fitness buff.
Will the itinerary change?
Please be aware that the itinerary, activities, and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or circumstances beyond our control. Still, we’ll always do our best to ensure they have little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.
Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your travel destination entry date. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have a valid passport.
Do I need a visa?
Visa and entry information can be found using the website: https://apply.joinsherpa.com
What vaccinations and medication will I need?
We recommend checking with your local travel clinic six to eight weeks before your trip to see if any medications or vaccinations are required.
How much should I budget per day for extras?
Excluding alcohol, we’d suggest budgeting the equivalent of USD $40.
Deposits and Payment Policy
To confirm your booking, a 30% deposit of the total tour cost is required. You can log in to your Soca Islands account anytime to make payments towards your booking. The full prepayment must be completed 45 days before the start of the trip. You can make this payment using Zelle Quickpay or a credit card. Please note that bank transfer charges or fees and credit card fees are the responsibility of the client.
Cancellation Policy
Please visit https://socaislands.com/legal-stuff/ for more information.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in your tour price. It is the passenger’s responsibility to verify whether his/her local health insurance carrier provides coverage while traveling. Please get in touch with your insurance carrier for details. Soca Islands LLC strongly advises that you purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy to cover all aspects of your tour: the loss of deposits through cancellation, loss of baggage and personal items, personal injury, and death. A waiver must be signed if insurance is declined.
Laundry
Laundry can be done at least once a week while on tour. Most cities have laundromats where you can buy soap and wash your laundry in coin-operated machines.
Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an ’emergency’ fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence
Tipping
In North America, it’s common to tip service providers like waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers, usually around 18-20%, depending on the quality of service. While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for the people who assist you during your travels. Even if tipping isn’t part of your usual routine, it holds great value for those taking care of you on your journey. During your trip, there may be opportunities to tip local guides. A good guideline is $5-10 USD per day per person, depending on the service’s quality and duration.