Springtime in the Canadian Rockies

This afternoon we step aboard the ms Nieuw Amsterdam of Holland America Line in San Diego and sail toward Vancouver, the gateway to the Canadian Rockies. As evening falls, savor your first taste of Holland America’s cuisine before enjoying a show, a handcrafted cocktail in one of the ship’s inviting lounges, or a visit to our favorite spot onboard — the Crow’s Nest high above the bridge, where sweeping ocean views set the tone for the adventure ahead.

A full day at sea invites you to truly relax. Linger over breakfast in bed, enjoy lunch on deck, indulge in the spa or pools, attend an engaging lecture, or simply lose yourself in a good book as the Pacific glides by.

Cruising off the Oregon coast, today is all about savoring life at sea. Perhaps a leisurely lunch in the dining room, the timeless ritual of afternoon tea, and an evening of fine dining and entertainment — shipboard living at its most refined.

Today, we arrive in and very British Victoria. Stroll through the world-famous Butchart Gardens, step inside the historic Empress Hotel, or explore the downtown, home to the stately Parliament Buildings and the Royal British Columbia Museum.

This morning we glide beneath Vancouver’s Lions Gate Bridge before disembarking. A guided city tour introduces us to this vibrant coastal gem before arriving at our hotel.

An rail adventure begins as we board the Rocky Mountaineer. Traveling along the historic Canadian Pacific Railway, we pass through the lush Fraser Valley, dense forests, and dramatic river canyons framed by the Coast and Cascade Mountains.

Today is nothing short of spectacular. We journey deeper into the Canadian Rockies, witnessing historic Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, and endless vistas of glaciers and snow-capped peaks.

A full day to savor one of the most beautiful places on earth. Walk the emerald shoreline of Lake Louise, learn about local wildlife, or simply relax and take in the stillness and grandeur of your surroundings.

More alpine splendor unfolds as we travel along the Trans-Canada Highway to Banff. Stops include Surprise Corner, Bow Falls, and the otherworldly Hoodoos before arriving at our hotel by midday.

Explore Banff at your own pace, with time for Banff Avenue, the Whyte Museum or Cascade Gardens.

After breakfast, a drive brings us to Calgary Airport with easy connections to most U.S. Destinations — or the option to extend your stay in this dynamic city.