Discover the Wild Heart of the Pacific Northwest ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/1%20Meals%20%28red%29_36.png) All Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-03/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29_37.png) CT Rating 1/5 - Leisurely ![](/sites/default/files/2025-10/4%20Leader%20%28red%29.png) Led by Pam & Nick Cannon **Holland America Line • ms Zaandam** Experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska, where towering mountains rise from serene waters and glaciers thunder into the sea. Watch orcas glide beside your ship, soar over vast ice fields, and savor freshly caught salmon. Venture into the Great Bear Rainforest, home to the elusive spirit bear, grizzlies, humpbacks, and coastal wolves. Sailing with Holland America Line means indulging in premium amenities, spacious staterooms, exceptional dining, and nightly entertainment. With special group rates and limited availability, don’t wait—contact us today to secure your unforgettable Alaskan adventure! **This journey is now available on request.** .button { display: inline-block; padding: 10px 20px; margin: 5px; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; background-color: gray; /* default color */ color: white; } .button:hover { opacity: 0.9; } [Submit Booking Request](mailto:rking@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Alaska%20Explorer%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2C%0A%0AI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Alaska%20Explorer%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**September%202026.**%0A%0AI%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20%28sometimes%20longer%29%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.%0A%0AI%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.%0A%0A**My%20contact%20details%3A**%0A%0AFirst%20name%3A%0ALast%20name%3A%0APhone%20number%3A%0AEmail%20address%3A%0A%0APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20%28single%20supplement%20applies%29.%0A%0A) [Download Brochure](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/0yAYzI8/AlaskaSep2026) [![Alaska Great Bear Rainforest map](/sites/default/files/2025-01/map_Alaska-GreatBear-2026NEW.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/map_Alaska-GreatBear-2026NEW.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - Take in views of one of the most remote regions of the Great Bear Rainforest – a vast 15.8-million-acre temperate rainforest known for plunging waterfalls and mist-draped mountains - Discover Alaska’s breathtaking wonders, from bear watching in Kodiak and salmon fishing in Juneau to the vibrant cultures of Sitka and Ketchikan—and much more - Inside Passage Cruise: Relax onboard the gracious ms Zaandam as we cruise to Glacier Bay, Ketchikan and south along the Inside Passage to Vancouver - Relax aboard the beautiful ms Zaandam, offering unmatched comfort plus exceptional luxury and amenities ### Inclusive Features - 18-night cruise on the ms Zaandam, based on sharing a twin-bedded stateroom in the category selected - Baggage handling shipside - All meals and entertainment on board - Services of local representatives and cruise director - All gratuities for included shipboard services - All cruise line taxes and fees - Air-inclusive rates also include: estimated round-trip economy airfare from cities listed, transfers between the airport and ship, all current air taxes, fuel surcharges, and fees, airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value ### Itinerary Overview Full View ARRIVE VANCOUVER September 16, 2026 Keen adventurers from across Canada fly to Vancouver and transfer to Canada Place Pier to embark on the luxurious ms Zaandam, our home for eighteen wonderful nights of cruising. Enjoy the panorama of Vancouver's harbour and the surrounding mountains as we sail under the Lion's Gate Bridge to begin our cruise. **Embark / Sail 3:00pm** INSIDE PASSAGE September 17, 2026 Sail through the breathtaking Seymour Narrows, part of the fabled Inside Passage, where deep-draft vessels glide close to steep mountain walls. This stunning route, lined with turquoise glaciers and lush forests, connects Southeast Alaska’s remote towns to the world. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CRUISING GREAT BEAR RAINFOREST September 18, 2026 Take in views of one of the most remote regions of the Great Bear Rainforest – a vast 15.8-million-acre temperate rainforest known for plunging waterfalls and mist-draped mountains. Keep your binoculars ready; wildlife is abundant. Humpback whales, otters, orcas and bald eagles are frequently spotted in the area. Highly elusive animals, such as coastal wolves and the honey-coloured spirit bear also call this region home. Relax and enjoy a front-row seat to British Columbia’s untamed beauty. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SITKA, ALASKA September 19, 2026 Sitka, Alaska, on Baranof Island, combines stunning scenery with a rich history. Once the capital of Russian America, it retains landmarks like St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian Bishop’s House. Explore Sitka National Historical Park for Russian and Tlingit artifacts or visit Castle Hill for views of Mount Edgecumbe. Nature lovers can visit the Fortress of the Bear and Alaska Raptor Center to see wildlife up close. **Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CRUISING HUBBARD GLACIER September 20, 2026 Hubbard Glacier cruises are so popular because of the glacier’s three-story icebergs that cannon into crystal waters, a process called calving. It’s also colourful. On clear days, Hubbard turns a stunning deep blue and on cloudy ones, its many ripples and icebergs shimmer in soft light. **Arrive 8:00am / Sail 1:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner VALDEZ September 21, 2026 A paradise for fishing enthusiasts, Valdez offers every kind of salmon, huge halibut and ample opportunity to reel them in. Rivers and streams spill into the Sound here and are ideal for kayaking. **Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner KODIAK September 22, 2026 Kodiak is all about bears! This unique subspecies named after the Kodiak Archipelago where they are found evolved in isolation for around 12,000 years and can reach heights of 3 meters, or 10 feet, when standing on their hind legs. **Arrive 11:00am / Sail 6:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner HOMER September 23, 2026 The Homer area is known as the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World, and it captivates audiences around the globe as the home of the Discovery Channel's Kilcher family, made famous by Alaska: The Last Frontier. **Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ANCHORAGE September 24, 2026 Anchorage is a haven for nature lovers. With its national parks, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife—from city moose to majestic whales—it is definitely a must-visit destination. Experience the Northern Lights, savour local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture. **Arrive 10:00am / Overnight in Port** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ANCHORAGE September 25, 2026 Enjoy another day enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Anchorage. **In Port/ Sail 5:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner AT SEA September 26, 2026 Enjoy exploring the many amenities on board during two wonderful days at sea. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner AT SEA September 27, 2026 Wonderful views unfold before us as we enjoy another day at sea. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CRUISING GLACIER BAY September 28, 2026 Early this morning, we are greeted by a breathtaking scene: rugged promontories marking the entrance to a spectacular bay. Forested slopes lead to jagged peaks, where icy rivers cascade into tranquil waters. Watch as massive ice pinnacles break from the glacier and crash dramatically into the sea. Local experts share fascinating insights into these prehistoric formations and guide us in spotting the abundant wildlife here—harbour seals, mountain goats, humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, and even black bears. **Arrive 7:00am / Sail 5:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner JUNEAU September 29, 2026 We are in Alaska’s scenic capital today, surrounded by towering peaks. Try your hand at the thrill of salmon fishing—Alaskan style, pan for glinting flecks of gold, or soak up vistas only accessible by air. The options are plentiful, and the choice is yours. **Arrive 8:00am / Sail 5:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner WRANGELL September 30, 2026 Just outside Wrangell, immerse yourself in Tlingit culture at the Chief Shakes Tribal House. Here authentic stories, intricately carved totem poles, and dynamic dance come to life—constructed largely by women and crafted mostly by hand. **Arrive 9:00am / Sail 6:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner KETCHIKAN October 1, 2026 Today we arrive at the captivating port of Ketchikan, a bustling hub of activity and culture. We will have ample time to meander through the town’s many intriguing shops, in search of unique local crafts. Take a stroll down the historic Creek Street, a lively boardwalk built over the town’s salmon creek. Nearby is Totem Bight State Historical Park, where we can explore a replica of Tlingit Village and gain insight into the rich history and traditions of the indigenous people of the region. **Arrive 8:00am / Sail 6:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PRINCE RUPERT October 2, 2026 Vast forest, wide rivers and abundant wildlife make this port an unexpected favourite. Far from other more bustling B.C. cities, it is a gateway to pristine hiking and paddling spots. **Arrive 7:00am / Sail 6:00pm** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner INSIDE PASSAGE / BELLA BELLA October 3, 2026 Alaska's Inside Passage is a renowned cruising route through a protected network of waterways, featuring glacier-cut fjords, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. Along the way lies Bella Bella (Waglisla), a Heiltsuk First Nation community in British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest, home to whales, otters, eagles, spirit bears, and sea wolves. The Heiltsuk people have a deep cultural connection to this biodiverse region. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner VANCOUVER, CANADA / DISEMBARK October 4, 2026 Upon our early morning arrival in Vancouver, we will transfer to the airport to catch our homeward-bound flights. For those who have made prior arrangements, there is an opportunity to extend their stay in Vancouver and explore the city further. **Arrive 7:00am / Disembark** Breakfast [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-01/brx_CNA160926_Alaska_Great_Bear_Rainforest-REV05JAN26.pdf) [![Stunning Glacier Bay, Alaska](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-01/Glacier%20Bay%20-%20Hopkins%20Glacier%20and%20Mount%20Fairweather%20iStock-1285827008_ADJ.jpg?h=9dd951d5&itok=kL3gvNsW "Stunning Glacier Bay, Alaska")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/Glacier%20Bay%20-%20Hopkins%20Glacier%20and%20Mount%20Fairweather%20iStock-1285827008_ADJ.jpg) [![Historic boardwalk in Ketchikan, Alaska](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-01/Ketchikan%20-%20%20Alaska.%20Creek%20Street%2C%20historic%20broadwalk.%20iStock-641978510.jpg?h=f2fcf546&itok=3Kx8o1G1 "Historic boardwalk in Ketchikan, Alaska")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/Ketchikan%20-%20%20Alaska.%20Creek%20Street%2C%20historic%20broadwalk.%20iStock-641978510.jpg) [!["A majestic humpback whale breaches the icy waters of Alaska—an unforgettable moment in the wild.](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-01/iStock-1201494926.jpg?h=6682a0e3&itok=7wGZF5qV ""A majestic humpback whale breaches the icy waters of Alaska—an unforgettable moment in the wild.")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/iStock-1201494926.jpg) [![Glacier Bay, Alaska. Photo credit: Holland America Line](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-01/HAL_Glacier-Bay_AT11-09400_IN16_cc.jpg?h=e5e9ee27&itok=eS2BIs-f "Glacier Bay, Alaska. Photo credit: Holland America Line")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/HAL_Glacier-Bay_AT11-09400_IN16_cc.jpg) [![Spirit Bear in The Great Bear Rainforest](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-01/AdobeStock_389632245_Kermode_Bear_or_Spirit%20Bear2_0.jpg?h=808a2f72&itok=zcJaPvdn "Spirit Bear in The Great Bear Rainforest")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/AdobeStock_389632245_Kermode_Bear_or_Spirit%20Bear2_0.jpg) [![Stunning Glacier Bay](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-01/Glacier-Bay-Cruise-iStock-1285827098.jpg?h=37275a42&itok=XFsj-PUE "Stunning Glacier Bay")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/Glacier-Bay-Cruise-iStock-1285827098.jpg) [![Sea Otter in Alaska's waters](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-01/Sea-Otter_AdobeStock_310570066_ADJ.jpg?h=248b5f8d&itok=oRuSJALt "Sea Otter in Alaska's waters")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-01/Sea-Otter_AdobeStock_310570066_ADJ.jpg) ### Have any questions? Contact Roselle at rking \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) ## Holland America Line ms Zaandam The ms Zaandam boasts exquisite details, from its spacious staterooms to the priceless antiques that line the halls. At 61,000 tons, it carries 1,432 guests in truly spacious comfort. Fifteen different lounges and restaurants beckon, including the Mainstage, a two-deck high entertainment hub, and the Dining Room with its grand staircase and floor-to-ceiling windows. Other delights include the redesigned Lido for casual meals, a full-size theatre, casino, cardroom, and numerous intimate lounges for a quiet conversation or a pre-dinner dance. Recent additions include the beautiful Explorations Café with a library, internet access and coffee bar, and much more. Staterooms feature twin beds (most convert to queens), plush mattresses, Egyptian cotton sheets, bathrobes, private bathrooms, individually controlled air conditioning, ample closet space, a flat-panel television, and more. [ms Zaandam deckplan](/sites/default/files/2025-10/Zaandam-HAL-2page.pdf "Zaandam-HAL-2page.pdf") (1.6 MB) ### Cruise Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person ### Stateroom Description (Deck) K Inside (Main, Verandah, Navigation) ### Single $8,045 ### Double/Twin $4,775 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) J Inside (Dolphin, Main) ### Single $8,095 ### Double/Twin $4,795 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) E Outside (Dolphin, Main, Lower Promenade) ### Single $9,455 ### Double/Twin $5,475 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) DA Outside (Main, Verandah) ### Single $9,715 ### Double/Twin $5,615 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) D Outside (Dolphin, Lower Promenade) ### Single $9,845 ### Double/Twin $5,675 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) C Outside (Main) ### Single $9,985 ### Double/Twin $5,745 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) B Veranda Suite (Verandah, Navigation) ### Single $14,765 ### Double/Twin $8,135 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) AA Veranda Suite (Verandah, Navigation) ### Single $15,295 ### Double/Twin $8,395 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) A Veranda Suite (Verandah, Navigation) ### Single $15,825 ### Double/Twin $8,665 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) SA Veranda Suite (Navigation) ### Single -- -- ### Double/Twin $15,145 ### Air Add-On Per Person Calgary / Edmonton $495 Regina / Saskatoon $665 Winnipeg $595 Toronto $675 Montreal $845 Ottawa $795 Halifax / St. John’s $945 [Submit Booking Request](mailto:rking@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Alaska%20Explorer%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2C%0A%0AI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Alaska%20Explorer%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**September%202026.**%0A%0AI%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20%28sometimes%20longer%29%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.%0A%0AI%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.%0A%0A**My%20contact%20details%3A**%0A%0AFirst%20name%3A%0ALast%20name%3A%0APhone%20number%3A%0AEmail%20address%3A%0A%0APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20%28single%20supplement%20applies%29.%0A%0A) ### **Payment and Booking Terms** Deposit is **$900 per person**. Final payment is due **June 11, 2026**. Above rates are per person based on sharing the category chosen. Cruise only costs are based on joining and leaving the group on the ship in Vancouver. See the deck plan for full details on the various categories available. For single rates, ask for prices or visit our website. For your complete cost, add the airfare noted below from your home city. Craig Travel strives to offer you the best value for your travel dollar. The prices listed are based on group rates. Alternate promotional fares may be available with different inclusions. Please discuss with us how we can help you customize your travel experience. Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares and air carrier are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Final pricing & terms and conditions will be available once flights are confirmed. Refer to inclusive features for details. Cruise price is based on sharing a twin-bedded stateroom with private bathroom. Prices are based on rates, taxes, and fees effective January 2025 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. This cruise will be escorted with a minimum 25 members. Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Your coverage starts on the effective date of your confirmation of coverage. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to the enrollment form for [**terms and conditions**.](http://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions) #### CT Rating **1/5 - LEISURELY** This cruise is suitable for all travellers who meet our basic criteria. Optional shore excursions will involve different ratings. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us](mailto:sales@craigtravel.com?subject=Great%20Bear%20Rainforest%202026) #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Pam and Nick Cannon](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2025-02/Cannons.jpg?h=28dc9055&itok=w0Kz-z5w) Pam and Nick Cannon - are seasoned travellers with a profound passion for exploration. They have explored the United Kingdom, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean. As two of our most popular leaders, they have led cruise and tour groups to various destinations, such as Panama, Alaska, South Africa, Europe, and South America, in the past few years. With their warm and caring personalities, as well as their passion for travel, they are sure to enhance your travel experience. ![](/sites/default/files/2025-01/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points_0.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-01/3%20Pay%20By%20Cheque_0.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-01/2%20Refer%20a%20Friend_0.png) [Refer a Friend](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-01/5%20CT%20Rating_0.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-01/4%20Travel%20Insurance_0.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)