Alaska’s Denali Explorer

Day 1

HOME/VANCOUVER

Fly Minneapolis to Vancouver and transfer to your hotel for the next 7 nights the luxurious Coral Princess.
Ship departs at 4:30 pm

Day 2

AT SEA

Fill your day with activities or do nothing the next. Take a personal enrichment class, yoga, go duty-free shopping, or just relax with a dip in one of the pools or spas.

Day 3

ICY STRAIT POINT

Nestled at the mouth of Port Frederick, Icy Strait is home to the Huna Tlingit tribes and one of the last frontier towns. Fewer than 1000 people live in the Hoonah Village and visitors are welcome. Visit the Native Heritage Center showcasing the colorful history through live performances. Surrounded by mountains this area is a native lovers dream.

Day 4

JUNEAU

The capital of Alaska and the only capital in the world to have a glacier within the city limits and is accessible only by water or air. You may want to visit the mighty Mendenhall Glacier, take a helicopter ride or visit the Red Dog Saloon, an authentic Alaskan watering hole.

Day 5

SKAGWAY

Skagway was the gateway to the gold fields for the thousands who flocked to Alaska and the Yukon with the hope of striking it rich. Skagway may have boasted the shortest route to the Klondike, but it wasn’t the easiest. Explore the historic Klondike gold rush town that is full of spirit. Walk the streets lined by wooden sidewalks which recalls days gone by, or take an optional ride aboard the historic narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon railroad.

Day 6

GLACIER BAY (SCENIC CRUISING)

During your scenic cruise, friendly Park Rangers will join the ship to share their knowledge of this amazing place. They may even be able to help you identify Glacier Bay’s abundant wildlife, including humpback whales, sea otters, porpoises, harbor seals, black bears, mountain goats, bald eagles and large colonies of seabirds. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery as you enjoy an unforgettable day of sailing through this dazzling park, where you’ll glide along emerald waters and past calving icebergs, and can breathe in the crisp, fresh air to your heart’s content.

Day 7

COLLEGE FJORD (SCENIC CRUISING)

Stretching for miles, these massive rivers of ice tumble down from mountains and through valleys, dipping into the pristine waters of the fjord. There you’ll have a chance to watch the awe-inspiring process of glaciers calving, or dropping enormous pillars of ice into the sea, as they crack and land with a thunderous splash, a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed! College Fjord not only boasts the world’s largest collection of tidewater glaciers, but it features magnificent snowcapped mountains as far as the eyes can see. Plus, during the summer, it’s not unheard of to catch a glimpse of one of the area’s 40-ton humpback whales feeding in the waters of the fjord.

Day 8

WHITTIER AND DENALI

Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service provides a fabulous beginning to an incredible journey, with magnificent scenery and friendly Princess service all along the way. You’ll arrive refreshed for your very first night on land in Alaska at the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge. Easy trails link the various places to shop and dine in this resort setting. And of course, no matter where you are, the natural splendor of the park is never far away.

Day 9

DENALI

You have a full day to get out into one of America’s best national parks. This morning, a Natural History Tour serves as a wonderful introduction to the animals, plants and geological features found there. Later today, you may want to stop by the tour desk to plan an activity such as rafting or hiking.

Day 10

DENALI AND MCKINLEY

Enjoy your morning at leisure exploring more of Denali National Park. This afternoon you’ll travel by scenic coach to Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge for an overnight stay. The lodge overlooks the Alaska Range and Mt. McKinley, At 20,320 feet above sea level. Denali is the highest peak in North America and is surrounded by one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries. Take a leisurely walk on the many trails or relax on the panoramic deck overlooking Mt. McKinley.

Day 11

MCKINLEY AND ANCHORAGE

Explore the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center as you make your way to Anchorage for an overnight stay in Anchorage at the historic Hotel Captain Cook.

Day 12

ANCHORAGE/HOME

You’ll have time to explore Anchorage on your own before transferring to the airport and your return flight home.