Alaska with Holland America Line and Direct Travel
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska with Holland America.
This comprehensive land and sea journey combines the best of both worlds—4 nights exploring Alaska's majestic interior followed by a 7-night cruise aboard the elegant Westerdam. From the wilderness of Denali National Park to the awe-inspiring glaciers of the Inside Passage, this meticulously crafted itinerary offers the perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and luxurious accommodations. Join us July 22 - August 2, 2026 for the Alaskan adventure of a lifetime.
Cruise Package Highlights
Discover Alaska's majestic landscapes with Holland America's 11-day cruise and land package.
Enjoy 4 nights on land, and experience 7 Night Southbound Inside Passage Cruise with premium amenities.
Explore Alaska's wilderness in comfort with Holland America. Your verandah stateroom offers private outdoor space to witness the ever-changing coastline, while inclusive amenities ensure a stress-free, indulgent experience.
Comprehensive Travel Arrangements
Appreciate seamless travel with included round-trip air from Chicago O'Hare, complete with all air taxes and fee surcharges. Your journey begins and ends with convenience and comfort, allowing you to focus solely on the experiences ahead.
Premium Accommodations
Experience 4 nights in Holland America's distinctive lodges during your land tour, followed by 7 nights in a private verandah stateroom aboard the elegant Westerdam. Each accommodation has been selected to provide comfort and style while immersing you in Alaska's natural beauty.
Inclusive Amenities
Indulge in all meals while aboard the ship, stay connected with the included WiFi Surf package, and enjoy Holland America's signature drink package. Additionally, receive $100 toward shore excursions, specialty dining credit, and complimentary crew gratuities during your cruise.
For those seeking to customize their experience, the shore excursion credit allows each guest to select one excursion valued up to $100, providing the opportunity to tailor your adventure to your personal interests, whether that's wildlife viewing, cultural exploration, or active adventures in Alaska's magnificent landscapes.
Day 1: Fairbanks - Gateway to the Arctic
Your Alaskan adventure begins on July 22nd, 2026, as you depart Chicago O'Hare International Airport bound for Fairbanks, Alaska's captivating northern city. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your downtown Fairbanks hotel, where your cruisetour officially commences, immersing you immediately in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable destination.
The Golden Heart City
As Alaska's second-largest city, Fairbanks offers a fascinating blend of modern amenities and rich historical significance. Known affectionately as "The Golden Heart City," Fairbanks serves as the gateway to the Arctic, positioned just 198 miles south of the Arctic Circle. This strategic location has shaped the city's identity and development since its gold rush beginnings in the early 20th century.
The city enjoys extended daylight hours during your summer visit, with approximately 22 hours of functional daylight in late July. This natural phenomenon, known locally as the "midnight sun," creates unique opportunities for extended exploration and activities regardless of the hour. The extended daylight infuses the city with vibrant energy as locals and visitors alike make the most of the endless summer days.
Cultural Richness
Fairbanks boasts a diverse cultural landscape influenced by Alaska Native traditions, gold rush history, and military presence. The downtown area features restored gold rush-era buildings alongside modern structures, creating a distinctive architectural character that tells the story of the city's evolution.
Natural Wonders
Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Fairbanks offers opportunities to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights (though summer viewing is limited), explore boreal forests, and experience the tranquil beauty of the Chena River that winds through the heart of the city.
Culinary Experiences
Savor authentic Alaskan cuisine featuring fresh-caught salmon, halibut, king crab, and locally sourced ingredients that reflect the region's natural abundance and multicultural influences.
This evening, take time to settle in and perhaps enjoy a stroll along the Chena Riverwalk, offering picturesque views and access to several local restaurants where you can sample Alaskan specialties. Your downtown location provides convenient access to Fairbanks' cultural attractions, shops, and dining establishments, allowing you to begin absorbing the unique character of interior Alaska.
Rest well tonight in preparation for tomorrow's adventures, which will introduce you to Fairbanks' fascinating gold mining heritage and provide opportunities for further exploration of this multifaceted northern city.
Day 2: Gold Rush Heritage in Fairbanks
Morning Gold Dredge Experience
Your second day in Alaska dawns with an immersive journey into the region's gold rush history. After breakfast, you'll embark on a fascinating excursion to Gold Dredge 8, a National Historic Site that played a pivotal role in Fairbanks' development. This massive machine, once part of the largest gold mining operation in North America, now stands as a testament to the engineering ingenuity and pioneering spirit that shaped Alaska's identity.
The tour begins with a presentation on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, offering insights into Alaska's modern resource economy, before continuing to the historic dredge site via a replica of the narrow-gauge Tanana Valley Railroad. Upon arrival, experienced guides will demonstrate traditional gold panning techniques, sharing captivating stories of the prospectors who risked everything in pursuit of fortune.
You'll even have the opportunity to try your hand at gold panning, with the guarantee of finding at least a small amount of gold to take home as a tangible memento of Alaska's golden past.
Afternoon of Personal Exploration
Following your morning excursion, the afternoon is yours to explore Fairbanks according to your personal interests. This free time offers the perfect opportunity to delve deeper into the aspects of this northern city that most intrigue you. Consider these enriching possibilities:
- Visit the Museum of the North at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, housing over 1.4 million artifacts and specimens that tell the story of Alaska's diverse cultures, natural wonders, and artistic heritage.
- Explore the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, featuring over 95 historic automobiles that trace the development of automotive transportation in this challenging northern environment.
- Stroll through the Georgeson Botanical Garden, where you can marvel at the surprising diversity and size of plants that thrive during Alaska's intense summer growing season.
- Visit the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center to gain deeper insights into the cultures and lifestyles of interior Alaska through interpretive exhibits and authentic artifacts.
Day 5: Scenic Rail Journey to Whittier before stepping aboard the Westerdam.
July 26th marks a transition in your Alaskan adventure as you journey from the wilderness of Denali to the coastal port of Whittier, where you'll embark on the cruise portion of your experience. This day combines spectacular scenery with the excitement of boarding your elegant Holland America ship, the Westerdam.
The Luxury of Domed Rail Travel
After breakfast and check-out from your Denali accommodations, you'll board a luxurious glass-domed train for one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. The custom-designed railcars feature expansive upper-level dome windows that provide 360-degree views of the passing wilderness, while the elegant lower level offers dining facilities where you can enjoy a delicious included lunch while never missing the spectacular scenery.
The approximately 9-hour rail journey traverses some of Alaska's most dramatic landscapes. From the towering peaks of the Alaska Range to the coastal mountains near Prince William Sound, you'll witness the remarkable diversity of Alaska's geography. The train travels through areas inaccessible by road, offering unique perspectives on remote wilderness. Highlights include crossing Hurricane Gulch on a 914-foot bridge suspended 296 feet above the creek below, and passing through the historic gold mining district near Girdwood.
Day 5: Arrival in Whittier before stepping aboard the Westerdam for Embarkation.
By late afternoon, your train will arrive in Whittier, a fascinating small port with a unique history. During World War II, the U.S. Army constructed a massive building called the Buckner Building to house nearly the entire town under one roof as protection against the harsh climate. Today, Whittier remains an intriguing outpost where most residents still live in a single structure, the Begich Towers.
Upon arrival, you'll be transferred seamlessly to the Westerdam, Holland America's elegant mid-sized ship designed to navigate Alaska's waterways while providing exceptional comfort and amenities. The embarkation process is efficient, allowing you to settle into your verandah stateroom and begin exploring the ship before departure.
As the Westerdam pulls away from Whittier in the early evening, position yourself on deck or your private verandah to witness the beginning of your coastal journey. The ship navigates through the protected waters of Prince William Sound, surrounded by glacier-carved fjords and lush coastal forests, providing an immediate introduction to the spectacular scenery that will characterize the coming days.
The Westerdam Experience
Once settled aboard, take time to familiarize yourself with the Westerdam's extensive amenities. The ship features multiple dining venues ranging from casual to fine dining, various lounges and entertainment spaces, a spa and fitness center, and thoughtfully designed public areas that maximize views of the passing scenery. Tonight marks the beginning of your inclusive dining, beverage, and entertainment experience as part of your cruise package.
Evening at Sea
Your first evening aboard offers a perfect opportunity to review the coming days' activities and perhaps make reservations for specialty dining or shore excursions beyond your included credit. The ship's daily program will outline tomorrow's highlights, including the approach to magnificent Hubbard Glacier—a natural spectacle that represents one of the most anticipated moments of any Alaska cruise.
As you retire to your stateroom this evening, the gentle motion of the ship and the knowledge that you'll awaken to new wonders each day create a sense of anticipation for the maritime portion of your Alaskan adventure.
Day 6: Hubbard Glacier
July 27th brings one of the most anticipated highlights of your Alaskan voyage—an up-close encounter with the magnificent Hubbard Glacier. This day at sea combines relaxation with the awe-inspiring spectacle of North America's longest tidewater glacier, a dynamic ice giant that continues to advance while many other glaciers retreat.
Photographic Opportunities
During your approximately 2-3 hours in the presence of Hubbard Glacier, conditions are often ideal for photography. The ship maintains a respectful distance of about half a mile from the ice face for safety while providing excellent viewing. Be prepared for changing light conditions as sun and clouds interact with the ice, creating dramatic effects. Wildlife sightings are also possible, with harbor seals often resting on floating ice chunks and seabirds soaring overhead. The surrounding mountains and the play of light on the water complete this photographer's paradise.
Day 8: Skagway - Gateway to the Klondike
July 29th brings your first port of call as the Westerdam docks in historic Skagway, a remarkably preserved gold rush town that transports visitors back to the late 1890s. Today offers a perfect blend of organized shore excursions and independent exploration in a community that proudly maintains its frontier heritage.
Morning Arrival in Historic Skagway
The Westerdam typically arrives in Skagway early in the morning, allowing for a full day of exploration. As you disembark, you'll find yourself at the northern terminus of the Inside Passage, surrounded by steep mountains in a narrow valley that served as the gateway to the Klondike gold fields. The compact historic district begins just steps from the cruise dock, making this one of Alaska's most walkable ports.
The Gold Rush Legacy
At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898, Skagway transformed almost overnight from a Native Alaskan fishing camp to a raucous frontier boomtown of 20,000 people. Prospectors bound for the Yukon gold fields faced the daunting challenge of crossing the Coast Mountains, typically via the treacherous Chilkoot or White Pass trails. While thousands made the journey, few found the fortunes they sought.
Today, Skagway's remarkably intact historic district features over 100 buildings from the gold rush era. The National Park Service preserves this heritage through Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, which includes multiple restored structures and excellent interpretive exhibits. A walking tour of Broadway Street reveals wooden boardwalks, false-front buildings, and historic saloons that create an authentic window into the past.
White Pass & Yukon Route Railway
The most popular excursion from Skagway is undoubtedly the White Pass & Yukon Route narrow-gauge railroad, considered an engineering marvel when completed in 1900. This vintage train climbs nearly 3,000 feet in 20 miles, hugging cliff edges and crossing trestles with breathtaking views of mountains, gorges, and waterfalls. The 3-hour roundtrip to White Pass Summit offers spectacular photo opportunities and historical narration about the gold rush era.
Chilkoot Trail Experiences
For those seeking more active adventures, guided hikes on portions of the historic Chilkoot Trail provide insight into the challenges faced by gold seekers. Various options range from easy interpretive walks to more challenging treks. Alternatively, consider a 4x4 adventure into the Yukon Territory, where you'll cross the Canadian border and experience the spectacular scenery that tested the mettle of prospectors.
Historic District Exploration
Independent exploration of Skagway rewards visitors with colorful local characters, unique shopping opportunities, and excellent dining options. Don't miss the Red Onion Saloon, once the town's most notorious brothel and now a restaurant with historic tours; the Arctic Brotherhood Hall with its distinctive driftwood façade; and the Mascot Saloon, a meticulously restored National Park Service exhibit.
As evening approaches and departure time nears, take a moment to appreciate how effectively Skagway preserves the spirit of the Klondike Gold Rush. Perhaps enjoy a final Alaskan seafood dinner in town or return to the Westerdam for an included meal while reflecting on the day's discoveries. The ship typically departs in the early evening, beginning the scenic cruise to tomorrow's destination—Juneau, Alaska's unique capital city.
While sailing toward Juneau, the Inside Passage offers continuous scenic viewing opportunities. Consider joining fellow travelers in the Crow's Nest lounge or on open decks to watch for wildlife and enjoy the passing panorama of forested islands, secluded coves, and mist-shrouded mountains that make this maritime route so legendary.
Day 9: Juneau - Alaska's Captivating Capital
July 30th brings you to Juneau, Alaska's capital city and one of the most scenically situated urban centers in North America. Completely inaccessible by road, Juneau can only be reached by air or sea, creating a unique island-like atmosphere despite being on the mainland. Today offers diverse opportunities to experience southeast Alaska's natural wonders and urban charms.
Mendenhall Glacier
Located just 12 miles from downtown, Mendenhall Glacier stands as Juneau's signature natural attraction. This accessible glacier flows from the vast Juneau Icefield and terminates in its own lake, where you can observe calving ice and floating icebergs. The excellent Visitor Center offers interpretive displays explaining glacial dynamics and the ecosystem's response to climate change. Several hiking trails provide different perspectives of the glacier, ranging from easy photo viewpoints to more challenging routes that lead closer to the ice face.
Whale Watching
The waters around Juneau, particularly Auke Bay and the Stephens Passage, offer some of the world's most reliable humpback whale viewing. These massive marine mammals feed in Alaska's nutrient-rich waters during summer months, displaying behaviors like breaching, tail slapping, and bubble-net feeding. Whale watching excursions typically last 3-4 hours and often include sightings of orcas, sea lions, porpoises, and bald eagles. Marine naturalists provide educational commentary while experienced captains know the best viewing locations.
Mount Roberts Tramway
For spectacular panoramic views, the Mount Roberts Tramway ascends 1,800 feet from the cruise dock to a mountain ridge overlooking Juneau, the Gastineau Channel, and surrounding wilderness. At the summit, you'll find hiking trails, a nature center, raptor display, and restaurant featuring local cuisine. This excursion combines easily with downtown exploration and provides excellent photo opportunities of your cruise ship and the scenic waterway.
Juneau's Unique Character
Despite being Alaska's capital and second-largest city, Juneau maintains a small-town atmosphere with distinct neighborhoods each offering their own charm. The compact downtown area features historic buildings, excellent shops specializing in Native Alaskan art, and numerous dining options featuring fresh local seafood. The Alaska State Capitol offers free tours, providing insights into Alaska's political structure and the challenges of governing America's largest state.
Wildlife Encounters
Juneau's natural setting creates exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities both on land and sea. Beyond the popular whale watching excursions, Juneau offers several unique wildlife experiences:
- Admiralty Island Bear Viewing: For the ultimate bear experience, floatplane excursions to nearby Admiralty Island offer opportunities to observe brown bears in their natural habitat. Nicknamed "Fortress of the Bears," the island hosts one of the highest concentrations of brown bears in the world.
- Salmon Hatchery and Stream: Depending on the season, visitors can observe salmon returning to spawn at Macaulay Salmon Hatchery or along accessible streams like Steep Creek near Mendenhall Glacier. During peak runs, bears often frequent these areas for easy fishing.
- Eagle Habitat: The Juneau area supports one of the densest bald eagle populations in the world. These majestic birds are frequently spotted along the shoreline, particularly where salmon are running.
- Alpine Wildlife: Mountain goats, marmots, and ptarmigan inhabit the higher elevations accessible via the Mount Roberts Tramway or through guided alpine hiking experiences.
Juneau's waters host approximately 380 humpback whales each summer, making it one of the world's premier whale watching destinations. The nutrient-rich environment supports spectacular cooperative feeding behaviors rarely observed elsewhere.
As your full day in Juneau concludes and the Westerdam prepares for departure, take a moment to appreciate this unique American capital—a place where wilderness and urban life exist in remarkable balance. Whether you've spent your day observing glaciers, encountering marine wildlife, exploring the historic downtown, or some combination of these experiences, Juneau exemplifies the natural abundance and frontier spirit that define southeast Alaska.
The ship typically departs Juneau in the early evening, cruising south through the scenic Inside Passage toward tomorrow's final port of call—Ketchikan, known for its Native heritage, salmon fishing, and the breathtaking landscapes of Misty Fjords National Monument.
What's Not Included
Additional Expenses to Consider
While our Alaska cruise package is designed to be comprehensive, there are certain elements that are not included in the base price. Understanding these additional costs will help you plan and budget appropriately for your journey, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout your Alaskan adventure.
These excluded items allow for personalization of your experience based on your preferences and interests. For instance, while one shore excursion per guest (up to $100) is included, Alaska offers a wealth of extraordinary excursion opportunities that you may wish to add to enhance your journey.
Shore Excursions
Beyond your included $100 excursion credit, additional shore excursions are available for purchase. Alaska offers incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing, glacier adventures, cultural experiences, and active pursuits at each port of call.
Optional Extensions
Should you wish to extend your stay in Alaska or Vancouver, pre- or post-cruise extensions are available at an additional cost, allowing you to further explore these remarkable destinations.
Land Portion Extras
Gratuities during the land portion of your journey are not included, nor are meals and beverages during this segment, with the exception of specifically mentioned inclusions.
We recommend budgeting approximately $50-75 per person per day for gratuities during the land portion of your journey. Additionally, while most cruise passengers typically book 2-3 shore excursions during their voyage, Alaska offers such diverse experiences that many guests choose to participate in activities at every port. These can range from $100 for more modest experiences to $300+ for premium adventures such as helicopter glacier landings or extended wildlife expeditions.
For meals during the land portion, budget approximately $30-50 per person for breakfast, $30-60 for lunch, and $60-100 for dinner, depending on your dining preferences.
Payment Terms & Travel Protection
Securing Your Alaskan Adventure
Your journey through Alaska's majestic landscapes and rich cultures represents a significant travel investment. To ensure your place on this exceptional itinerary and protect your vacation plans, please review the following important information regarding payment terms and travel protection options.
$6,999
Per Person Rate
The package price is based on double occupancy in a verandah stateroom aboard Holland America's Westerdam, including all specified amenities, accommodations, transportation, and features outlined in the itinerary.
$600
Required Deposit
A non-refundable deposit per person is required to confirm your reservation on this popular itinerary. This deposit secures your accommodations, transportation, and included features.
*Please note that single and triple occupancy rates available on request.
4/19/26
Final Payment Date
Full payment must be received by this date to maintain your reservation. We recommend setting a calendar reminder approximately two weeks prior to allow time for processing.
Travel Protection Recommendation
Direct Travel strongly recommends purchasing comprehensive travel protection for your Alaskan adventure. The recommended policy provides valuable coverage that addresses the most common travel concerns, including:
- Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Reimbursement for prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip for covered reasons
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency medical treatment during your journey
- Baggage Protection: Reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
- Baggage Delay: Coverage for essential items if your luggage is delayed
- Medical Evacuation: Transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility if necessary
- 24/7 Travel Assistance: Emergency support services throughout your journey
"Alaska's remote nature and variable conditions make travel protection especially important. We've seen clients grateful for their coverage when unexpected weather delays their flights or when medical situations arise far from major facilities."— Stacey Renfrow, Senior Travel Consultant
Important Considerations
Travel protection plans are time-sensitive, with the most comprehensive benefits available when purchased close to your initial deposit date. The cost of the recommended policy varies based on your age and total trip cost, and premiums are non-refundable.
Your Direct Travel consultant can provide a personalized quote and detailed explanation of coverage options to help you make an informed decision about protecting your vacation investment.
Contact Information
For personalized assistance with your booking, travel protection options, or any questions regarding this exceptional Alaskan adventure, please contact:
Thank you for considering this extraordinary opportunity to experience Alaska with Holland America. We look forward to helping you create memories that will last a lifetime in one of the world's most magnificent destinations.
Holland America Line Alaska CruiseTour July 2026
Print Friendly Booking Form for Direct Travel
Print Friendly Booking Form for Direct Travel
Some people prefer not to book online and we respect that choice. Please print this page and fill out manually and mail along with a photo copy of your Real ID or passport to Stacey Renfrow at Direct Travel 2415 E. Washington Street, Bloomington, IL 61704. When your form is received Stacey will contact you with confirmation of the booking.Deposit for your Alaska CruiseTour Package is $600 per person and the final payment is due on or before April 19, 2026. Single and Triple Occupancy rates are available on request.
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Stateroom: Our rate is for a veranda stateroom. Other stateroom rates are available on request. Your deposit will only be $600.00 per person no matter which category you prefer.
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