Sunday, August 23 - FLY INTO FAIRBANKS
Bearing the nickname the Golden Heart, Alaska's second-largest city was born of gold rush fever, thanks to Italian immigrant Felix Pedro who found the precious metal in 1902 near where Captain E.T. Barnette decided to build a trading post on the banks of the Chena River. Fairbanks is an amalgam of modern shops and malls, its history is celebrated at the 44-acre Pioneer Park, which includes a Gold Rush Town with 35 restored buildings. Fairbanks also preserved its City Hall, which now houses the Fairbanks Community Museum. The city's location in Alaska's interior makes it a gateway to the Arctic, and in summer tourist boats run cruises along the Chena and Tanana rivers. Fairbanks is a city of festivals, from July's Golden Days commemorating its past to Ice Alaska in February and March, when residents make the best of its brutal winters by playing host to a slew of international ice sculptors who descend on the city for the World Ice Art Championships. For more insight into Fairbanks and to learn about the history of Alaska, visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Vistors Center.
Overnight at Pke's Waterfront Lodge
Monday, August 24 - RIVERBOAT DISCOVERY TOUR
Depart at 2:00 pm and return at 5:45 pm
As you board Riverboat Discovery you will begin to feel the excitement of this trip. On your three-hour cruise, the Discovery will take you into the heart of Alaska and the heart of a family who has made the rivers of Alaska a way of life for four generations. You will see a bush floatplane taking off alongside a "bush" style runway; visit the home and kennels of the late four-time Iditarod winner Susan Butcher and gain insight into the ancient Athabascan Indian culture. Alaskan Native guides who have worked and lived in Alaska will take you on a personalized tour of the Chena Indian Village.
Transfer from the Riverboat Discovery to Pike's Waterfront Lodge
Tuesday, August 25 - DOME RAIL FROM FAIRBANKS TO DENALI NATIONAL PARK
Departs at 8:15 am and arrives at 12:10 pm
Imagine gliding through the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness in the lap of luxury, where every view is a chance to unwind and take in nature's grandeur. The Luxury Dome Rail Cars to Denali National Park offer an incomparable travel experience. With panoramic windows showcasing the stunning landscapes of lush forests, glacial rivers, and majestic mountains, you'll feel part of the pristine environment. On a clear day, you might even be lucky enough to witness the awe-inspiring sight of Mt. McKinely. Onboard, enjoy gourmet breakfast and attentive service that cater to your every need, ensuring a journey as memorable as the destination.
Overnight at the Denali Park Village
Wednesday, August 26 - TUNDRA WILDERNESS TOUR - DENALI NATIONAL PARK
The Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali National Park is an awe-inspiring adventure that takes you deep into the heart of Alaska's pristine wilderness. This guided tour spans six to eight hours and offers breathtaking views of the park's diverse ecosystems and majestic landscapes. As you journey through the open tundra and rugged mountains, look for incredible wildlife, including bears, moose, and caribou. With experienced guides providing insightful commentary, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the unique beauty and ecological importance of Denali. A small snack is offered on this tour.
Overnight at the Denali Park Resorts.
Thursday, August 27 - DENALI NATIONAL PARK - WASILLA - ANCHORAGE
Embark on a captivating drive from Denali National Park to Anchorage, around 238 picturesque miles along the Parks Highway. This scenic route guides you from the majestic realms of Fairbanks through the stunning vistas of Denali and continues to the lush expanses of the Matanuska Valley in Palmer. From Palmer, the journey seamlessly transitions onto the Glenn Highway, leading you straight into the vibrant city of Anchorage. Don't miss the chance to stop in Wasilla along the way, where you can explore the Iditarod Dog Sled Race Headquarters, brimming with intriguing race memorabilia and exciting past race videos. Access to this engaging detour is complimentary, adding an informative touch to your adventure.
Overnight Lakefront Anchorage
Friday, August 28 - ANCHORAGE - SEWARD
As you depart Anchorage you will descend to drive along Turnagain Arm, passing Potter’s Marsh and other scenic stops. The mountains provide a picturesque backdrop to the waters of the Arm. Your driver will watch for wildlife and, if chance has it, Beluga whales.
KENAI FJORDS TOURS
Departs 11:30 am and returns at 5:30 pm
Departing from Seward, this cruise glides past seals, whales, and puffins as we explore coastal rainforests, tidewater glaciers, and remote Alaskan islands. Experienced and engaging captains narrate the trip, so you walk away knowing more about Kenai Fjords National Park and its wonders.
After the breathtaking adventure of the Kenai Fjords Tour, embark on the Ovation of the Seas and set sail at 8:00 PM, ready to unwind and explore the wonders of the open sea for a week-long voyage.
Saturday, August 29 - HUBBARD GLACIER SCENIC CRUISING
Sightseeing from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
At 76 miles long and seven miles wide, North America's largest tidewater glacier, Hubbard Glacier, makes even the mightiest of ships feel minuscule by comparison. Visitors to this awe-inspiring natural wonder can witness a spectacle like no other—imagine massive chunks of translucent blue ice crashing into the bay with a mighty roar akin to a cannon shot. This thunderous sound has been given a name by the Tlingit people: "White Thunder." As you marvel at this majestic glacier from the comfort of your cruise ship, take a moment to appreciate the grandeur and power of nature's artistry. With Holiday Cruises and Tours, you'll enjoy an unforgettable journey that promises relaxation and adventure.
Sunday, August 30 - JUNEAU
Arrives 9:00 AM
Departs 8:00 PM
Enjoy a full day of exploring Alaska's capital from exciting shore excursions, and still have time to shop.
Visit the most remote, beautiful, and strangest state capital in the United States. Surrounded by water, forest, and mountain sights, visitors seeking things to do in Juneau indoors and outdoors can hike a glacier, eat fresh-caught fish on a seaside patio, and tour a grand capital building, all in one day.
Juneau is known for its outdoor recreation, fresh seafood, and fine dining. The city itself is pleasant, but the real highlight of a visit to Juneau is tracking down some wildlife. You can hike up Mount Roberts to chance upon wild deer and bad eagles. Most sightseeing and whale-watching tours head north to Auke Bay - bring a good pair of binoculars to get the best view of these majestic and surprisingly graceful creatures. If you prefer land mammals, catch a floatplane to a nearby wildlife reserve such as Chichagof or Admiralty Island to spy some bears lolling around on an Alaska cruise excursion.
The sleepy, misty city of around 32,000 - mostly fishermen and small-business owners - has a frontier town vibe but welcomes more than a million visitors each summer to its natural attractions, cementing Juneau as Alaska's number-one tourist destination.
Monday, August 31- SKAGWAY
Arrives 7:00 AM
Departs 8:00 PM
Step back to the days of the last great gold rush - choose from exciting shore excursions and still have time to shop.
At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, the port town of Skagway served as the primary gateway to the legendary gold fields, and quickly grew into Alaska's largest settlement. It was then a raucous frontier hub packed with trading posts, saloons, and guesthouses. As the gold rush faded into the 1900s, so did Skagway - but today it has been reinvigorated as a gateway for a new kind of visitor: those looking to explore Alaska's colorful history, pristine wildlife, and unrivaled natural beauty.
At every turn, you'll find yourself immersed in gold rush lore, from the infamous Red Onion Saloon that still keeps a pistol that Wyatt Earp left behind en route to the Klondike, to the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad. This classic narrow-gauge railway traverses rugged mountains and passes cascading waterfalls and towering glaciers as it connects Skagway to the White House deep in the Yukon. Known as the "Garden City of Alaska," Skagway is filled with beauty and nature. Much of the town has been preserved as part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, where rangers offer free walking tours around the historic district. You'll also find a vibrant local community, home to a rich collection of local galleries, curio shops, and restaurants serving seafood plucked fresh from nearby waters.
Tuesday, September 1 - ICY STRAIT POINT
Arrives 7:00 AM
Departs 4:30 PM
Icy Strait Point is one tiny port that’s big on Alaskan wilderness and Native culture. Opened a decade ago by the Huna Tlingit Native Alaskans, it’s easily one of the best spots in the region for fishing and whale watching. Dive into Native Alaska culture at a tribal dance show or visit Hoonah, Alaska’s largest Tlingit village. If you want to venture over to the wild side, go on a guided nature hike through nearby rainforests or hop into an ATV and explore the backroads of Chichagof Island. At the end of the day, you can take in forest views while soaring high above the trees on the longest zip line in the world. No matter what type of Alaska adventure you’re craving, you’ll find it in Icy Strait Point.
Wednesday, September 2 - AT SEA
Thursday, September 3 - AT SEA
Max out memories onboard Ovation of the Seas®, one of the world’s most groundbreaking ships.
Go scenery scoping from the North Star®, the highest vantage point on any cruise ship — or head to the SeaPlex® to rev up your family time. Spend the afternoon whizzing around a roller-skating arena with your adventure crew, then challenge them to a game of bumper cars or basketball for bragging rights. When you’re ready to refuel, let your appetite lead you into any of the 17 unforgettable eateries awaiting you on board.
Friday, September 4 - VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA (Disembark)
Arrives 5:30 AM
Experience the charm of Vancouver as you disembark from Ovation of the Seas this morning, or choose to make your way back home after an unforgettable journey.
Combining urban and nature, Vancouver is a hub for lovers of the great outdoors. Enjoy picturesque views of the mountains while exploring the city's local hot spots like Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, and more. Don't forget to sample the best local culinary and cocktail scene for something truly unique. Here's how to enjoy a stop at Hollywood of the North.