Pacific Coastal Cruises: Excursions

Departing Ogden Point, your driver/guide will point out Mile Zero, the western end of the Trans Canada Highway, Beacon Hill Park and Thunderbird Park en route to Craigdarroch Castle an outstanding landmark home standing most affluent in a city steeped in heritage. Craigdarroch was built between 1887–1890 by Robert Dunsmuir and boasts a unique collection of residential stained and leaded glass, period furnishing, and excellent wood paneling and carving. Enjoy your self-guided visit in the castle with docents available to answer any questions you may have. After your visit, rejoin your driver/guide returning via Chinatown and welcomed by the Gates of Harmonious Interest. Continue to the inner harbor framed by some of Canada's most recognizable landmarks, the majestic Parliament Buildings aglow in 3,333 light bulbs and the ivy-covered Empress Hotel. At the inner harbor and shopping district you'll be given some free time to take in the local sights and sounds prior to your return journey to the pier and your ship. Note: Must have good mobility and be able to negotiate a gradual uphill walk to the castle and 87 steps to view all four floors of the castle. Referred to as a 'castle', the building is more a stately mansion with castellated features. Your visit of this unique neighbourhood stately home is self-guided with docents available to answer any questions you may have. Order of sights may vary. less

Relax on board a modern catamaran as you cruise south of Puerto Vallarta following the spectacular tropical coastline of Banderas Bay. Your journey takes you past some of the most picturesque scenery in Vallarta, where dolphins and humpback whales are often sighted during the winter months. The morning is spent at the tranquil cove of Majahuitas, an unspoiled area of natural beauty on the southern coast of Banderas Bay. Only accessible by sea, Majahuitas offers ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. After lunch aboard your catamaran, head off to Yelapa, an old charming Mexican fishing village set in it's own natural bay. Long a famous day trip from Puerto Vallarta, Yelapa has become a must on most tourist's lists, but since there are no roads in, this tropical paradise is only accessible by boat. The tiny village is a true escape from civilization. If you love the outdoors and want to spend time exploring nature, this idyllic spot is perfect for you. Hike through the jungle to the waterfall, swim in the cove's protected waters, or just relax on the expansive beach. As you cruise back to Puerto Vallarta, the on board fiesta wraps up a day full of fun-in-the-sun with an open bar, dancing, music and entertainment provided by the friendly crew. Note: Snorkel and kayak equipment are provided, minimum age for these activities is 8 years old. Bring your swimsuit, towel, hat, sunscreen and a light sweater or windbreaker. There is a 100-yard walk from pier to boat and a 500-yard optional hike up to the waterfalls. In Yelapa, walking is on uneven sandy surfaces with some rocky paths. less

The Cape region is indeed striking in appearance, from arid desert and white sand coves, to swaying palm trees and deep blue sea. Join your knowledgeable guide on a trip back in time. Your drive will take you north to admire the contrasting coastal scenery. Your destination is Todos Santos - which means 'all saints' - a small oasis village that sits peacefully next to the Pacific Ocean. Once there, you’ll have time to walk around the old Jesuit mission, explore the small shops, glance through one of the many art galleries and visit the famous Hotel California that inspired the Eagles back in 1969. Or just do as the locals do and sit in the town square and watch time go by. A snack and cool refreshment are included. Upon returning to Cabo San Lucas, you may stay in town on your own. Casual, conservative dress is recommended. less

This wilderness expedition to the spectacular Davidson Glacier leads you through fjords, rain forests, colorful wildflowers, and towering mountains. Your adventure begins with a 75 minute journey through North America's deepest fjord aboard a high speed 26 passenger expedition boat. Watch for whales, seals, sea lions, and cascading waterfalls along the way to a remote beach at Glacier Point, one of the most beautiful places in Alaska.

After a short, adventurous drive across the forested glacial moraines, and a quarter mile walk, the forest suddenly opens to a breathtaking view of the glacier. The crystal blue ice tumbles from the jagged peaks into a pristine lake where 31 foot voyager canoes wait to take you to the very face of the glacier. Throughout your tour, expert guides share their extensive knowledge of this amazing area. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the beach amid fields of wild strawberries and iris tops before your return trip to Skagway.

Note: Participants must be at least 7 years of age, weigh no more than 350 lbs and must be in good health and able to walk over uneven terrain.

Enjoy a leisurely paced walking tour of Cabo San Lucas. Explore a part of Cabo that many never see, such as the famous Cabo Wabo and the incredible buys at the local flea market for starters. After a brief walk from the pier with your tour guide, your first stop is a very folkloric street where your warm up for shopping will take place. Then it’s off to the church of San Lucas - a small catholic church built in 1730 by Spanish missionaries. Across the street is the main park in town where you’ll enjoy a popsicle and walk to the town square to learn about the culturally rich background of Cabo. View real whale skeletons set up on display and visit the local Cabo San Lucas museum. Follow your guide down a scenic side street on your way to a popular Mexican restaurant to enjoy a complimentary, non-alcoholic beverage and after a brief stop there continue past the legendary Cabo Wabo Cantina owned by the 1980s rock star Sammy Hagar of the famed rock band Van Halen. Move on to the local market and try your bargaining skills, from hammocks to clothes, trinkets to leather goods, talavera pottery and much, much more…you’ll find all the souvenirs you need at the flea market. You’ll have free time to shop before heading back to the pier with your guide. less