Blog >Alaska > Destination Guide: Alaska Cruising & Rocky Mountaineer - A Journey From Sea To Summit

02 Feb 2026 | By Lucy Hickson In Alaska

Destination Guide: Alaska Cruising & Rocky Mountaineer - A Journey from Sea to Summit 

Experience the breathtaking scenery of Alaska and the Canadian Rockies with a combination of Alaska cruises and the Rocky Mountaineer rail journey. From glaciers and wildlife-rich fjords to snow-capped peaks and emerald lakes, this adventure offers one of the most scenic travel experiences in the world. 

 

Pairing an Alaska cruise from the UK or North America with the legendary Rocky Mountaineer train creates a seamless holiday that blends comfort, immersive exploration and dramatic landscapes. 

 

Why Cruise Alaska? 

An Alaska cruise is the perfect way to discover this vast and untamed region. Sail through the iconic Inside Passage and take in: 

  • Forest-lined coastlines, rugged islands, and towering mountain backdrops 
  • Visits to Alaskan ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway
  • Whale watching, glacier excursions and Indigenous cultural experiences 
     

Highlights of Alaska Cruising 

  • Glacier viewing from the ship, including Glacier Bay 
  • Wildlife spotting: whales, sea lions, bald eagles and bears 
  • Comfortable, scenic travel with ever-changing views 
  • Expert-led excursions for in-depth exploration 

For more adventurous travellers, Alaska expedition cruises explore remote coastlines, featuring Zodiac landings, guided hikes, and kayaking led by onboard experts. 

 

 

Extend Your Adventure with Rocky Mountaineer 

After your Alaska cruise, continue your journey in Vancouver with the Rocky Mountaineer, one of the world’s most scenic train journeys: 

  • Panoramic glass-domed coaches for uninterrupted views 
  • Daytime travel to capture every scenic moment 
  • Gourmet cuisine inspired by regional flavours 
  • Routes connecting Vancouver with Kamloops, Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff 

This scenic rail journey complements Alaska’s coastal beauty with the dramatic peaks and turquoise lakes of the Canadian Rockies. 

 

Alaska Cruise & Rocky Mountaineer: The Perfect Combination 

A combined cruise and rail holiday allows you to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest and western Canada: 

  • Fly to Vancouver and embark on your Alaska cruise 
  • Sail through the Inside Passage with port calls at iconic Alaskan destinations 
  • Experience glacier viewing, wildlife encounters and local culture
  • Disembark in Vancouver and board the Rocky Mountaineer 
  • Travel through the Canadian Rockies, finishing in Banff or Jasper 

This itinerary offers depth, variety, and unforgettable scenery from coast to summit. 

 

Who Is This Holiday Ideal For? 

  • Travellers seeking once-in-a-lifetime scenery 
  • Couples looking for refined, adventurous escapes 
  • Nature lovers and photographers 
  • Those who enjoy slow, scenic travel without long road journeys
  • Anyone wanting a seamless cruise and land experience 
     

 

Best Time to Travel 

The Alaska cruise season runs from May to September, when extended daylight hours and milder weather create ideal conditions for exploration. Summer months offer peak wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of humpback and orca whales, sea lions, otters, bald eagles and puffins along the coast, while bears, moose and mountain goats are often spotted on shore excursions. The Rocky Mountaineer operates seasonally during the same period, making it easy to combine both experiences. Traveling in late summer also brings clearer skies and darker nights as daylight hours shorten, offering opportunities for stargazing in remote areas. 

Why Book with Cruise118.com? 

Cruise118.com specialises in Alaska cruises, expedition sailings, and cruise & rail holidays. Our expert cruise concierge can help you plan the perfect Alaska adventure and seamlessly combine it with the Rocky Mountaineer. From luxury cruises to expedition voyages, we ensure a holiday that exceeds expectations. 

Ready to explore Alaska from sea to summit? Discover our range of Alaska cruises and expedition sailings and speak to our team about adding the Rocky Mountaineer for the ultimate scenic adventure. 

Published 2nd February 2026, Last updated 7th February 2026
By Lucy Hickson In Alaska

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