11-day California to Alaska: shores, fjords & glaciers

Trip Code:60273
(AUD) Twin Share from $2,169pp
Days 12
Nights 11

11-night Alaska cruise from San Diego, California to Vancouver, Canada aboard Zaandam.

Calling at Klawock, Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, Wrangell, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert and Vancouver, with 3 days at sea. 8 ports of call across California, the United States, Alaska and Canada.

Zaandam is a Holland America Line ship that entered service in 2000, carrying around 1,430 guests. Music-themed throughout — her collection includes instruments signed by Queen and the Rolling Stones — she is one of the fleet’s smaller ships, well suited to longer voyages.

Stateroom categories range from Interior to Neptune Suite.

  • 29 Apr 2028 – 10 May 2028
    from $2,169 pp twin share *

Additional Pricing Information

  • Interior from $2,169 pp twin share
  • Ocean View from $2,769 pp twin share
  • Vista Suite from $5,319 pp twin share
  • Neptune Suite from $7,569 pp twin share

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Itinerary

Day 1 – San Diego, California

Departs 04:00 pm.

Known as a place of infinite beauty, affectionate locals and endless sunshine, San Diego has become one of America’s favorite cities. Located in the southwest corner of California, close to the border of Mexico, San Diego has a distinct cross-cultural feel, part sun-drenched Mediterranean atmosphere, part south-of-the-border zest and part quintessential California beach town.The history of San Diego is rooted in its Spanish and Mexican past. San Diego was declared the capital of upper and lower Baja only four years after Mexico gained its independence in 1821. Less than thirty years later, the United States declared war on Mexico and within two years the Treaty of Guadalupe Hildalgo was signed creating the current borders between Mexico and the United States.The city continues to prosper with a population exceeding one million. World-renowned attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, the Salk Institute, Sea World, La Jolla and the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge have created a strong tourism industry for the area. But undoubtedly what attracts visitors from around the world is the city’s breathtaking natural beauty, superb coastline and near-perfect weather.

Day 2 – At Sea

Day 3 – At Sea

Day 4 – At Sea

Day 5 – Klawock, Alaska, USA

Arrives 12:00 pm, departs 06:00 pm.

Day 6 – Juneau, Alaska

Arrives 10:00 am, departs 10:00 pm.

In 1880, it was slow going for Joe Juneau and Richard Harris as they searched for gold with the help of Native guides. After climbing mountains, forging streams and facing countless difficulties, they found nuggets “as large as beans.” From their discovery came three of the largest gold mines in the world. By the end of World War II, more than $150 million in gold had been mined. Eventually the mines closed, but the town Joe Juneau founded became the capital of Alaska and the business of gold was replaced by the business of government. Some 30,000 people live in Juneau. Its total area makes it one of the biggest towns, in size, in the world. Only Kiruna, Sweden, and Sitka, Alaska, exceed Juneau’s 3,248 square miles. Today Juneau is famous not only for gold and government but also for its breathtakingly beautiful glaciers and stunning views of both water and mountains.

Day 7 – Glacier Bay National Park (Scenic Cruising), Alaska

Arrives 06:00 am, departs 03:30 pm.

Princess is one of a select few cruise lines permitted to cruise the pristine waters of Glacier Bay, the highlight of our 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. Just west of Juneau, this breathtaking national park and preserve boasts some of the world’s most spectacular tidewater glaciers, such as Margerie Glacier, which often drops colossal chunks of ice into the sea. Not surprisingly, Glacier Bay National Park and its epic ice giants are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising Alaska’s magnificent park system. During your scenic cruise, friendly Park Rangers will join the ship to share their knowledge of this amazing place and host a fun Junior Ranger program for kids. 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 8 – Wrangell, Alaska, US

Arrives 08:00 am, departs 05:00 pm.

Day 9 – Ketchikan, Alaska

Arrives 08:00 am, departs 06:00 pm.

Ketchikan is known as Alaska’s “First City” because it’s the first major community travelers come to as they journey north. Located on an island, Ketchikan began life as an Indian fishing camp. The name Ketchikan comes from a Tlingit phrase that means “eagle with spread-out wings,” a reference to a waterfall near town. In the early 1900s, when gold was Alaska’s claim to fame, fishing and timber industries were established in Ketchikan. The growth of these industries helped make this Inside Passage port Alaska’s fourth-largest city. Visitors to Ketchikan will be intrigued by its rich Native heritage, which includes the world’s oldest collection of totem poles at Totem Heritage Center. The Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian are all a part of the city’s colorful history. Ketchikan, with its abundance of salmon, is also a sport-fishing paradise. Sightseers will be impressed with both the scenic town and its surroundings, especially Misty Fjords National Monument.

Day 10 – Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

Arrives 07:00 am, departs 06:00 pm.

Historic Prince Rupert captivates both mind and heart with its maritime history and awe-inspiring scenery. Located near the Alaska panhandle, Prince Rupert was established in 1910 as the intersection of commerce and trade for First Nations people and continued to develop as a town when selected as the western terminus for the Grand Turk Pacific Railway. Nestled within a temperate rainforest, it experiences 220 days of rain each year, earning it the poetic nickname “The City of Rainbows.” But from within the raindrops, Prince Rupert shines with heritage charms best seen in its Kwinitsa Railway Station Museum, The Museum of Northern British Columbia and the historic North Pacific Cannery compound. Its stunning vistas captured in flight from the window of a seaplane adventure amaze travelers. Abundant wildlife can be observed on land at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. And seen from the deck of a wildlife cruise on the chilly waters, breeching humpback whales and soaring eagles inspire. Hike through the Butze Rainforest or the Exchamsiks River Provincial Park, then end the day with a stroll among the colorful gift shops stopping in a charming bistro to sample the freshest catch of the day.

Day 11 – Scenic Cruising The Inside Passage

Day 12 – Vancouver, Canada

Arrives 07:00 am.

Vancouver is one of the world’s most stunning cities, where scenic beauty meets vibrant city life. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this dynamic destination offers a unique blend of cultures, flavors, and experiences. From the historic charm of Gastown—with its cobblestone streets, heritage architecture, and cozy cafés—to the bustling waterfront of the Port of Vancouver, the city invites exploration at every turn. Named after British explorer Captain George Vancouver, who charted the region’s coastline in 1792, the city carries a legacy of discovery and connection. As Canada’s third-largest city, Vancouver boasts a rich cultural tapestry, including the second-largest Chinatown in North America, world-class parks, and a distinctly European feel. Whether you’re strolling through Stanley Park, enjoying fresh seafood by the harbor, biking along the coastline, or exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods, this beautiful waterfront city delivers unforgettable moments for every traveler.

Highlights

  • Cruise the pristine waters of Glacier Bay National Park
  • Discover the history and culture of Alaska
  • Relax and be entertained on the music-themed Zaandam ship

11-night Alaska cruise from San Diego, California to Vancouver, Canada aboard Zaandam.

Calling at Klawock, Juneau, Glacier Bay National Park, Wrangell, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert and Vancouver, with 3 days at sea. 8 ports of call across California, the United States, Alaska and Canada.

Zaandam is a Holland America Line ship that entered service in 2000, carrying around 1,430 guests. Music-themed throughout — her collection includes instruments signed by Queen and the Rolling Stones — she is one of the fleet’s smaller ships, well suited to longer voyages.

Stateroom categories range from Interior to Neptune Suite.

Inclusions

  • Dining in the main Dining Room and casual venues
  • Live music venues and nightly entertainment
  • Fitness centre and swimming pools
  • Enrichment programme and port talks

FAQs

Zaandam is a Holland America Line ship that entered service in 2000, carrying around 1,430 guests. Music-themed throughout — her collection includes instruments signed by Queen and the Rolling Stones — she is one of the fleet’s smaller ships, well suited to longer voyages.

Stateroom categories available on this sailing: Neptune Suite, Vista Suite, Ocean View and Interior.

How long is this journey?

This itinerary runs for 12 days and 11 nights.

When can I travel?

Departures are currently scheduled between 29 Apr 2028 and 10 May 2028, subject to live availability.

What is generally included?

Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.

What style of accommodation is used?

Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.

Provided by: Holland America Line

Fine Print

Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.

(AUD) Twin Share from $2,169pp
Days 12
Nights 11

Enquire Now

Speak with our travel experts and get your personalised quote.