From Denali’s Untamed Wilderness to Glacier-Carved Coastal Majesty Along the Inside Passage
Journey more than 2,000 unforgettable miles by land, luxury rail, and sea on this spectacular Princess Cruisetour from Fairbanks to Vancouver. Explore the vast wilderness of Denali National Park, cruise the historic rivers of Alaska’s interior, ride the iconic glass-domed Princess Wilderness Express, and sail aboard Coral Princess past towering glaciers including Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay. Hosted by Doug & Rose, this immersive adventure blends rugged frontier beauty with comfortable, seamless travel — creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Join us for an Alaska experience that is as breathtaking as it is unforgettable.
Today our Ultimate Alaska Cruisetour officially begins as we depart from Dallas and journey north to Fairbanks, the gateway to Alaska’s rugged interior. As the scenery changes below and the air turns crisp, anticipation builds for the adventure ahead.
Upon arrival, transfer to the beautiful Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge, nestled along the peaceful Chena River. Surrounded by towering spruce trees and Alaska’s wide-open skies, the lodge offers the perfect introduction to the Last Frontier.
Rose and I are excited to begin this incredible journey with you. From the very first day, we’ll be there to guide, support, and share in each moment as we experience Alaska together.
Settle in and take in your first glimpse of this breathtaking land — the adventure of a lifetime has begun.
This morning we begin our Alaska exploration with a scenic Sternwheeler Riverboat Cruise along the historic Chena River. As we glide through the waters that once carried pioneers and traders, you’ll gain insight into Alaska’s rich frontier heritage. Watch a bush plane take off and land in true Alaskan fashion, learn about early homesteaders, and discover what life is like in this vast and rugged land.
Following our river adventure, we board our comfortable motorcoach and journey south toward Denali. Along the way, take in sweeping views of Alaska’s interior — winding rivers, dense forests, expansive tundra, and distant mountain peaks. The scale and beauty of the landscape are truly breathtaking.
By late afternoon, we arrive at the stunning Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge, located just outside the entrance to Denali National Park. With its mountain lodge atmosphere and peaceful surroundings, it’s the perfect home base for the next two nights.
Rose and I look forward to sharing this transition from frontier history to majestic wilderness with you. Tonight, relax, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and prepare for an unforgettable day inside Denali National Park tomorrow.
Today we venture into the breathtaking expanse of Denali National Park on a guided Natural History Tour. Covering more than six million acres, Denali is a vast and untamed wilderness — a place where nature truly reigns supreme.
As we travel deeper into the park, knowledgeable guides will share the story of this incredible landscape — from its geological formation to the wildlife that calls it home. Keep your camera ready for potential sightings of moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and perhaps even a glimpse of a grizzly bear roaming across the tundra.
Weather permitting, we may catch a view of Denali itself — North America’s highest peak rising 20,310 feet above sea level. Seeing “The Great One” is a moment few ever forget.
After returning to the lodge, enjoy time to relax, explore on your own, or simply soak in the peaceful mountain setting. Rose and I love this part of the journey — it gives us time to reflect, connect, and fully experience the grandeur of Alaska’s wilderness together.
This morning we board the luxurious Princess Wilderness Express for one of the most scenic rail journeys in North America. Settle into your comfortable seat beneath glass-domed ceilings as panoramic views unfold in every direction.
As the train winds its way south, you’ll witness Alaska’s breathtaking interior from a whole new perspective — braided rivers, dense forests, towering peaks, and expansive wilderness stretching for miles. The journey covers nearly 500 miles and offers open-air viewing platforms, onboard dining, and engaging narration that brings the landscape to life.
Rose and I love this portion of the trip — it’s relaxing, immersive, and filled with unforgettable views around every bend in the track.
By afternoon, we arrive in the small coastal town of Whittier, where the mountains meet the sea. Here, we transition from land adventure to coastal cruising as we step aboard the beautiful Coral Princess.
Take time to settle into your stateroom, explore the ship, and enjoy your first evening at sea. The next chapter of our Alaska journey begins as we sail toward towering glaciers and spectacular coastal scenery.
Today we experience one of Alaska’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders — Hubbard Glacier. Stretching more than 75 miles from the mountains to the sea, this massive river of ice towers dramatically above the water and commands attention from every angle.
As Coral Princess slowly navigates into Yakutat Bay, step out onto the deck or settle into one of the ship’s panoramic lounges. Watch for deep blue crevasses carved into ancient ice and listen for the unmistakable thunder of “calving” — when enormous sections of glacier break free and crash into the sea below.
The sound, the scale, and the stillness of the surrounding wilderness create a moment that feels almost surreal. This is Alaska at its most powerful and unforgettable.
Rose and I always encourage guests to pause and simply take it all in. These are the moments that stay with you long after the journey ends.
Today we sail into the breathtaking expanse of Glacier Bay National Park, one of Alaska’s most treasured natural wonders and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, deep fjords, and pristine wilderness, this protected sanctuary showcases the raw beauty of Southeast Alaska.
Throughout the day, National Park Rangers often board the ship to provide expert narration, sharing the fascinating history, geology, and wildlife of this remarkable ecosystem. As Coral Princess glides through icy waters, keep watch for humpback whales, sea otters, harbor seals resting on floating ice, and bald eagles soaring overhead.
Towering tidewater glaciers rise from the sea, glowing shades of blue against the dramatic mountain backdrop. The quiet stillness of the bay, broken only by the distant crack of calving ice, creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Rose and I love this day — it’s a time to slow down, step onto the deck, and fully absorb the grandeur of Alaska’s wilderness.
Today we dock in the charming and historic town of Skagway, where Alaska’s Gold Rush era comes vividly to life. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls, this small frontier town once served as the gateway for thousands of hopeful prospectors seeking fortune in the Yukon.
Stroll along wooden boardwalks past restored 1890s storefronts, browse local shops, and experience the preserved character of this remarkable community. For those seeking adventure, optional excursions offer unforgettable experiences — including the legendary White Pass & Yukon Route Railway, scenic mountain tours, or outdoor wilderness explorations.
Skagway beautifully blends history, adventure, and breathtaking scenery — a place where the past and present meet beneath Alaska’s towering peaks.
Rose and I love seeing guests explore here, whether riding the historic railway or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this unique port.
Today we arrive in Juneau, Alaska’s scenic capital city, uniquely accessible only by air or sea. Nestled between towering mountains and the Gastineau Channel, Juneau offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and frontier charm.
One of the highlights here is the magnificent Mendenhall Glacier, a massive river of ice flowing down from the Juneau Icefield. Many guests choose to explore the glacier up close, walk scenic trails, or capture unforgettable photos of cascading waterfalls nearby.
Juneau is also one of the best places in Alaska for whale watching. Keep your eyes on the water for humpback whales breaching, sea lions basking, and eagles soaring overhead. For sweeping panoramic views, the Mount Roberts Tramway offers breathtaking perspectives of the harbor and surrounding peaks.
Whether you choose adventure, wildlife, glaciers, or simply strolling through town, Juneau offers something for everyone.
Rose and I always look forward to this port — it’s a place where Alaska’s rugged beauty truly surrounds you from every direction.
Today we arrive in Ketchikan, often called Alaska’s “First City” as it is the first port of call for many ships sailing north. Nestled along the shoreline and surrounded by lush rainforest-covered mountains, this charming waterfront town is known for its vibrant Native Alaskan heritage and thriving fishing culture.
Stroll along historic Creek Street, a wooden boardwalk perched above the water that once bustled during the Gold Rush era. Explore impressive totem parks showcasing intricately carved poles that tell the stories and traditions of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian peoples.
For those seeking adventure, optional excursions offer opportunities to explore the breathtaking Misty Fjords National Monument, fish for salmon in pristine waters, or discover the region’s abundant wildlife.
Ketchikan beautifully blends culture, history, and natural beauty — a fitting final Alaska port before we sail south.
Rose and I love watching guests soak in the charm of this unique coastal town, knowing we’ve shared something truly special together.
Today we enjoy a relaxing day at sea as Coral Princess sails south through the stunning Inside Passage. This protected waterway offers one last opportunity to experience the dramatic scenery of Alaska’s coastal wilderness — forested shorelines, distant mountain silhouettes, and the ever-changing rhythm of the sea.
It’s the perfect day to unwind and savor the journey. Enjoy leisurely dining, attend enrichment programs, revisit your favorite spots on the ship, or simply step out onto the deck to breathe in the fresh ocean air. Keep watch for marine wildlife as we glide through these scenic waters.
Rose and I always appreciate this day as a time to reflect on the memories we’ve created together — from Denali’s wilderness to towering glaciers and charming coastal towns.
As evening falls, enjoy one final dinner onboard and celebrate the unforgettable experiences shared throughout this incredible journey.
This morning we arrive in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia, where our unforgettable Alaska Cruisetour comes to an end. Surrounded by coastal mountains and sparkling harbor views, Vancouver provides a scenic and fitting conclusion to our journey.
After disembarkation, we transfer to the airport for our flight home. While the adventure may be ending, the memories we’ve made together — from Denali’s vast wilderness to the thunder of calving glaciers and the charm of Alaska’s coastal towns — will remain long after we return.
Rose and I are truly grateful to have shared this experience with you. Traveling together creates connections, stories, and moments that stay with us forever.
Until our next adventure.
Whether you’re seeking value, views, or VIP luxury, Princess Cruises offers the perfect stateroom for your style. With our group, choose from Oceanview Cabins for cozy comfort and natural light or Balcony Cabins for your own private sea-view retreat.
A Balcony Cabin on Princess Cruises offers the perfect blend of comfort and open-air luxury. Step onto your private balcony to enjoy ocean views, fresh sea breezes, and peaceful moments at sunrise or sunset. Inside, you’ll find a cozy retreat with modern amenities, thoughtful design, and everything you need for a relaxing voyage.
Exclusive Group Rates Starting at $4,315
An Oceanview Cabin on Princess Cruises offers a bright, comfortable space with a large picture window framing ever-changing sea views. It’s the perfect choice for travelers who enjoy natural light and scenic horizons without the balcony price. Relax in cozy surroundings and watch the world drift by right from your room.
Exclusive Group Rates;
Oceanview: Starting at $3,185/person
Obstructed Oceanview: Starting at $2,845/person
I’m a retired Mission Pastor with a lifelong passion for people, a wanderlust heart, and a gift for planning. For many years, I had the privilege of leading mission trips around the world - organizing everything from global outreach projects to hands-on local service events.
As my journey has evolved, I’ve discovered a new joy: helping others experience the beauty of travel through cruising. While cruising is my specialty, I also help travelers with other kinds of adventures - whether that’s exploring vibrant cities, relaxing at all-inclusive resorts, or creating custom journeys that fit your unique style.
940-391-5927
Doug@travelwithdoug.com