Explore and book Oceania Cruises 7 Night Alaska Cruise on the Oceania Riviera departing from Seattle, Washington on Jul 14, 2026 and ending in Victoria, British Columbia on Jul 21, 2026 Sail to Seattle, Washington, Ketchikan, Alaska, Sitka, Alaska, Icy Strait, Alaska, Victoria, British Columbia

Seattle, Washington

Early Booking Sale

Space Needle
Pikes Place
Pioneer Square
Boeing's Future of Flight Aviation Center
Hiram Chittenden Locks
International District

Ketchikan, Alaska

Canopy Adventure & Wildlife Expedition
Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour
Adventure Kart Expedition
Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer
Exclusive Flightseeing & Crab Feed
Neet’s Bay Bear Watch Expedition
Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Icy Strait, Alaska

 Nestled in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, Icy Strait offers a unique cruise destination for nature enthusiasts. With towering mountains, pristine waters, and a chance to witness the untamed beauty of the Last Frontier, this remote spot is a nature lover's paradise. From whale watching to exploring lush rainforests, the experiences here are as unspoiled as the landscape. Plus, the cooler climate provides a refreshing escape during the summer months. If you're seeking a serene and wild Alaskan adventure, Icy Strait is your ideal cruise destination.

Sitka, Alaska

Perched on Baranof Island, Sitka is a blend of Tlingit culture and Russian heritage. With its raptor centers, totem poles, and surrounding temperate rainforest, it’s an Alaskan destination filled with both history and nature.

Victoria, British Columbia

A perfect blend of British charm and Canadian spirit, Victoria welcomes visitors with historic architecture, lush gardens, and a picturesque harbor. The famed Butchart Gardens are a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

7 Night Alaska Cruise

Alaska

North America

Escape into a world of imagination in our exquisite English-style library, boasting over 2,000 books and periodicals. It's the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and a touch of nostalgia amidst the elegance reminiscent of the Golden Age of Travel. Immerse yourself in the comfort of plush chairs and the quiet ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reading at sea.

Library

Remain connected with loved ones and up-to-date with world events at our 24-hour Oceania@Sea Internet Center. Offering both wireless and in-suite iPad® access for suite guests, plus convenient mailing and phone services, staying in touch is effortless and seamless throughout your voyage.


Oceania@Sea Internet Center

At the Culinary Center aboard Marina, cooking transforms into an interactive learning journey. With state-of-the-art workstations and expert chefs as your guides, you'll master the art of preparing exquisite dishes. It's more than a cooking class; it's a way to explore global cuisines while sailing the seas.

The Culinary Center

Embark on a gastronomic adventure with Culinary Discovery Tours™. Join chef instructors in exploring local markets, tasting regional specialties, and diving into the culinary heritage of your destinations. It's an unparalleled way to connect with local cultures through the universal language of food.

Culinary Discovery Tours

Unleash your inner artist at the Artist Loft, where inspiration from your travels comes to life under the guidance of resident artists. Explore various forms of visual arts, from painting to photography, and create a lasting memento of your journey. It's a vibrant space where creativity meets exploration.

Artist Loft

Experience ancient wellness traditions from around the world with Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar. Explore exotic destinations and discover time-honored health practices, all while enjoying unique, rejuvenating excursions designed to enhance your well-being.

Wellness Discovery Tours

Dive into relaxation on the pool deck with a large saltwater pool and two whirlpool spas. Unwind on luxurious day beds or chaise lounge chairs with a cocktail in hand, all while soaking in the panoramic sea views. It's the perfect serene escape to rejuvenate between port explorations.

Pool Deck

Perfect your putt and enjoy the timeless game of golf on our onboard putting greens. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking for some leisurely fun, our 9-hole course offers a unique opportunity to hone your skills against the backdrop of the open sea.

Golf Putting Green

Dive into the spirit of friendly competition with a game of shuffleboard on deck. This classic game provides a perfect blend of skill and fun, inviting guests to enjoy leisurely play or engage in more spirited contests.

Shuffleboard

Elevate your game and your spirits high atop the ship with a round of pickleball, where panoramic sea views meet playful competition. Perfect for those seeking active fun, the sports deck offers a blend of activities, including a running track and games like shuffleboard. 

Pickleball

Discover a trifecta of leisure and competition with paddle tennis, bocce, and croquet on the sports deck. Amidst the splendid sea vistas, these games offer a perfect balance of friendly rivalry and the joy of the game. Join in for regular competitions as announced in Currents, and maybe even earn some Big O Points in the process.

Paddle Tennis, Bocce, and Croquet

Experience the thrill of Monte Carlo-style gaming on the high seas. Our casino offers a variety of games, from blackjack and roulette to a wide selection of slots and video poker. With free lessons, a loyalty points system, and options for cashless wagering, it's an exciting way to spend your evening aboard.

Casinos at Sea

Immerse yourself in classic card games or lively board game sessions at our Card Room, creating the perfect ambiance for friendly rounds of bridge, poker, or canasta. With a variety of board games on offer, it's the ideal space for relaxed social gatherings and cherished memories.

Card Room

Explore our chic boutiques for an exclusive shopping experience, offering a refined selection of sundries, resort wear, and fine jewelry. Perfect for finding that special gift or cruise memento, our boutiques cater to discerning tastes and provide a stylish reminder of your journey at sea.


Boutiques

Join the fun and friendly competition with our onboard trivia and quizzes, including Team Trivia and MENSA challenges. These popular activities are a fantastic way to bond with fellow travelers, stimulate your mind, and share in the laughter and camaraderie of our vibrant community.

Brain Games

Experience the sophisticated charm of Martinis, where the art of the cocktail is celebrated with a wide array of martinis in an elegant setting. Inspired by the serene beauty of the Greek Isles, the ambiance invites you to unwind and enjoy the finer things in life.

Martinis

Begin your evening in the sophisticated ambiance of The Grand Bar, where fine vintages and classic apéritifs spark engaging conversation and new friendships. This elegant pre-dinner destination sets the stage for a night of gourmet dining and lively exchange.


The Grand Bar

Horizons serves as an observation lounge by day and a vibrant evening venue by night, where dancing and cocktails under the glow of floor-to-ceiling windows create unforgettable moments. Its elegant, country club ambiance invites relaxation and enjoyment.


Horizons

Just a step away from the pool, Waves Bar is your oasis for refreshment in the midst of sun-soaked leisure. Offering a wide selection of drinks, it’s the perfect spot for a daytime cocktail or a sunset segue into the evening’s festivities.

Waves Bar

Kickstart your day with a healthful boost from the Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar, offering cold-pressed juices and plant-based smoothies for a refreshing and nutritious breakfast option at sea.

Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar

Experience the grandeur of The Grand Dining Room, a culinary homage to Europe's finest five-star restaurants. With its splendid decor and expansive menu of Continental dishes and global flavors, it offers a dining experience that combines elegance with an incredible variety of choices.

The Grand Dining Room

Toscana invites you on a journey through authentic Italian cuisine, where each dish tells a story passed down from generations. Savor masterfully prepared Tuscan delights served on elegant Versace china, capturing the essence of Italy's culinary heritage with every bite.

Toscana

Step into Polo Grill, where timeless elegance meets the perfection of classic steakhouse favorites. From USDA Prime certified Black Angus beef to meticulously prepared seafood dishes, every bite is a celebration of tradition and flavor, accompanied by the warmth of genuine hospitality.


Polo Grill

Immerse yourself in the elegance of French dining at Jacques, where the rich flavors of Master Chef Pépin’s cuisine meet the cozy charm of a Parisian bistro. From the rotisserie’s tender meats to the exquisitely prepared sea bass, every dish is a celebration of French culinary mastery.

Jacques

Experience the vibrant flavors and serene ambiance of Red Ginger, where modern Asian cuisine meets contemporary elegance. From spicy duck salads to rich Malaysian beef, each dish is a masterpiece of taste and harmony, designed to delight the senses.

Red Ginger

Terrace Café offers a relaxed retreat for informal dining, whether it's a sunlit breakfast, flavorful lunch, or sophisticated evening meal. With international-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and a diverse selection of plant-based options, every moment at the Terrace Café is a culinary delight.

Terrace Café

Indulge in casual luxury with Waves Grill's alfresco dining experience, offering a tempting menu of all-American favorites steps from the poolside. Treat yourself to decadent desserts like homemade passion fruit sorbet and hand-dipped milkshakes, making every bite a delightful escape.

Waves Grill

Treat your taste buds to specialty coffee perfection at Baristas, where expertly crafted illy® espressos and lattes await. Pair your beverage with delectable pastries and homemade biscotti, creating the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.

Baristas

Indulge in the timeless elegance of Afternoon Tea, a daily celebration featuring a classical string quartet, a splendid array of pastries, finger sandwiches, and a diverse selection of traditional and artisanal teas. This cherished pastime offers a moment of luxury and relaxation amidst the day's adventures.

Afternoon Tea

Privée offers an unparalleled private dining experience for those seeking exclusivity and personalized gourmet menus. Set beneath a golden Venini chandelier, this venue promises a memorable evening for up to 10 guests in a setting of unmatched luxury.

Privée

Discover the pinnacle of culinary and wine excellence at La Reserve, where legendary partnerships with Wine Spectator and Moët & Chandon elevate dining to an art form. Indulge in pairing dinners and wine tastings that celebrate the joys of gastronomy and fine wine.

La Reserve by Wine Spectator

Experience vitality cuisine at AQUAMAR, inspired by the renowned Mediterranean diet, offering the freshest, highest-quality ingredients and gourmet plant-based dishes. With extensive menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including energizing options at the Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar, delight your palate while nourishing your body on our ships.

Aquamar Vitality Cuisine

Elevate your cruise experience with our in-room dining options, offering a diverse menu available 24/7, including complimentary full hot breakfasts and expanded lunch/dinner choices for Concierge Level guests. Indulge in course-by-course meals in the comfort of your suite, or savor a tranquil meal on your private veranda, all while taking in breathtaking seascapes.

In-Room Dining Experiences

Enrich your cruise experience with fascinating insights from our Guest Speakers, delving into the cultures, stories, and themes of the regions visited. With additional enrichment programs on select sailings and complimentary health and wellness seminars, our talks offer meaningful engagement and the chance to reinvigorate your lifestyle.


Guest Speakers

Immerse yourself in the world of dazzling performances onboard, where each night offers a new spectacle of world-class musical talents, including pianists, classical string quartets, and dynamic vocalists. With an ever-changing lineup, the entertainment is as diverse as it is captivating, promising a perfect night of enjoyment for every taste.


Onboard Shows

Step into the spotlight with Broadway in Concert, a dazzling tribute to the iconic musicals that have shaped the world of theater. Our talented vocalists bring to life beloved songs and hidden gems in this elegant concert-style review. It's a celebration of show business that's bound to captivate theater lovers of all ages.

Broadway in Concert

"Lights, Camera, Music" is a spectacular journey through the most memorable moments of movie musicals, capturing the essence of Hollywood's golden age to the exuberant scenes of modern classics. Experience the magic of cinema through live performances that celebrate iconic scenes and soundtracks, bringing the thrill of the movies to the stage.

Lights, Camera, Music!

"What the World Needs Now" is a graceful homage to Burt Bacharach's revolutionary impact on music, blending iconic melodies with intricate dance sequences. This elegant production takes audiences on a profound musical exploration of love's complexities, performed by a talented cast accompanied by a live orchestra.

What the World Needs Now

"World Beat" offers a vibrant celebration of global cultures through music and dance, reflecting the diverse origins of the crew. From the rhythmic Tinikling of the Philippines to the dramatic flair of Bollywood and the precision of Irish dance, this show provides a dynamic and enriching cross-continental experience.

World Beat

The Riviera Lounge on Oceania Cruises is your premier destination for an eclectic mix of entertainment, featuring everything from comedy to jazz, ensuring every night is a memorable one.

Riviera Lounge

Embark on a wellness journey at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, where restorative therapies, healthy cuisine, and enriching wellness experiences await. From rejuvenating treatments to immersive wellness excursions, every aspect is designed to enhance your health and vitality onboard.


Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center

Experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation at the Aquamar Spa Terrace, where the therapeutic benefits of a thalassotherapy pool or whirlpools await. This serene sanctuary is designed to soothe the mind and body, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views and tranquil waters.

Aquamar Spa Terrace

Revitalize your body in the therapeutic embrace of our Thalassotherapy Pool. This saltwater sanctuary is perfect for soothing sore muscles, improving circulation, and easing joint pain, making it an ideal wellness complement to any cruise experience.

Thalassotherapy Pool

Enhance your wellness journey in our aromatic steam room, where temperature-regulated steam infused with herbal essences improves your skin and mood. This multisensory experience offers a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Aromatic Steam Room

Immerse yourself in the healing properties of the ocean with our selection of body therapies. From Musclease Ocean Wraps to Intensely Cleansing Salt Scrubs, our treatments are designed to detoxify and nourish, leaving your skin purified and refreshed.

Body Therapies

Discover the art of relaxation and rejuvenation with our signature massage therapies at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Each therapy, from Aroma Stone to Thai Herbal Poultice massages, is crafted to restore harmony and balance to body and spirit, using natural ingredients and a blend of ancient and modern techniques.

Massage Therapies

Experience the transformative power of our facial therapies, where ancient massage techniques meet modern skin care to deliver essential vitamins and nutrients. Our Pro-Collagen Age Defy and Caviar Firm And Lift facials are signature services designed to rejuvenate and revitalize.

Facial Therapies

Elevate your look with our luxury salon and barber shop services, offering everything from personalized hair treatments to deluxe manicures and pedicures. Our experienced stylists and barbers use premium products to ensure you look and feel your best.

Salon & Barber Shop Services

At the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, modern cosmetic treatments meet the expertise of licensed physicians. Discover non-invasive procedures to rejuvenate your skin and body, ensuring minimal downtime. It's your secret to a refreshed and youthful appearance at sea.


Medi-Spa Services

Start your day with serenity by joining our complimentary yoga classes, designed to enhance your inner peace, flexibility, and strength. From sunrise sessions to introductory classes, there's a perfect match for every skill level, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery.

Yoga

Strengthen your core and improve your posture with our Pilates classes, a low-impact exercise regimen focusing on flexibility, endurance, and muscle control. Our expert instructors ensure a welcoming environment for developing core stability and enhancing overall body health.

Pilates

Experience a holistic workout with Kinesis® aboard Marina and Riviera. This innovative exercise wall offers a unique blend of cardio, strength, and flexibility training. Tailored for all fitness levels, it's the perfect way to maintain your fitness routine in motion.

Kinesis

Energize your body with a workout in our state-of-the-art fitness center, featuring the latest in cardio and strength-training equipment. Join our complimentary classes for an extra boost of motivation, from bootcamps to indoor cycling, tailored to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Cardio & Strength Training

Embrace a healthier you with our complimentary fitness classes, catering to all levels of experience. From strength training to stretching and foot fitness, our professional instructors are dedicated to guiding you through each session, ensuring a fulfilling and beneficial workout.


Free Fitness Classes

Embrace the beauty of the sea and sky while keeping active on our running track. Whether you're starting your day with an energizing jog or enjoying a leisurely walk, the stunning views and fresh sea air offer a perfect backdrop for exercise and reflection.


Running Track

Elevate your wellness journey with our comprehensive range of complimentary fitness classes, from Pilates and yoga to strength training. Our state-of-the-art fitness center also offers the latest exercise equipment and personal training sessions, catering to all your fitness needs.


Fitness Center

Find your peaceful haven on our private sundeck, the ultimate spot for solitude and relaxation. Whether seeking a meditative moment or simply a break from the buzz, the sundeck offers a tranquil retreat to recharge.


Sundeck

The Riviera, renowned for its upscale ambiance, excels in delivering a luxurious cruise experience. It features elegantly appointed cabins with premium materials, alongside recently renovated public areas, contributing to its sophisticated appeal. Dining on the Riviera is a highlight, offering an exquisite culinary experience led by notable partnerships and enhanced by its on-board Culinary Center and specialty dining venues like La Reserve.

Experience the world's ancient wellness traditions with our Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar. Explore exotic locales and learn about timeless health practices, all while enjoying unique, rejuvenating excursions designed to enhance your well-being.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Riviera

Soar over the scenic Tongass National Forest in a DeHavilland floatplane and land in a remote area frequented by black bears. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, hike to a viewing platform that overlooks a salmon stream, where bears can often be seen catching fish mid-leap. The experience offers stunning wilderness views from both the air and ground, along with the opportunity to witness black bears and bald eagles in their natural habitat. The floatplane flight alone provides a remarkable perspective of Alaska's wild beauty.

Take a scenic trolley ride to Potlatch Totem Park, home to a vast collection of hand-carved Native American totem poles. As you explore the park, you’ll learn about the rich symbolism behind the intricate designs, with some poles representing tribal clans and others portraying the connection between humans and spiritual beings. Watch artisans work on totem poles using traditional methods, and stroll through authentic clan houses that showcase the daily life of the native people in the 1800s. The park also features a surprising collection of vintage cars, adding an unexpected twist to your visit.

Cheer for world-class lumberjacks as they compete in high-energy events like pole climbing, log rolling, and axe throwing in this thrilling showdown between Alaska’s finest and British Columbia’s top woodsmen. Held right on the pier, the lively competition honors the region’s logging heritage while showcasing incredible athleticism in more than a dozen exciting events. After the show, take advantage of the convenient location to explore the nearby town of Ketchikan.

Fish like an Alaskan local in protected waters far from crowded fishing spots. With expert guidance, you’ll try your hand at reeling in a variety of species, including rockfish, cod, and possibly halibut (though halibut fishing is restricted on Mondays). As you drift and jig in deep waters, you might also spot marine wildlife like breaching whales, seals, and eagles. Whether you're a novice or seasoned angler, this fishing expedition promises a rewarding, immersive Alaskan experience.

Savor an authentic Alaskan crab feast at the historic George Inlet Lodge, where you’ll dine on succulent Dungeness crabs freshly caught from the Pacific Ocean. As you drive along the scenic coastal road to the remote lodge, you’ll be treated to views of Revillagigedo Island's stunning natural beauty. At the waterfront lodge, once a salmon cannery bunkhouse, enjoy a delicious meal featuring local specialties like smoked salmon dip and blueberry-topped dessert. After your feast, you may explore the lodge and learn about its fascinating history, including its move from its original location 90 miles away.

Drive an off-road adventure kart through the rugged terrain of a private rainforest preserve in Ketchikan, Alaska. This thrilling 90-minute guided trek will take you along winding mountain trails, offering breathtaking views of the Tongass National Forest, Behm Canal, and the Inside Passage. Stop at scenic overlooks to soak in the grandeur and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including eagles, deer, and possibly bears. Drivers and passengers can switch positions during the expedition for a shared adventure.

Embark on a scenic cruise through the breathtaking Misty Fjords aboard the Wilderness Explorer, where glaciers have sculpted the rugged terrain into towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. As you navigate the Behm Canal and Revillagigedo Channel, keep an eye out for marine wildlife such as orcas, seals, and porpoises, with occasional stops to view highlights like an active bald eagle nest and the dramatic volcanic spire, New Eddystone Rock. Enrich your journey with insights from a naturalist and a Tlingit storyteller, who will share cultural traditions and the history of the area.

The Russians first gained a foothold in Alaska in 1804 by overpowering the indigenous Tlingits. That battlefield is now part of the Sitka National Historical Park, where you will browse exhibits explaining the conflict. Here you can walk the forest trail lined with totems, view cultural exhibits or talk with local native artists. This tour also presents the chance to see Alaskan wildlife up close at the Alaska Raptor Center, a rehabilitation facility for birds of prey. This Bald Eagle Center operates with bird care professionals assisted by volunteers to rescue birds, provide them with rehabilitative care and hopefully release them back into the wild. Time will be available to view the flight center, clinic window, outside deck habitat areas and gift shop.

Discover Sitka’s history and natural beauty on a revealing walk through the city and by meandering along a nature trail in Sitka National Historical Park. Your immersion into the surrounding natural world begins at the Alaska Raptor Center, where you will see how injured birds of prey are rehabilitated in hopes of releasing them back into the wild. The guide will further elaborate on the area’s wildlife and flora during a walk through verdant Tongass National Forest, parts of which lie within Sitka National Historical Park. You will follow a trail lined with totem poles that relate stories of Alaska’s native cultures. Back in Sitka, you will see St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Russian bishop’s house, two landmarks that show how deeply the Russians influenced Sitka’s early development. Other architectural highlights include a number of restored Victorian homes and author James Michener’s residence where he wrote the historical novel “Alaska.”

Explore a side of Sitka that few visitors experience by bicycling around town and walking through a rainforest. The bicycling portion of the tour will begin along the undeveloped coastline south of town. Here, nature reigns supreme. Forest-covered mountains rise in the distance, uninhabited islands dot the bays and wildlife flourishes. It’s no wonder that Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society recommends this tour as an inspiration to act responsibly for the protection of our planet’s vital ecosystems. This part of Alaska has changed little over the centuries and the intention is to retain the natural beauty in its pristine condition. You will enjoy a different perspective of Sitka’s natural wonders by walking through Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in America. Along the way, the guide will point out the most noteworthy flora and fauna and describe the species in detail.

Cruise the pristine waters off Sitka in search of marine life such as sea otters while listening to a naturalist elaborate on the most intriguing characteristics of the species. You may settle into a comfortable seat in the boat’s main cabin or remain topside on the observation deck. Either way, you will enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sea. As you scan the waters for marine life, the naturalist will describe how humpback whales feed here in the summer and how animals such as sea otters now thrive. The animals were nearly extinct due to aggressive fur hunting in the early 1800s, and their comeback is a wonderful success story. Other creatures commonly spotted include sea lions, porpoise, harbor seals and a huge variety of seabirds. Puffins are particularly easy to identify because of their bright orange beaks.

Kayak through the typically calm, crystal-clear waters off Sitka, enjoying the serenity and natural beauty so characteristic of this area. Following a short orientation briefing, during which you will learn how to maximize the experience, you will ease into a two-person kayak and paddle off. The guide will lead the way and acquaint you with the marine environment. The backdrop of towering mountains blanketed by dense forests will be absolutely inspiring, one of the reasons that Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures recommends this excursion. While kayaking through the protected bays and inlets, you might spot bald eagles overhead or perched in the trees along the shore, hunting for fish near the surface. You may also see sea lions, harbor seals and porpoise as you paddle through the enchanting setting. Afterward, you will return to the base camp for a hot beverage and snack before being transferred back to the pier.

Ride through some of the most beautiful scenery in southeast Alaska on an electric-enhanced bicycle that will make the trip all the more exhilarating and fulfilling. After a brief orientation on how best to maximize the experience, you will pedal off caravan-style and follow a trail that runs through Sitka and along the coast. Although the Trek bike is able to boost your pedal power and reduce the physical demands, the ride will still be challenging. Even so, it will be well worth the effort. Depending on the route that the guide selects, you will ride somewhere between 16 and 22 miles. The trail will begin in Sitka but before long you will head into more rolling and mountainous terrain, much of it presenting sweeping views of the sea. Tongass National Forest provides a backdrop of stunning natural beauty, ensuring that no matter where you look the sights will be spectacular.

Take an unforgettable hike through Tongass National Forest, the world’s largest temperate rainforest, and observe the diversity of flora and fauna. You will follow the Starrigavin Trail through dense woods and muskeg, a common type of bog. In time, you will come to an estuary and creek, where the naturalist guide will explain the ecosystems, including how salmon spawn here each season. Once you reach the boardwalk, you will enjoy a different perspective of the estuary before ascending into the headlands. As the elevation rises, even slightly, you will notice a change in the vegetation. The animals that frequent these areas change accordingly, giving you a comprehensive look into the local forest life. You will also pass Mosquito Cove, an area named for the insects that swarmed here when charcoal was made during the early 19th century. Fortunately, the mosquitoes left when the industry died.

Meander through fragrant Butchart Gardens at your leisure, taking in the splendor of themed gardens featuring colorful flora from various countries and areas of the world. As you stroll the winding trails, it may be difficult to imagine that this incredibly lush, botanical wonderland was once a barren rock quarry. The transformation began in 1912, when Jennie Butchart started depositing top soil by horse and cart into a section of the abandoned quarry now known as the Sunken Garden. Be sure to see it and other highlights such as the aromatic Rose Garden, the exotic Mediterranean Garden and the Italian Garden near the Butchart family’s former estate. To minimize Butchart Gardens’ environmental impact, wood waste and branches are repurposed as mulch and weeds are treated organically. The gardens are so inspiring, you may wish to re-create a version once you return home by purchasing various seeds from the themed areas.

Stroll the enchanting streets of Victoria, the compact wonderfully walkable capital of British Columbia. As you walk along the harbor seawall and towards Beacon Hill Park, the views will become all the more spectacular. To enhance your historical understanding of Victoria, the guide will provide entertaining stories about the city’s development and blend of cultures. Canada’s oldest Chinatown is here, a result of the Chinese immigrants that arrived in the 19th century to build the railways and join the gold rush. You will pass countless shops and restaurants throughout Victoria that you may wish to explore later on your own. You can also expect to see landmarks such as the Royal British Columbia Museum and the parliament buildings. The tour ends at the Fairmont Empress hotel, a magnificent throwback to the glory days of the British Empire. Feel free to stay in town if you aren’t ready to return to the pier when the excursion ends.

Enjoy a panoramic driving tour through the heart of Victoria and then ramble through a Victorian castle that an industrialist built in the late 19th century. As you pass through downtown Victoria, chances are you will pass landmarks such as the parliament buildings, the grand Fairmont Empress hotel and the esteemed Royal British Columbia Museum, which holds a treasure-trove of natural history artifacts. In time, you will arrive at Craigdarroch Castle, which Scottish immigrant Robert Dunsmuir constructed after becoming fabulously wealthy from coal mined on Vancouver Island. You will tour the castle on your own, which you give you to opportunity to linger in the areas you find most intriguing. The meticulously restored castle is furnished with period pieces and features some of the finest stained-glass windows in North America, most of which depict floral scenes. Few places offer such a glimpse into privileged late 19th-century life.

Enjoy a remarkably comprehensive look at Victoria by traveling through its most representative residential neighborhoods and by passing the must-see landmarks such as the parliament complex. The tour begins by passing through a neighborhood of beautiful waterfront homes that overlook the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountain range beyond. Part of the international boundary between the United States and Canada lies in mid-channel. Still, Craigdarroch Castle is the most impressive residence in Victoria. As the guide will point out, a coal baron built the stone home in the late 19th century, although he died before it was completed. You will also pass key attractions in the inner harbor district, which include the Parliament of Victoria, the grand Fairmont Empress hotel and the Royal British Columbia Museum. This tour also allows you the option of staying in town at its conclusion and returning on your own later.

Cruise into the pristine waters off Victoria with whale spotters that will point out orcas and other marine creatures. After settling into the vessel, which features viewing areas inside and topside, you will head into the surrounding waters. Orcas are abundant here, as they come to feed primarily on Chinook salmon. Orcas are better known as killer whales, although they are actually members of the dolphin family. They typically travel in pods, which sometimes include as many as 80 orcas. It’s quite the sight to watch them zipping about as they use echolation to locate their prey. To enhance the experience, the ship’s engine will be cut off when orcas approach. Orcas are easy to identify because of their black-and-white markings and sleek appearance. Depending on the day, you may also spot minke whales, humpback whales and elephant seals. Birds are also abundant, so keep an eye out for osprey, bald eagles and peregrine falcons.

There are few places in the world to compare to the natural beauty and old world charm of the seaside city of Victoria. Dubbed the City of Gardens, due to its mild climate and near perfect growing conditions, this tour will take you on a horse-drawn journey you're sure to never forget.

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7 Night Alaska Cruise