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Experience Western Canada
Summer 2008
Based on family of four and ideal for family seeking adventure activities
Day One - Seattle Arrival
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel by Seattle Airporter
Seattle Hotel:
The Edgewater – Seattle’s only waterfront lodging
All the makings of a breathtaking Seattle vacation await you at The Edgewater. Nestled on Seattle’s waterfront at Pier 67, we’re surrounded by beauty: The majestic Olympic Mountains. The sparkling waters of Elliott Bay, and the velvety-pink sunsets of the Northwest sky. We’re in the heart of downtown Seattle, so you’ll be within walking distance to the city’s favourite sites. But you just might decide to relax right here, soaking up the view beside a river-rock fireplace.
City View: Double / Twin room
Day Two: Victoria
Seattle Harbour to Victoria Harbour by Ferry
Schedule:
Dep. SEA: 7:30 AM Arr. VIC: 10:30 AM
Dep. SEA: 8:30 AM Arr. VIC: 11:15 AM
Dep. SEA: 3:15 PM Arr. VIC: 6:00 PM
Victoria Hotel:
Hotel Grand Pacific The Hotel Grand Pacific enjoys a reputation as one of the finest five star hotels in British Columbia, Canada. Located in the heart of historic Victoria, the largest city on Vancouver Island, BC, Hotel Grand Pacific offers first-class accommodation and services for our guests - with an extensive range of business meeting, function rooms, banquet, catering, fitness and entertainment facilities. Set in the inspiring, relaxing surroundings of Victoria's Inner Harbour, we are adjacent to the Parliament Buildings and within strolling distance of the myriad of boutiques, museums, galleries and cafes of historic Old Town and Antique Row, as well as all the amenities in downtown Victoria.
2 x Standard Rooms Tea at the Empress Hotel
Indulge in one of Victoria's grandest traditions - Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Empress. For almost a century, the majestic lobby of this landmark hotel has played host to England's most beloved ritual - the taking of Afternoon Tea.
Served in the relaxing atmosphere of the elegantly restored Tea Lobby, overlooking Victoria's sparkling Inner Harbour in the stately Harborside Room or under the hand-painted ceiling of the Library, Afternoon Tea is an absolute 'must do' for all who visit Victoria.Times: 3:15 & 4:45
Days 3-5, 2008 Knight Inlet 3 Night Wildlife Trip
Victoria to Campbell River 3.5 Hours Driving
Leave Campbell River, on Vancouver Island, late afternoon in your float plane. Enjoy the view of the Coast Mountains, channels and fjords as they pass below. Land at Knight Inlet Lodge on Minstrel Island, the centre of the Knight Inlet wilderness area. Get settled in, meet your guide, relax, and set out on a short local trip to view Black Bear feeding on the beach. Return to the lodge and enjoy a delicious dinner and learn some background on the wildlife of the area. Coffee and breakfast included. You are off to Johnstone Strait, the summering grounds of the Orca [Killer Whale]. Cruise the area observing pods of these magnificent mammals and with a little luck you'll get to see their cousins, the Minke and Humpback Whales. Another day of diving Bald Eagles, Sea Lions, Seals, Black Bears and the magnificent White-Sided Dolphins.
After a beach lunch or boat picnic there is more exploring, wildlife viewing, and, if you’re inclined, some fishing.
After coffee and breakfast you are off to your boat with your guide. Travel the shores of Knight Inlet, a spectacular scenic fjord, to Glendale Cove where you ride our "Grizzly Bus" [Aug 26-Oct15] up to the salmon spawning channel. Here you can photo huge Grizzly Bears as they feed on these fish using dives, scoops and plunges to trap their prey. Observe two hours from our viewing stand and then back to the boat for lunch and more Grizzly Bear viewing at the Glendale River estuary. Trips before August 26 view the grizzly bears interacting and feeding in the estuary and on the beaches near the river. Cruise Knight Inlet home to Knight Inlet Lodge to meet your late afternoon plane back to Campbell River. Sometimes we change the order of the viewing days to accommodate better Grizzly Bear or Whale viewing. (NB I can explain more as to how all of this works; I have done it myself!)
Includes:
- Floatplane to and from Campbell River
- All meals listed in itinerary
- Whale Watching
- Wildlife Viewing-Bear viewing at Glendale River Estuary
Notes: Fishing is optional-license not included
Day 6-7, Vancouver
Drive to Vancouver via Nanaimo, and ferry (approx 5 hours in all)
Hotel Vancouver:
Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside
Located on the waterfront in British Columbia, the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside is in the heart of it all and is within walking distance of the Cruise Ship Terminal and the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre, as well as being just steps away from shopping, Historic Gastown and the 1,000 acre Stanley Park. Enjoy the scenic attractions of downtown Vancouver while staying in one of their 
hotel suites and hotel rooms with sweeping views of Coal Harbour and the beautiful coastal mountains. 2 x Standard Rooms
Optional Tours:
Vancouver Mountains & Capilano Suspension Bridge
Taking you from sea level to 4,100 feet above Vancouver. First stop, Capilano Salmon Hatchery with extensive educational displays covering many aspects of the salmon life cycle and the functioning of the hatchery. Next, continue on to Capilano Suspension Bridge where you will have time to take a heart-quickening walk 230 feet above the floor of Capilano Canyon across the 450-foot suspension bridge span. Ascend the mountainside to Grouse Mountain, where breathtaking views of the city, ocean and surrounding mountains unfold as the Skyride whisks you on a one-mile aerial journey to the Peak of Vancouver. Visit orphaned Grizzly Bears and Grey Wolves, safe and protected at the Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, and enjoy the magic of "Theatre in the Sky". Return to Vancouver via the spectacular Lions Gate Bridge.
Cost per person: CAD $128.00 Adult, $85.00 Child (3-11)
Duration: 5.0 hours
Kayaking Eco Tour
This is an easy 2.5-hour introduction to being on the water in an ocean kayak. Explore the urban scenery of the False Creek waterway and paddle English Bay with the beautiful Coast Mountains as your backdrop. It is perfect for a taste of ocean kayaking or for friends visiting from out of town. Beginners welcome.
Cost per person: CAD $ 64.00
Duration: 2.5 hours
Sea Safari
Grab a seat on our custom-designed, high-speed, 28 ft. rigid hull inflatable, powered by twin Verado Mercury 4 stroke outboard engines. With an experienced guide at the helm, you won't miss a thing on your Guided Group Nature Tour. Our Howe Sound safari takes you on a 2 hour adventure to the spectacular scenery and wildlife which make coastal British Columbia world famous! Points of interest are Pam Rocks, a Harbour Seal haul out, normally complemented by majestic bald eagles soaring overhead. We'll cruise out into The Strait of Georgia to see awesome views of Vancouver. On our return to Horseshoe Bay we'll view spectacular waterfront homes around West Vancouver.
Cost per person: CAD $ 91.00 adults, $82.00 children
Duration: 2.0 hours
Days 8-9 Whistler
Vancouver to Whistler-approximately 3.5 hours driving
Whistler Hotel:
Summit Lodge
Located on the edge of Village North, Summit Lodge and Spa is an intimate retreat with the luxuries of a first class hotel. Take a stroll through the Whistler Village, or enjoy the local fine dining. This convenient location puts you next door to the Marketplace's shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and Whistler's favourite entertainment spots. All of this is within ten minutes walking of both mountain gondolas. Enjoy the brand new Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa now open at the Summit Lodge & spa.
2 x Standard Rooms
Whistler Activities
Skyline Eco Tour
The longest line is over 1500ft long and over 200ft above the ground. Our leading edge technology takes you flying side by side on a unique tandem-line system through a set of 6 skylines. Reach new heights at 200ft above the ground and speeds of up to 80km/h.Each take off and landing platform is equipped with a shelter in case of inclement weather and includes fascinating interpretive information and photos. Our backcountry guides will lead you through a safety orientation onto the first 350ft Skyline. This exciting line takes you over 16 Mile Creek and through the surrounding old growth forest. You then head to the top of the course where you begin you descent on a further 5 Skylines, eventually end up back at our base area. During the descent our guides will provide a full eco experience, including information on the surrounding forest and wildlife.
Notes:
- Minimum age is 8 years
- Minimum weight is 60lbs, Maximum weight is 250lbs
- All guests 14 years and over are required to sign a liability waiver. Children under 19 are required to have a guardian sign their liability waiver.
- Wear clothes suitable for prevailing weather conditions.
- During winter, ski/snowboard gear is recommended. Goggles are available for use.
Inclusions:
- All necessary gear
- All instruction and guide
Cost per person: From $125.00CAD
Departure times: 2:00 PM
Duration: 3.0 hours
Edgewater Ride
This 1-hour trail ride is an easy trail ride for beginners, families and kids that goes through the forest, across a river and out to a sandy beach lookout on Green Lake. Departs daily on the hour from 9am – 5pm. Long pants required and shoes with a heel, helmets provided.
Notes:
- Minimum age 9 years old and 4 feet tall
- 16 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
- Maximum weight of 230 pounds
- No experience is necessary. The ride is for everybody including beginners
- All guests are required to sign a liability waiver
- Sensible shoes (no sandals), long trousers, sunscreen, and hat.
- Backcountry sports activities are not recommended for individuals who are pregnant, suffer from back or neck pain, heart or respiratory distress
Cost: From $75.00CAD per person
Departure: Hourly Departures
Duration: 2.5 hours including transportation to and from stables
Nairn Falls Nature Walk
Tag along on an easy two hour nature walk along the lower Green River, through an aromatic West Coast cedar forest. We will stop at a safe look-out bluff 180 feet above the thundering water falls below. Includes return transportation and guide.
Notes:
- Wear clothes suitable for prevailing weather conditions
- Sensible shoes (no sandals), sunscreen, and hat.
Inclusions:
- Round trip transportation
- Refreshments
- Guide service
Cost: From $74.00 CAD per person.
Duration: 2 Hours
Whistler Valley Tour
This is an easy two hour scenic mountain bike tour. Your guide will lead you around the local valley trail networks and the forest. All ability levels welcome includes single track trails through the forest. Whistler is fast becoming a haven for mountain bike enthusiasts, thanks to a fantastic variety of terrain and obstacles. But you don’t have to be an adrenaline-addicted hardcore to enjoy the hundreds of trails. There are courses for every skill level and they let you experience all this legendary fun for less than you thought possible.
Inclusions:
Bike, helmet and guide
Cost per person: From $95.00 CAD
Duration: 2 Hours
Day 10 Kamloops Whistler to Kamloops
Approximately 6 hours driving.
Kamloops Hotel:
Delta Sun Peaks Resort
With breathtaking views on all sides, this European-style village is a gorgeous setting from sunrise to sundown, any time of year. Located in British Columbia’s beautiful and striking Thompson Okanagan. Sun Peaks has an abundance of activity for everyone all year-round.
This winter, float through the famous, fresh champagne powder on a Sun Peaks Snowmobile Tour. See how you would fare at the Olympics: ski with Olympic gold medallist Nancy Greene! Start a pick-up game of hockey on the full-sized outdoor rink or grab a tube and slide down the lanes at Tube Time.
The centrepiece of this village, Delta Sun Peaks Resort is the largest full-service hotel and conference centre. This family oriented resort is very affordable compared to most. Let our shuttle service pick you up in Kamloops and bring right to our front door so you can start your adventures in our backyard. The resort is only 45 minutes from Kamloops and is easily accessed from Vancouver, Seattle, Spokane, Calgary and Edmonton.
2 x Double / Twin Room
Day 11: Jasper
Kamloops to Jasper – approximately 5 hours driving.
Jasper Hotel:
Mt Robson Inn
While planning your vacation in Jasper National Park, the Mount Robson Inn offers everything you would want for your family, fun, business or honeymoon getaway. With its breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies, this Jasper hotel is centrally located for visitors to spend their days sightseeing, exploring wildlife and enjoying the year round outdoor and sporting activities. After a day of adventure, relax in one of our 80 luxurious rooms and suites that are fully equipped with first rate amenities
2 x Standard Rooms
Optional Tours Jasper:
Discover Jasper
The proposal for a railway line through Yellowhead Pass prompted the Dominion Government to form Jasper National Park in 1907. Explore the history and beauty of the most rugged peaks in the Rockies. Marvel at the spectacular natural attractions that are celebrated by our National Parks. Journey by luxury motorcoach allowing for stops to photograph wildlife. After your excursion visit the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum for more stories and heritage of this mountain community.
Cost per person CAD: From $33.00Adult/ $33.00Child
Duration: 4 Hours
Discover Jasper & Maligne Lake Cruise
Maligne Valley exhibits natural wonders including a disappearing lake and the most extensive system of karst topography in world (limestone with sinkholes, underground streams and caverns). These stories are tied together through the early natives, explorers and adventurers who opened up this area of the Canadian Rockies. The day is completed with a 90-minute cruise to the world famous Spirit Island.
Cost per person CAD: From $111.00Adult /$57.00Child
Duration: 6.0 Hours
Columbia Icefield with Ice Explorer and Heli-Tour
The Columbia Icefield is the Parkway’s crown jewel where you join a Brewster guide to experience a 90-minute ride on an all-terrain Ice Explorer. Learn about the natural processes that created this natural splendour and stand on ancient ice while sipping the fresh waters of its rivers. Later, take a thrilling 20 minute helicopter ride over the Wilson Glacier, located just east of the Athabasca Glacier.
Cost per person CAD: From $379.00
Duration: 9 Hours
Day 12-13 Banff
Jasper to Banff - Approximately 4 hours driving.
Banff Hotel:
Fox Hotel and Suites
Waterfalls and mountain springs are brought to life in the Fox’s design. Capturing the historic and natural elements of Banff National Park, the hotel’s centerpiece is the hot pool inspired by the original Cave and Basin Site. The new Fox offers a unique accommodation style in Banff, with one and two bedroom suites and hotel rooms. Come visit us and be sure to try our Chili’s World Famous margaritas on the street front patio.
2 x Standard Rooms
Optional Tours
Banff Columbia with Ice Explorer
Voyage through the remnants of the last Ice Age and look upon the monuments of rock and ice that remain today. When at the Columbia Icefield, have the experience of a lifetime on the surface of the Athabasca Glacier on specially designed, all-terrain Ice Explorers. The Ice Age meets the Space Age as you learn the natural and human history of this remarkable area.
Cost per person CAD: From $179.00 Adult, $99.00 Child
Duration: 9.0 hours
Discover Banff with Gondola
For many decades the interest of visitors was based around finding a route to the Pacific Ocean. It was not until the Canadian Pacific Railway pushed through these peaks that people came to stay. Explore our stories of the people, geology, and the building of this mountain town.
Cost per person CAD: From $92.00
Duration 3.0 Hours
Lake Minnewanka Coach & Cruise
As the largest lake in Banff National Park, Lake Minnewanka provides a stunning backdrop to a wealth of human and natural history information, a rich lore of native legends and abundant wildlife along her shores. Join us for a leisurely boat cruise and interpretive narrative onboard the "Water of the Spirits".
Cost per person CAD: From $70.00
Duration: 3 Hours
Half Day Whitewater
Class III - IV - Kicking Horse River
The Kicking Horse River is a World-Class whitewater river and the best rafting river in the Canadian Rockies. Renowned for numerous powerful rapids with evocative names like "Shotgun", "Tablesaw", "Roller Coaster" and "The Last Waltz". In all, you'll splash through 14 sets of rapids class II to IV while on the river for 1¼ to 1½ hours! Some rapids consist of a number of rolling waves which provide a gentle roller-coaster style ride while other rapids consist of one or two large breaking waves, which douse rafters with gallons of liquid fun! Between rapids, the gentler flow allows you to view the surrounding mountains with pine trees sweeping up their steep sides. Your trip begins in Lake Louise, aboard the luxury buses bound for Wild Water Adventures exclusive River Base. Your on-board guide will entertain and inform you about Banff and Yoho National Parks, as you pass over the Great Divide and down The Big Hill to the famous Kicking Horse River. At the River Base you'll be outfitted with the latest in river rafting equipment. following a thorough safety briefing by your guide. At the conclusion of your trip, fresh pastries are served with hot and cold drinks following a short transfer back to the "RiverBase trip leader, you'll meet your guide for the trip and practice paddling, security manoeuvres, and emergency rescue techniques before reaching the first exhilarating waves " and then on your way back to Lake Louise filled with great, lasting memories of your trip with Wild Water Adventures!
Morning Trip: 8:15am - 1:00pm
Afternoon Trip: 1:30pm - 6:15pm
Operating Season: May 20 to Sept. 15th
Inclusions:
- All rafting equipment
- Transportation (available for fee)
- Fresh pastries with hot & cold beverages
- Use of our River Base.
Notes:
- It is advisable that you bring a swimsuit and a towel
- Minimum age is 12 years, 90lbs
Cost per person CAD:
From $129.00 With transportation
From $105.00 Adult Without Transportation
Days 14-15, 2008 Calgary
Banff to Calgary-approximately 2 hours driving
DELTA CALGARY AIRPORT
Double or Twin
Whether you are planning to head downtown or to the country, the newly renovated Delta Calgary Airport is perfectly situated to give you easy access. The city's only airport hotel is conveniently located in the Calgary International Airport, on the departures level.
Situated on the banks of the Bow River, among the rolling foothills of Alberta, with the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains in the background, Calgary is a sight to be seen.
If you have some time to kill, hit the links on one of the nearby golf courses. Jet to the Aero Space Museum Association of Calgary, where you can see state of the art and vintage aircrafts, including the military's McDonnell Douglas CF-101B Voodoo from post World War II and a Sopwith Triplane from World War I. Check out a moon rock, on loan from NASA, to Calgary International Airport's Spaceport™.
Make your trip hassle-free with Delta Calgary Airport's convenient location for those early morning or late night flights. Relax in the comfort of one of our guest suites, where French doors open into the spacious living room. Refresh yourself after the day's adventures with a dip in the indoor pool. Treat yourself to some mouth-watering, Alberta Beef at steakhouse Dining Room.
Return from Calgary Airport - End of Zeta Services
DEPOSITS, CANCELLATIONS, CHANGES AND REFUNDS
Estimated Cost PER PERSON: £1880 BASED ON PER PERSON SHARING
A deposit of 50% at the time of booking is required. Balance is due 60 days prior to your first day of travel.
Includes:
Accommodation described above, including taxes
Seattle transfers
Seattle – Victoria ferry (passenger)
Tea at the Empress
Complete package at Knight Inlet including Grizzly and Whale watching
Excludes:
Optional Tours which can be priced in
Ferry Nanimo – Vancouver (although this can be pre booked and included)
Car Rental
All flights
Meals unless included above
All other taxes, tips, etc
A cancellation fee of 20% will apply for cancellations 60-90 days prior to first travel day and 100% of the total amount for cancellation within 60 days prior to first day of travel. Changes are subject to fees. All services in Canada are priced in Canadian Dollars and all services in the US are in USD.
Price indicated here in £ is therefore subject to change with the exchange rates. At the time of deposit, space will be booked and the costs will be confirmed at that time. Rates are subject to change.