Western Canada with Inside Passage & Alaska Cruise
Western Canada with Inside Passage & Alaska Cruise
Western Canada with Inside Passage & Alaska Cruise
21 Days Starting in Calgary, Canada and ending in Vancouver, Canada
Visiting: Calgary, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Prince Rupert, Inside Passage, Vancouver Island, Victoria, Vancouver, Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, Ketchikan, North America
Tour operator:
Tour code:
8985-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
21-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Western Canada and Alaska with the "Western Canada with Inside Passage & Alaska Cruise" tour. Begin your adventure in Calgary, exploring iconic sites like Fort Calgary and Canada Olympic Park. Venture into the breathtaking landscapes of Banff and Jasper National Parks, where you can hike, boat, and ride horseback amidst stunning natural beauty. Experience the thrill of the Ice Explorer at the Columbia Icefield and enjoy a scenic train ride on VIA Rail's Skeena. Cruise through the majestic Inside Passage, spotting sea lions and possibly killer whales, before exploring the charming city of Victoria. Conclude your journey with a luxurious cruise through Alaska's awe-inspiring waterways, including Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage, with opportunities to witness orcas, humpback whales, and more. This tour promises a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Calgary
Location: Calgary
Accommodation Name: Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown Hotel
Welcome to Calgary! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.
CALGARY Welcome to Calgary! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.
Day 2: Calgary,Banff National Park
Location: Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge
This morning, take a city tour of Calgary, home to the world-famous Calgary Stampede. Highlights include downtown, Fort Calgary, Stampede Park, the Saddledome, and Canada Olympic Park. Then travel west into the majestic Canadian Rockies and beautiful Banff National Park where you’ll spend the next two nights. Have an orientation tour upon arrival.
CALGARY–BANFF NATIONAL PARK This morning, take a city tour of Calgary, home to the world-famous Calgary Stampede. Highlights include downtown, Fort Calgary, Stampede Park, the Saddledome, and Canada Olympic Park. Then travel west into the majestic Canadian Rockies and beautiful Banff National Park where you’ll spend the next two nights. Have an orientation tour upon arrival.
Day 3: Banff National Park
Location: Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge
Enjoy your day exploring Banff, one of Canada’s favorite year-round resorts, with summer activities including hiking, boating, horseback riding, and fishing. Your Tour Director will have lots of suggestions. Lift your sights higher on an exhilarating optional helicopter ride with spectacular views over the Canadian Rockies.
BANFF NATIONAL PARK Enjoy your day exploring Banff, one of Canada’s favorite year-round resorts, with summer activities including hiking, boating, horseback riding, and fishing. Your Tour Director will have lots of suggestions. Lift your sights higher on an exhilarating optional helicopter ride with spectacular views over the Canadian Rockies.
Day 4: Banff National Park,Columbia Icefield,Lake Louise,Jasper National Park
Location: Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Tonquin Inn
As we journey north, view precipitous gorges, snowcapped mountain ranges, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens. Stop at Lake Louise, its turquoise waters perfectly mirroring the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Continue to the Columbia Icefield to experience a ride on the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet thick! Winding our way up the western fringe of Alberta, our journey takes us through some of the Canadian Rockies’ most breathtaking wilderness. Later, drift through natural wonders on an optional float trip down the Athabasca River. In Jasper, an orientation tour showcases the area’s unspoiled beauty.
BANFF NATIONAL PARK–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–LAKE LOUISE–JASPER NATIONAL PARK As we journey north, view precipitous gorges, snowcapped mountain ranges, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens. Stop at Lake Louise, its turquoise waters perfectly mirroring the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Continue to the Columbia Icefield to experience a ride on the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet thick! Winding our way up the western fringe of Alberta, our journey takes us through some of the Canadian Rockies’ most breathtaking wilderness. Later, drift through natural wonders on an optional float trip down the Athabasca River. In Jasper, an orientation tour showcases the area’s unspoiled beauty.
Day 5: Jasper National Park
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Tonquin Inn
Make your day magical with an optional narrated cruise on Maligne Lake and see much-photographed Spirit Island*. The balance of the day is free to enjoy everything Jasper has to offer, from guided hikes and quaint shops to meandering wildlife.*This optional excursion begins operating in late May/early June.
JASPER NATIONAL PARK Make your day magical with an optional narrated cruise on Maligne Lake and see much-photographed Spirit Island*. The balance of the day is free to enjoy everything Jasper has to offer, from guided hikes and quaint shops to meandering wildlife.*This optional excursion begins operating in late May/early June.
Day 6: Jasper National Park,Mount Robson,Prince George
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Ramada Plaza Prince George
Depart Jasper and follow the Fraser River to the base of Mount Robson, the highest of Canada’s Rockies at almost 13,000 feet. Continue to Prince George, the province’s “northern capital” for an overnight stay.
JASPER NATIONAL PARK–MOUNT ROBSON–PRINCE GEORGE Depart Jasper and follow the Fraser River to the base of Mount Robson, the highest of Canada’s Rockies at almost 13,000 feet. Continue to Prince George, the province’s “northern capital” for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Prince George,Smithers,Via Rail The Skeena,Prince Rupert
Location: Prince Rupert
Accommodation Name: Crest Hotel
Today board VIA Rail’s Skeena train for the trip of a lifetime. Sit back and enjoy an all-daylight journey that winds its way through the majestic Coast Mountains, follows the mighty Skeena River—often referred to as the “River of Mists.” Retrace the steps of the ancient First Nations trading routes and follow the paths of the earliest fur traders. Soaring bald eagles, inquisitive black bears, browsing moose, and other wildlife may be spotted. Disembark in Prince Rupert for a two-night stay.NOTE:Train travel is subject to unforeseen delays.
PRINCE GEORGE–SMITHERS–VIA RAIL THE SKEENA–PRINCE RUPERT Today board VIA Rail’s Skeena train for the trip of a lifetime. Sit back and enjoy an all-daylight journey that winds its way through the majestic Coast Mountains, follows the mighty Skeena River—often referred to as the “River of Mists.” Retrace the steps of the ancient First Nations trading routes and follow the paths of the earliest fur traders. Soaring bald eagles, inquisitive black bears, browsing moose, and other wildlife may be spotted. Disembark in Prince Rupert for a two-night stay.NOTE:Train travel is subject to unforeseen delays.
Day 8: Prince Rupert
Location: Prince Rupert
Accommodation Name: Crest Hotel
Enjoy an orientation tour of Prince Rupert. Then visit the North Pacific Historic Fishing Village, a National Historic Site, for a guided tour of British Columbia’s oldest cannery village. Learn of the canning process and what life was like in the village in the last century during peak production. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
PRINCE RUPERT Enjoy an orientation tour of Prince Rupert. Then visit the North Pacific Historic Fishing Village, a National Historic Site, for a guided tour of British Columbia’s oldest cannery village. Learn of the canning process and what life was like in the village in the last century during peak production. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.
Day 9: Prince Rupert,Inside Passage Cruise,Port Hardy
Location: Inside Passage
Accommodation Name: Kwa'lilas Hotel
Early this morning, embark on one of the world’s most beautiful ocean voyages! The scenery is spectacular, with towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands, and virgin rainforests. Marine life abounds, often with sightings of sea lions and porpoises—you may even spot a killer whale! Late-evening arrival into Port Hardy.NOTE:Cruising time through the Inside Passage is approximately 16 hours. Please come prepared with all medications, eyeglasses, and any other items you will need.
PRINCE RUPERT–INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE–PORT HARDY Early this morning, embark on one of the world’s most beautiful ocean voyages! The scenery is spectacular, with towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands, and virgin rainforests. Marine life abounds, often with sightings of sea lions and porpoises—you may even spot a killer whale! Late-evening arrival into Port Hardy.NOTE:Cruising time through the Inside Passage is approximately 16 hours. Please come prepared with all medications, eyeglasses, and any other items you will need.
Day 10: Port Hardy,Chemainus,Victoria
Location: Vancouver Island
Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
An early departure from Port Hardy follows the eastern coastline of Vancouver Island, through the port of Campbell River, the “Salmon Capital of the World.” Continue south with a stop in Chemainus, a unique village with more than 30 murals depicting pioneer settlement of the area. Late afternoon arrival into Victoria.
PORT HARDY–CHEMAINUS–VICTORIA An early departure from Port Hardy follows the eastern coastline of Vancouver Island, through the port of Campbell River, the “Salmon Capital of the World.” Continue south with a stop in Chemainus, a unique village with more than 30 murals depicting pioneer settlement of the area. Late afternoon arrival into Victoria.
Day 11: Victoria
Location: Victoria
Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Morning sightseeing includes the Inner Harbour, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles. The rest of the day is yours to explore this charming city. Perhaps have high tea at the Empress Hotel, visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, or stop to smell the roses and countless other gorgeous blooms on an optional excursion to Butchart Gardens with its 55-acres of magnificent floral displays. This evening, consider taking a relaxing stroll along the lovely Waterfront Promenade.
VICTORIA Morning sightseeing includes the Inner Harbour, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles. The rest of the day is yours to explore this charming city. Perhaps have high tea at the Empress Hotel, visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, or stop to smell the roses and countless other gorgeous blooms on an optional excursion to Butchart Gardens with its 55-acres of magnificent floral displays. This evening, consider taking a relaxing stroll along the lovely Waterfront Promenade.
Day 12: Victoria,Ferry Crossing,Vancouver Area
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Sandman Signature Vancouver Airport
Today we set sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an area known for its Mediterranean-like climate. Late afternoon arrival in Vancouver.
VICTORIA–FERRY CROSSING–VANCOUVER AREA Today we set sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an area known for its Mediterranean-like climate. Late afternoon arrival in Vancouver.
Day 13: Vancouver Area
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Sandman Signature Vancouver Airport
This morning, an included city tour highlights Stanley Park, Chinatown, the harbour, beaches, and more. The rest of the day is at leisure, and your Tour Director will have suggestions for your further exploration of the city. Maybe take a water taxi to lively Granville Island with its outdoor markets, street musicians, and waterfront cafés, or visit historic Gastown with its steam-powered clock, antique shops, art galleries, and street vendors.
VANCOUVER AREA This morning, an included city tour highlights Stanley Park, Chinatown, the harbour, beaches, and more. The rest of the day is at leisure, and your Tour Director will have suggestions for your further exploration of the city. Maybe take a water taxi to lively Granville Island with its outdoor markets, street musicians, and waterfront cafés, or visit historic Gastown with its steam-powered clock, antique shops, art galleries, and street vendors.
Day 14: Vancouver (Embarkation)
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Dinner
Embark your cruise ship. Your package price includes Holland America’s ‘Have It All Premium Cruise Package.
VANCOUVER (EMBARKATION) Embark your cruise ship. Your package price includes Holland America’s ‘Have It All Premium Cruise Package. (D)
Day 15: Scenic Cruising: Inside Passage
Location: Inside Passage
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day cruising one of the world’s most spectacular waterways. Located along the coast of British Columbia, the Inside Passage is the longest sheltered inland waterway in the world. Watch the water for orcas and humpback whales.
SCENIC CRUISING: INSIDE PASSAGE Spend the day cruising one of the world’s most spectacular waterways. Located along the coast of British Columbia, the Inside Passage is the longest sheltered inland waterway in the world. Watch the water for orcas and humpback whales. (B,L,D)
Day 16: Juneau
Location: Juneau
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Located at the foot of grand mountain peaks on Gastineau Channel, Alaska’s capital city of Juneau has massive Mendenhall Glacier and the Juneau Icefield at its back door. Visit the rustic shops in town—or get out and kayak, raft, hike, whale watch, flightsee, or fish. There’s no end to the adventure because of the long daylight hours.
JUNEAU Located at the foot of grand mountain peaks on Gastineau Channel, Alaska’s capital city of Juneau has massive Mendenhall Glacier and the Juneau Icefield at its back door. Visit the rustic shops in town—or get out and kayak, raft, hike, whale watch, flightsee, or fish. There’s no end to the adventure because of the long daylight hours. (B,L,D)
Day 17: Skagway
Location: Skagway
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
In winter, the sidewalks are all but rolled up in Skagway, so you can imagine the frightful conditions endured by gold prospectors who passed through en route to the Yukon. Take your time and poke your head into every little shop, from the Trail Bench to Lynch & Kennedy’s Dry Goods. The Red Onion Saloon, with its honky-tonk piano and costumed barmaids, is a treasure trove of memorabilia featuring pictures of Klondike Kate, Peahull Annie, and other historic characters. To complete the picture of those rip-roaring days, visit the nostalgic Trail of ’98 Museum.
SKAGWAY In winter, the sidewalks are all but rolled up in Skagway, so you can imagine the frightful conditions endured by gold prospectors who passed through en route to the Yukon. Take your time and poke your head into every little shop, from the Trail Bench to Lynch & Kennedy’s Dry Goods. The Red Onion Saloon, with its honky-tonk piano and costumed barmaids, is a treasure trove of memorabilia featuring pictures of Klondike Kate, Peahull Annie, and other historic characters. To complete the picture of those rip-roaring days, visit the nostalgic Trail of ’98 Museum. (B,L,D)
Day 18: Scenic Cruising: Glacier Bay
Location: Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Glacier Bay has more actively calving tidewater glaciers than anyplace else in the world. How does it feel when a colossal chunk of ice splits off a glacier and crashes into the sea? The sound is like thunder. The impact shoots water hundreds of meters into the air. You hold your breath as you capture the moment on camera, then you wait for it all to happen again.
SCENIC CRUISING: GLACIER BAY Glacier Bay has more actively calving tidewater glaciers than anyplace else in the world. How does it feel when a colossal chunk of ice splits off a glacier and crashes into the sea? The sound is like thunder. The impact shoots water hundreds of meters into the air. You hold your breath as you capture the moment on camera, then you wait for it all to happen again. (B,L,D)
Day 19: Ketchikan
Location: Ketchikan
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Alaska’s “First City” of Ketchikan is so named because it is the first major landfall for most cruisers as they enter the picturesque fjords of the Inside Passage, where the town clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain. An important hub of the salmon-fishing and -packing industries—visitors can try their luck on a sport-fishing excursion or simply savor the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. It is also one of the best spots along the Inside Passage to explore the rich cultural sights of Native Alaskan nations like the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian.
KETCHIKAN Alaska’s “First City” of Ketchikan is so named because it is the first major landfall for most cruisers as they enter the picturesque fjords of the Inside Passage, where the town clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain. An important hub of the salmon-fishing and -packing industries—visitors can try their luck on a sport-fishing excursion or simply savor the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. It is also one of the best spots along the Inside Passage to explore the rich cultural sights of Native Alaskan nations like the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. (B,L,D)
Day 20: Scenic Cruising: Inside Passage
Location: Inside Passage
Accommodation Name: Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arguably one of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage stretches through stunning landscapes, from Misty Fjords National Monument to famed Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orca plying the bountiful waters alongside the ships, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline.
SCENIC CRUISING: INSIDE PASSAGE Arguably one of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage stretches through stunning landscapes, from Misty Fjords National Monument to famed Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orca plying the bountiful waters alongside the ships, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline. (B,L,D)
Day 21: Vancouver (Disembarkation)
Location: Vancouver
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your cruise ends this morning. Please schedule flights after noon.
VANCOUVER (DISEMBARKATION) Your cruise ends this morning. Please schedule flights after noon. (B)
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown Hotel, Rundlestone Lodge, Irwin's Mountain Inn, Tonquin Inn, Ramada Plaza Prince George, Crest Hotel, Kwa'lilas Hotel, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites, and Sandman Signature Vancouver Airport.
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City Tours
City tours are included in Calgary, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Prince Rupert, Victoria, and Vancouver.
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Inside Passage Cruise
An Inside Passage Cruise is included, offering spectacular views of towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands, and virgin rainforests.
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Meals
Meals are included on the cruise days, specifically breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Holland America’s ‘Have It All Premium Cruise Package
The package includes Holland America’s ‘Have It All Premium Cruise Package.
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Scenic Cruising
Scenic cruising through the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay is included.
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Transportation
Transportation includes a ride on the Ice Explorer at the Columbia Icefield and VIA Rail’s Skeena train journey.
What's Not Included
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions such as helicopter rides in Banff, float trips down the Athabasca River, and narrated cruises on Maligne Lake are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and cruise staff are not included.
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Notes
Early departures may not be able to visit Columbia Icefield, which opens in early May, or take the Maligne Lake & Spirit Island optional excursion, which opens in mid to late May. Visiting and participating in other activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions and vendor dates of operation.At least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.Cruise itineraries are provided by Holland America Line and are up to date at time of printing. Your travel documents will contain the most current information.Maximum elevation on tour: 7,500 ft.
UNESCO Sites
Banff National Park|Glacier Bay|Jasper National Park
Accommodation
Stay at the Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown Hotel in Calgary, Rundlestone Lodge and Irwin's Mountain Inn in Banff National Park, Tonquin Inn in Jasper National Park, Ramada Plaza Prince George in Prince George, Crest Hotel in Prince Rupert, Kwa'lilas Hotel in Port Hardy, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites in Victoria, and Sandman Signature Vancouver Airport in Vancouver.
Mode of Transport
Travel by coach through the Canadian Rockies, board VIA Rail's Skeena train for a scenic journey, and embark on a cruise ship for the Inside Passage and Alaska cruise.
Check out our Q&As
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What wildlife might I see during the Inside Passage Cruise?
During the Inside Passage Cruise, you may see sea lions, porpoises, and possibly killer whales. The area is rich in marine life, offering spectacular views of the natural habitat.
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What activities are available in Banff National Park?
In Banff National Park, you can enjoy a variety of summer activities such as hiking, boating, horseback riding, and fishing. There are also optional excursions like helicopter rides for spectacular views over the Canadian Rockies.
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What is included in the Holland America’s ‘Have It All Premium Cruise Package?
The Holland America’s ‘Have It All Premium Cruise Package is included in the tour package price, providing a premium cruise experience with various amenities and services.
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What can I expect during the VIA Rail's Skeena train journey?
The VIA Rail's Skeena train journey offers an all-daylight trip through the majestic Coast Mountains and along the Skeena River, often referred to as the 'River of Mists.' You may spot wildlife such as bald eagles, black bears, and moose during the journey.
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Are there any optional excursions available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional excursions available, including helicopter rides in Banff, float trips down the Athabasca River, and narrated cruises on Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park.
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What is the maximum elevation reached during the tour?
The maximum elevation reached during the tour is 7,500 feet.
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What are some highlights of the city tour in Victoria?
The city tour in Victoria includes visits to the Inner Harbour, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park, which features an unusual collection of totem poles.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.