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7 DAY HIGHLIGHTS OF BRITISH COLUMBIA — A CIRCLE TOUR BY LAND, SEA AND AIR
BRITISH COLUMBIA TOUR
Delve deep into northern British Columbia known for breathtaking landscapes, pristine wilderness and a sanctuary for wildlife. Enjoy a journey onboard VIA Rail across northern BC, escape to the water for a whale watching tour or into the Great Bear Rainforest for wildlife viewing before embarking on a voyage through the Inside Passage on the remote west coast to Vancouver Island.
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Start Location: Vancouver
End Location: Vancouver
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Vancouver Sightseeing
- Skeena train journey across spectacular landscape of Northern BC
- Bear or Whale watching tour in the Great Bear Rainforest
- Sea voyage through the fjords and islands of misty Inside Passage
- Scenic flight from Vancouver Island
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1: Arrive Vancouver
Experience Vancouver, a vibrant metropolitan city nestled between the mountains, the vast Pacific Ocean, rainforests and scenic parks. Vancouver is a walkable city, and locals take pride in welcoming visitors with clean, safe and vibrant streets.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 2: Vancouver Sightseeing
Included today is a Hop-on-Hop-off Pass, which is a fun and flexible way to see the best of Vancouver! Take a bus, stop at a location, browse around for as long as you want and then hop back onto the next coming bus to move onto the next attraction! You will experience downtown Vancouver at leisure as the bus circles through a series of cultural districts, seaside points of interest, and Stanley Park. Clear top buses for stunning views, rain or shine, and full commentary in English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean and Mandarin. During your stop at Canada Place, we recommend the FlyOver Canada experience nearby. The show utilizes state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while the film takes you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada, from east to west. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride's motion to create an unforgettable experience. Take a taxi or the convenient Skytrain to the airport for your included evening flight to Prince George.
Overnight: Prince George
Day 3: On board the Skeena train from Prince George to Prince Rupert
Board the train this morning as you travel west enjoying the rugged beauty and pioneering character of a landscape once solely travelled by Indigenous peoples and fur traders. The train follows the turbulent currents of the Skeena River and meanders through spectacular canyons and open valleys in the presence of ever-present mountain ridges.Prince Rupert is located in the centre of the territory traditionally claimed by the Tsimshian First Nation, and is now a booming little port community of about 15,000 people, in the heart of the North Coast's lush rainforest. Outstanding marine and forest-based recreation opportunities are cherished by visitors and residents alike. The City has long been a regional centre for commerce and transport and the meeting points of ferries from Alaska, Haida Gwaii and points south. It is also a cargo port as it is the shortest link between North America and Asia. The cruise ship terminal right beside quaint downtown Prince Rupert welcomes visitors from around the world
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 4: Full day of exploration of the Northern BC Coast
This is a free day to explore this northern town. We strongly recommend that you either pick up a rental car (or hire an easily available local cab) for a self drive exploration of the Cassiar Cannery's heritage waterfront cottages and the North Pacific Cannery Historic sites. Visit the magnificent Northwest Coast longhouse overlooking Prince Rupert Harbour that is home to the Museum of Northern BC. Internationally known for its exceptional collection and the quality of its exhibits, the Museum draws visitors from around the world to experience its unique celebration of cultures and histories. Then, have some free time to browse in the interesting Cow Bay area of Prince Rupert.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 5: Full day Grizzly Bear or Whale watching tour onboard the Inside Passage luxury catamaran boat.
Prepare for a full day of excitement with a tour to the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary . You will check in at Prince Rupert Tours office for a 7 hour round trip on board the 100-passenger catamaran that includes Grizzly bear viewing tours to the Khutzeymateen, part of the Great Bear Rainforest of Northern British Columbia. Grizzly bear watching trips are scheduled mid-May to early August, while whale watching tours are scheduled from August to mid-September. Bear in mind that these tours operate only certain days of the week and the program for Day 4 and Day 5 may be switched.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 6: BC Ferries Scenic Inside Passage sailing to Port Hardy
Board the BC Ferry for a full day ferry trip through the spectacular Inside Passage to Vancouver Island. You will sail through a maze of islands, view deep fjords, densely forested shorelines, massive ice-flows and jagged inlets. Watch bald eagles soaring overhead, sea lions slumbering on the rocks and whales traversing the offshore waters. For added comfort, consider talking to your travel consultant to add access to a cabin with twin berths, a shower and a desk.
Overnight: Port Hardy
Day 7: Return to Vancouver by bus and air
This morning you will have some time to explore Port Hardy on your own. From the natural history of the local landscape to the deep-rooted First Nations heritage to the founding industries from which the community economy emerged, discover the elements that have shaped the coastal community of Port Hardy into what it is today.The family-friendly environment of the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre welcomes you to learn about Pacific salmon with a world-class interpretive gallery, interactive exhibits and hands-on displays. This facility promotes discovery into the world of salmon and their natural environment. Discover how salmon are intimately connected to the coastal ecosystem of Northern Vancouver Island and the Pacific salmon to the Indigenous and the local community. From salmon biology to conservation, visitors to the Salmon Centre get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore and get a hands-on experience with salmon.We take the mid afternoon flight back to Vancouver's South Terminal airport by Pacific Coastal Airlines and come to the end of our exciting circle tour of the Highlights of British Columbia.
Extension Option 1:
Extend your stay in Vancouver city or take the free shuttle bus to the International Airport for your onward flight. Else, consider the option of a full-day scenic bus journey to Victoria on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and time explore British Columbia's capital city.
Extension Option 2:
Add a day to your stay in Northern BC by driving a short distance along scenic Highway 16 to the town of Terrace. Stay at the Yellow Cedar Lodge, a wonderful full-service Bed & Breakfast accommodation nestled in the woods overlooking the Skeena River located just minutes outside of Terrace though you will feel like you are surrounded by wilderness. With breathtaking views and all the amenities of home, you'll be able to take in nature in comfort, work out, play, relax, explore, embark on an adventure, and dine on gourmet, local fare in their dining room. The following day, join wilderness host Rob Bryce and his guide to board the jet boats and head out into remote river valleys for a day of Northwest Coast bear and wildlife viewing. Rob and his guide will share their knowledge about the region, ecosystem, bear habits and traits. Electric motors and poling are utilized in the estuaries to access the bears with minimal impact. A picnic lunch is included and your hosts will provide some rain protection. Be prepared for a day in the wilderness amidst inspiring and untouched natural beauty.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
Other Companies
Independent Travel
See what you want, where you want, how you want. Solo, with a friend, or with a group of friends.Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Accreditation and Consumer Protection
Feel confident booking because of a membership in all the following organizations:
Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 6 nights comfortable hotel accommodation
- Hop On Hop Off bus sightseeing in Vancouver
- Flights as specified in the itinerary
- Prestige Class Skeena train service in Northern British Columbia
- Day room on Inside Passage ocean ferry
- Sea cruise on the Inside Passage boat for grizzly bear or whale watching
EXCLUSIONS
- Meals unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Applicable government taxes
- Tips and gratuities
Why Take A Custom Tour?
Private & Customizable
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore
Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking flights?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+
I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.
What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?
The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
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Over 25 years offering custom trips and small group tours.
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP
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Space To Breathe
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All Inclusive
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Tour Code
7HBC
7 Day Highlights of British Columbia — a Circle Tour by Land, Sea and Air
7 days
Created On: 21 Dec 2024
Highlights
- Vancouver Sightseeing
- Skeena train journey across spectacular landscape of Northern BC
- Bear or Whale watching tour in the Great Bear Rainforest
- Sea voyage through the fjords and islands of misty Inside Passage
- Scenic flight from Vancouver Island
Inclusions
- 6 nights comfortable hotel accommodation
- Hop On Hop Off bus sightseeing in Vancouver
- Flights as specified in the itinerary
- Prestige Class Skeena train service in Northern British Columbia
- Day room on Inside Passage ocean ferry
- Sea cruise on the Inside Passage boat for grizzly bear or whale watching
Exclusions
- Meals unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Applicable government taxes
- Tips and gratuities
Dates & Prices
ACCOMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
Moderate
Vancouver
Vancouver
$2,520 USD
Superior
Vancouver
Vancouver
$2,700 USD
Deluxe
Vancouver
Vancouver
$2,900 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
* The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
* The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Vancouver
Experience Vancouver, a vibrant metropolitan city nestled between the mountains, the vast Pacific Ocean, rainforests and scenic parks. Vancouver is a walkable city, and locals take pride in welcoming visitors with clean, safe and vibrant streets.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 2: Vancouver Sightseeing
Included today is a Hop-on-Hop-off Pass, which is a fun and flexible way to see the best of Vancouver! Take a bus, stop at a location, browse around for as long as you want and then hop back onto the next coming bus to move onto the next attraction! You will experience downtown Vancouver at leisure as the bus circles through a series of cultural districts, seaside points of interest, and Stanley Park. Clear top buses for stunning views, rain or shine, and full commentary in English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean and Mandarin. During your stop at Canada Place, we recommend the FlyOver Canada experience nearby. The show utilizes state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You will hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 20-metre spherical screen while the film takes you away on an exhilarating 8-minute journey across Canada, from east to west. Special effects, including wind, mist and scents, combine with the ride's motion to create an unforgettable experience. Take a taxi or the convenient Skytrain to the airport for your included evening flight to Prince George.
Overnight: Prince George
Day 3: On board the Skeena train from Prince George to Prince Rupert
Board the train this morning as you travel west enjoying the rugged beauty and pioneering character of a landscape once solely travelled by Indigenous peoples and fur traders. The train follows the turbulent currents of the Skeena River and meanders through spectacular canyons and open valleys in the presence of ever-present mountain ridges.Prince Rupert is located in the centre of the territory traditionally claimed by the Tsimshian First Nation, and is now a booming little port community of about 15,000 people, in the heart of the North Coast's lush rainforest. Outstanding marine and forest-based recreation opportunities are cherished by visitors and residents alike. The City has long been a regional centre for commerce and transport and the meeting points of ferries from Alaska, Haida Gwaii and points south. It is also a cargo port as it is the shortest link between North America and Asia. The cruise ship terminal right beside quaint downtown Prince Rupert welcomes visitors from around the world
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 4: Full day of exploration of the Northern BC Coast
This is a free day to explore this northern town. We strongly recommend that you either pick up a rental car (or hire an easily available local cab) for a self drive exploration of the Cassiar Cannery's heritage waterfront cottages and the North Pacific Cannery Historic sites. Visit the magnificent Northwest Coast longhouse overlooking Prince Rupert Harbour that is home to the Museum of Northern BC. Internationally known for its exceptional collection and the quality of its exhibits, the Museum draws visitors from around the world to experience its unique celebration of cultures and histories. Then, have some free time to browse in the interesting Cow Bay area of Prince Rupert.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 5: Full day Grizzly Bear or Whale watching tour onboard the Inside Passage luxury catamaran boat.
Prepare for a full day of excitement with a tour to the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary . You will check in at Prince Rupert Tours office for a 7 hour round trip on board the 100-passenger catamaran that includes Grizzly bear viewing tours to the Khutzeymateen, part of the Great Bear Rainforest of Northern British Columbia. Grizzly bear watching trips are scheduled mid-May to early August, while whale watching tours are scheduled from August to mid-September. Bear in mind that these tours operate only certain days of the week and the program for Day 4 and Day 5 may be switched.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 6: BC Ferries Scenic Inside Passage sailing to Port Hardy
Board the BC Ferry for a full day ferry trip through the spectacular Inside Passage to Vancouver Island. You will sail through a maze of islands, view deep fjords, densely forested shorelines, massive ice-flows and jagged inlets. Watch bald eagles soaring overhead, sea lions slumbering on the rocks and whales traversing the offshore waters. For added comfort, consider talking to your travel consultant to add access to a cabin with twin berths, a shower and a desk.
Overnight: Port Hardy
Day 7: Return to Vancouver by bus and air
This morning you will have some time to explore Port Hardy on your own. From the natural history of the local landscape to the deep-rooted First Nations heritage to the founding industries from which the community economy emerged, discover the elements that have shaped the coastal community of Port Hardy into what it is today.The family-friendly environment of the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre welcomes you to learn about Pacific salmon with a world-class interpretive gallery, interactive exhibits and hands-on displays. This facility promotes discovery into the world of salmon and their natural environment. Discover how salmon are intimately connected to the coastal ecosystem of Northern Vancouver Island and the Pacific salmon to the Indigenous and the local community. From salmon biology to conservation, visitors to the Salmon Centre get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore and get a hands-on experience with salmon.We take the mid afternoon flight back to Vancouver's South Terminal airport by Pacific Coastal Airlines and come to the end of our exciting circle tour of the Highlights of British Columbia.
Extension Option 1:
Extend your stay in Vancouver city or take the free shuttle bus to the International Airport for your onward flight. Else, consider the option of a full-day scenic bus journey to Victoria on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and time explore British Columbia's capital city.
Extension Option 2:
Add a day to your stay in Northern BC by driving a short distance along scenic Highway 16 to the town of Terrace. Stay at the Yellow Cedar Lodge, a wonderful full-service Bed & Breakfast accommodation nestled in the woods overlooking the Skeena River located just minutes outside of Terrace though you will feel like you are surrounded by wilderness. With breathtaking views and all the amenities of home, you'll be able to take in nature in comfort, work out, play, relax, explore, embark on an adventure, and dine on gourmet, local fare in their dining room. The following day, join wilderness host Rob Bryce and his guide to board the jet boats and head out into remote river valleys for a day of Northwest Coast bear and wildlife viewing. Rob and his guide will share their knowledge about the region, ecosystem, bear habits and traits. Electric motors and poling are utilized in the estuaries to access the bears with minimal impact. A picnic lunch is included and your hosts will provide some rain protection. Be prepared for a day in the wilderness amidst inspiring and untouched natural beauty.
