Canada & Alaska Rail Cruise Adventure - Additional information

Entry into Canada and USA
Please ensure that your passport has at least 6 months validity from your return date left on your passport.
You will need to complete the online visa waiver applications for both countries before you leave Australia.
For Canada, you’ll need an eTA (electronic Travel Authorisation):

https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html

For the USA, you’ll need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation):

https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta

 

Weather
Canada – daytime temperatures are generally in the high teens (Celsius) and cool at night.
Alaska cruise – daytime temperatures are low to mid-teens (Celsius) and cold at night.

 

What to Pack
With the varying weather at the beginning of autumn / fall, being prepared is the way to go and the best way to do this is by layering up. Bring t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, cardigans, leggings, jeans, trousers and a scarf. Then mix and match your outfits so it’s easy to peel off layers if it warms up, and it’s just as easy to get them back on when the temperature drops. Bring rain gear.
Travel for comfort rather than for style.  Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and possibly water-proof shoes.

For further information on packing for the Alaska cruise, see this web page:

https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/au/cruise-destinations/alaska-cruises/articles-and-videos/packing-list-alaska-cruises  

 

Tipping
Local tipping is customary in Canada & Alaska.  Sisterhood Womens Travel tipping system on all Group Tours involving tipping.  This system involves passengers contributing to a kitty which is paid to the tour hostess at the beginning of the tour who then distributes it daily to service providers on your behalf.  

Independent Tipping (not included in the above)
Tipping for Holland America Cruise lines has been included in your tour cost.
Tipping for Rocky Mountaineer has been included in your tour cost.

 

Travel on the Rocky Mountaineer
Please note there is no overhead seat storage, and your carry-on overnight bag (eg; large purse or backpack) must fit at your feet.  All medications, valuables, personal items and travel documents must be carried with you in your hand luggage.

Breakfast and lunch will be served onboard the train.  Guests will also receive complimentary snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the rail journey.  The service gratuity for the onboard team (hosts, culinary, cleaners and other non-managerial crew) is included.

 

Luggage
Please keep your luggage to a minimum. Do not take what you cannot handle yourself. Please keep this in mind when packing.

 

Health Whilst Travelling
There is always a risk to your health when travelling and it is better to be prepared. It is recommended to take with you some diarrhoea medication in case you come down with a stomach bug. It is also a good idea to bring along some hydrolyte for dehydration purposes. We also recommend Travelan to help protect your stomach from any nasties (available over the counter at any pharmacy). For any other vaccination/health/medical concerns with regards to travelling please consult your GP or visit a Travel Doctor.

Travel Insurance
It is mandatory for travellers to have comprehensive travel insurance; please ensure you have provided Sisterhood Womens Travel with a copy of your policy including 24/7 Emergency Contact Number.
 

Whats App Group
Please make sure you download WhatsApp onto your phone prior to departure. This App will be your communication tool whilst on tour and your tour hostess will contact you prior to departure to set you up in your tour WhatsApp group.  It’s also a lovely way to remain in touch with friends upon your return.

 

Changes to Itinerary
We do our best to give Sisters an enjoyable, trouble-free tour experience but, occasionally, even the best-laid plans can go awry.  We cannot rule out any changes to the itinerary and ask that you maintain a positive, upbeat and flexible attitude.

 

Updated: 12 June 2025