The Great River Journey – a first for North America!

An exciting new river cruise has been added to Canadian Sky’s portfolio. The first of its kind in North America, The Great River Journey is available from June 2008 and combines a unique cruise on the Yukon River with luxury lodge accommodation, offering an insight into the famous Klondike gold rush and paddle-wheeler eras.

A collaboration of four First Nations, The Great River Journey has unique access to many cultural activities, people and sites. Small groups will travel in their own 38ft riverboat with a pilot and an experienced local guide, taking in Northern Canada’s most spectacular scenery. Travelling 350 miles through the heart of the Yukon wilderness, it passes through the beautiful ‘Thirty Mile’ section of the legendary Yukon River.

Famous for its twisting canyons, swift waters and ever-shifting sand bars, the Thirty Mile stretch was a constant challenge for the captains of the historic paddlewheelers who plied the Yukon following the Klondike gold rush in 1897. Consequently, many ships were wrecked on its shoals and rocks, of which some remnants are still visible.

Guests can view these wrecks en-route and may spot wildlife such as muskrat, beaver, coyote, mink, bald and golden eagle, and black and rare grizzly bear as well as visit many of the historical attractions and abandoned settlements of the gold rush era.

The riverboats have specially designed hulls so that they handle well in both rivers and lakes. A carpeted passenger area includes 10 comfortable reclining seats with excellent leg room and a see-through tinted lexan dome for air circulation and photo opportunities.

Accommodation is provided in small, private, remotely situated lodge facilities, Upper Labarge Lodge at Lake Laberge, Homestead Lodge at Pelly Farm and Wilderness Outpost at Coffee Creek, in addition to heritage accommodation in Dawson City. Each designed and themed to harmonize with and accentuate the unique wilderness and historical aspects of the surrounding area.

The fabulous nine-night cruise costs from £4,599 per person. Valid for departures from 1 June 2008, the price includes scheduled flights from London Heathrow, resort transfers, experienced guides and accommodation on a full board basis in various lodges. A one-hour floatplane excursion over the Yukon River is also included.

For further information visit Canadiansky.co.uk.