Daniel Harrison, product and commercial manager, Cosmos Tours & Cruises, explains the different ways the operator can package a North America cruise & stay.

Working with river and ocean cruise lines, we offer a range of exciting cruises in North America and the Caribbean. Meeting demand for ‘cruise and stay’ holidays, we’ve worked hard to add more options for customers to extend the holiday and broaden their experience of a destination. These include thrilling city stays, fascinating tours or rail journeys.

What’s the most popular add-on? 

‘Heart of the Canadian Rockies’ and Alaska Cruise

By far, a tour or rail journey of the Canadian Rockies is the most popular add-on, providing our customers with the opportunity to visit the iconic cities, national parks and islands of British Columbia and Alberta. It’s a wonderful way to see the spectacular mountain and lakeland region with visits to Banff, Lake Louise and the impressive Columbia Icefield. As well as Vancouver, our customers can visit Western Canada’s oldest city, Victoria on Vancouver Island with its many English influences.

What’s new for 2017? 

Denali National Park and Alaska Cruise 

As we increase our land options available with the ever popular Alaska cruise, we’ve added a four-day tour of the remote wilderness of Denali National Park for customers wanting to see more of Alaska’s incredible landscapes and wildlife. After overnighting in Anchorage, the journey continues via Alaska’s railroad aboard the elegant McKinley Explorer deluxe domed train. You have the most incredible views throughout the seven-hour journey to Denali Park, which includes crossing the startling Hurricane Gulch Bridge. McKinley Chalet Lodge, the base for three nights, is in the best location to experience the wilderness first hand.

The best money-is-no-object add-on?

American Duchess – Paddle Steamer 

This is a popular cruise experience onboard the American Duchess sailing down the Mississippi, which can be extended with stays in Memphis or New Orleans. A visit to Memphis wouldn’t be complete without seeing Elvis’ home, Graceland. The 70’s style décor seems so dated now and the collection of Elvis’ elaborate stage outfits and records are amazing.  STAX Museum of American Soul Music is fascinating and be sure to have a drink in a bar on Beale Street, famed for BB King’s Blues Club.

What’s your personal favourite?

Canada & New England Discovery

I like this one for an incredible insight into such historic cities of Boston and Montreal, and the chance to wander around by yourself. Nova Scotia, Cape Breton and Prince Edward Island offer a completely different aspect to Canada. Of course, cruising around the islands of Atlantic Canada is the easiest way to see more of this area.

The Sheraton Boston Hotel is in a great location for exploring. I recommend the free walking tour ‘Freedom Trail’, to find out about the city’s history.

A walking tour of Old Montreal is a great way of seeing the narrow streets and classic architecture. Foodies will love the Jean-Talon market and the ‘Mile End Food’ Tour around the city.

The best add-on for time-pressed clients? 

Havana & Caribbean Cruise

Our Havana city stay and Caribbean cruise is perfect for those who have a week free. It’s an exciting combination of three nights in Havana combined with a four-night cruise of Mexico, Jamaica and Grand Cayman. On arrival into Havana, customers are transferred to the ship, MSC Opera, which provides a fantastic central location for the sightseeing, all with the convenience of unpacking once.