great lakes tour from toronto

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Great Lakes Tours & Trips from Toronto

An adventure starting in Toronto is a great way to see Great Lakes. We have 10 tours that range from 4 days up to 12 days. The most popular time for tours from Toronto is August, which has the most tour departures.

10 Great Lakes tours from Toronto with 344 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 9 Days)

Optional excursions were reasonably priced. Suggest you put together other places in each city as a walking guide or short taxi or uber ride. Example access to close by museums open late and could walk to from hotel. Free time activities and what they are and where located is helpful.tour guide can offer to accompany a group interested to explore more during free leisure tome.Provide more detail info about the logistics of site visits. Niagara falls..suggest more water proof gear clothing and shoe types etc. Terrain to expect when visiting certain sites and possible alternatives.climbing and how difficult-easy or more strenuous or advanced climbing activity. Overall, small groups so much better than filling up bus. Thank you for giving single travelers their own bus space. Would love to watch more travel videos on longer driving distances.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

Ontario & French Canada (6 destinations)

Yes Tour Was Great we got to see more places this way than if we would have not taken a tour.

• Train & Rail

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax

• Sightseeing

Toronto, Niagara and Chicago

Toronto and Niagara

• Christmas & New Year

Eastern Canada Highlights in a Week

WY were fantastic. The hotels that were booked were above our expectations, central to all the tours we were booked on. Instructions regarding travel and meeting places were very clear and the included tours gave us a wonderful taste of each place, with a balance of free time for our own exploring. One of our flights was delayed by almost 6 hours (NOT WY’s fault) and we arrived in Toronto very early in the morning. WY organised our driver, contacted the hotel and thus we avoided what could have been a difficult situation in an unfamiliar city. Thank you WY - We absolutely recommend you as a reasonably priced, high quality, well organised tour group!!

Eastern Canada Discovery (Classic, 8 Days)

Toronto, Niagara and New York

• Intl. Flights Included

Ontario Bucketlist: Road Trip, Wildlife & City Scenes

• Flights included
• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Indulgence in Eastern Canada (Small Groups, 8 Days)

What a spectacular part of Canada the eastern side is and what a way it was to experience it by travelling with Luxury Gold. From Max our knowledgeable and ever attentive Travelling Concierge to the luxury coach that we travelled on to the Fairmont included properties and the meals were fantastic too. I found this Luxury Gold trip to be the right balance between included experiences and time at leisure to add a few things that really interested me (including some shopping). Trip highlights included the picturesque Fairmont Château Frontenac where we stayed in Quebec and enjoyed a tour with a Local Expert of the incredible property located right on the Saint Lawrence River. From Toronto it was magical to go to Niagara Falls and see icebergs in the lake and we even had snow flakes fall. Looking forward to my next trip with Luxury Gold as I enjoyed this trip.

• Family from Toronto (9)
• Explorer from Toronto (7)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Great Lakes Reise von Toronto
• Français: Circuits et voyages Grands Lacs au départ de Toronto
• Español: Grandes Lagos Circuitos desde Toronto
• Nederlands: Grote Meren Rondreizen die beginnen in Toronto

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Cruising the Great Lakes: Chicago to Toronto

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• 2024 Eastbound
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• 2025 Eastbound
• 2025 Westbound
• Accommodations
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• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

experience with tauck

View the distinctive architectural styles of the Chicago skyline on an informative river cruise in Chicago, hearing the stories behind iconic works by Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan and others

Enjoy an early morning, private opening of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

tauck value includes

Gratuities to Tauck Directors, ship staff and local guides

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $4,500

Two nights in Chicago at your choice of Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park or Four Seasons Hotel Chicago (additional cost)

Two nights in Toronto at your choice of Fairmont Royal York or Four Seasons Hotel Toronto (additional cost)

Seven nights aboard a Ponant ship, cruising Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron and Michigan

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Cultural journeys and expeditions

The mighty Great Lakes have played a vital role in the history and cultural fabric of North America for centuries... explore their storied waters... and unique cities and towns... that have grown along their shores...

See for yourself what small ship cruising is all about, the majesty of niagara falls, experiencing the thunder of niagara falls on the us-canadian border.

North America's most powerful waterfall – and one of its most famous and often-visited natural treasures – Niagara Falls actually comprises three distinctive waterfalls on the Niagara River, perched on the border of Ontario, Canada and New York. Every minute, some six million cubic feet of water plunges over the crests of the Horseshoe, American and Bridal Veil Falls and tumbles down nearly 200 feet into the rocky gorge below into a thundering cauldron of water and mist. Experiencing the raw power of Niagara Falls firsthand is something you'll never forget... and just what you'll do as you first view the falls from a panoramic spot high above... then don a hooded raincoat and board a private boat for an up-close – and very wet – encounter with this iconic "wonder of the natural world."

Traverse the Welland Canal

A marvel of engineering two centuries in the making....

Comprising eight locks that enable ship traffic to travel between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario by bypassing the Niagara River and Niagara Falls, the Welland Canal is a 200-year engineering marvel that actually represents four successive canals. Originally designed and built in the 1820s, a second canal replaced it in the late 1840s, and a third opened in 1887. The construction on the fourth and current Welland Canal – which your ship on "Cruising the Great Lakes" will traverse in about 11 hours, accompanied by an expert guide – began before World War I was not completed until 1932 and expanded some 40 years later.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Step back in time on michigan's mackinac island.

Vehicle-free Mackinac Island – off the Michigan coast in the Straits of Mackinac connecting Lakes Michigan and Huron – has been a popular retreat since 19th-century industrialists built imposing summer "cottages" here, and remains serenely lost in time. The only way to get around is by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage, as you make your way past impeccable Victorian mansions and out to the fringes of forest, marshes, beaches and 19th-century Fort Mackinac. The island is home to the palatial Grand Hotel, which lays claim to the longest porch in the world. Since 1887, the Grand has hosted many presidents, as well as the likes of Mark Twain and Thomas Edison (who first demonstrated his phonograph on the hotel's iconic porch).

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Welcome Aboard

• Le Champlain

Ship Specifications

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Deluxe Suite

Prestige Stateroom

Prestige Suite

(Two combined Prestige Staterooms)

Privilege Suite

Grand Deluxe Suite

Owner's Suite

Deluxe Stateroom

Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Nights 1-2 Option 1

Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park

Chicago, Illinois

Nights 1-2 Option 2

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

Nights 3-9 On Board

Tauck Small Ship

Nights 10-11 Option 1

Fairmont Royal York

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Nights 10-11 Option 2

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

Your Journey

Pricing & Availability

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Eastbound: Chicago → Toronto

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Westbound: Toronto → Chicago

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Four Seasons Hotels Additional Cost Per Person:

Four Seasons Hotels, Chicago and Toronto:  Double $795, Single $1,590, Triple $530 

Hotel accommodations on this cruise are at Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park and Fairmont Royal York (Toronto); if you wish, hotel accommodations at Four Seasons hotels in Chicago and Toronto are available (additional cost per person, subject to availability).

About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay for entry into Canada; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact the embassies or consulates of the United States and Canada to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Cruise Regulations

International Maritime Security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN:  If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $1,500 per person

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Product

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey. Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise Protection is  $699  per person.

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise & Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise & Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit   affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREDOM

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $1500 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

The Ponant Explorer-Class Ship is registered in France. If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly. 

The Ponant Explorer-Class ship has a licensed and registered physician onboard for professional and emergency services, which are available at customary charges. The ship's small infirmary is designed to provide medical care for certain temporary illnesses and accidents, and is not intended to or capable of providing on-going treatment of pre-existing medical conditions.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Canada. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries on the itinerary to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances over uneven terrain that may, at times, be uneven, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Therefore, roads and walkways may present difficulties for some guests with physical disabilities. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion. Pack sturdy, comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in in order to appreciate fully the sometimes challenging terrain.

Onboard ship, health and fitness devotees will find a spa and fitness center on Deck 7.

We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.  Guests must advise Tauck of any food allergies or special dietary needs at the time of booking.

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches or inside the ship, including inside staterooms. Smoking is only permitted on the outer decks in the designated smoking areas. These regulations pertain to e-cigarettes as well.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

Temperatures in this region typically range in the 70s to 80s degree Fahrenheit (21 to 27º C) during the summer and can range from the 40s to 70s degree Fahrenheit  (5 to 21ºC) during the spring and fall; be prepared for occasional extremes. We suggest that prior to departure you check a newspaper or the weather forecast on the Internet for up-to-date information. To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

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Great Lakes Cruises

On our unique Great Lakes tour boats, you will traverse great depths, watch the sun rise and set over distant horizons and learn compelling details about the region — both on- and offshore. Along the way, enjoy stops at local wineries, historic lighthouses, museums, aquariums, renowned restaurants and so much more! Niagara Great Lakes Cruise As you’ll discover when you click on the individual Great Lakes cruises listed below, each and every one of our trips has something to write home about.

With our Niagara and the Great Lakes trip , for example, you can write about the sheer volume of water cascading over the world-famous Niagara Falls. (For the record, more than 3,000 tons of water cascade over the falls every second!) The roar can be heard for miles, and you’ll have a front-row seat to this magnificent natural wonder.

Or a bird’s eye view if you opt for the helicopter .

And that’s just the beginning! What follows is a trip that comprises eight days and seven nights of splendor aboard the sleek, modern Viking Octantis . Your cross-two-countries trip will include visits to Point Pelee, Ontario, Detroit, Michigan, the Thunder Bay National Maritime Sanctuary, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where you’ll disembark.

Intrigued? There’s more where that trip came from. USA River Cruises offers a multitude of Great Lakes cruises — something for every taste. Chicago to New York City Great Lakes Cruise Our Great American Waterways: Chicago to NYC trip is a case in point. Onboard the Grand Caribe , which was refurbished in 2009 and carries 84 passengers, you’ll have a grand time cruising across several great lakes. Starting in the Windy City, you’ll traverse Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario. You’ll even get a taste of life on the famous Erie Canal and the Hudson River as you wind your way toward the Atlantic Ocean.

This cruise takes its time: 16 days and 15 nights, to be exact. With scenery that rivals any in North America, you’ll see vast cityscapes and picturesque villages in abundance.

Stops include Manitowoc, Wisconsin, Mackinac Island, Michigan, where horse-drawn carriages are likely the only traffic you’ll see, and Cleveland, Ohio, home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The itinerary also includes Buffalo, New York, Rochester, New York, and finally New York City. We promise you’ll be a changed person once you disembark in the Big Apple. Seeing the country from a USA River Cruise is a special kind of experience, after all. USA River Cruises: Great Lakes Cruises That’s just two of our exciting cruises. There’s so much to explore, and we try to design cruise itineraries that make time for both natural and manmade wonders.

Give us a call today to get started on your own Great Lakes Cruise adventure!

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Great Lakes Explorer (15-day)

Great lakes explorer.

15 Days, 14 Nights — Toronto, ON to Duluth, MN From: $8,990

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On this 15-day Great Lakes Explorer voyage aboard the 210-guest Pearl Mist , experience Pearl Seas Cruises most immersive exploration along The Great Lakes, the largest freshwater system in the world. Take an exhilarating boat ride in Niagara Falls and come within feet of its misty spray. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art, one of the top art museums in the country, before traveling to the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit to learn how he changed the world of technology and manufacturing.

Delight in an aerial adventure over Parry Sound Harbor and a guided bike ride around Georgian Bay. Enjoy a narrated cruise on the beautiful St. Mary’s River in Sault St. Marie and learn the rich 300-year-old history of the area and the story behind the Soo Locks. Explore Michigan’s pristine wilderness and scenic landscapes in Marquette, lined with miles of Lake Superior shoreline.

Enjoy a day aboard Pearl Mist , cruising the scenic Keweenaw Waterway, ornamented with sandstone cliffs and sparkling spring waterfalls. Delve into its fascinating history of Duluth with an exploration of the area’s many museums, including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum.

Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Toronto, ON

For those guests who wish to start their cruise in style, we are offering a brand new Signature Pre-Cruise Package at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Toronto. Enjoy a 1-night stay at this renowned 5-star hotel, located in the heart of Toronto’s exclusive Yorkville neighborhood.

On the morning of your cruise, enjoy breakfast at the hotel, followed by a Toronto City Excursion. Discover the picturesque landmarks that make Toronto one of the most sensational places to visit in Canada. Explore the Saint Lawrence Markets, Chinatown, the Distillery District, and the renowned Fashion District.

The excursion concludes at the ship, where all of your luggage will be waiting for you in your onboard stateroom. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruise out of the harbor as you begin your amazing journey with us.

Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call 1-888-815-5428 for pricing and availability.

Day 2: Niagara Falls, ON

World-famous Niagara Falls stands 165 feet tall and is comprised of three waterfalls – Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. These famous falls are shared by both Ontario and New York which are connected by the Rainbow Bridge. Our local guide will show you the best vantage points and will explain the importance the falls once had to Native Americans and fur traders.

Day 3: Cleveland, OH

Cleveland is a city made up of dozens of diverse and eclectic neighborhoods, with a lively downtown area that dazzles after dusk. Stroll through the historic West Side Market which features more than 80 family-owned businesses. View the tombstone of John D. Rockefeller, who is buried at the beautiful Lake View Cemetery. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, containing one of the most renowned art collections in the world.

In the Tremont neighborhood, visit the home where the famous movie A Christmas Story was filmed, and have a cold brew at a bar said to have been frequented by Eliot Ness, the famous crime fighter who brought down Al Capone. No trip to Cleveland is complete without a trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where you can view Michael Jackson’s white sequined glove, Jim Morrison’s boy scout uniform, and Elvis’ motorcycle.

Day 4: Detroit, MI

Detroit is commonly known as The Motor City, as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler have been producing cars there for more than a century. Though, it’s equally famous as the birthplace of Motown Records, and for its many beloved sports teams.

Today, through its revitalization, Detroit has taken on a new appeal. From eye-popping street art and jazz clubs to vintage cars and impressive art deco architecture, the city is perfectly vibrant, progressive, and charming. Shop for art, jewelry, artisan crafts, and more at the Eastern Market, the largest historic public market district in the United States, dating back over 150 years. Visit the renowned Detroit Institute of Arts, a remarkable museum located in the heart of Midtown with more than 65,000 works. For some exercise, take a walk along The Dequindre Cut Greenway, a two-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront and historic neighborhoods.

Day 5: Midland, ON

Midland is the main town and economic center of the area located at the southern end of Georgian Bay’s Thirty Thousand Islands. Learn about the history of this fascinating city with a visit to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, a living museum depicting 17th-century missionary life. Stroll along the Midland Harbor, a picturesque destination featuring a large statue of the trumpeter swan, considered the symbol of Midland. For bird lovers, the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is a habitat for Trumpeter Swans, Black Terns, and Least Bitterns.

Day 6: Parry Sound, ON

Located on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay in Lake Huron, Parry Sound is a picturesque port town with charming cottages and spectacular views. Parry Sound is located inside the UNESCO designated Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. One of only 16 Biosphere Reserves in Canada, it is home to a variety of rare species of plants and animals. While ashore, explore Killbear Provincial Park, enjoy a scenic boat ride around the 30,000 islands, or take an aerial sightseeing tour.

Day 7: Day of Cruising

As we make our way to Mackinac Island, Michigan, witness the natural wonders and majestic beauty of the Great Lakes from the comfort of your fully furnished private balcony. Along the way, delight in the locally inspired cuisine prepared by our team of master chefs.

Day 8: Mackinac Island, MI

Mackinac Island is a living Victorian town where personal motorized vehicles are prohibited – all those visiting or living on the island travel by horse or horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, or on foot. While Mackinac Island is known for its opulent Victorian homes and hotels, it has a long Native American history. Anishinabe-Ojibwe tradition holds that the island was a sacred place populated by the first people and was home to the Great Spirit Gitchie Manitou.

Day 9: Traverse City, MI

Traverse City is known nationally as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” as five of its counties make up the region that produces 40 percent of the annual tart cherry crop in the United States. Consistently voted one of America’s most charming small towns, it abounds in beautifully restored historic buildings, idyllic tree-lined neighborhoods, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Walk along the shoreline and admire the Grand Traverse Lighthouse one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes. Find your new favorite bottle of red, white, sparkling, or even cider on a visit to one of the local wineries. Stroll along Front Street in downtown, featuring a trove of independent bookstores, trendy boutiques, and a local distillery.

Day 10: Sault Sainte Marie, MI

Located at the mouth of Saint Mary’s River, Sault Saint Marie was originally established by Jesuit missionaries in the 17th century. Saint Mary’s River connects Lake Superior to Lake Huron and has provided trade access between the United States and Canada for hundreds of years. The blend of the native Ojibwa with the French and English settlers resulted in the rich and diverse culture of this incredible destination.

Day 11: Marquette, MI

Lined with miles of Lake Superior shoreline, Marquette is the perfect city to explore Michigan’s pristine wilderness and scenic landscapes. Take a walk along one of its many pedestrian trails and admire the various historical lighthouses that adorn and protect its pristine shoreline.

Though area is known for its outdoor adventures, the arts and cultural scene is also very much alive, with an array of artists who invite you into their studios and galleries. Visit one of the area history museums, including the Iron Ore Heritage Museum, where you can learn about Marquette’s iron mining industry, which has flourished for more than 125 years.

Venture downtown to shop at chic boutiques, jewelry stores, and specialty shops. After, relax with a refreshment at one of the local breweries, wineries, or tap houses.

Day 12: Day of Cruising

Enjoy an afternoon aboard Pearl Mist, cruising the scenic Keweenaw Waterway. From the comfort of your private balcony, bask in the beauty of soaring sandstone cliffs, carved by glaciers, and sparkling spring waterfalls. Your onboard expert will provide commentary as we pass unique wildlife, historic lighthouses, and geological features that are over 1 billion years old.

Day 13: Thunder Bay, ON

Northwest Ontario’s largest city, Thunder Bay is a vibrant community surrounded by natural wonders, including thousands of square miles of Canadian wilderness and over 150,000 lakes and rivers. Explore the historic buildings and public art displays of Thunder Waterfront and North Core. Delight in a scenic drive to Kakabeka Falls, which means ‘waterfall over a cliff’ in Ojibwe and is also nicknamed the ‘Niagara of the North’ due to its size and accessibility. Venture to Fort William Historic Historical Park for a guided exploration of this living museum, featuring reconstructed buildings and historians dressed in period clothing.

Day 14: Duluth, MN

Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, Duluth is the biggest inland harbor in the world, despite being 600 feet above sea level and over 2,000 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Both rugged and refined, the town is home to a world famous ariel lift bridge and charming neighborhoods filled with local breweries and restaurants.

Delve into its fascinating history with an exploration of the area’s many museums, including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, which features immaculately restored locomotives, as well as exhibits that preserve, present, and interpret the history of railroading. Visit the famous 39-room Glensheen Mansion built with remarkable 20th-century craftsmanship, telling the story of the Duluth region. Later, discover dynamic works of art at The Duluth Art Institute.

Day 15: Duluth, MN

After breakfast on board, begin your journey home, reflecting upon the incredible experiences you’ve had and the wonderful new friends made.

Dates & Rates

Price is per person based on double occupancy. Port Charges are additional.

The 210-guest Pearl Mist is one of the most comfortable cruising vessels in the world, providing an exceptional luxury experience in an intimate, relaxed setting. At more than 300 square feet, the large and gracefully appointed staterooms mirror those of a world-class hotel and surround you in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy spectacular views from your room’s large window or by stepping onto your private balcony.

More information on the Pearl Mist …

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Cruising the Great Lakes

Program overview.

Admire magnificent coastal scenery and discover nearly two centuries of North American innovation and maritime history on this one-of-a-kind cruise itinerary from Toronto to Milwaukee—featuring all 5 Great Lakes. Experience the thunderous force of Niagara Falls; the Henry Ford Museum of Innovation in Detroit; the historical charm of Mackinac Island; and transit the Welland Canal and Soo Locks, among the greatest engineering feats of the 19 th century. Extend your Great Lakes immersion with the Toronto Pre- Program and/or Milwaukee Post-Program Options.

Program Details

• Program Extension Options
• Guest Speaker
• Eight-day, seven-night voyage between Toronto to Milwaukee, featuring a cruise of all 5 Great Lakes, including a call at Mackinac Island.
• In Toronto, cruise through 8 locks of the Welland Canal, one of North America’s most important economic lifelines, linking Lake Ontario to Lake Erie.   
• Full-day excursion to Niagara Falls, with a cruise to Horseshoe Falls and lunch overlooking the falls.  
• Discover the Sir Adam Beck Power Station, the world’s first large- scale hydroelectric generation project, and Niagara’s famous Floral Clock, intricately filled with 20,000 plants and flowers.  
• Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts and see Diego Rivera’s monumental Detroit Industry mural, as well as master works by Auguste Rodin; Michelangelo; Vincent van Gogh; Edgar Degas; and Paul Cézanne.  
• Explore the Edsel and Eleanor Ford Mansion.  
• Private, glass-bottom boat cruise through Big and Little Tub Harbors and around Flowerpot Island in Tobermory, Ontario.  
• Visit the SS Valley Camp , a retired lake freighter that is now a museum featuring exhibits of faithfully restored living quarters.  
• Transit the Soo Locks from Lake Huron to Lake Superior.  
• Watch colossal freighters lower 21 feet from Lake Superior to enter Lake Huron at the Soo Locks Interpretation Center.  
• Horse-drawn carriage tour of Victorian Mackinac Island and clifftop Fort Mackinac with lunch at the historic Grand Hotel .  

Day 1 - Depart Home City / Arrive in Toronto, Canada / Embark the ship/ Welland Canal

Day 2 - Niagara Falls / Lake Erie

Day 3 - Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

Day 4 - Detroit / Lake Huron

Day 5 - Tobermory, Canada / Lake Huron

Day 6 - Soo Locks / Lake Superior / Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, U.S.

Day 7 - Mackinac Island / Lake Michigan

Day 8 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin / Return to home city

View detailed program itinerary >

This elegant, exclusively chartered, 5-Star Luxury Small Ship features private balconies on all staterooms and suites, complementary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and warm and inviting public areas.

Le Bellot , launched in 2020, ushers in a new generation of five-star small ships, combining revolutionary design and a new standard of luxury for unparalleled cruising. Dock in smaller ports inaccessible to larger ships, where authentic cultural experiences and majestic scenery await you.

View Le Bellot Deckplan >

Learn more about The PONANT Fleet >

Toronto Pre-Program Option

Start your Great Lakes voyage early in cosmopolitan Toronto, one of North America’s most celebrated cultural melting pots. Enjoy a walking tour of the Distillery District, Canada’s premier arts, culture and entertainment destination, and visit Fort York, built in 1793 on the shores of Lake Ontario. Enjoy lunch in the CN Tower’s 360-degree revolving restaurant. Visit Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival mansion and garden built in the style of a European castle by Sir Henry Mill Pellatt. Tour the Art Gallery of Ontario, Toronto’s crowning jewel with a collection of over 80,000 works. Accommodations for two nights are in the historical Fairmont Royal York Hotel.

Milwaukee Post-Program Option

Rich in architectural treasures and world‑class institutions, vibrant Milwaukee is the perfect extension to your Great Lakes cruise. Enjoy a panoramic tour of the historical North Point neighborhood — home to one of the finest collections of Victorian mansions in the Midwest — and tour the expansive Milwaukee Art Museum, an impressive addition to Milwaukee’s revitalized waterfront. Visit the striking Pabst Mansion, built in Flemish style by Pabst Brewing Company president Frederick Pabst. Accommodations for two nights are in the centrally located Pfister Hotel.

The Pre- and Post-Program Options are available at an additional cost. Details will be provided with your reservation confirmation.  

Maritime historian, journalist and author Ric Mixter is one of the most requested speakers on the Great Lakes. He has dived over 100 wrecks in the Great Lakes, served as cameraman on underwater expeditions to the Edmund Fitzgerald and Carl D. Bradley and interviewed survivors connected to the Novadoc, James H. Reed and Cedarville shipwrecks as well as other wrecks in lakes Michigan, Huron and Erie.

Driven by his passion for storytelling, Ric's impressive work includes over 30 programs for PBS and the Outdoor Channel and he has been featured as a shipwreck expert on the History and Discovery Channels.

Ric has been awarded by the Great Lakes Shipwreck Preservation Society and the Association for Great Lakes Maritime Historians. He served as president of the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association and is a board member for the prestigious Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society.

When he's not underwater exploring vessels that once sailed the Great Lakes, Ric can be found flying single‑engine planes as well as time in F-16s, B-52s and the Goodyear Blimp.

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Program Itinerary

Day 1 depart home city / toronto, canada / embark the ship / lake ontario / welland canal.

Arrive in Toronto and cruise through eight locks of the Welland Canal, one of North America’s most important economic lifelines. Constructed in the early 19th century, the canal links Lake Ontario to Lake Erie and was instrumental in opening the Great Lakes to commerce and prosperity; the canal carries nearly 40 million tons of cargo per year. Enjoy a Captain’s Welcome Reception this evening.

Day 2 Niagara Falls / Lake Erie

Drive to Niagara Falls and ride the Hornblower Cruise Funicular up the 19-story rock walls of the Great Gorge and back down. Cruise toward the base of Horseshoe Falls and experience the sheer force of this geological wonder. After a specially-arranged lunch, see the 410 million-year-old layers of the Niagara Gorge and the Whirlpool Rapids, among the world’s most extreme. Discover the Sir Adam Beck Power Station, the world’s first large-scale hydroelectric generation project, and Niagara’s famous Floral Clock, intricately filled with 20,000 plants and flowers. This evening, cruise Lake Erie.

Day 3 Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the most significant collections of art in the nation, housed in a magnificent Beaux Arts building. See Diego Rivera’s monumental Detroit Industry mural, which captures the city’s blue-collar history, as well as master works by Auguste Rodin; Michelangelo; Vincent van Gogh; Edgar Degas; and Paul Cézanne. Continue to Grosse Point to visit the Edsel and Eleanor Ford Mansion.

Day 4 Detroit / Lake Huron

Visit the acclaimed Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. See Henry Ford’s birthplace, two of Thomas Edison’s workshops, and Orville and Wilbur Wright’s bicycle shop. This evening, cruise Lake Huron.

Day 5 Tobermory, Canada / Lake Huron

In Tobermory, embark on a glass-bottom boat cruise from Little Tub Harbor to Big Tub Harbor. See the remains of the schooner Sweepstakes, Big Tub Lighthouse, and the Flowerpot Island. Enjoy time at leisure. Prepare for more stunning views this evening as you cruise across Lake Huron.

Day 6 Soo Locks / Lake Superior / Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, U.S.

This morning, transit the Soo Locks from Lake Superior to Lake Huron and back. Arrive in Sault Ste. Marie and explore the SS Valley Camp, a retired lake freighter that is now a museum featuring exhibits of faithfully restored living quarters and the tragic loss of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Continue to the Soo Locks Interpretation Center and watch colossal freighters lower 21 feet from Lake Superior to enter Lake Huron. This evening, cruise Lake Huron.

Day 7 Mackinac Island / Lake Michigan

On Mackinac Island, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride to dramatic Arch Rock. Continue on a guided tour of Fort Mackinac. Stop at the Grand Hotel for lunch and return to the ship by carriage. Cruise Lake Michigan and attend the Captain’s Farewell Reception this evening.

Day 8 Milwaukee, Wisconsin / Return to home city

Disembark continue onto the Milwaukee Post-Program Option or transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

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Great Lakes Cruises

7 best great lakes cruises for 2024-2025, a voyage along the great lakes – with smithsonian journeys, expedition in the heart of the american great lakes, lake superior – a life-sized expedition, great lakes - masterpieces of nature, great lakes - wilderness and history on vast lake backdrops, great lakes and st lawrence river - unlocking the american dream, st lawrence river and nova scotia - canada's lifeline amidst indian summer colors, top great lakes cruise ships for 2024-2025, great lakes cruise tips & travel guide, top cruise ports in the great lakes.

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• Sault Ste. Marie

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Great Lakes Cruises

Discover natural wonders: from outstanding beauty to historic cities and a deep connection to nature, the Great Lakes are an undiscovered treasure, boasting stunning national parks best explored via tranquil kayaking and hiking. This area is also rich in culture, with world-class museums, vibrant cities and areas steeped in First Nations traditions.

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Highlights of great lakes cruises.

America’s Great Lakes are a little-known, unspoiled wonderland, boasting diverse natural beauty, scenic wildlife and some of the most interesting cities in North America. Over 750 miles across with 10,000 miles of coastline, the Great Lakes cover an area twice as large as Pennsylvania. Glide silently by kayak past otters in Georgian Bay, hear the roar of Niagara Falls, hike through verdant old forests or visit Canada’s prominent museums to marvel at art inspired by these shores. Here are some highlights you may experience during your journey:

• Explore the largest freshwater ecosystem on earth—the Great Lakes
• Watch for wildlife, from bald eagles to moose, bears and beavers
• Hike through stunning forests in this pristine environment
• Learn about Canada’s colonial past and the St. Lawrence River
• Kayak in stunning Georgian Bay—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
• View the world-class collection of the Milwaukee Art Museum
• Explore tranquil, scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Transit engineering marvels like the Welland Canal and Soo Locks

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Cruising the Great Lakes: Toronto to Chicago

Tour description:.

The mighty Great Lakes have played a vital role in the history and cultural fabric of North America for centuries... explore their storied waters... and unique cities and towns... that have grown along their shores... Enjoy a 7-night Great Lakes cruise between Chicago and Toronto aboard a beautiful Ponant yacht, plus two-night stays at your choice of premium hotels in these two great anchor cities. You'll sail through Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron and Michigan, calling on destinations including Detroit, Mackinac Island, Cleveland and more. Explore urban planning and revitalization in a re-emerging Detroit; celebrate American invention and ingenuity at The Henry Ford in Dearborn;  enjoy lunch at Mackinac Island's Grand Hotel; ride a dune buggy along the Lake Michigan shore; sample Holland, Michigan's Dutch heritage, tulips and beer culture; experience an architectural cruise, a taste of Chicago in America's "Second City," and much more!

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Request a Galapagos Quote for 11/1/2020 – Galapagos Inner Loop – 7 Nights Roundtrip Baltra | From $8,512

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All fares are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy, and reflect promotional savings, are for new bookings only, are subject to availability, and must be booked by September 1, 2019. Promotional savings in categories F-B on the December 21st sailing and categories C-D on the December 27th sailing only. *Included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco is based on availability in class of service. Offer may be combined with applicable 3rd guest in stateroom offer but may not be combinable with other offers. Port, security, and handling charges of $149 per person are additional. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Call for details. Ship’s registry: Bahamas.

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• A Voyage Along the Great Lakes – with Smithsonian Journeys Milwaukee - Toronto

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A Voyage Along the Great Lakes – with Smithsonian Journeys

Milwaukee - toronto, dates: 10/11/2024 to  10/18/2024.

Guest Speaker

Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included

In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.

This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.

Set sail with  PONANT  aboard  Le Champlain  for an  8-day cruise  to discover  the Great Lakes  amidst the splendid colors of autumn.

Depart from  Milwaukee, Wisconsin , the United States’ “brew city,” and begin your voyage by sailing the length of  Lake Michigan , a veritable inland sea, following in the footsteps of the region’s indigenous Americans, first settlers, and trappers.

On Mackinac Island , explore the island’s Victorian past by horse and buggy before continuing to Sault Ste. Marie , where you will have the opportunity to transit the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks for a foray into  Lake Superior .

Your next lake,  Lake Huron , boasts myriad islands in its northern part, with white rocks capped with conifers plunging into the sapphire waters of the lake. Here you will discover the quaint town of  Little Current , gateway to Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. Then explore the charming city of  Parry   Sound , in the heart of the fantastic  UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Georgian Bay .

Le Champlain will then sail the canal connecting Lake Erie and Lake Ontario . From your call in Port Colborne, you will be able to see the impressive  Niagara Falls . These three powerful waterfalls, renowned the world over, are an exquisite natural spectacle.

You will end in cosmopolitan and dynamic  Toronto, Ontario , on the shore of Lake Ontario. Canada’s largest city will charm you with its museums, parks, and gardens.

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A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call. Engaging discussions...

Your trip in detail

Your ship le champlain.

Included in your cruise

Important trip details

1 888 400 1082 or contact your travel advisor

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Choose your stateroom.

Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3  

From $8,520 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Stateroom Deck 4  

From $9,330 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Stateroom Deck 5  

From $9,730 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6  

From $10,230 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Deluxe Suite Deck 3  

From $13,790 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Deluxe Suite Deck 4  

Fully booked 10% Ponant Bonus

Deluxe Suite Deck 5  

Deluxe Suite Deck 6  

Prestige Suite Deck 5  

Prestige Suite Deck 6  

From $19,150 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Privilege Suite Deck 6  

From $20,030 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Privilege Suite Deck 5  

Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6  

From $21,900 per person 10% Ponant Bonus

Owner's Suite Deck 5  

From $25,340 per person

Complete your trip

Included in your cruise For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.

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Additional services For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.

Additional services

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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.

Services provided

• 24-hour room service
• Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
• Individually-controlled air conditioning
• Dressing room with shelves and closet
• Dressing table and hairdryer
• Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
• Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
• Electronic safe
• Direct line telephone
• Bose Bluetooth speaker
• Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
• 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
• Two ADA staterooms

Select your stateroom category

Stateroom size

• - than 269 ft²
• + than 269 ft²

Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3

10% Ponant Bonus

Prestige Stateroom Deck 4

Prestige Stateroom Deck 5

Prestige Stateroom Deck 6

Deluxe Suite Deck 3

Deluxe Suite Deck 4

Fully booked

Deluxe Suite Deck 5

Deluxe Suite Deck 6

Prestige Suite Deck 5

Prestige Suite Deck 6

Privilege Suite Deck 6

Privilege Suite Deck 5

Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6

Owner's Suite Deck 5

Boarding conditions and passenger travel abilities

We invite you to read our boarding conditions and passenger travel abilities by clicking here . 

Any new reservation implies the acceptance of these conditions.

To guarantee your entry into one or several countries, you must ensure that you comply with the formalities and health requirements specific to each destination. In just a few clicks on our online search engine, find all the formalities you must complete prior to your departure (visas, entry authorisations for each country, vaccinations, etc.).

The international situation can change rapidly, so be sure to check this information regularly prior to your departure. However, please note that we always recommend our guests contact the relevant national immigration and customs and border control authorities directly to find out what rules apply to their specific situation. PONANT is not responsible for any decisions made by guests based on the information provided by the online search engine.

The information below is current but subject to change at any time without advance notice from government authorities. Please consult your respective government agencies for visa and health information.

Passport valid for at least six (6) months beyond the completion of your trip. Passport must contain at least two completely clear, blank, unused visa pages for each visa required, not including any amendment pages. Visa pages with stains or ink from other pages in the passport are not usable. Guests who deviate from the scheduled embarkation or disembarkation port should research the foreign entry requirements for the port country. Due to government regulations, regrettably, Ponant will have to deny boarding to any guest who fails to obtain the appropriate travel documentation for this trip.

Canada : Entry (or transit) by air - The ETA is required for Australian and British citizens, US citizens are exempt. Other nationalities, please contact Canada consulate website for details. http://www.canada.ca/en/index.html. A copy of your visa or ETA must be sent to PONANT at the very latest 45 days prior to your cruise date. In case the ETA is sufficient to enter Canada, we also ask you to keep a copy of your ETA with your passport throughout the duration of your trip.

USA : Depending on your nationality, an ESTA or Visa may be required. Please contact USA consulate website for details. A copy of your visa or ESTA must be sent to PONANT at the very latest 45 days prior to your cruise date. In case the ESTA is sufficient to enter the USA, we also ask you to keep a copy of your ESTA with your passport throughout the duration of your trip.

List of items prohibited on board

To guarantee the safety and well-being of our guests, certain items are strictly prohibited on board. Should you have one of these products or objects in your possession, they will be confiscated immediately and will not be transported on the ship. When an item transported aboard is considered illegal, the relevant authorities will be notified systematically.

Click here  for the full list of items prohibited on board. 

Warning about the use of drones : the use of drones aboard PONANT ships, whether they are sailing at sea, at a port of call or anchored, is strictly forbidden. The use of drones on land in the Arctic and Antarctic regions is also strictly forbidden by international polar regulations. In other regions, it may be possible to use drones on land if permission has been obtained from the relevant authorities of each country and each region travelled through, as well as a pilot’s licence that should be obtained from your home country. Passengers are responsible for obtaining these permits; they should be able to present them at all times. Passengers who do not obtain these authorisations expose themselves to the risk of legal proceedings.

Ideal clothes for life on board:

During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.

Informal evening:

In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.

• Simple dress
• Skirt or trousers
• Pleated trousers or chinos
• Sports jacket

Officer’s evening:

For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).

Gala evening:

During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.

• Cocktail attire
• Evening dress (if you wish to)
• Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)

A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.

A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.

ACCESSORIES:

• Polarized sunglasses
• Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
• Gym wear (fitness)
• Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
• Mobile phone charger

HEALTH CARE:

• Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
• Medications and prescriptions

OUTFITS ON BOARD:

• Casual outfits for the day
• Smarter outfits for dinners
• Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
• White or black and white outfit

PRECAUTIONS:

In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.

All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.

PONANT activities

Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.

Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure

• A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
• Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.
• A cruise with the opportunity to explore the five Great Lakes of North America, between the United States and Canada.
• A cruise along the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Georgian Bay.
• An itinerary combining nature and culture: picturesque landscapes and geological curiosities, the history of indigenous Americans inhabiting the region before European colonization, and charming villages.
• An excursion to the magnificent Niagara Falls.
• A visit to charming Mackinac Island, with its preserved Victorian architecture.

Ports of Call & Excursions

October 11, 2024 - Milwaukee

Embarkation 10/11/2024 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Departure 10/11/2024 at 5:00 PM

Nested on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee , the largest city in the State of Wisconsin, harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. Industrial long ago, the city, known as Brew City because of its old breweries renowned all over the world, is experiencing a certain renaissance. While warehouses have given way to restaurants, bars, theatres and art galleries in the city centre, the district still retains traces of its manufacturing past. Further south lies Chicago , the economic centre of the Midwest, with an interesting mix of natural and urban landscapes: its immense skyscrapers, diverse architecture, many parks and magnificent beaches make the city a popular destination.

October 12, 2024 - Sailing Lake Michigan

Arrival 10/12/2024 Departure 10/12/2024

You will sail the United States’ largest freshwater body, which gave its name to Michigan , one of the four states that border this lake measuring 500 km long and 200 km wide. The first colonists settled in the south at the end of the 17th century, on the site of the current megalopolis of Chicago . Wild landscapes of forests with sparkling colours , cliffs, golden sandy beaches and dunes as far as the eye can see stretch along its 2,600 km of shoreline. In the north, magnificent wind-swept islands rise out of the lake’s emerald waters. At 8 km long, the Mackinac Bridge , which spans the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, is one of the world’s longest suspension bridges. 

October 12, 2024 - Mackinac Island

Arrival 10/12/2024 midday Departure 10/12/2024 evening

Close to the banks of Lake Huron in the State of Michigan, Mackinac Island promises a real journey through time. Originally inhabited by Amerindians, then occupied by French and British colonists, this small island measuring only a few km² still retains an atmosphere of yesteryear today, with its Victorian-style buildings and elegant horse-drawn carriages. Fort Mackinac, on the heights of the island, is a reminder of the conflicts that punctuated the history of this strategic place, a former fur trade centre. In addition to this scenery from the past, the island offers magnificent fine sandy beaches and is home to one of the oldest National Parks in the United States.

October 13, 2024 - Sault Ste. Marie

Arrival 10/13/2024 early morning Departure 10/13/2024 late afternoon

Located to the east of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Separated from its Canadian twin city by St. Marys River, it is famous among other things for its locks , known as either the Sault Locks or the Soo Locks , which enable ships to travel the metres in change in elevation between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes . These locks, which date back over 160 years, are considered the most important in the world due to their shipping traffic. Make sure you visit the Museum Ship Valley Camp where you can visit the interior of a former freighter that sailed on the Great Lakes for more than 50 years.

October 14, 2024 - Little Current

Arrival 10/14/2024 late morning Departure 10/14/2024 early evening

A small port town located along the North Channel of Lake Huron , Little Current is considered to be the gateway to Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world. The town’s emblematic construction, the Little Current Swing Bridge built in 1913, provides the only land access to the island, peaceful lands whose name means “the island of spirits” in the local dialect. A real haven of peace, sheltering wild nature and some hamlets, the place is ideal for outdoor activities such as horse-riding and hiking.

October 15, 2024 - Parry Sound

Arrival 10/15/2024 early morning Departure 10/15/2024 late afternoon

The charming city of Parry Sound enjoys an exceptional natural setting in the heart of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , east of Georgian Bay. A holiday destination favoured by the province’s inhabitants, the city and its surroundings offer a condensed version of all that the Great Lakes region has to offer: windswept forests of conifers, rocky shores characteristic of the Canadian Shield, beaches of fine sand, clear and calm waters producing magnificent reflections that change with the time of day and luminosity… A real paradise for fauna and flora, the place will delight fans of nature and photography. 

October 15, 2024 - Sailing Lake Huron

Arrival 10/15/2024 Departure 10/15/2024

A natural border between the American State of Michigan and the Canadian province of Ontario, Lake Huron is one of the five American Great Lakes and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. Comprising the main lake, Saginaw Bay, the North Channel and Georgian Bay, and home to around 30,000 islands , it offers varied coastal landscapes and unique views. From your ship, you’ll thus be able to admire the wild beauty of the wooded and at times craggy coastline of Manitoulin Island, or the spectacular cliffs of the Bruce Peninsular.

October 16, 2024 - Sailing St. Clair River

Arrival 10/16/2024 Departure 10/16/2024

Forming a natural line of separation between the United States and Canada, the St. Clair River , which flows from Lake Huron into Lake St. Clair, is a significant element of the Great Lakes Waterway . Used in the 18 th century for the fur trade by the French colonists of North America who sailed it on small boats to trade with the Amerindians, it was then travelled by freighters transporting lumber, iron ore and copper from the Great Lakes region to the cities of the Rust Belt.

October 16, 2024 - Sailing through Detroit

During your navigation along the Detroit River, an important commercial waterway linking Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair to Lake Huron , you will sail along the largest city in Michigan. You’ll then enjoy panoramic views over the skyscrapers of the former Motor City , jewel of the automotive industry, Fordism and Motown music in the 20th century. You’ll also be able to admire the Ambassador Bridge , which spans the river and enables access to Windsor, on the Canadian shore of the river. This steel suspension bridge, over two kilometres long, was constructed in 1929. This bridge alone carries over 25% of trade between the United States and Canada.

October 17, 2024 - Sailing Lake Erie

Arrival 10/17/2024 Departure 10/17/2024

Located to the south of Lake Huron and connected to Lake Ontario by the Welland Canal, Lake Erie, which owes its name to one of the Amerindian tribes which peopled its banks before the arrival of the French in the 17 th century, is remarkable for its unique ecosystem . Its shallow fish-filled waters make it an excellent fishing spot, while its banks, famous for their many migratory birds , attract photographers and ornithology enthusiasts.

October 17, 2024 - Port Colborne

Arrival 10/17/2024 midday Departure 10/17/2024 evening

Port Colborne is a small port city located in southern Ontario , at the mouth of the Welland Canal . It is well-known for one of the longest locks in the world: measuring 420 metres, this lock, the 8 th in the canal, has an observation footbridge and marks the final transit point before the Erie Canal . In addition to the discovery of this tremendous hydraulic infrastructure, this port of call will be your privileged access point to the famous Niagara Falls, renowned all over the world for their spectacular beauty. Located on the river of the same name, which means “water thunder” in Amerindian language, these wonders of nature are among the most powerful waterfalls in the world.

October 18, 2024 - Toronto

Arrival 10/18/2024 early morning Disembarkation 10/18/2024 at 8:00 AM

The largest city in Canada and capital of the province of Ontario, Toronto fascinates as much by its incredible diversity as by its size. Make sure you visit the CN Tower, the tallest tower in the western hemisphere, as well as the St. Lawrence Market whose stalls reflect the multicultural wealth of this city known as the global city. Not far from there, the historic Distillery District unveils its brick-paved streets imbued with romantic charm and its myriad of small restaurants, cafés, boutiques, theatres and art galleries . The Royal Ontario Museum and its impressive collections devoted to the world’s natural and cultural history will also be an unmissable stop during this port of call.

Le Champlain

Like the rest of the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Champlain successfully manages to subtly combine the desire to explore the remotest regions of the planet with the comfort and privacy of a cosily intimate ship . To the innovative and environmentally friendly equipment are added elegant design and a unique atmosphere in keeping with the whole PONANT universe. Your dream of a cruise onboard a cosily intimate ship is thus made possible through the combination of an authentically genuine voyage experience together with discreet luxury. 

Find out more about Le Champlain

PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.

Included Features:

• A program of onboard enrichment provided by two Smithsonian Journeys Experts
• Transfers and luggage handling from the airport in Milwaukee to the ship on the day of embarkation
• Comprehensive 7-night cruise aboard the deluxe Le Champlain , with all the amenities for which PONANT ships are famous
• One included shore excursion in each port of call (see “Itinerary” for more information and choice of excursions, if applicable)
• Transfer from the ship to the airport in Toronto at the end of the cruise on the morning of disembarkation

Not included:

• Independent meals and beverages ashore
• Personal expenses (such as laundry, telephone, etc.)
• This voyage is offered on a space available basis
• Program is subject to change without notice

Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.

Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands

10/18/2024 - COSMOPOLITAN TORONTO (1 NIGHT)

COSMOPOLITAN TORONTO (1 NIGHT)

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and well worth a full day of exploration. Take advantage of a specially designed program to get acquainted with this vibrant, multicultural city on the shores of Lake Ontario.

Day 1 – Disembark |Toronto, Ontario, Canada

After breakfast and disembarkation, your guide and driver will meet you at the pier to accompany your discovery of Toronto. Begin with a panoramic tour of the central city, including University Avenue, the Legislative Building, the Theater District, and City Hall, ending at the Art Gallery of Ontario, one of Toronto's finest museums. A docent-led tour will introduce you to the museum's preeminent permanent exhibition—the oft-awarded McLean Centre for Indigenous & Canadian Art. After the tour, enjoy time to look around on your own or visit the extensive gift shop.

From the museum, drive to Toronto's emblematic CN Tower, where glass-enclosed elevators take you to the top floor for lunch at the 360 Restaurant, which provides constantly changing views of the city from a vantage point more than 1,000 feet above street level, as the restaurant completes a full revolution every 72 minutes. After your meal, enjoy time at leisure to visit the Observation Deck, before returning to the ground to drive to the Fairmont Royal York hotel, where you check in for overnight. Dinner this evening is independent.

Day 2 – Toronto

Following breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Toronto’s Pearson International Airport for flights homeward.

Your hotel: The Fairmont Royal York, Toronto’s landmark hotel, is located in the heart of Old Toronto. Recently revitalized, the Fairmont offers all of the facilities and services one would expect from a luxury hotel in a world-class city, including two restaurants and access to a health club, spa, and pool.

Your program includes:

• 1 night at the Fairmont Royal York
• Sightseeing and programming as noted in the itinerary
• Transfer and luggage handling from the ship to the hotel
• Local English-speaking guide
• Lunch on Day 1
• Breakfast on Day 2
• Transfer and luggage handling from the hotel to the airport on the scheduled program departure day
• Gratuities for the drivers and local guides

Your program does not include:

• Transfer from the hotel to the airport on any day other than the scheduled program departure day
• Personal expenses and other services and meals not mentioned as included in the program  

Please note:

• It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 60 days prior to the beginning of your cruise in order to secure your transfer from the hotel to the airport.
• Early check-in and/or late check-out are available depending on availability and at a supplement. An additional night is possible, upon request and depending on hotel availability. Please, contact reservations or your travel agent for further details.
• The official currency is the Canadian dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants.
• This post-cruise program is offered as a package. There will be no refunds for unused accommodations, meals, or excursions.
• Program is offered on a space available basis.
• Program is subject to change without notice.  

Hotel contact information: The Fairmont Royal York 100 Front St W  Toronto, Canada M5J 1E3 Telephone: +1 416 368 2511

Total : $1,000

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Fish Point State Wildlife Area Spring Birding Tour

Friday, April 05, 2024 9:00am - 11:00am Eastern Unionville, Michigan

Location Details

Fish Point State Wildlife Area, 7750 Ringle Rd., Unionville, Michigan 48767

Unionville, 48767, MI

The tour will meet at the Fish Point State Wildlife Area field office, at 7750 Ringle Rd., Unionville, Michigan 48767.  The tour will take place by-foot and via car caravan, depending on where birds are present.    

April 05, 2024 - Unionville, MI

Join MI Department of Natural Resources for your chance to see ducks, swans, shorebirds, raptors and more on a guided birding tour along the coastal wetlands of Fish Point State Wildlife Area, on Friday, April 5 at 9 a.m.! All ages are welcome and encouraged!  

Consisting of 2,477 acres of exceptional waterfowl habitat, this State Wildlife Area is also  an Audubon Important Bird Area and is one of Michigan’s 14 premier Wetland Wonders ! On the Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron, Fish Point is an important coastal wetland. Often referred to as the “Chesapeake of the Midwest,” each Spring, Fish Point hosts over 230 bird species, and is an eBird hotspot! 

Restrooms and trash receptacles will be available at the field office. Please bring your own binoculars or a scope if you have them. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes as the tour make take place along unpaved trails and along uneven ground. Please be aware that the trail system is not ADA accessible. We highly encourage folks to download one or more of the following smart phone apps: eBird, iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID, Audubon Bird Guide.  

This bird tour is presented in partnership with MI Birds , a public outreach and education program by Audubon Great Lakes and Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Birders and hunters share similar conservation values, but rarely cross paths. MI Birds aims to bridge the divide, and deepen all Michiganders engagement in the understanding, care, and stewardship of public lands that are important for birds and local communities.  

Tundra Swans at Fish Point State Wildlife Area. Photo: MI DNR 

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Other Upcoming Events

Birds & Brews in Marquette, Michigan

Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 7:00pm Eastern

Woodcock Walk: Lame Duck Foot Access Area GEMS

Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 7:30pm Eastern

Portage Marsh Spring Birding Tour

Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 9:00am Eastern

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