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Yorktown

Chicago's Gold Coast to the Shores of Lake Superior

Example 10 Day Cruise
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Join the Yorktown for an exciting exploration of historic and natural sites. The beauty of local flora and fauna await on this 10-day cruise along untamed shores and little-visited ports on the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Begin in cosmopolitan Chicago, take in the history and culture of Manitowoc, and enjoy the charming and relaxed pace of the Victorian gem of Mackinac Island. Bask in breathtaking vistas along Lake Superior’s North Shore around Grand Marais, and take advantage of hiking and kayaking opportunities, before disembarking in Duluth.
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Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Day 1: Chicago, Illinois

Arrive in Chicago and board the Yorktown for your Great Lakes cruise. Settle in to your cabin and familiarize yourself with the ship and her crew.

Day 2: Manitowoc, Wisconsin

Originally home to the Native American tribes of Ottawa, Potawatomi, and Ojibwe, Manitowoc's tranquil coastal locale later attracted fur traders who set up poses by the late 1700s. Becoming a center for the region's fishing and sailing ship building industries, Manitowoc earned the nick name Clipper City. Explore the town, including the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, where rich exhibits chronicle the maritime history of the Great Lakes; the Pinecrest Historical Village, an ensemble of more than 20 historic buildings set in beautiful grounds; and the Rahr-West Art Museum, with its collections of 19th and 20th century American and international art. Also enjoy time at leisure to explore the beautiful natural areas that surround Manitowoc.

Day 3: Manistique, Michigan

Sail into Manistique, a small town on the Garden Peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan. Explore Big Spring, located in the scenic Palms Book State Park. The area features crystal clear waters which stretch 200 feet across. Also visit Fayette, the center of a large 19th smelting operation which has now become an evocative industrial ghost town.

Day 4: Mackinac Island, Michigan

Arrive on beautiful Mackinac Island, a Victorian-era haven where cars are forbidden and bicycles share the road with horse-drawn carriages. See the ancient limestone formations which were considered sacred by the Straits Indians, as well as the impressive Fort Mackinac and the landmark Victorian Grand Hotel.

Day 5: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

View the Soo Locks from the viewing platform in town and visit a 1917 Great Lakes freighter, which is now a museum. Alternatively, take a full-day tour by train travels inland through the magnificent scenery of the Agawa Canyon.

Day 6: Marathon, Ontario

Spend the day exploring nearby Pukaskwa National Park, known for its boreal forest and its breathtaking views of Lake Superior.

Day 7: Red Rock, Ontario

Choose between excursions that will take you exploring the Ouimet Canyon, Eagle Canyon, and the mighty Nipigon River.

Day 8: Thunder Bay, Ontario

Land at Thunder Bay, which was first settled by the French in 1679. Shortly after the American Revolution, the British established a settlement, Fort William, which flourished on the booming fur trade. Visit Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, home to Mute Swan, Pacific Loon, and Bald Eagle among many other species of birds.

Day 9: Grand Marais, Minnesota

Along Minnesota’s untamed Lake Superior coastline, known as the North Shore, are superb wilderness areas that are rated among the finest in the country. The forested coast borders the Sawtooth Mountains, where glacial lakes, rivers, falls, and wildlife abound. From the small town of Grand Marais, explore this beautiful region, which offering options of activities including hiking along scenic trails, kayaking and visiting historic sites, such as the Grand Portage National Monument, a reconstructed 18th century trading center.

Day 10: Duluth, Minnesota

In the morning, disembark in Duluth and transfer to the airport for your connecting flights home.

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle

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