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Explore the picturesque shoreline of Lake Superior

Great Lakes and St Lawrence River - Unlocking the American Dream

Milwaukee to Halifax - Example 18 Day Cruise aboard Hanseatic Inspiration
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Great Lakes' diverse landscapes and cultures. Begin in Milwaukee with German immigrant influences, traverse tranquil Mackinac Island, and experience Sault Ste. Marie's historical significance. Traverse the nautical masterpieces of the Welland Canal and the St Lawrence River, experiencing lock adventures. Explore vibrant cities like Toronto, Montreal, Quebec, and picturesque Tadoussac. Encounter Gaspe's scenic beauty, Iles de la Madeleine's red cliffs, and charming Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island. Culminate the journey in Halifax, Canada. Join us for an unforgettable blend of nature, history, and culture.
A view of the Toronto skyline from Lake Ontario, Canada.Explore the coastlines of the Great LakesExplore the picturesque shoreline of Lake Superior
Highlights
  • Pioneering spirit times to the Great Lakes and St Lawrence River combined in one cruise
  • Lock adventures: nautical masterpieces on the Welland Canal and St Lawrence River
  • Explore traditional French-Canadian flair in Montreal, Quebec, and Tadoussac.
  • Experience the magic of Indian summer along the coasts and in the forests on active hikes
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Milwaukee | Embark

Adventure, an explorer’s dream, natural wonders in shades of yellow and red: the Great Lakes and the mighty river system of North America, the St Lawrence River, united in the colours of Indian summer on one cruise. As an optional pre-cruise programme, you can discover Chicago before your eventful days with the HANSEATIC inspiration begin in Milwaukee on Lake Michigan. The influences of former German immigrants can be seen during a city tour with a visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum* and a walk through the German quarter*. Alternatively, you can visit the Harley-Davidson Museum*.

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 2: Milwaukee | Lake Michigan

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Cruise on Lake Michigan 

Day 3: Mackinac Island | Lake Huron

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Mackinac Island on Lake Huron is a bit more tranquil. European explorers came to the island in the 17th century. Soon Mackinac Island occupied a strategically important position as a trading centre for the fur trade in the Great Lakes region. Here Victorian mansions and the fort from the War of Independence tell of the beginnings of the United States of America.

Day 4: Sault Ste. Marie | Canada

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
On a walk through Sault Ste. Marie, you can immerse yourself in fascinating stories of immigrants at the museum or marvel at the enormous lock system that separates Canada and the US here.

Day 5: Parry Sound

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Whether by kayak, canoe or ship, Parry Sound is an El Dorado for water sports enthusiasts, as a boat trip of the Thirty Thousand Islands* will reveal. The composition of blue lakes, autumnal forests and pink granite rocks puts you in the midst of a masterpiece of nature in Killbear Provincial Park*.

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 6: Killarney

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Killarney is reminiscent of Ireland. Stop and pause as you walk on the “emerald isle” of George Island to fully appreciate the nature and tranquillity. Nature and hiking lovers, above all, will feel at home here.

Day 7: Windsor

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Windsor forms a contrast to the vast and impressive landscape. Take in the skyline of the former “Motor City” – witnessing the transformation of Detroit* is exciting. This is followed by a cruise on Lake Erie and truly great experiences ...

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 8: Lock adventure in the Welland Canal

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The next stage of your cruise is all about nautical masterpieces: follow the challenging passage during a lock adventure on the Welland Canal on the deck tour at the bow or the ship’s many open deck areas. Through eight locks, your small ship overcomes almost 100 m (328 ft) of height, corresponding to a lock lift the height of Niagara Falls. This is only possible thanks to the ship’s retractable bridge wings.

Day 9: Toronto | Lake Ontario

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
In Toronto, a city tour by tram* shows how skyscrapers, parks and trendy districts complement each other well. As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is Canada’s economic centre and one of the world’s leading financial centres, after decades during which Montreal had held that role. The city is located on the north-western shore of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the five Great Lakes.

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 10: St Lawrence River

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Your curiosity will know no bounds on the next experience: a lock adventure on the St Lawrence River – with knowledgeable commentary provided from the bridge. Enjoy the exciting manoeuvres in the seven locks from the deck.

Day 11: Montreal

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
European charm welcomes you in Montreal on a city tour*. The sommelier in you, by contrast, will be awakened by the wineries in the Eastern Townships*. As a city of over a million inhabitants, Montreal is of particular importance to Canada in terms of tourism, especially because of its sights and its diverse range of cultural offers, including museums as well as numerous film, theatre and music festivals.

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 12: Quebec

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
French savoir vivre and Canadian zest for life invite you to explore the historic quarter in Quebec. A walking tour with tea at Chateau Frontenac* brings around 400 years of history to life. On a trip to Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orleans,* you will pass some of Canada’s oldest French settlements.

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 13: Tadoussac

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Dive deeper into the settlers’ history in Canada’s oldest village, Tadoussac. With a little luck, you might also spot whales here. A population of belugas lives in the waters all year round.

Day 14: Gaspe

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
From Gaspe, picturesque bays and rocky coastline shape your impressions on a scenic tour across the peninsula and to Forillon National Park*. You can also explore this paradise for amateur ornithologists on an active hike* amidst autumnal colours.

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 15-16: Iles de la Madeleine | Prince Edward Island

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
On the Iles de la Madeleine, red cliffs and long sandy beaches provide breathtaking island impressions*. Alternatively, a culinary tour* combines cheese, fish and the art of brewing. Finally, Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island welcomes you to an urban idyll where the sound of horse-drawn carriages echoes through the streets. As your cruise slowly draws to a close, your American-Canadian dream comes to an end in beautiful natural surroundings.

*The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Day 17: At sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Enjoy the amenities and facilities on board. Each day on board offers delicious dining options, a wide variety of entertainment, and enriching activities.

Day 18: Halifax, Canada | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

Ship/Hotel

Hanseatic Inspiration

Hanseatic Inspiration

Embark on a journey of self-discovery aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration, a Polar Class 6 expedition ship. Explore remote corners of the planet, enjoy open deck spaces, and engage in immersive adventures.
Hanseatic Inspiration (Hapag-Lloyd)

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$14,020 2-3 travelers
Select a Date
Category 1: Outside
Heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, a complimentary mini-bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service. Dimension: 22/237 ft²
Select a Date
Category 2: Panoramic
Heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, a complimentary mini-bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service. Dimension: 21/226 ft²
Select a Date
Category 3: French Balcony
Heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, complimentary mini-bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service Dimension: 21/23m²
Select a Date
Category 4: Balcony
Modern and luxurious rooms with heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, a complimentary mini-bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service, and a fully accessible layout in cabin and equipment Dimension: 27 m²/291 ft², including private balcony (5 m²/54 ft²)
Select a Date
Category 5: French Balcony
Heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, complimentary mini bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service Dimension: 21/23m²
Select a Date
Category 6: Balcony
Modern and luxurious rooms with heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, a complimentary mini-bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service, and a fully accessible layout in cabin and equipment Dimension: 27 m²/291 ft², including private balcony (5 m²/54 ft²)
Select a Date
Category 7: Balcony
Modern and luxurious rooms with heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, a complimentary mini-bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service, and a fully accessible layout in cabin and equipment Dimension: 27 m²/291 ft², including private balcony (5 m²/54 ft²)
Select a Date
Category 8: Balcony
Modern and luxurious rooms with heated bathroom walls, a refreshing rain shower, a complimentary mini-bar with soft drinks, a convenient coffee machine, separable beds, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic Walking poles, 24-hour cabin service, and a fully accessible layout in cabin and equipment Dimension: 27 m²/291 ft², including private balcony (5 m²/54 ft²)
Select a Date
Category 9: Junior Suite
The cabin boasts a separate living/sleeping area, a distinct dining area, panoramic views from the sleeping space, separable beds, TVs in both living and sleeping areas, a bathroom with two sinks and a rain shower, a separate toilet, a steam sauna in the shower area, a heated wall for towels, a free mini bar, a coffee machine, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic walking poles, 24-hour cabin service, and the convenience of a table reservation in the main restaurant along with personalized butler service. Dimension: 42 m²/452 ft², including private balcony (6 m²/65 ft²)
Select a Date
Category 10: Grand Suite
The cabin features a separate living/sleeping area, dining space, panoramic sleeping views, separable beds, dual TVs, a veranda with space heaters, a daylight bathroom with two sinks, free-standing bath, rain shower, and veranda access, along with amenities like a steam sauna, heated bathroom wall, separate toilet, free mini bar, coffee machine, extensive infotainment, binoculars, Nordic walking poles, 24-hour cabin service, butler service, and the convenience of a table reservation in the main restaurant, plus the freedom to choose a Zodiac group for your excursions. Dimensions: 71 m²/ 764 ft², including private veranda (16 m²/ 172 ft²)
Included
  • 17 Breakfasts, 16 Lunches, 17 Dinners
  • 16 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Onboard gratuities
  • International gourmet cuisine – full board
  • All landings and rides in the ship’s own Zodiacs (Use of the Zodiacs depends on the destination and on official permits)
  • Experienced experts from various disciplines accompany every cruise
  • Use of the interactive Ocean Academy with individual knowledge formats
  • Extensive sports program: fitness area with ocean view, course program, additional sports activities onshore depending on the destination
  • Equipment for loan: one pair of binoculars and two sets of Nordic Walking poles in the cabin itself, furthermore warm parkas, rubber boots, snorkeling equipment
  • OCEAN SPA with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area
  • Welcome champagne, mini bar restocked daily with a selection of soft drinks coffee machine, 24-hour cabin service
  • Internet free of charge for one hour per guest and day; service depends on satellite positioning, especially in polar regions)
  • Comprehensive pre-cruise information
  • Harbour and airport fees
  • Cancellation fee insurance
  • German- and English-speaking ship and expedition management as well as mostly German- and English-speaking service crew
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Additional selection of spirits in the Junior and Grand Suites
  • Spa treatments and Hairdresser
  • Personal training for sports program
  • The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are discussed in the planning stage. Subject to change.

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.

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This was our first trip to South America and we were a little nervous. But Adventure Life made things so easy! All our questions were answered before we left, and our guide, Vidal, was amazing! He gave us enough space to explore without rushing us along. He also knew where the best picture taking opportunities were, which was great.
Lindsay Gompf
TrustScore 4.8 | 175 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
total score
Based on 175 reviews on
review score
1 day ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
review score
3 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent. Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio. In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day. Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took. Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
review score
4 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
Tina
review score
5 days ago
Rapid response.
kym
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5 days ago
Jess and her non pushy salesmanship!!!!!
Cristen Crawford

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