Embark on an 11-day Great Lakes voyage aboard Victory II, beginning in Chicago with a hotel stay. Board at Navy Pier and sail past the city skyline toward Milwaukee’s art and brewery scene. Drift across Lake Michigan to Escanaba, then explore Mackinac Island’s historic streets and Fort Mackinac. Witness freighters navigating the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie and sail the scenic coastline of Lake Huron. Visit Detroit’s Motown landmarks and Cleveland’s cultural districts before arriving at Niagara Falls and the quiet streets of Port Colborne. Conclude in Toronto, exploring the CN Tower, Kensington Market, and the Distillery District. This cruise combines city exploration, freshwater lakes, engineering wonders, and unique island and waterfall experiences on one inland waterway journey.
Highlights
Start in Chicago and explore Navy Pier and city skyline
Visit Milwaukee breweries, and Riverwalk waterfront attractions
Sail across Lake Michigan with deck views and relaxation
Visit Escanaba’s harbor and enjoy Michigan Upper Peninsula scenery
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.
Start your trip in Chicago, a major city with dynamic culture and architecture. Walk the Riverwalk, take in views from Willis Tower, and explore the Art Institute. In the evening, enjoy local restaurants before staying overnight at a lakefront hotel.
Board the ship and leave Chicago behind as the skyline recedes. Pass Navy Pier and begin the journey across the Great Lakes, starting your expedition on these historic waterways.
Milwaukee welcomes you with its distinctive blend of old-world charm and modern flair. Sip your way through local craft breweries, take in the striking architecture of the Milwaukee Art Museum, or cruise down the RiverWalk, lined with lively cafés and waterfront parks.
Let time slow as you drift across the open waters. The horizon stretches endlessly as Lake Michigan’s tranquil expanse invites quiet reflection and rejuvenation.
Arriving at Mackinac Island feels like stepping into a vintage postcard. Horse-drawn carriages clip along the cobblestone streets, Victorian homes line the hills, and the scent of homemade fudge drifts through the air. Bike around the island’s perimeter for sweeping views of Lake Huron, or explore Fort Mackinac’s storied ramparts.
Day 6: Sault Ste. Marie (Soo Locks), Michigan | Lake Superior
Sault Ste. Marie offers a front-row seat to one of engineering’s great spectacles. Watch as massive freighters glide through the Soo Locks, connecting the wild waters of Lake Superior to the gentler tides of Lake Huron. The town’s maritime history and relaxed waterfront make it a captivating stop.
Sailing across Lake Huron feels like venturing into the wild. Its tranquil beauty and diverse coastline offer a glimpse into a quieter, more remote stretch of the region.
Detroit’s spirit is electric—past and future colliding in a city that never stands still. Dive into the city’s vibrant art scene, explore the historic roots of Motown, or wander the revitalized Eastern Market, where urban energy pulses at every turn.
Cleveland’s charm lies in its contrasts—industrial grit gives way to high culture along the shores of Lake Erie. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame buzzes with energy, while Little Italy and the West Side Market offer a feast for the senses.
The roar of Niagara Falls draws you in long before you see it. Feel the spray on your skin as you edge closer to this natural wonder and then retreat to the calm streets of Port Colborne, a quaint town brimming with local artisans and waterfront cafés.
Day 11: Toronto, Ontario | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Toronto’s cosmopolitan energy provides the perfect grand finale. Scale the CN Tower, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Kensington Market and Distillery District, and savor the global flavors that define Canada’s largest city. As your voyage concludes, Toronto leaves you with a sense of boundless possibility and adventure.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$6,7992-3 travelers
Cat. D - Outside Stateroom
Area: 158 sq. ft.
Located on the Main Deck. Room amenities include a Queen bed or two single beds, a full bathroom with shower, a writing desk with chair, and interior access.
Cat. C - Outside Stateroom
Area: 152 sq. ft.
Located on the Saloon Deck. Room amenities include a Queen bed or two single beds, a full bathroom with shower, a writing desk with chair, and interior access.
Cat. B - Outside Stateroom
Area: 146 sq. ft.
Located on Cabin Deck. Room amenities include a Queen bed or two single beds, a full bathroom with shower, a writing desk with chair, and interior access.
Cat. A - Outside Stateroom
Area: 185 sq. ft.
Located on the Cabin Deck. Room amenities include a Queen bed or two single beds, a full bathroom with shower, a writing desk with chair, and interior access.
Cat. AA - Deluxe Outside Stateroom
Area: 161 sq. ft.
Room amenities include direct access to the open-air Promenade Deck, a Queen bed or two single beds, a full bathroom with shower, a writing desk with chair, exterior access, and a mini refrigerator.
Cat. OS - Owner's Suite
Area: 335 sq. ft.
Room amenities include a semi-private terrace, a Queen bed, a full bathroom with shower, a sitting area with sofa and dining table, an interior entrance, and a mini refrigerator.
Initial deposit is $500pp for double occ, $1000 for single occ, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
