Discover North America’s Great Lakes on a 15-day cruise from Quebec City to Chicago aboard Victory II. Begin in Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit Montreal’s vibrant neighborhoods. Sail to Toronto and experience Niagara Falls from Port Colborne. Explore Cleveland’s arts scene and witness Detroit’s revival. Visit Mackinac Island, where carriages replace cars, and explore Sault Ste. Marie’s Soo Locks. Cruise across Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron, Superior, and Michigan, with scenic days at sea highlighting North America’s natural beauty. Conclude in Chicago, home to world-class museums and architectural landmarks. This cruise blends historic cities, engineering marvels, and cultural discoveries with comfortable sailing on the world’s largest freshwater system.
Highlights
Explore Montreal’s vibrant neighborhoods and lush botanical gardens
Watch massive ships pass through Sault Ste. Marie’s Soo Locks
Discover Detroit’s Motown history and Belle Isle Park landscapes
Stroll Toronto’s scenic Harborfront Center and bustling neighborhoods
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 with an overnight stay in Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, enjoy views from Terrasse Dufferin, and dine at local bistros set among historic stone buildings. Experience the city’s blend of history and culture before embarking on the journey ahead.
Board the ship as the sun rises over the St. Lawrence River. Sail from Quebec City, one of North America’s oldest cities, with the iconic Chateau Frontenac overlooking the harbor. Begin the voyage through historic waterways and scenic landscapes.
Step into the charm of Trois-Rivières, a hidden gem along the St. Lawrence. Discover the city’s deep roots at the Old Prison of Trois-Rivières, explore the rich collection at the Musee Pop, or stroll the waterfront for views that capture the essence of this historic river town.
Montréal greets you with its irresistible blend of old and new. Visit the sprawling botanical gardens, wander through the vibrant Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood, or lose yourself in the underground city – a network of shops, restaurants, and galleries hidden beneath the bustling streets.
Enjoy a day of tranquil sailing Lake Ontario as you leave the St. Lawrence behind. Relax on deck, attend enrichment talks, or simply enjoy the stunning water views as the landscape shifts around you.
Toronto’s dynamic skyline invites you to explore its cultural heartbeat. Visit the Ontario Science Center, walk the vibrant waterfront, or ascend the Aga Khan Museum for breathtaking perspectives on art and architecture. The city’s cosmopolitan flair offers something for every traveler.
Experience the thundering majesty of Niagara Falls from the Canadian side, where the view is nothing short of spectacular. In Port Colborne, take a peaceful stroll along the canal, visit local antique shops, or enjoy a lakeside lunch with fresh seafood.
Cleveland greets you with a rich blend of art and industry. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, stroll the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, or catch a performance at Playhouse Square – one of the largest theater districts in the U.S. The city’s evolving cultural scene offers something surprising at every turn.
Day 9: Scenic Sailing on Lake Erie | Detroit, Michigan
Cruise the serene waters of Lake Erie, famous for its picturesque coastline and rich wildlife. Absorb the breathtaking views, spot migratory birds, and unwind on deck with a chilled drink. Participate in onboard experiences like wine tastings, showcasing offerings from notable wineries in the Lake Erie area.
In Detroit, witness the resurgence of one of America’s great cities. Tour the Guardian Building, visit the Detroit Historical Museum, or enjoy the views along Belle Isle Park. Detroit’s grit and creativity fuel a vibrant urban renaissance.
Take in the vastness of Lake Huron as you enjoy a peaceful day at sea. Savor gourmet meals, unwind with spa treatments, or simply gaze out at the horizon as your ship makes its way toward the Soo Locks.
Day 11: Scenic Sailing on Lake Superior | Sault Ste. Marie (Soo Locks), Michigan
Set sail on a journey across the vast waters of Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world. Immerse yourself in informative onboard talks about its distinctive ecosystem and geological wonders. Join photography sessions and snap breathtaking shots of the rugged coastline and diverse wildlife.
Watch as massive ships gracefully navigate the Soo Locks, connecting the Great Lakes. Explore the Water Street Historic Block, visit the Tower of History, or enjoy the views from the Soo Locks Park as you immerse yourself in the region’s rich maritime heritage.
Step into a world untouched by time on Mackinac Island. Visit the stunning Butterfly House, tour the Richard and Jane Manoogian Art Museum, or sip afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel. With no cars on the island, the tranquility and charm feel like a return to simpler days.
Enjoy a leisurely day on Lake Michigan. Take advantage of the ship’s amenities, indulge in culinary delights, and reflect on the places you’ve explored along the way.
Milwaukee welcomes you with lakefront beauty and a rich cultural tapestry. Tour the Harley-Davidson Museum, sample artisan cheeses at the Milwaukee Public Market, or visit the Mitchell Park Domes for a unique horticultural experience.
Day 15: Chicago (Navy Pier), Illinois | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Conclude your journey in the bold and beautiful city of Chicago. Walk the storied halls of the Field Museum, take an architecture river cruise, or explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Wicker Park and Lincoln Park. Chicago’s energy and iconic landmarks make for a fitting finale to your Great Lakes expedition.
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.
$9,499
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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.
Select a Date
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 $1000pp for double occ, $2000 for single occ, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 190 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
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue browsing the site if you're ok with this. For more info, please see our privacy policy.