At a glance
- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Start/End:
- Toronto to Chicago
- From:
- $5,799
- Time of Year:
- April through September
On this 11-day All 5 Great Lakes cruise, explore the Great Lakes with Victory Cruise Lines, with an intimate voyage from Toronto to Chicago and back. These vast “inland seas” stretch along North America’s eastern border between Canada and the United States, each one steeped in rich history and breathtaking natural beauty.
Whether you’re starting or ending your Great Lakes cruise in the dynamic city of Toronto, you’ll have lots to explore. Visit the iconic CN Tower for breathtaking views, wander through the historic Distillery District with its charming cobblestone streets and artisan shops, and enjoy the lively waterfront.
Discover the heartbeat of innovation in Detroit, Michigan. Known as the Motor City, this vibrant metropolis is a melting pot of music, art, and history. Immerse yourself in the legendary sounds of Motown and techno, explore revitalized downtown streets where historic architecture meets modern creativity, and experience the dynamic energy of a city constantly reinventing itself.
To truly experience the magic of these destinations, this Great Lakes Cruises offer in-depth tours and shore experiences on all our itineraries. These small vessels allow visits to ports bigger ships can’t, offering customized tours with you in mind. You will not just visit ports; you’ll be immersed in the community, meeting people, exploring history, and feeling the culture.
All 5 Great Lakes Cruise Details
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Toronto, Ontario, Canada - Hotel Stay
Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Toronto. Enjoy luxurious accommodations at one of the city’s finest hotels, providing the perfect base for exploring Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks like the CN Tower and Royal Ontario Museum. Unwind in comfort after experiencing the best of this cosmopolitan metropolis.
Day 2: Toronto, Ontario, Canada - Embark - Scenic Sailing on Lake Ontario
Begin in Toronto. Visit the Toronto Zoo, take a scenic walk in High Park, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the Distillery District. Experience the diverse food scene at Kensington Market before setting sail.
Navigate the peaceful waters of Lake Ontario, taking in the stunning views and serene atmosphere. Participate in onboard workshops about the local ecosystem, enjoy live entertainment, and savor delicious meals prepared by expert chefs.
Pre-Cruise Premium Experience
- Towers & Design of Toronto: Discover Toronto’s iconic skyline with a panoramic tour showcasing its architectural mix, from the sleek CN Tower observation decks to the grand Casa Loma castle
Day 3: Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), Ontario
Experience Niagara Falls. Visit the Whirlpool Aero Car, explore the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory, and take a leisurely stroll along the Niagara Parkway.
Included Excursion
- Voyage to the Falls: Feel the power of nature on the Voyage to the Falls, where you’ll get up-close views of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the mighty Horseshoe Falls.
Premium Experiences
- White Meadows Maple Syrup Journey: Embark on a maple syrup journey at White Meadows Farm, where you’ll learn traditional tapping methods, visit the sugar shack, and sample delicious maple treats.
- Port Colborne Walking Exploration: Put on your walking shoes and explore Port Colborne with a local guide, visiting historic streets, the Welland Canal, and the Historical & Marine Museum.
Immersive Experiences
- Niagara Falls Helicopter & Vineyard Experience: Fly over Niagara Falls for stunning aerial views, then enjoy a delicious lunch with wine pairings at a renowned vineyard, before heading back to the ship
- Beyond the Natural Wonder: Add-One Experience: Enjoy lunch at Table Rock with views of Horseshoe Falls, then take a curator-led tour at the Niagara Falls History Museum and explore Niagara-on-the-Lake
Day 4: Cleveland, Ohio
Discover Cleveland’s cultural revival. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, explore the historic West Side Market, and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Erie.
Included Excursion
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Explore the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, located on the picturesque Lake Erie waterfront, filled with unforgettable artifacts celebrating the biggest music legends
Premium Experiences
- Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Experience a journey through time with a Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Train Ride, followed by an exploration of Cleveland’s fascinating automotive and aviation heritage.
- Cleveland’s Culture & Art: Step into a world of creativity, history, and serenity as you explore Cleveland’s cultural gems, from lush gardens to awe-inspiring art and architecture.
- Goodyear & The Cuyahoga Valley: Explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visit the Boston Mill Visitor Center, and tour Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a Tudor estate built by Goodyear’s co-founder
Immersive Experience
- A Presidential Journey: Triumph and Tragedy: Journey through presidential history, visiting the homes, memorials, and sites of key figures, with a catered lunch and in-depth knowledge shared along the way
Day 5: Scenic Sailing on Lake Erie & Detroit, Michigan
Cruise the calm waters of Lake Erie, enjoying the stunning coastal landscapes and vibrant sunsets. Engage in onboard activities such as yoga classes, attend lectures about the lake’s maritime history, and savor delicious meals prepared by expert chefs.
Detroit’s vibrant culture. Visit the Detroit Historical Museum, explore the bustling Eastern Market, and enjoy a performance at the Fox Theatre.
Included Excursion
- The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: Step into the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation to witness the legacy of inventions that revolutionized transportation, technology, and manufacturing
Premium Excursions
- Elite Vintage Landmarks of the Ford Family: Gain insight into the Ford family history by visiting the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant and the stunning Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, their lifelong Detroit residence.
- Detroit’s Designers, Including Frank Lloyd Wright: Step into the world of two legendary designers Frank Lloyd Wright and Eero Saarinen with a guided tour through their architectural masterpieces in the Detroit area.
- Ford’s Innovation & Ingenuity: Explore Ford’s legacy of innovation with visits to the Rouge Complex, Dearborn Truck Plant, Henry Ford Museum, and Greenfield Village, where history and future meet.
Immersive Experience
- National Museum of the Great Lakes: Journey along Lake Erie to Toledo for breakfast aboard the SS Col. James M. Schoonmaker and a special experience at the National Museum of the Great Lakes.
Day 6: Scenic Sailing on Lake Huron
Cruise the vast waters of Lake Huron. Take in the breathtaking sunsets, enjoy the onboard entertainment, and relax in the serene surroundings.
Day 7: Lake Superior & Sault Ste. Marie (Soo Locks), Michigan
Navigate the majestic waters of Lake Superior, known for its pristine beauty and diverse wildlife. Enjoy onboard presentations about the lake’s geological features, participate in photography workshops, and relax with a book on deck.
Explore the Soo Locks. Visit the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, take a walk along the Sault Ste. Marie Boardwalk, and explore the local history museums.
Included Excursions
- Soo Locks with Downtown Stop: Experience the Soo Locks! Watch freighters traverse this historic site, learn about its construction, and explore stories of lost vessels on the Great Lakes
- LSSU Center for Freshwater Research & Education: Discover the importance of freshwater conservation at the LSSU Center, where education and research work together to preserve the Great Lakes for future generations.
Premium Experience
- Sault Ste Marie Views & History: Explore Sault Ste. Marie’s history and views with lifeboats from the Edmund Fitzgerald, the Soo Locks, Michigan’s oldest Catholic church, and a local museum.
Immersive Experiences
- Birdseye Outfitters Kayaking: Glide through the calm waters of the St. Marys River, guided by an expert, and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife that surrounds you.
- Picnic on the Shore of Lake Superior: Stroll along Lake Superior’s shores, savor a picnic lunch, and take in stunning views from Spectacle Lake Overlook after exploring Point Iroquois Lighthouse.
- Echos of Baawaating: A First Nation’s Cultural Tradition: Immerse yourself in Anishinaabe culture and discover the rich traditions of the First Nations through music, stories, and a deep connection to the land and water
Day 8: Mackinac Island, Michigan
Step back in time on Mackinac Island. Visit Fort Mackinac, explore the Arch Rock, and enjoy a bike ride around the island.
Included Excursion
- Mackinac Island Carriage Exploration: Uncover the charm of Mackinac Island on a relaxing carriage ride, passing through scenic vistas and historical landmarks that transport you to another time
Premium Experiences
- The Grand Luncheon: Delight in a sumptuous Grand Luncheon at Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel, where every moment offers an unforgettable culinary experience in an elegant setting
- Mackinac Island Bike Exploration: Cycle around Mackinac Island’s scenic 8.2-mile route, where motor vehicles are banned, and enjoy views of iconic landmarks and natural beauty with an expert guide
Immersive Experience
- Fudge Experience at Mission Point Resort: Indulge in the sweet art of fudge-making at Mission Point Resort, where a chocolatier will guide you through every step of this beloved Mackinac Island tradition.
Day 9: Escanaba, Michigan
Discover Escanaba’s charm. Visit the Sand Point Lighthouse, hike through Ludington Park, and learn about local history at the Delta County Historical Society.
Included Excursion
- Exploring Escanaba’s History: Learn about the brave men and women of Escanaba who served in the Civil War and Spanish-American War, with a focus on the crucial role of the Soo Locks.
Premium Experiences
- Escanaba Art & Wine: Visit a regional winery to sample Michigan’s fine wines, then explore vibrant artworks at the William Bonifas Fine Arts Center, where culture and creativity meet.
- Agriculture in the Upper Peninsula: Explore maple syrup production at a forestry research facility. Enjoy learning from an engaging specialist from Michigan State University—and sample some syrup along the way.
Immersive Experience
- Delta Dawn Fishing Charter Experience: Set sail on the Great Lakes for an exciting fishing adventure with a skilled crew, guiding you to the best spots and providing all the gear and bait needed.
Day 10: Scenic Sailing on Lake Michigan
Enjoy a peaceful sail on Lake Michigan. Admire the coastal scenery, watch for wildlife, and relax on deck.
Day 11: Chicago (Navy Pier), Illinois - Disembark
Conclude your journey in Chicago. Visit the Chicago Cultural Center, explore the vibrant neighborhoods, and enjoy a night out in the famous Magnificent Mile.
Post-Cruise Premium Experience
- Chicago Architecture Cruise: Discover Chicago’s architectural marvels on a river cruise, where expert guides unveil the stories and history behind the city’s iconic riverfront buildings
