Years ago, they were the simple path of a glistening glacier, but today, the Great Lakes are a proud symbol of American heritage. You’ll enjoy picturesque cruising on five Great Lakes, each with their own stunning landscape, unique history, and treasured cultural gems. From the scenic shorelines of Lake Huron to the history-lined coast of Lake Michigan, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the story of America. Here are just a few of the historical gems that await you:

Mackinac Island: With its Revolutionary-era heritage and car-free streets, it’s no wonder Mackinac is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Embark on a sightseeing tour of this remarkable island, passing landmarks such as the Grand Hotel where the movie Somewhere in Time was filmed. Then, watch history come to life as you explore Fort Mackinac, the 18th-century fortress that once served as an important Revolutionary War post and is now the centerpiece of Mackinac National Park. 

Great Lakes: This scenic voyage gives you the opportunity to cruise on five of the Great Lakes during your explorations. Not only will you get to witness the natural splendor of these incredible waterways, you’ll enjoy a full day of scenic sailing on two of them: Lake Michigan, the only Great Lake located entirely within the United States, and Lake Huron, the fifth largest freshwater lake in the world and the first of the Great Lakes to be discovered by European settlers.

Cleveland: Journey through America’s past as you tour the historical highlights of Cleveland, from the masterpieces found at the Cleveland Museum of Art to the colorful relics of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Then, savor local cuisine at the city’s oldest marketplace: the famous West Side Market. Wander through bustling aisles as vendors offer everything from seafood and baked goods to flowers and spices. 

Detroit: Delve into the fascinating past of our country as you explore the unique exhibits of the Henry Ford Museum. Dedicated to detailing American history and culture, you’ll see priceless artifacts such as the limousine that carried President John F. Kennedy on the day of his assassination, the bus in which Rosa Parks made civil rights history, and the chair from Ford’s Theater in which Abraham Lincoln was sitting in when he was shot. 

Manitoulin Island: Get a fascinating insider’s look at the rich culture of the Ojibwe Native Americans as we visit Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. With native and non-native communities co-existing like nowhere else on the continent, Manitoulin has a history as colorful and diverse as any in Canada. Discover how the beliefs and customs of the Ojibwe intertwine with those of the Catholic Church during a visit to the Immaculate Conception Church. Then, unveil Ojibwe tradition intricacies as you attend a smudging ceremonial cleansing ritual and a powwow, an expressive curing ceremony, before touring the foundation’s unique museum and art gallery.

• Enjoy stunning views as you cruise on four Great Lakes: Ontario, Erie, Huron, and Michigan
• Voyage into the mists of Niagara Falls aboard the Hornblower
• Cruise along the Thousand Islands, a group of over 1,800 islands in the St. Lawrence River, straddling the border of the U.S. and Canada

The special climate in the Niagara region allows for premier winemaking conditions, as it shares the same latitude with Southern France. You'll have an opportunity to sample some local favorites, besides a wine lunch at an estate in the Niagara Wine Region, home to over 50 wineries.

Make the most of this history-rich itinerary with photographic memories you’ll hold dear forever. Here are a few highlights to look out for: 

• Chronicle your horse-drawn carriage ride on car-free Mackinac Island
• Get close up with Niagara Falls on a dramatic ride along the rim, as well as a scenic cruise down Niagara Parkway
• Get an in-depth look at Ojibwe tradition with a smudging ceremony and powwow, as well as a tour of the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation’s museum and art gallery — an unforgettable experience!

From rock and roll to indigenous culture, this Great Lakes cruise blends the old, the new, and the evergreen on a delightful 14-day itinerary. Here are some cultural highlights:

• Learn about the Ojibwe Native Americans on Manitoulin Island
• Delve into the culture and landmarks of Toronto on a city tour and with a free day in this vibrant and diverse city
• Take a colorful tour through musical history at Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
• Tour Detroit’s Henry Ford Museum for an automobile-themed look at some of the most important moments in American history. Then, visit the Detroit Institute of Arts for a look at one of the most exceptional collections around

Some of our top Concierge suggestions for this small ship Great Lakes journey include:

• Chicago dinner cruise or sightseeing river cruise
• Secure tickets to Chicago’s Field Museum or the Museum of Science and Industry
• Visit the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Toronto, Casa Loma, or the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto
• Quebec food tour (extension)

Take advantage of this free, start-to-finish service by making your requests prior to your journey or during your journey. Call 1-888-982-6824 or email Concierge@vantagetravel.com to speak to a Concierge today, or simply log in to My Portfolio up to two weeks prior to departure.

• A lively social media night and musical performances most nights
• Solo-friendly social activities, including a Solo Connection mixer
• Onboard entertainment, lectures, and cooking demonstrations

• Eight stateroom configurations, most of which have full walk-out balconies, for the most flexible style of travel — plus, suites designed for comfortable triple-occupancy as well as adjoining room options
• A culinary program offering gourmet dining incorporating regional fare
• All beer and wine included with dinner
• Health and wellness options including an onboard spa, swimming pool, and gymnasium
• Expert cultural lecturers and curated performances
• Knowledgeable expedition staff by region
• Separate, intimate space for all of your group’s private dining needs (available upon request)
• Environmentally friendly standards with reduced emissions into air and sea and lower energy consumption
• Dynamic positioning technology
• State-of-the-art safety technology, Polar Code 6 compliant, and fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements in expedition cruising
• Rolls-Royce stabilizer system; “Safe Return to Port” technology
• Multiple launching platforms to allow for easy and quick loading of expedition landing craft, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards
• Small passenger-to-crew ratio
• Onboard medical doctor
• Boutique
• Elevator from bottom to top deck