For those guests who wish to start their cruise in style, we are offering a brand new Signature Pre-Cruise Package at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Toronto. Enjoy a 1-night stay at this renowned 5-star hotel, located in the heart of Toronto’s exclusive Yorkville neighborhood.
On the morning of your cruise, enjoy breakfast at the hotel, followed by a Toronto City Excursion. Discover the picturesque landmarks that make Toronto one of the most sensational places to visit in Canada. Explore the Saint Lawrence Markets, Chinatown, the Distillery District, and the renowned Fashion District.
The excursion concludes at the ship, where all of your luggage will be waiting for you in your onboard stateroom. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruise out of the harbor as you begin your amazing journey with us.
Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call (800) 981-9146 for pricing and availability.
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World-famous Niagara Falls stands 165 feet tall and is comprised of three waterfalls – Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. These famous falls are shared by both Ontario and New York which are connected by the Rainbow Bridge. Our local guide will show you the best vantage points and will explain the importance the falls once had to Native Americans and fur traders.
Niagara Falls Experience
Enjoy an exciting adventure through the majestic falls and the fertile countryside of the Niagara region. Take an exhilarating boat ride which brings you within feet of the Horseshoe Falls and its misty spray.
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Cleveland is a city made up of dozens of diverse and eclectic neighborhoods, with a lively downtown area that dazzles after dusk. Stroll through the historic West Side Market which features more than 80 family-owned businesses. View the tombstone of John D. Rockefeller, who is buried at the beautiful Lake View Cemetery. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, containing one of the most renowned art collections in the world.
In the Tremont neighborhood, visit the home where the famous movie A Christmas Story was filmed, and have a cold brew at a bar said to have been frequented by Eliot Ness, the famous crime fighter who brought down Al Capone. No trip to Cleveland is complete without a trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where you can view Michael Jackson’s white sequined glove, Jim Morrison’s boy scout uniform, and Elvis’ motorcycle.
Cleveland is a city made up of dozens of diverse and eclectic neighborhoods, with a lively downtown area that dazzles after dusk. Stroll through the historic West Side Market which features more than 80 family-owned businesses. View the tombstone of John D. Rockefeller, who is buried at the beautiful Lake View Cemetery. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, containing one of the most renowned art collections in the world. In the Tremont neighborhood, visit the home where the famous movie A Christmas Story was filmed, and have a cold brew at a bar said to have been frequented by Eliot Ness, the famous crime fighter who brought down Al Capone. No trip to Cleveland is complete without a trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where you can view Michael Jackson’s white sequined glove, Jim Morrison’s boy scout uniform, and Elvis’ motorcycle.
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Amish Country Experience
Since the Industrial Revolution, the Amish have been largely known as hardworking, devoutly religious people who shun most types of technology. Spend a day in their company led by an Amish guide who will be with you throughout your journey. Begin at the Heritage Marketplace, where you can explore and purchase items at Amish-owned shops. Take a buggy ride and visit the Amish Heritage Museum which showcases important Bibles, hymnals, and clothing. Arrive at the Bricker's Amish home for lunch with a menu that features chicken, mashed potatoes, homemade noodles w/gravy, vegetable, salad, fresh baked bread with homemade preserves, and date-nut pudding. After lunch, depart for a ‘backroad tour,’ concluding at the Commons General Store.
Built on Optimism: Sporting Heritage of Cleveland
Experience the fascinating baseball tales and over 100 years of sporting heritage straight from the self-proclaimed Sandlot Capital of the World. As a charter member of the American League, the enthusiasm for America’s favorite pastime can be felt throughout the city.
On board your motorcoach, your guide will provide you with geographical references and site locations that wove the sport into the fiber of the city. Visit the entrance to the current stadium, Progressive Field with iconic statues paying homage to Cleveland baseball greats. Head over to the former complex of the Cleveland Indians at League Park. As you walk the bases at this historical park, you will feel the energy of this beloved field.
Located within League Park, the Baseball Heritage Museum showcases 150+ years of artifacts collected from a variety of leagues across North America. Your journey continues to a historical pub that credits its ability to outlast prohibition thanks to baseball legends Ty Cobb, Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth. Sip on your beverage of choice and relish the atmosphere from the same vantage point as you hear the final tales of baseball legends and their role in the history of sports in Cleveland.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Discover this amazing venue which tells a story that spans generations, from rock’s earliest artists to those budding artists of today. Discover a variety of exhibits that include handwritten drafts of hit singles, performance outfits, and instruments from some of history’s greatest concerts. Ranging from rhythm & blues, jazz, and folk rock to heavy metal and hip-hop, these exhibits represent numerous musical genres and highlight some of the world’s most iconic acts both past and present.
Cleveland City Exploration
Enjoy a narrated motorcoach exploration and learn all about the wonderful city of Cleveland. Explore downtown, Public Square, and the Theater District. Travel through University Circle, home to a variety of the area’s finest museums. Explore Euclid Avenue's "Millionaires' Row," once home to some of the nation's most powerful and influential industrialists. Travel to the Flats, known for its happening nightlife, and Ohio City, a trendy dining and entertainment hub with high-end cocktail bars and beer gardens, alongside fashionable bistros and gourmet farm-to-table restaurants. Along the way, your engaging guide will point out historic and iconic sites, with a possible stop at one of the Cleveland script signs for a group photo.
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Detroit is commonly known as The Motor City, as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler have been producing cars there for more than a century. Though, it’s equally famous as the birthplace of Motown Records, and for its many beloved sports teams.
Today, through its revitalization, Detroit has taken on a new appeal. From eye-popping street art and jazz clubs to vintage cars and impressive art deco architecture, the city is vibrant, progressive, and charming. Shop for art, jewelry, artisan crafts, and more at the Eastern Market, the largest historic public market district in the United States, dating back over 150 years. Visit the renowned Detroit Institute of Arts, a remarkable museum located in the heart of Midtown with more than 65,000 works. For some exercise, take a walk along The Dequindre Cut Greenway, a two-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront and several historic neighborhoods.
Henry Ford Museum
Learn how Henry Ford changed the world of technology and manufacturing as you step into a world where past innovations fuel the imagination of generations to come. See the museum’s vast array of famous and rare exhibits like Thomas Edison’s laboratory, Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theater, and the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand by taking a seat. Play pilot as you explore flight innovations, starting with the achievements of the Wright Brothers.
Greenfield Village
With its nearly one hundred historical buildings, Greenfield Village demonstrates how Americans lived and worked since the founding of the country. Many of the buildings, from the 17th century to the present, are staffed by costumed interpreters who conduct period tasks like farming, sewing, and cooking. A collection of craft buildings such as pottery, glass-blowing, and tin shops provide demonstrations while producing materials used in the Village and for sale.
Discover Detroit Walking Exploration
Don’t miss this chance to admire magnificent architecture and learn about Detroit’s rise, fall, and renewal. Led by a local guide, enjoy a short walk from Pearl Mist to the nearby downtown area. Visit the Guardian Building, a designated a National Historic Landmark. Completed in 1929, the building is one of the boldest examples of art-deco architecture. Stroll through Campus Martius Park, a gathering place for both residents and visitors and recently named Top Public Square by USA Today. Learn the history of the Penobscot Building, an art-deco masterpiece that has dominated the city’s skyline for more than 80 years. View the Renaissance Center, a multi-towered skyscraper that is the tallest building in Detroit. Enjoy the opportunity to ride on a streetcar or the elevated “Detroit People Mover.”
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5
Cruising the Great Lakes
As we make our way to Midland, Ontario, witness the natural wonders and majestic beauty of the Great Lakes from the comfort of your fully furnished private balcony. Along the way, delight in the locally inspired cuisine prepared by our team of master chefs.
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Midland is the main town and economic center of the area located at the southern end of Georgian Bay’s Thirty Thousand Islands. Learn about the history of this fascinating city with a visit to Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, a living museum depicting 17th-century missionary life. Stroll along the Midland Harbor, a picturesque destination featuring a large statue of the trumpeter swan, considered the symbol of Midland. For bird lovers, the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre is a habitat for Trumpeter Swans, Black Terns, and Least Bitterns.
Culinary Walking Exploration
A local guide will meet you at the ship to take you on a fun-filled afternoon sipping and tasting delicious, local fare in beautiful downtown Midland. Savor a curated lineup of food and drink from 6+ local culinary spots. Learn about the area's rich heritage and culture, and discover the stories behind Midland's murals, public art, and unique shops. On the day of your tour dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and be sure to arrive hungry! Dietary Note: Tastings can be vegetarian, but unfortunately not vegan, gluten or nut-free. All participants must sign a waiver.
Martyrs Shrine
Discover how the story of this shrine is an integral part of the collective history of Canadians. Learn about the Martyrs and their relations with the Indigenous peoples of the 17th century. Explore the grounds with a wide variety of beautiful outdoor spaces including forest, gardens, pathways, devotional spaces, and open lawn.
Discovery Harbor Exploration
Situated along beautiful Penetanguishene Bay, this picturesque historic site is a reconstruction of an original 19th century British naval and military base. Originally conceived during the War of 1812, the actual construction of a Naval Establishment would have to wait for peacetime. Becoming operational in early 1817, the base served as an important supply link to more northerly British outposts, and safeguarded presents destined for Britain’s indigenous allies. Using the detailed map provided, explore the many naval and military sites on the harbor, including a variety of historic naval vessels, sailor’s barracks, a square for military drills, and original officer’s quarters.
Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons
Explore this recreation of the 17th-century French Jesuit Mission headquarters, with a replica of the barracks, homes, and meeting places that housed the Jesuits. Learn about their history and relationships with the native Huron people.
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Located on the eastern shore of Georgian Bay in Lake Huron, Parry Sound is a picturesque port town with charming cottages and spectacular views. Parry Sound is located inside the UNESCO designated Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. One of only 16 Biosphere Reserves in Canada, it is home to a variety of rare species of plants and animals. While ashore, explore Killbear Provincial Park, enjoy a scenic boat ride around the 30,000 islands, or take an aerial sightseeing tour.
Georgian Bay Island Queen Cruise
On this amazing journey aboard the Island Queen, we follow in the wake of early explorers as the captain brings the ship surprisingly up-close to the rugged shoreline of Parry Island and the Bay’s remote outer islands. Meander past granite shoals into narrow channels within an eco-system so unique that it has earned World Biosphere Reserve status from the United Nations. Get your camera ready as we cruise through the Rose Point Swing Bridge, Massassauga Provincial Park, through the channels of the outer islands, past Killbear Provincial Park, and through Hole in the Wall, one of the most amazing places in Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve.
Biking Around Georgian Bay
A guided bike ride is the perfect way to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the town of Parry Sound. A local guide will provide you with a narrated experience along the town's bicycle trails. Pass by the main downtown strip and follow the shoreline of Georgian Bay. Along the way, discover the town's history, landmarks, and industries. Further down the trail, you will learn about local plants, reptiles, migratory birds and other species at risk. Finish your excursion at Parry Sound Bikes, formerly the old fire hall, with the option to be escorted to the ship or explore downtown on your own.
Georgian Bay Airways Flightseeing Adventure
Enjoy a breathtaking aerial adventure which departs from our floatplane base in Parry Sound Harbor and follows Georgian Bay’s rugged coastline. Soar above the scenic Killbear Provincial Park, past historic Parry Island, and over the fantastic South Channel.
Parry Sound Shuttle
Explore Parry Sound at your own pace using the local loop shuttle. Discover one of the many beautiful scenic lookouts or check the area’s variety of museum and cultural attractions.
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8
Sault Sainte Marie, ON
Located at the mouth of Saint Mary’s River, Sault Saint Marie was originally established by Jesuit missionaries in the 17th century. Saint Mary’s River connects Lake Superior to Lake Huron and has provided trade access between the United States and Canada for hundreds of years. The blend of the native Ojibwa with the French and English settlers resulted in the rich and diverse culture of this incredible destination.
Soo Locks Boat Adventure
Enjoy a live narrated cruise on the beautiful St. Marys River and actually "Ride through the Soo Locks." Learn the rich 300-year-old history of the area and the story behind the locks as you view many interesting sites along the Michigan and Ontario shorelines. Travel under the International Highway Bridge that connects Soo, Michigan and Soo, Ontario, Canada. Get an up-close view of the over 100-year-old Hydroelectric Power Plant, still operating today to supply electricity to local residents.
Walking Exploration of Sault Sainte Marie
Discover the history that has shaped the Sault (affectionately pronounced the 'Soo'). This excursion will highlight the people who have long since been gathering here and what has shaped the Sault of today. Departing from the Bondar Center, we will walk down the boardwalk towards the Canal District and return via Queen and Bay Street, after a quick stop at the Travel Information Center. Enjoy a leisurely pace with time for discussion, questions, and photos.
Sault Sainte Marie Shuttle
Explore Sault Sainte Marie at your own pace using the local shuttle. Visit key attractions for photo opportunities and self-exploration. Stops include: - Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site - Visitors will be greeted at the Heritage Discover Centre, where they will be watch a short introductory movie which provides an overview of the site and its significance to the area. After, a heritage guide will entertain you with "stories steeped in stone." As you explore the 2 oldest stone buildings Northwest Ontario, as well as the heritage gardens and the grounds surrounding them, listen to the tales of early Canadian settlers. Take time to peruse the gift shop, where you will find souvenirs, including local artisan works.
- Bushplane Museum - The Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre is a hands on museum with 29 vintage bush planes, 4 of which you can climb aboard. Enjoy the award-winning 22 minute movie, Wildfires, as well as a flight simulator in the famous Beaver plane that will take you on 3 short flights. Explore the onsite Entomica Insectarium to see some interesting insects which, like planes, have wings.
- Canal District - Once the site of a Pulp and Paper Mill, the turn of the century buildings, including a train station, have been turned into a wonderful community with multiple restaurants, shops, even an ice rink.
- Canal National Historic Site - Learn about the construction of the canal and the significance of the St. Marys River Rapids to the Anishinaabe and Métis Peoples in the new Visitor Centre located in the historic Stores Building. Enjoy the wonder of quiet woods and wetlands by foot on the site’s many trails. As you make your way to the St. Marys River Rapids, take in the spectacular views and discover the history of the Anishinaabe people.
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9
Mackinac Island, MI
Mackinac Island is a living Victorian town where personal motorized vehicles are prohibited – all those visiting or living on the island travel by horse or horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, or on foot. While Mackinac Island is known for its opulent Victorian homes and hotels, it has a long Native American history. Anishinabe-Ojibwe tradition holds that the island was a sacred place populated by the first people and was home to the Great Spirit Gitchie Manitou.
Mackinac Island Carriage Ride
Be transported back in time on a guided horse-drawn carriage ride through this small and exciting Island. Led by a genuine local, explore the island's incredible beauty, drive past the famous Grand Hotel and Victorian summer cottages, and learn how islanders rely upon horses, carriages, and bicycles for daily living. On your way to Fort Mackinac, learn about the island’s position as a strategic military location.
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10
Muskegon / Holland, MI
From historic ships and lighthouses to the restored mansions built by Muskegon’s most famous lumber barons, delight in the history and scenery of this quaint Michigan town. Referred to as “The Riviera of the Midwest,” Muskegon has grown from a fur trading and lumbering town to a vibrant tourist destination. Explore the delightful town of Holland where hundreds of Dutch immigrants live and immerse yourself in its genuine Dutch culture.
Sand Dunes & Wine Experience
Experience the Silver Lake Sand Dunes like never before on a one-of-a-kind exploration on an open air dune scooter. Stop at the Lake Michigan shoreline for a quick visit and then drive to one of the tallest dunes on the Silver Lake for pictures and to enjoy the view.
Visit a Michigan winery, located on over 55 acres of land, where all wines are 100% sourced from the vineyard. No imported juice, and no imported flavors. Taste the delicious characteristics that arise from the unique climate of West-Central Michigan. Enjoy offerings that range from interpretations of classic European favorites to 21st century offerings that move wine style into the future. Lunch at a local eatery is included.
Spirit of Muskegon
Join us on this tour to learn about the distillation process, view the bottling process, and sample craft cocktails at 18th Amendment Spirits. Located in a historic savings and loan bank, this unique establishment features a vintage Brunswick bar that was built in Muskegon. Learn about the distillation process and taste spirits made in Muskegon such as White Rum, Vodka, Gin, Bourbon & Rye Whiskey, and Agave. Sample classic cocktails while learning about their history and how the ingredients are prepared and freshly sourced.
Next, visit Burl and Sprig, an award winner at the World Spirits Competition, beating every rum distillery in the world. Learn their story and process for making spirits as well as a lesson on proper tasting techniques, followed by a flight of four rum spirits. Additionally, enjoy three sample craft cocktails made from spirits distilled by Burl and Sprig.
Architecture & Cheese Please
<,p>Explore two of Muskegon's architectural gems. Listed on the Michigan Register of Historic Places, the Hackley Public Library was opened in 1890, and was a gift to the City of Muskegon Public Schools by lumber baron Charles Hackley. This American Romanesque style building features turrets, arcades, spandrels, Italian marble mosaic floors, plaster carvings, custom hardware, a magnificent 12-panel stained glass window, and a second story glass floor!
Walk across the street to the towered Richardsonian Mansion, once the home of leading lumberman John Torrent. This 31-room mansion has an exterior of gray granite on a foundation of Illinois limestone and stands at 62 feet tall. It is finished inside with almost every kind of wood imaginable - mahogany, cherry, rosewood, bird's-eye maple, California redwood, sycamore, red birch, oak, and pine. A local favorite and highly rated, The Cheese Lady will lead a "Cheese 101" discussion, complete with extensive samples from around the world, including those inspired by cheese vendors at open air markets in France.
Best of Muskegon & Holland Day Adventure
Step back in time to the Victorian Era! Explore the Queen Anne style Victorian mansions of two of Muskegon's most prominent lumber barons, Charles Hackley and Thomas Hume. Enjoy a ride through the Painted Ladies neighborhood as you discover of Muskegon's historic downtown. Stop at the Muskegon Heritage Museum where you will learn about the economic, industrial, and social history of the region. View products made in Muskegon including the original Raggedy Ann dolls, a functioning Brunswick Bowling Lane pin setter, and more!
Next, visit the LST 393 Veterans Museum and step aboard the LST, one of two LSTs remaining out of 1051 built during WWII. Tour the historic warship and view thousands of artifacts that serve as a museum and memorial. Finally, Travel by motorcoach to Holland to see a real Windmill which was carefully transported from the Netherlands! Learn about the history of this local Dutch community on an exploration of the beautiful downtown.
The Holland Experience
As you venture to the charming town of Holland, a local guide will provide engaging commentary about this remarkable destination. Upon arrival, enjoy independent exploration of downtown. Participate in a self-guided historic audio tour and peruse the over 100 unique boutiques and shops. After, enjoy a driving exploration of Centennial Park, a beautiful Victorian style park, where you can view The Wizard of Oz living mosaic, as well as 7-life size bronze statutes. Learn about the park, as well as the rich history of the town, as you drive through the beautiful campus of Hope College. Immerse yourself in Holland’s Dutch heritage on a visit to Windmill Island Gardens. Wander through the botanical garden and explore 5 floors of the de Zwaan Windmill, which still turns and grinds grain into flour to this day. On the drive back to the ship, use your newly obtained knowledge, while playing town trivia, complete with prizes. Your guide will also share some gifts with all guests as well as a short video on Tulip Time from the town’s very own Mayor.
Downtown Trolley & Lakeshore Exploration
Board the Muskegon, Michigan Trolley that circles the historic downtown throughout the day. Local guides will share stories of the public art, local museums, craft markets, and beautiful Victorian homes. Learn about the history of Muskegon and its people including Muskegon's rise to prominence during the lumber era. Visit local points of interest, including breathtaking Queen Anne style Victorian mansions, a historic train depot, the Fire Barn Museum, the Muskegon Museum of Art, the Heritage Museum of Business & Industry, and many more.
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There’s more to this city than beer and baseball. In addition to being home to ten Fortune 1000 company headquarters, Milwaukee is also known for its historic architecture, markets, international seaport, and variety of museums, including the Milwaukee Art Museum just steps away from our dock.
Churches & Chocolates
Enjoy an exploration of Milwaukee, long known as the “City of Steeples.” Let by a local guide, visit three churches, where you will learn about the history and architecture of these unique places of worship. To sweeten the deal, we will delve into dessert at two local chocolate shops. Savor in-store treats and shop for takeaways too.
Grohmann Museum Exploration
Join your guide at the pier for a narrated journey to the Grohmann Museum, located at the Milwaukee School of Engineering. Enjoy a guided exploration of the world’s most comprehensive art collection dedicated to the evolution of human work. The collection currently comprises more than 1,700 paintings, sculptures, and works on paper from 1580 to the present, documenting he evolution of organized work from manpower and horsepower to water, steam, and electrical power. Be sure to stop in at the gift shop.
Milwaukee's Greatest Hits
You haven't seen Milwaukee until you've seen it through the eyes of a local! Visit the most randomly awesome and legendary spots that make Milwaukee famous on this fully narrated excursion complete with stories of the neighborhoods settled by Italian, Irish, Polish, and German immigrants. View the Milwaukee Art Museum to see the iconic white suspension bridge and Burke Brise Soleil meant to represent the sails of a ship. Learn about the North Point Lighthouse, visit the Pabst Mansion, and soak in the potato-potato-potato sounds when visiting a Wisconsin legend - the Harley Davidson campus and gift shop!
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End your journey in the vibrant city of Milwaukee. After breakfast on board, begin your travels home and reflect upon the memories and friends made on your Great Lakes & Georgian Bay adventure.
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