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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Windsor is known as the “City of Roses” due to the several large parks and gardens that adorn its waterfront. Although it is also sometimes referred to as the “Automotive Capital of Canada,” the city maintains 3,000 acres of green space, 180 parks, and 40 miles of trails. Led by our local expert guide, visit the Henry Ford Museum and admire the vast collection of artifacts documenting the inventions that have changed our way of life. Also tour Greenfield Village, a living museum which chronicles 300 years of American history.
Be A Mixologist Cocktail Class
Shake, pour, and sip your way through this engaging experience. As our expert mixologist guides you through a hands-on class, learn professional tips, techniques, and cocktail history including why Windsor Ontario is known as Whiskytown Canada. After completing this class, you will be a bartender extraordinaire at your next dinner party.
Windsor Local Museums Exploration
Step off the ship to explore the many nearby museums, including the Windsor’s Community Museum, a large collection of local artifacts displayed in a historic home built in 1812, as well as the Art Windsor-Essex which hosts a diverse collection of paintings and sculptures displayed in a sleek modern space with skyline views.
Windsor Art Cart
Board the Windsor Sculpture Park's Art Cart, an electric golf cart, and explore this captivating museum without walls, showcasing more than 31 large-scale, internationally recognized works of contemporary sculpture by world-renowned artists. Set along beautiful riverfront parks, it is a place of convergence and divergence, difference and similarity.
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4
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.
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.
Midland Shuttle
Explore Midland at your own pace using the local shuttle. Visit key attractions for photo opportunities and self-exploration. Stops include: - 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.
- 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.
- Huronia Museum – Learn about Central Ontario's history, heritage, and culture. Explore a replica of a Huron/Ouendat village, including a lookout tower, wigwam, and a full-size longhouse. Enjoy an exhibit gallery featuring tens of thousands of historic artifacts, such as photographs, native archaeology, and art by members of the Group of Seven, a school of landscape painters.
- Downtown – Enjoy a stroll through downtown, where you can peruse local shops, dine at one of the homegrown restaurants, and even enjoy afternoon tea time.
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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.
Frying Pan Island Adventure
Cruise around the islands of the South Channel to the famous Henry’s Fish Restaurant on Frying Pan Island. The boat ride down the South Channel to the open water and panoramic views of the Sans Souci area is a local favorite. Enjoy exploring the shore and of course, stop for a delicious Henry’s fish and chips lunch amidst the 30,000 Islands, a popular destination for locals, cottage owners, and visitors through the summer months and truly a one-of-a-kind Georgian Bay experience. After lunch, take in the charming beauty of Sans Souci and board The Islander again to travel back to Parry Sound.
Huckleberry Adventure Eco Exploration
Enjoy a boat ride aboard The Islander, a 40’ Kodiak Adventure vessel. Cushioned bench seating, hand rails, and a deep hull provide passengers with a comfortable ride. The captain will slow the vessel a few times to speak about the history of the area and to hopefully spot some bald eagles that nest on the islands. Travel to Huckleberry Island, one of the most beautiful islands in the area, where you can disembark and explore the shoreline. A naturalist from the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve will lead a guided walk and answer questions, concluding at a secluded and shallow beach area in time for a quick dip. After, board The Islander and head through the popular “Hole in the Wall” to Parry Sound.
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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Located along the north shore of Manitoulin Island, Little Current is considered the gateway to the World’s Largest Freshwater Island. Home to the native Ojibwe, this charming town is known for its swing bridge, a one-lane bridge and the only vehicular access to the Island.
History Experience: Anishnaabe Aadziwin (The Anishnaabe Way of Life)
Learn the history of Odawa Mnis (Manitoulin Island) and Wiikwemkoong, as you make your way to Canada’s only officially recognized unceded territory. Your dedicated expert guide will share the story of the 1836 and the so-called 1862 treaty of Manitoulin Island, intrigue you with the local lore and legend of Zhibzhii - the underwater spirit, and touch upon Anishnaabek participation in domestic and foreign conflicts honoring our Ogitchidaa (Warriors/Veterans). Next travel to Holy Cross Mission ruins, the site of a Roman Catholic Parish church in the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Reserve, north-eastern Manitoulin island. End your journey, with an introduction to the residential school system specific to Odawa Mnis. Along the way, enjoy interactive drum and song performance, as well as storytelling.
Art Experience: Minwaamdang (A Good Vision/Dream)
Learn the history of Odawa Mnis (Manitoulin Island) and Wiikwemkoong, as you make your way to Canada’s only officially recognized unceded territory. Your dedicated expert guide will share the story of the 1836 and so-called 1862 Treaty of Manitoulin Island, intrigue you with the local lore and legend of Zhibzhii - the underwater spirit, and touch upon Anishnaabek participation in domestic and foreign conflicts honoring our Ogitchidaa (Warriors/Veterans). Next meet and greet with world renowned Anishnaabek artist James Simon Mishibinijima. Enjoy a private viewing of his gallery, followed by an introduction by James who speaks about his career, his inspirations, and his artwork, most often with the theme of islands and water.
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Sault Sainte Marie, ON/MI
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.
Valley Camp Historic Sites
Explore an actual Great Lakes Freighter at The Museum Ship Valley Camp, which houses a 20,000 square foot museum with over 100 exhibits inside her massive cargo. The Valley Camp once held a crew of 29 men in her cabins. Visitors are able to view these cabins to see how Great Lakes sailors lived and worked aboard ship, from the nicely appointed Captain’s quarters to the plain accommodations lived in by the Oilers and the Coal Passers. View the Edmund Fitzgerald memorial and exhibit which features two lifeboats from the stricken vessel. Torn away during the sinking, these lifeboats are two of very few major artifacts recovered after the tragic demise. The exhibit also features a video presentation about the events that occurred on November 10, 1975 which caused the tragic loss of one of the Great Lakes’ largest freighters. In addition to the museum exhibits, the Museum Ship Valley Camp displays four 1,200 gallon aquariums stocked with various species of fish from the Great Lakes region.
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.
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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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. At the end of your excursion, your guide will provide maps and written suggestions on shops, restaurants, and places to visit.
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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.
Best of Muskegon & Holland Day Adventure
Led by a local guide, enjoy the Painted Lady neighborhood which includes exploration of the homes of wealthy lumber barons. Learn this true story of local philanthropist Charles Hackley from the Gilded Age. Stop at the Heritage Industrial Museum where you will see Muskegon made products you know well from past to present. See original Raggedy Ann dolls, a Brunswick Bowling Lane, a Continental Motor, musical instruments and so much more. 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.
Downtown Trolley & Lakeshore Exploration
Board the Muskegon, Michigan Trolley that circles the historic downtown throughout the day. Local guides will share the history of the area, the stories of the public art, local museums, craft markets, and beautiful Victorian homes. In the afternoon take a scenic ride to see the freshwater beaches. Stop off for a cold drink or to explore the Silversides Submarine Museum, featuring fascinating exhibits about the role of the Great Lakes in WWII.
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Milwaukee Wisconsin
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.
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!
Bird Watching & Sea Glassing along the Shores of Lake Michigan
The Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is dedicated to conserving the diverse habitats it houses on the shores of Lake Michigan. Join an expert naturalist who will lead an exploration of the grounds known as one of Milwaukee’s birding and sea glass hot spots. After, you will have time to explore the trails and the nature center on your own.
Docent Led Exploration of the Milwaukee Art Museum
From the opening of the building's iconic Burke Brise Soleil ("the wings") to a collection of more than 30,000 works of art - there's so much to see and experience at the Milwaukee Art Museum. Led by an expert docent, explore the seminal architecture by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava and discover artwork displayed on four floors from antiquities to contemporary. Notable collections include European works, American Decorative Arts, German Expressionism, Folk and Self-Taught Art, Haitian Art, and American Art after 1960, as well as one of the largest collections of works by Wisconsin native Georgia O'Keeffe. After the excursion, enjoy continued exploration time in the Museum and time to visit the Museum Store where you will receive 10% off store purchases.
Milwaukee Shuttle
Explore Milwaukee at your own pace using the local loop shuttle. Visit key attractions for photo opportunities and self-exploration. Stops include: - Bustling Milwaukee Public Market in the Historic Third Ward
- Fiserv Forum and German founded Old World Third Street
- Famous campus of the Harley Davidson Museum
- Milwaukee Art Museum
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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 & St. Lawrence Seaway adventure.
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