Great Lakes: Pioneering Spirit On Scenic Lakes

Mackinac Island is a natural jewel and is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Life still moves at a slow pace here. The streets are filled with the ringing of bicycle bells, the clattering of horses’ hooves and the rattling of carriages – because this little idyll is car-free. The historic Fort Mackinac from the time of the American War of Independence perches majestically high up on a cliff. It tells the story of 1812, when the original buildings, which are still preserved today, were conquered by the British. The Victorian villas and the island’s grand hotel tell of the 19th century. The spacious Marquette Park, the marina and the city centre with its many shopping opportunities and restaurants underline how beautiful the present is. Enjoy Mackinac Island fudge, a world-famous sweet speciality.

Your lock passage through the Sault Ste. Marie Canal is like a journey through time. While you watch the captain and crew manoeuvre the ship through the lock gates, experts on board will tell you all about the history of the canal. The historic Power House, with its original 19th-century machinery, is a reminder that it was once the world’s first power-operated lock. Even today, the Soo Locks are still the largest lock system in the world and a masterpiece of engineering. As you stand on deck, the 2,000-year-old culture of the Indigenous peoples living here will pass before your eyes. On the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, Canada’s past and present merge impressively.The small town of Marquette welcomes you on the shores of Lake Superior. Once a centre of iron mining, today you can relieve stress here – for example, by hiking to numerous waterfalls and taking part in other outdoor activities. The Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, the 19th-century lighthouse painted bright red, signals how maritime heritage is preserved on the Great Lakes. As you stroll along the coast and through the laid-back city, the state of Michigan shows itself from its most beautiful side.Charming Bayfield is the ideal starting point for numerous excursions into nature. It is the gateway to the spectacular Apostle Islands*, a group of 22 islands in Lake Superior. The town itself boasts historic architecture, picturesque streets and a vibrant arts scene. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural charm, it’s an essential stop on your cruise. The region is also a paradise for ornithologists: from on board, you can observe the bird life with your experts – the islands are known as a nesting site for herring gulls, black-legged terns, cormorants and grey herons.

Your lock passage through the Sault Ste. Marie Canal is like a journey through time. While you watch the captain and crew manoeuvre the ship through the lock gates, experts on board will tell you all about the history of the canal. The historic Power House, with its original 19th-century machinery, is a reminder that it was once the world’s first power-operated lock. Even today, the Soo Locks are still the largest lock system in the world and a masterpiece of engineering. As you stand on deck, the 2,000-year-old culture of the Indigenous peoples living here will pass before your eyes. On the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, Canada’s past and present merge impressively.The small town of Marquette welcomes you on the shores of Lake Superior. Once a centre of iron mining, today you can relieve stress here – for example, by hiking to numerous waterfalls and taking part in other outdoor activities. The Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, the 19th-century lighthouse painted bright red, signals how maritime heritage is preserved on the Great Lakes. As you stroll along the coast and through the laid-back city, the state of Michigan shows itself from its most beautiful side.Charming Bayfield is the ideal starting point for numerous excursions into nature. It is the gateway to the spectacular Apostle Islands*, a group of 22 islands in Lake Superior. The town itself boasts historic architecture, picturesque streets and a vibrant arts scene. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural charm, it’s an essential stop on your cruise. The region is also a paradise for ornithologists: from on board, you can observe the bird life with your experts – the islands are known as a nesting site for herring gulls, black-legged terns, cormorants and grey herons.

Look forward to exciting days exploring Lake Superior. Only a few cruise ships travel as far as Lake Superior. It is the largest of the Great Lakes and the second-largest freshwater area in the world. Here on board, you will be a total of about 180 m (591 ft) above the sea level of the Atlantic, which is an impressive difference in altitude for a ship – and unique on a cruise.The small peninsula of Silver Islet was the epicentre of silver mining at the end of the 19th century, with one of the most important mines in Canada. It is a privilege for you to explore the site as only 20 ships a year are allowed to call here. With so many hiking trails on the peninsula, you could spend the whole day hiking – for example, on the Sea Lion Trail that runs parallel to the water. In the afternoon, you can board the Zodiacs to explore the region from the water. Weather permitting, you can even see the shaft of the mining operation.The charming small township of Red Rock is known for its personal atmosphere, where the locals give you a very friendly welcome. Your experts will take you on impressive hikes directly from the ship, for example, on the Red Rock Mountain Loop, a scenic circular trail along the mountain ridges and valleys. Along the way, you will be introduced to the geological features of the region. You can also learn more about the flora and fauna in the black bear areas as well as the history of the township at the city’s visitor centre.Terrace Bay is idyllically situated on the northern shore of Lake Superior. Explore the picturesque town directly from the pier. On your own or with your experts, experience the wonderful nature on numerous hiking trails, where black bears and moose may also be spotted. Along the coastline, the boardwalk invites you to take a beautiful walk that perfectly showcases the region’s natural beauty. At the end of the boardwalk, there is a forest and also the entrance to the Red Chair Trail: this scenic hike takes you through a quiet, wooded area to enjoy fantastic views of the bay and ship or to the historic lighthouse and rushing waterfalls – indeed, the journey is the destination.Just landing on Battle Island in a Zodiac is an extraordinary experience. As you pass between two islands, you can enjoy the view of the rocky, rugged coastline, which suggests that there are many opportunities for hiking. And indeed, the island invites you to exciting explorations on foot. A wonderful hiking trail leads you through a magical forest to the 19th-century lighthouse. It sits perched high up on the cliffs as an iconic landmark for the many stories of Lake Superior, which a Native American tells here at the fog house in summer.The Zodiacs are perfect for exploring the Slate Islands Provincial Park. A region of many small islands covered with trees up to the waterline, just waiting to be discovered. Your adventure is close to nature and will take you into the habitat of numerous animals such as the rare coastal wolf. The Zodiacs will carefully navigate you through the shallow water of the rocky coastline. A wilderness that will stir your emotions, whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation.

Moving from nature to culture, the route takes you to Sault Sainte Marie in Canada. The city shares a significant past with the American city of the same name on the other side of the Saint Marys River, which forms the state border. This was not always the case: the division only occurred after the American Revolutionary War. Take advantage of your stay to discover the history and way of life in the area. Small art galleries, restaurants and cafes create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and walks take you to see historic locks and buildings from the early 1800s. The bushplane museum, dedicated to the history of seaplanes and aviation in Canada, is also worth a visit. In addition, the city is a starting point for a variety of excursions* offering a great mix of history, nature and outdoor experiences.

During your cruise across Lake Huron, you will reach the small fishing village of Tobermory. The picturesque town is located in the middle of the protected Fathom Five National Marine Park and invites you to stroll down and linger on its harbour promenade with local arts and crafts shops, cafes and restaurants. Along the coast, dramatic cliffs and towering monoliths rise out of the water, interspersed with caves and lighthouses. The sight of small coves with their turquoise water will make you think you’re in the Caribbean. Green forests, home to black bears, white-tailed deer and hundreds of other animals, are abundant close to the shore. In addition, around 40 species of wild orchids can be found here. A stage of the Bruce Trail offers a variety of landscapes and spectacular views of Georgian Bay. A true paradise for hiking lovers, the region offers a variety of trails for activities that will be enriched by your experts’ knowledge of natural history. There is something for everyone here – a must for nature and outdoor lovers.

You'll always receive a welcome to remember, as the colourful cafes, houses and shops that line Tobermory's picturesque harbour salute your arrival. Located on the craggy Scottish Inner Hebrides, Tobermory serves as the capital of the Isle of Mull. There's a high chance you'll recognise the town’s colourfully-daubed buildings, as their charming exteriors have featured in countless TV shows - most notably in the children’s favourite, Balamory. There's always a new story to discover here – not least the legend that suggests there's a sunken Spanish galleon, brimming with lost gold, sitting just below the waves that roll around the harbour. Learn a little more of the area’s history at the Mull Museum, or head out to enjoy some of the fabulous wildlife watching opportunities on offer on a boat tour. You can spot majestic birds like white tail and golden eagles circling in the skies, or turn your attention to the waves, where friendly dolphins and Minke whales are regular visitors. Treat yourself to a sample of one of the island's finest exports before leaving, as you drop in at the Tobermory Distillery for some whiskey tasting. Established in 1798, it’s one of Scotland's oldest distilleries.

The charming town of Parry Sound is located in the heart of Georgian Bay in an archipelago with Scandinavian allure. In this area, which has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, some 30,000 islands lie close together. The scenic approach through a small lagoon brings you ashore. It is the ideal place for many outdoor activities such as canoeing, kayaking and hiking. You can explore the shore on foot along the Marine Walking Trails, with captivating views of the cliffs and lake. With luck, you might also catch a glimpse of the wildlife of Georgian Bay, which is sometimes referred to as the sixth Great Lake. The incomparable feeling of freedom and discovery is what makes the region around Parry Sound so unique.

The quaint town of Killarney, with a population of barely 500, has its Irish roots in its name. Just imagine how overwhelmed the first settlers and trappers must have felt here by the vastness and the sense of freedom. It is Ontario’s little secret in the midst of a colourful wilderness: from the white quartzite of the mountains to the pink granite of the rocks and the indigo blue of the lake. An expedition area that is second to none. An invitation for you to take walks and linger. From the promenade, a hiking trail leads to the region’s landmark, the Killarney Lighthouse. Or take the shuttle bus to Killarney Provincial Park for hikes with your experts to gain a deeper understanding of this untouched wilderness. The calm waters here also offer the opportunity to enjoy Georgian Bay on a Zodiac ride with beautiful scenery and good chances for wildlife sightings – with a bit of luck, you’ll see cormorants, Canada geese and bald eagles.