Manistique is a small coastal town on the Upper Peninsula of the state of Michigan. Stroll along the promenade that extends two miles along Lake Michigan, or visit the state’s largest freshwater spring, the Kitch-iti-kipi. In the emerald-green lake in Palms Book State Park, almost 10,000 gallons of water gush out of the fissures in the underlying sandstone each minute.

The Victorian-style houses on Mackinac Island provide a contrast to the historic wooden buildings and blast furnaces. Explore the car-free island at your own pace on foot, by bicycle or in a horse-drawn carriage. Stop for a sweet treat in one of the cafes or fudge stores and quench your thirst for knowledge at Fort Mackinac, which dates back to the American Revolutionary War.

After a night-time passage of the Soo Locks and a change in height of around 6 m (20 ft), the largest of the Great Lakes awaits: Lake Superior.

In Duluth, the city’s striking emblematic lift bridge greets you in the port. Learn about the history of the immigrants here with a city tour* and enjoy a picture of the past at the old rail depot. Why did the Dakota tribe once call this region the “land of the sky-tinted water”? You’ll understand why once you’ve visited the stunning Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse* and seen the sky reflected in Lake Superior from the lighthouse, which was built on the high cliffs in 1910.

The power of water will also draw you under its spell in enchanting Thunder Bay. Marvel at the “Niagara Falls of the north”, where the water plunges nearly 40 m (131 ft) into the Kaministiquia River when you visit historic Fort William and the Kakabeka Falls*. Climb the local landmark made up of a flat-topped mountain ridge with dramatic granite cliffs on a hiking adventure in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park*.

Look forward to relaxing and expansive views as you cruise along the northern shore of Lake Superior.

Next, gain in-depth insights into the history of Sault Ste. Marie. The enormous lock system plays a key role here and the deck gives you an ideal vantage point from which to watch as the ship manoeuvres its way through. The city is divided not only by a river, but also by an international border, with Canada on your side and the USA on the other. The HANSEATIC inspiration will stay overnight, giving you plenty of time to discover the history of the settlers at the museum or explore the city on foot.

It is not just the name Killarney that has an Irish feel here: visit the “emerald isle” of George Island by ferry. Take a moment to really enjoy the nature and tranquillity here on a walk.

Whether you explore by kayak, canoe or ship, Parry Sound is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, as a boat trip of the Thirty Thousand Islands* proves. The beautiful composition of blue water, green forests and white granite rock envelops you in a masterpiece of nature in Killbear Provincial Park*.

The tranquil fishing village of Tobermory on Lake Huron invites you to wander around the picturesque harbour or hike along the Bruce Trail through the forests to the rocky coast.

Filled with the invigorating North American sense of freedom, you’ll reach the small city of Windsor on the Detroit River, with an amazing view of the imposing Detroit skyline. Just like this former “Motor City” transformed itself into a boom town, your perspective on North America will also be transformed on this cruise.