The next stage of your cruise is all about nautical masterpieces: follow the challenging passage during a lock adventure on the Welland Canal on the deck tour at the bow or the ship’s many open deck areas. Through eight locks, your small ship overcomes almost 100 m (328 ft) of height, corresponding to a lock lift the height of Niagara Falls. This is only possible thanks to the ship’s retractable bridge wings.

Between the Atlantic and Pacific, there is another third “ocean” that shapes the North American landscape: the natural wonder and lifeline of the Great Lakes. With a total area of around 244,000 km² (94,209 mi.²), they are a superb dream destination for explorers. Each lock opens up a new chapter in a book of beautiful pictures that have come to life, painted in the hues of an Indian summer with reams of wilderness and culture. Most ships are unable to pass through the locks, but the HANSEATIC inspiration masters this nautical feat with flying colours thanks to its retractable bridge wings. The inspiration Walk and the many open deck spaces give you thrilling views every day – such as during the morning journey on the Detroit River. Leaving Windsor, you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the skyline of the former “Motor City” before heading out to explore the many facets of Detroit*. Your experts on board will tell you all about the cruise destinations, sharing knowledge that is just as varied as the shores that you will visit.

Brimming with fascinating background information, you’ll see nature with new eyes – for instance when you cruise across Lake Huron to the fishing town of Tobermory on Georgian Bay. Small bays, deep-green forests and the limestone coast will leave you with lasting memories of exploring the Bruce Trail at your own pace.

The small HANSEATIC inspiration is in its element here as it charts a course through a scenic labyrinth of water to reach Parry Sound. Its name pays tribute to the British polar explorer William E. Parry. Explore the town and the nearby lake shore on the marine walking trails and look forward to a boat trip of the Thirty Thousand Islands*. The varied archipelago scenery here is filled with islands emerging from the water, narrow channels and imposing cliffs. Alternatively, you can turn your focus to unforgettable panoramic pictures in Killbear Provincial Park*, where pink granite banks and autumnal forest blend into constantly shifting compositions.

The islands around Killarney are a crown jewel in the wild nature and a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Just imagine how overwhelmed the first settlers and trappers must have felt here by the vastness and the sense of freedom. Get a feel for it yourself as you cruise on Lake Huron.

You’ll continue to Sault Sainte Marie, which lies right on the border between Canada and the USA. Explore the city of two states with a walk to the historic locks or the bushplane museum, surrounded by mesmerising nature.

Mackinac Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Discover Victorian villas and the Grand Hotel dating back to the 19th century on foot, by bicycle and on a carriage ride. The Door Peninsula on the edge of Lake Michigan is yet another fantastic gem waiting to be discovered. Water sports such as kayaking have just as rich a history here as the shipbuilding centre of Door County.

Manistique is a small coastal town on the Upper Peninsula of the state of Michigan. Fayette National Park represents the once-thriving industrial community that produced charcoal and pig iron at the tip of the Garden Peninsula between 1867 and 1891. Learn about 19th century life on the Peninsula as you stroll through the buildings that are still well preserved.

From here, set your sights on the enchanting Door Peninsula* with its historic brick lighthouses, small fishing villages and expansive fruit and wine-growing regions. Brewing was once the focus of Milwaukee, but museums and the music scene now provide creative highlights.

Discover the influence of the German immigrants of times gone by and works by many European painters on a city tour with a visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum*. Milwaukee has honoured a brand that is intrinsically linked to the American way of life with the Harley-Davidson Museum*. The pursuit of happiness is a theme in this green heart of North America – a place undeniably “Born to Be Wild”. There is also the option of a visit to Chicago* with its interesting mix of huge skyscrapers, diverse architecture and beaches and parks right on the shore of Lake Michigan. Your memories of the Great Lakes are sure to be just as filled with emotion as the soul and blues music that is typical of the city – and will live on in your spirit of discovery.