This cruise opens up the treasure trove of North America with two island gems to begin with: Prince Edward Island and the Iles de la Madeleine. Cruising through the Saguenay Fjord, framed by mountains, your front-row seat greets you on deck. Keep an eye out for belugas, which can be seen here all year round. French savoir vivre and Canadian zest for life welcome you to Quebec and Montreal. The passage through the St Lawrence River is reserved for a small ship like the HANSEATIC inspiration, which brilliantly masters the seven locks – at the end of which the fascinating Thousand Islands await. From Lake Ontario, the ship overcomes almost 100 m (328 ft) of height passing through eight locks in the Welland Canal, which is equivalent to the height of Niagara Falls. Enjoy the vastness of Lake Erie and the passage to the industrial city of Windsor before exploring automotive history in Detroit*. On Lake Huron, outdoor activities in the small coastal town of Killarney unleash an unlimited sense of freedom – for example, on a Zodiac ride. Parry Sound is picturesque, set in a labyrinth of 30,000 islands. The small beaches along the shore of Lake Huron are best experienced actively on the marine walking trails. Car-free Mackinac Island is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Admire Victorian mansions and the 19th-century Grand Hotel on foot, by bike or on a horse-drawn carriage ride. Fort Mackinac tells of the Revolutionary War. The colourful forests on the shores of Lake Michigan ensure the glorious conclusion to an extraordinary cruise.

The itinerary depends on official approval. The use of on-board Zodiacs is currently not permitted on this cruise, with the exception of in Killarney. When the ship is at anchor, the ship’s tender boats will be used.

* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.