Toronto - Milwaukee Great Lakes: secrets of an “ocean” amidst the wilderness

Filled with the same passionate spirit of discovery that led the first settlers to these regions, the adventure of navigating the locks of the Welland Canal lies ahead of you. The approximately 45 km (28 mi.) long waterway, which opened in 1932, connects Lake Ontario with Lake Erie. Your small expedition ship features retractable bridge wings so that it can pass through the locks between the lakes. These feats of nautical brilliance are beyond the capabilities of most ships. Eight locks, around 20 bridges and a difference in altitude of almost 100 m (328 ft) – a lock lift comparable to the height of the Niagara Falls. This route demands millimetre precision from the captain and crew: the locks are only 2.5 m (8.2 ft) wider than the ship with a beam of 22 m (72 ft). Follow the exciting manoeuvres on the many open deck areas, with knowledgeable commentary from your experts.

Cleveland combines proud history with vibrant cultural diversity on the shores of Lake Erie. Its industrial past is reflected in old factory buildings and historic brick structures. One of the modern attractions is Ohio City, a hip neighbourhood with the traditional West Side Market. Immerse yourself in the life of the locals here. Music lovers are recommended to visit the famous Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for its significant collection of old masters and modern art. A few kilometres away, the picture is entirely different: Amish Country around Holmes County – home to one of the largest contiguous Amish communities in the world. Discover a way of life characterised by humility, community spirit, horse-drawn carriages, high-quality craftsmanship and sustainable agriculture.

Detroit combines extraordinary historical depth with cultural significance. As the cradle of the American automotive industry, the former “Motor City” played a decisive role in shaping industrial development in the 20th century. Even today, buildings in the art deco and fine arts style – such as the Guardian Building and Michigan Central Station – bear witness to that era. The city reveals many exciting chapters of its history: it played a significant role in the American civil rights movement – for example, as the scene of the 1967 riots and Martin Luther King’s speeches. It is also the home of the legendary sounds of Motown. However, neighbourhoods such as Midtown, Corktown and Eastern Market are also displaying an impressive new self-confidence – characterised by restoration, art, start-ups and Afro-American culture. Detroit’s exceptional ability to continually reinvent itself will inspire you, too.

The coastal waters of Lake Huron off Alpena already make a visible impression. Seven lighthouses characterise the region, from the oldest to the tallest publicly accessible lighthouse in the Great Lakes. It’s hard to believe that there are almost 200 shipwrecks here – a divers’ paradise. But the real treasure is the historic port town itself, surrounded by forests, hiking trails and parks. In the 19th century, Alpena grew into a centre for the timber and cement industries. Logs from the surrounding forests were floated down the Thunder Bay River to the harbour. It is said that from any point in the city, you can reach a body of water – be it a river, lake or inland lake – within five minutes by car. You can experience maritime history at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. And like so much else in Alpena, art is also found outdoors – in the form of murals, sculptures and small galleries. Alpena features an impressive size as well as authenticity.

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. 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.

Moving from nature to culture, the route takes you to Sault Sainte Marie. 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.

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.

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.

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.

Your lock passage through the Sault Ste. Marie Canal is like a journey back in 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. Canada’s past and present come together for you in an impressive way in the Sault Ste. Marie Canal.

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.