Years ago, they were the simple path of a glistening glacier, but today, the Great Lakes are a proud symbol of American heritage. You’ll enjoy picturesque cruising on five Great Lakes, each with their own stunning landscape, unique history, and treasured cultural gems. From the scenic shorelines of Lake Huron to the history-lined coast of Lake Michigan, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the story of America. Here are just a few of the historical gems that await you:

Mackinac Island: With its Revolutionary-era heritage and car-free streets, it’s no wonder Mackinac is listed as a National Historic Landmark. Embark on a sightseeing tour of this remarkable island, passing landmarks such as the Grand Hotel where the movie Somewhere in Time was filmed. Then, watch history come to life as you explore Fort Mackinac, the 18th-century fortress that once served as an important Revolutionary War post and is now the centerpiece of Mackinac National Park. 

Great Lakes: This scenic voyage gives you the opportunity to cruise on five of the Great Lakes during your explorations. Not only will you get to witness the natural splendor of these incredible waterways, you’ll enjoy a full day of scenic sailing on two of them: Lake Michigan, the only Great Lake located entirely within the United States, and Lake Huron, the fifth largest freshwater lake in the world and the first of the Great Lakes to be discovered by European settlers.

Cleveland: Journey through America’s past as you tour the historical highlights of Cleveland, from the masterpieces found at the Cleveland Museum of Art to the colorful relics of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Then, savor local cuisine at the city’s oldest marketplace: the famous West Side Market. Wander through bustling aisles as vendors offer everything from seafood and baked goods to flowers and spices. 

Detroit: Delve into the fascinating past of our country as you explore the unique exhibits of the Henry Ford Museum. Dedicated to detailing American history and culture, you’ll see priceless artifacts such as the limousine that carried President John F. Kennedy on the day of his assassination, the bus in which Rosa Parks made civil rights history, and the chair from Ford’s Theater in which Abraham Lincoln was sitting in when he was shot. 

Manitoulin Island: Get a fascinating insider’s look at the rich culture of the Ojibwe Native Americans as we visit Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. With native and non-native communities co-existing like nowhere else on the continent, Manitoulin has a history as colorful and diverse as any in Canada. Discover how the beliefs and customs of the Ojibwe intertwine with those of the Catholic Church during a visit to the Immaculate Conception Church. Then, unveil Ojibwe tradition intricacies as you attend a smudging ceremonial cleansing ritual and a powwow, an expressive curing ceremony, before touring the foundation’s unique museum and art gallery.

• Enjoy stunning views as you cruise on four Great Lakes: Ontario, Erie, Huron, and Michigan
• Voyage into the mists of Niagara Falls aboard the Hornblower
• Cruise along the Thousand Islands, a group of over 1,800 islands in the St. Lawrence River, straddling the border of the U.S. and Canada

The special climate in the Niagara region allows for premier winemaking conditions, as it shares the same latitude with Southern France. You'll have an opportunity to sample some local favorites, besides a wine lunch at an estate in the Niagara Wine Region, home to over 50 wineries.

Make the most of this history-rich itinerary with photographic memories you’ll hold dear forever. Here are a few highlights to look out for: 

• Chronicle your horse-drawn carriage ride on car-free Mackinac Island
• Get close up with Niagara Falls on a dramatic ride along the rim, as well as a scenic cruise down Niagara Parkway
• Get an in-depth look at Ojibwe tradition with a smudging ceremony and powwow, as well as a tour of the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation’s museum and art gallery — an unforgettable experience!

From rock and roll to indigenous culture, this Great Lakes cruise blends the old, the new, and the evergreen on a delightful 14-day itinerary. Here are some cultural highlights:

• Learn about the Ojibwe Native Americans on Manitoulin Island
• Delve into the culture and landmarks of Toronto on a city tour and with a free day in this vibrant and diverse city
• Take a colorful tour through musical history at Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
• Tour Detroit’s Henry Ford Museum for an automobile-themed look at some of the most important moments in American history. Then, visit the Detroit Institute of Arts for a look at one of the most exceptional collections around

The Worldwide Concierge service will be available throughout your entire small ship ocean cruise to help you customize your journey. Here are just a few services your Concierge can provide:

• Do you have a special birthday, anniversary, family reunion or other important event you want to celebrate on board? Let your Concierge know and he or she can make all the special arrangements, whether it’s a private reception in your suite, a gathering in the lounge, and more
• Restaurant reservations. Just notify your Concierge of your interests, and he or she will be happy to make recommendations, and will call ahead to reserve your table
• Special excursions. Would you like a limo to take you for a special night in the city? Perhaps you’d like to look up long-lost relatives. Your Concierge is here to help!
• Extend your stay! Your Concierge can help modify your hotel reservations and flights if you decide to stay on
• Tickets to local concerts, exhibits, theater, sporting events, and more

Take advantage of this free, start-to-finish service by making your requests prior to your journey or during your journey. We are one of the only companies to offer this level of service! Call 1-888-982-6824 or email Concierge@vantagetravel.com to speak to a Concierge today, or simply log into My Portfolio up to two weeks prior to departure.

On this small ship ocean cruise, independent travelers will enjoy solo-friendly features, such as:

• Onboard Concierge services to personalize your expedition
• Water-sport opportunities, depending on the location
• A lively social media night and musical performances most nights
• Solo-friendly social activities, including a Solo Connection mixer
• Onboard entertainment, lectures, and cooking demonstrations
• Health and wellness options, including onboard spa, jacuzzis, and a gym

Our 5-star fleet offers an authentic sailing experience to make your journey unforgettable. While onboard, indulge in a relaxing massage at the spa, or try hot-rock cooking at the onboard restaurant. Then, disembark for an eye-opening visit to a local winery or a walking tour of some of the world’s most iconic cities and undiscovered gems. All the while, enjoy these world-class ship amenities:

• 77 cabins, including a landmark 15 solo cabins, most of which have full walk-out balconies, for the most flexible style of travel — plus, suites designed for comfortable triple-occupancy as well as adjoining room options
• A culinary program offering gourmet dining incorporating regional fare, with wine and beer included at dinner
• Spa, massage, and hair services available at the onboard spa
• Sauna
• Two hot tubs
• Fitness center
• Curated lectures, programs, musical performances, and cultural events
• Low passenger-to-crew ratio, plus onboard Concierge
• Knowledgeable staff by region
• Onboard medical doctor (travelers are responsible for medical fees associated with doctor visit and medications)
• Gift Shop
• Library with over 200 titles
• Separate, intimate dining space for groups or special events (available upon request)
• Complimentary unlimited WiFi (WiFi on certain segments of trips may not be available)
• Entertainment programming with 100 movie titles
• Environmentally friendly standards with reduced emissions into air and sea and lower energy consumption
• Dynamic positioning technology
• State-of-the-art safety technology, Polar Code 6 compliant, and fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements in expedition cruising
• Rolls-Royce stabilizer system; “Safe Return to Port” technology