The lifeline of North America in Indian summer – with cities, wilderness and lock adventures
Pioneering spirit in an “ocean” in the midst of the wilderness
Lock adventures on the Welland Canal and St Lawrence River
Experience the magic of Indian summer along the coasts and in the forests on active hikes
Discover fascinating things about Indigenous people and settlers
New landscapes every day – with skerries, islands, waterfalls, cliffs and lighthouses
At anchor
Further information
Mackinac Island is considered a natural jewel of the Great Lakes, one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Discover this small, car-free idyll at your own pace, either by bicycle or on a carriage ride. While the Victorian mansions and the Grand Hotel recount tales from the 19th century, Fort Mackinac evokes memories of the American Revolutionary War.
A stroll through Sault Ste. Marie allows you to immerse yourself in captivating immigrant stories at the museum or marvel at the impressive lock system that separates Canada and the USA.
The small HANSEATIC inspiration is truly in its element as it navigates the charming water labyrinth to Parry Sound. Discover the town and the nearby lakeshore on the Marine Walking Trails, or embark on a boat tour through the 30,000 Islands. The islands rise densely from the water, forming a diverse archipelago landscape with narrow channels and imposing cliffs. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the unforgettable panoramic views at Killbear Provincial Park, where pink granite shores and autumn-red forests meld into a breathtaking scene.
The small coastal town of Killarney carries its Irish roots in its name. George Island, which can be reached by ferry, is a “green island” that now displays its colourful side in autumn. Exploring this uninhabited isle is defined by numerous outdoor activities and a profound sense of freedom. Discover Killarney at your own pace and enjoy a Zodiac ride showcasing beautiful landscapes and excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. With a bit of luck, you may spot cormorants, Canada geese, and bald eagles.
Maritime charm awaits you as you journey on Lake Huron to the fishing village of Tobermory in Georgian Bay. Limestone coastlines, small coves, and Canadian flora define your impressions during an individual exploration along the Bruce Trail.
Ahead of you lies the vast expanse of Lake Erie and the impressive passage along the Detroit River to the Canadian city of Windsor. From the ship, enjoy the finest views of the skyline of Detroit—the former "Motor City" of the USA—on the opposite riverbank. Your visit to Detroit takes you to the roots of automotive history and showcases the architectural variety of this once-again thriving city. Following in the footsteps of Henry Ford, the namesake museum commemorates the "masterpieces" of roads and rails.
The next stage of your journey is the lock adventure in the Welland Canal. Follow the challenging passage from the bow's observation deck or from the many open deck areas. Your small ship will navigate through eight locks, overcoming almost 100 metres in elevation, equivalent to the rise of the Niagara Falls. This feat is made possible by the retractable bridge wings.
In Toronto, a city tour by tram showcases how skyscrapers, parks, and trendy neighbourhoods harmoniously coexist. As Canada’s largest city, Toronto has taken over from Montreal, which held this role for decades, to become the nation’s economic hub and one of the world’s leading financial centres. The city is situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the five Great Lakes. Additionally, Toronto is not far from North America’s most famous waterfalls – the Niagara Falls.
Next, an extraordinary passage awaits you: the lock adventure on the Saint Lawrence River. This nautical masterpiece is accomplished by only a few ships. From the deck, you can closely observe the overcoming of elevation changes in the seven locks.
Afterwards, Montreal, the world's second-largest French-speaking city, welcomes you with its European charm. A city tour connects picturesque townhouses and wide boulevards with a stroll through the underground city. Alternatively, the vineyards in the Eastern Townships may awaken the sommelier within you.
French savoir-vivre and Canadian joie de vivre invite you to explore the historic district of Quebec. Discover the city's landmarks on a city tour. Your journey takes you past some of Canada's oldest French settlements, leading to the Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orléans.
The Indian Summer adds vibrant accents in shades of red and yellow to your route. While the timing and intensity of this natural phenomenon are difficult to predict, your travel period is ideal for capturing these vivid impressions. One of the largest tributaries of the Saint Lawrence River, the Saguenay, is especially picturesque at this time of year. Experience the wilderness actively with a hike or from above in a seaplane. As you cruise through the Saguenay Fjord, you might be fortunate enough to spot belugas, which can be found here year-round hunting for fish and plankton.
During the passage, the onboard experts will share the region’s rich history with you—from the early Woodland period and the First Nations to its current economic significance. Near Tadoussac, you may be fortunate enough to spot belugas, blue whales, humpback whales, or fin whales during a whale-watching excursion.
The local colour of the small town of Gaspé is defined by the surrounding picturesque bays and cliffs. The vibrant hues of autumn are once again on display as you embark on a scenic drive across the peninsula and through Forillon National Park. This paradise for amateur ornithologists can also be actively explored on a hike.
On the Îles de la Madeleine, red cliffs and long sandy beaches create intoxicating island impressions. Alternatively, a culinary tour offers a delightful combination of cheese, seafood, and brewing craftsmanship. In Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, you will explore the birthplace of Canada. The history of the Confederation is complemented by the natural beauty, experienced during a scenic drive or a visit to an oyster fisher.
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.
At anchor
When the ship is anchored, there is no pier and the ship anchors in open water. The transfer to land is carried out using tender boats or zodiacs.
Golf
You head for the best and most beautiful greens in the world and are looked after by a PGA golf professional
Zodiac
Where even our small and few ships can't get any further, you can continue your adventures safely in robust inflatable boats (weather permitting).
Music
In an almost private atmosphere you can experience artists up close on the high seas or in front of the most beautiful places in the world.
Arrival and departure | optionally bookable
Wed, 07.10.2026
Scheduled flight from Germany to Chicago Journey to Milwaukee
Sun, 25.10.2026
Scheduled flight from Halifax to Germany
Sun, 26.10.2025
Arrival in Germany
Extend your trip
Our popular before and after programmes include a wide range of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for travelers who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded people. Experience selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the amenities of a group trip - we take care of transfers, excursions and overnight stays.
Discover your cruise destinations in a uniquely personal setting – perfect for those who prefer not to join a group. This way, you'll have ample time and space for your own activities. Transfers are usually conducted in cars with private drivers. For pricing for more than two people, please inquire.
Our travel concierge will be happy to put together tailor-made travel arrangements for you according to your wishes. From design hotels to luxurious beach resorts to ticket reservations for theater visits or restaurant recommendations for the most exciting cities. The Travel Concierge is available to you before your trip and of course on board.
Levels of difficulty
The organized land activities that we have planned for you place different demands on your physical fitness. So that you can see at a glance whether the requirement profile of your desired excursion matches your expectations, we have classified the activities in our excursion program into three levels:
easy
These programmes do not place any particular demands on your physical condition. Walks or tours take you along easy footpaths and any stairs are easy to negotiate.
moderat
These programmes place moderate demands on your physical condition. Walking for up to 2 hours (including on cobblestones) and climbing stairs should not cause you any problems. Programmes that include off-road vehicle rides on partially uneven and bumpy roads are not recommended for guests with back problems.
demanding
These programmes require a good level of physical fitness, dexterity and sure-footedness, e.g. for extended tours or city walks (sometimes on uneven surfaces and with many steps) or sporty, active hikes and kayak tours.
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The waters where the USA and Canada literally flow into each other reveal themselves to be a challenging exploration area. As a purpose-built expedition ship, the small HANSEATIC inspiration masters the narrow canals and locks with flying colours and takes you to picturesque shores and magnificent coastal towns. The dream of rediscovering America comes true!
Included Services
Expedition and knowledge
All landings and rides in the ship’s own Zodiacs (Use of the Zodiacs depends on the destination and on official permits)
Experienced experts from various disciplines accompany every cruise, give presentations and multimedia lectures, provide well-informed answers to questions about the cruising area and take part in the Zodiac landings/rides and hikes from/to ship
Use of the interactive Ocean Academy with individual knowledge formats
Comprehensive information before the cruise – for example about the Arctic, Antarctic, the South Seas and the Amazon, as well as expedition maps
Cabin
In every cabin: champagne to welcome you, mini bar restocked daily with non-alcoholic beverages (additional selection in Grand Suites and Junior Suites), coffee machine (tea on request), 24-hour cabin service
Equipment for loan: one pair of binoculars and two sets of Nordic Walking poles in the cabin itself, furthermore warm parkas, rubber boots, snorkelling equipment
Flat-screen TV with information and entertainment programme, personal email account and Internet access via Wi-Fi (free of charge for one hour per guest and day, satellite-dependent especially in polar areas)
Information about harbours and destinations (where available) in the cabin
Restaurants
International gourmet cuisine – full board: breakfast (early-bird and late riser breakfast), bouillon, afternoon coffee/tea time, lunch and dinner (three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours)
For all cases
German ship and expedition management as well as a mostly German-speaking service crew
Harbour and airport fees
Cancellation fee insurance (20% excess) in the PLATINUM and GOLD fares
Spa and fitness
Extensive sports programme: fitness area with ocean view, course programme, additional sports activities on shore depending on the destination (Personal training for an additional charge)
OCEAN SPA with Finnish sauna with an ocean view, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area (spa treatments and hairdresser at a surcharge)
