Cities, wilderness and adventures along the locks: your American dream on rivers and lakes
Pioneering spirit in an “ocean” in the midst of the wilderness
Lock adventures on the St Lawrence River and Welland Canal
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 informations
In Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, you will explore the birthplace of Canada. The history of the Confederation is domineered by the glories of nature on a scenic tour1 or a visit to an oyster farm1 On the Iles de la Madeleine, red cliffs and long sandy beaches provide breathtaking island impressions1. Alternatively, a culinary tour1 combines cheese, fish and the art of brewing.
The local charm of the small town of Gaspe is defined by the surrounding picturesque bays and cliffs. Autumn shows its vibrant guises once again on a scenic tour of the peninsula and the Forillon National Park1. You can also explore this paradise for amateur ornithologists actively on a hike1.
As you travel along the river, your team of experts on board will tell you all about the region’s great history – from the early Woodland period and the First Nations to the current economic significance. With a little luck, you’ll spot beluga, blue, humpback or fin whales whilst whale watching1 off Tadoussac.
Indian summer hues will colour your route with accents of reds and yellows. The exact period and intensity of the natural phenomenon are difficult to predict, but the timing of your cruise is favourable for enjoying profoundly vibrant impressions. One of the largest side branches of the St Lawrence River, the Saguenay, is also particularly picturesque at this time of year. Experience the wilderness actively on a hike1 or by seaplane1. Cruising on the Saguenay Fjord, you may be lucky to spot belugas, which can be found hunting for fish and plankton here all year round.
French savoir vivre and Canadian zest for life invite you to explore the historic quarter in Quebec. Explore the many sights on a city tour1. On a trip to Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orleans,1 you will pass some of Canada’s oldest French settlements.
Afterwards, Montreal welcomes you with its European charm as the second largest francophone city in the world. A city tour1 combines picturesque town houses and wide boulevards with a walk in the underground city. Alternatively, the wineries in the Eastern Townships1 will awaken the sommelier in you.
An extraordinary passage follows during a lock adventure on the St Lawrence River. This is a nautical masterpiece that only a few ships can manage. The open deck areas are the ideal place from which to watch the ship negotiate the seven locks and the height differences.
In Toronto, a city tour by tram1 shows how skyscrapers, parks and trendy districts complement each other well. As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is Canada’s economic centre and one of the world’s leading financial centres, after decades during which Montreal had held that role. The city is located on the north-western shore of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the five Great Lakes. From Toronto it is also not far to the most famous waterfalls in North America – the Niagara Falls1.
The next stage of your cruise is a lock adventure on the Welland Canal. Follow the challenging passage 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.
Behind you lies vast Lake Erie and the route takes you on to Windsor in Canada. From the ship, you’ll have the best view of the skyline of America’s former “Motor City” on the other bank of the river. Visit Detroit1 to discover the roots of automotive history and the varied architecture of this city that is once again on the up. Follow in the footsteps of Henry Ford1 at the museum that bears his name and see masterpieces of the road and rails. The stunning passage on the Detroit River takes you towards Lake Huron.
Maritime charm awaits you on your cruise on Lake Huron to the fishing town of Tobermory in Georgian Bay. Let your impressions be shaped by limestone coastlines, small bays and Canadian flora on a hike along the Bruce Trail at your own pace.
The small coastal municipality of Killarney reveals its Irish roots in its name. The “emerald isle” of George Island can be reached by ferry and will show off its colourful side in autumn. Many outdoor activities and a great sense of freedom define your explorations of the uninhabited island. Discover Killarney independently and enjoy a Zodiac ride with beautiful scenery and good chances of seeing wildlife. With a bit of luck, you will spot cormorants, Canada geese and bald eagles.
The small HANSEATIC inspiration is in its element as it charts a course through a scenic labyrinth of water to reach Parry Sound. Explore the town and the nearby lake shore on the marine walking trails or take a boat trip of the Thirty Thousand Islands1. The varied archipelago scenery is filled with islands emerging from the water, narrow channels and imposing cliffs. Alternatively, you can soak up the unforgettable panoramas in Killbear Provincial Park1, where pink granite banks and autumnal forest blend to create majestic scenery.
On a walk through Sault Sainte Marie, you can immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of immigrants at the museum or marvel at the enormous lock system that separates Canada and the USA here.
Mackinac Island is a natural jewel of the Great Lakes and is one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Discover the small car-free idyll independently by bicycle or on a carriage ride. Whilst Victorian villas and the Grand Hotel recall the 19th century, Fort Mackinac serves as a reminder of the American Revolutionary War.
1 The land activities are not included in the tour price and are subject to change. Subject to change without notice.
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 options
Sat, 19.09.2026
Scheduled flight from Germany to Halifax
Optionally bookable
Wed, 07.10.2026
Journey to Chicago Scheduled flight from Chicago to Germany
Optionally bookable
Thu, 08.10.2026
Arrival in Germany
Optionally bookable
Extend your trip
Our popular before and after programs 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.
Explore your cruise destinations on a more personal basis as a couple – ideal for all those who don’t want to be part of a group. The excursions in the programmes are accompanied by a local tour guide who will be happy to attend to your individual wishes. There will also be enough time and space for your own activities. Transfers are exclusively by private car with private drivers. Prices for solo travellers or groups of three or more are available on request.
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.
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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!
Price special
Attractive combination discount
Extend your stay with the previous cruise INS2613 and save € 1,000 per person (applies to PLATINUM fare).
Included Services
Expedition and information
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)
All around carefree
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 fares PLATINUM and GOLD
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)
