FROM TORONTO TO MILWAUKEE

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.

History and adventure come together as you cruise on Detroit River and reach the Canadian city of Windsor. It tells the story of industrialisation in just as fascinating way as Detroit, the former “Motor City”, on the opposite side of the river in the United States. Discover the stories behind the skylines and landscapes. Your experts on board are your “navigators” with insider knowledge that remains hidden from others. For example, learn exciting things about the rise, fall and architectural diversity of Detroit, which is now emerging again. What will your personal American Dream of discovery be? The choice is yours: go on interesting excursions* or take a walk along the Waterfront Trail through the city districts of Windsor.

During your cruise across Lake Huron, you will reach the small fishing village of Tobermory. The picturesque town is located in the middle of the protected Fathom Five National Marine Park and invites you to stroll down and linger on its harbour promenade with local arts and crafts shops, cafes and restaurants. Along the coast, dramatic cliffs and towering monoliths rise out of the water, interspersed with caves and lighthouses. The sight of small coves with their turquoise water will make you think you’re in the Caribbean. Green forests, home to black bears, white-tailed deer and hundreds of other animals, are abundant close to the shore. In addition, around 40 species of wild orchids can be found here. A stage of the Bruce Trail offers a variety of landscapes and spectacular views of Georgian Bay. A true paradise for hiking lovers, the region offers a variety of trails for activities that will be enriched by your experts’ knowledge of natural history. There is something for everyone here – a must for nature and outdoor lovers.

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.

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

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.

The small peninsula of Silver Islet was the epicentre of silver mining at the end of the 19th century, with one of the most important mines in Canada. It is a privilege for you to explore the site as only 20 ships a year are allowed to call here. With so many hiking trails on the peninsula, you could spend the whole day hiking – for example, on the Sea Lion Trail that runs parallel to the water. In the afternoon, you can board the Zodiacs to explore the region from the water. Weather permitting, you can even see the shaft of the mining operation.

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.

Just landing on Battle Island in a Zodiac is an extraordinary experience in itself. As you pass between two islands, you can enjoy the view of the rocky, rugged coastline, which suggests that there are many opportunities for hiking. And indeed, the island invites you to exciting explorations on foot. A wonderful hiking trail leads you through a magical forest to the 19th-century lighthouse. It sits perched high up on the cliffs as an iconic landmark for the many stories of Lake Superior, which a Native American tells here at the fog house in summer.

The Zodiacs are perfect for exploring the Slate Islands Provincial Park. A region of many small islands covered with trees up to the waterline, just waiting to be discovered. Your adventure is close to nature and will take you into the habitat of numerous animals such as the rare coastal wolf. The Zodiacs will carefully navigate you through the shallow water of the rocky coastline. A wilderness that will stir your emotions, whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation.

You’ll continue to Sault Sainte Marie. Here, stars and stripes meet the maple leaf. The Saint Marys River separates the Canadian and American sides of the border. At the official stop, you will clear in at the border control on the US side. Use the time afterwards to visit the historic locks and a museum ship. Your experts on board will be happy to tell you about the importance of the Soo Locks for the development of shipping in North America and the industrialisation of the region.

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. The 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.

Milwaukee sits on the western shore of beautiful Lake Michigan. It calls itself “America’s most German city”, with around 50 % of residents claiming German ancestry. From its days as a centre of German brewing to its diverse museum scene, the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods are connected by the scenic RiverWalk. Countless shops and cafes invite you to take a relaxing stroll through the city. The Harley-Davidson brand, which was founded here, is a symbol of the American way of life and has its own museum. The towering white structure of the Quadracci Pavilion, which houses the Milwaukee Art Museum, looks like the bow of a ship as it sets sail. But before you yourself continue your cruise on board, enjoy Milwaukee’s charm to the full.