The Great Lakes, with a total area of around 244,000 square kilometres dominate the North American landscape and, filled with the spirit of discovery that once led settlers to this region, this voyage takes you deep into this magnificent natural wonder of Canada and the USA. For this exploration we are working with our long-time associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, who have made a number of cabins available for our passengers for this navigation of the Great Lakes. Their five-star vessel, the Hanseatic Inspiration, has been built to undertake journeys such as this and features retractable bridge wings so that it can pass through the locks between the lakes. Whilst on board you can watch the exciting manoeuvres from the many open deck spaces: traversing eight locks and around 20 bridges, this route demands expert precision from the Captain and crew and, in addition to the feats of nautical brilliance that are beyond the capabilities of most ships, you can be assured of excellent service, food and luxurious surroundings on board.
Setting sail from Toronto we will have the opportunity to transit the Welland Canal and, as Lake Erie is around one hundred metres higher than Lake Ontario, we will also travel through the Erie Canal, an engineering feat. We will sail to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay with its myriad of islands and miles of greyish-pink granite shoreline capped with conifers plunging into the emerald waters of the lake. Here you will discover the delightful harbour village of Tobermory and the charming town of Parry Sound, a paradise for nature lovers with its unique flora and fauna. Also visit the historic locks at Sault Sainte Marie, experience the old-world charm of Mackinac Island and step back in time at the Fayette Historic State Park that blends nature with the history of this 19th century industrial town. Visits to Detroit’s Henry Ford Museum, Chicago, teeming with museums, history and marvellous architecture, and Milwaukee, including the Art Museum and Harley-Davidson Museum, also promise a rewarding insight into American city life.
The diversity of the Great Lakes will amaze you as this late summer journey offers stunning landscapes and natural wonders, picturesque villages and towns, visits to some of the most infamous cities of North America along with the opportunity to discover the fascinating history of the Native Americans, settlers and trappers. All of this is only possible due to the engineering capabilities of the Hanseatic Inspiration whose beautiful surroundings, spacious cabins and public areas will enable you to travel in the utmost comfort.
Hanseatic Inspiration
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a five-star expedition ship launched in October 2019. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica), this unique vessel offers an informal and relaxed atmosphere on board with more open deck space than any other expedition ship. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Toronto, Canada.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration and embark. Sail late this evening.
Day 2 Lake Ontario & Lake Erie.
Enjoy a day of cruising on scenic Lake Ontario and the Welland Canal. Consisting of eight locks over 27 miles the Canal has allowed large vessels to travel between the US and Canada since 1829. Later we cruise across Lake Erie whose history dates back to the end of the ice age some 13,000 years ago.
Day 3 Windsor & Detroit River.
This morning we cruise down the Detroit River to the Canadian City of Windsor from where we can see the skyline of America’s former Motor City, Detroit, on the opposite bank. An optional excursion will visit Detroit to learn about the roots of the automotive industry and the city’s varied architecture. Follow in the footsteps of Henry Ford at the museum that bears his name and see the masterpieces of road and rails.
Day 4 Lake Huron & Tobermory.
Enjoy the beautiful views as we cruise across Lake Huron this morning, arriving into the fishing town of Tobermory, on Georgian Bay, at lunchtime. Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace, maybe admire the limestone coastline, small bays and Canadian wildflowers as we walk along the Bruce Trail.
Day 5 Parry Sound.
A scenic approach through a small lagoon brings you to Parry Sound, which lies in a watery labyrinth with a distinctly Scandinavian feel. The marine walking trails are a great way to explore this town named after the polar explorer William E Parry and the nearby lake shore. Alternatively take an optional boat trip of the Thirty Thousand Islands which illustrate why the town is known as the gateway to the archipelago, as narrow channels lead past imposing limestone cliffs to hidden natural treasures. On an alternative optional excursion you can immerse yourself in a panoramic scene in Killbear Provincial Park, where the pink granite banks merge with the autumnal forest.
Day 6 Killarney.
Spend the day enjoying the island-studded scenery around Killarney. Here the unspoilt nature harks back to the time of the first trappers. The small coastal municipality is still an El Dorado for outdoor activities. Enjoy a zodiac cruise this afternoon.
Day 7 Sault Sainte Marie Canal.
Find a spot to relax on deck or enjoy the ship’s facilities as we sail pass through locks on the Sault Sainte Marie Canal on our route towards Lake Superior, the largest of the five Great Lakes measuring nearly 32,000 square miles in surface area.
Day 8 Silver Islet & Lake Superior.
The small town of Silver Islet in Lake Superior was once the epicentre of silver mining. In 1868, miners discovered high-quality silver ore and the island flourished, becoming one of the richest silver mines in the world. But the boom did not last. The era of mining on Silver Islet ended with the fall in silver prices and the depletion of ore deposits. Today, remnants of the mining facilities and the underwater mine are reminders of the glory days. In addition to its historical significance, the town also offers a picturesque landscape that invites you to hike through the forests and along Lake Superior.
Day 9 Battle Island.
Battle Island in Lake Superior is a natural island with historical significance. During the War of 1812, the island played a strategic role as a location for clashes between the USA and Great Britain. Today, it attracts nature lovers who want to explore its pristine forests, rugged coastline, clear waters and diverse wildlife. The lighthouse, built in the late 19th century, is the island's iconic landmark.
Day 10 Terrace Bay & Slate Islet.
Terrace Bay, located on the north shore of Lake Superior in Canada, is a small community known for its breathtaking scenery. Known for its dramatic rock formations and steep cliffs, the Slate Island Nature Reserve offers unique ecosystems, including forests, wetlands and coastal habitats. In addition to the diversity of plants, it is also home to several animals, such as the rare coastal wolf.
Day 11 Sault Sainte Marie.
To experience vibrant culture surrounded by magnificent nature, we continue to Sault Sainte Marie where you have free time to explore. The city is divided not only by a river, but also by the border between Canada on one side and the USA on the other. Maybe walk to the historic locks or visit the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, where you can see some of the restored aircraft and learn about the development of forest fire fighting techniques.
Day 12 Mackinac Island & Lake Huron, USA.
Spend the day on Mackinac Island, a natural jewel of the Great Lakes and one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Discover the small car-free idyll independently by bicycle or with a carriage ride. While Victorian villas and the Grand Hotel recall the 19th century, Fort Mackinac serves as a reminder of the American Revolutionary War. Enjoy time to explore at your own pace and maybe pick up some of the famous Mackinac Island fudge.
Day 13 Milwaukee.
A vibrant cultural scene has developed in Milwaukee, which was once a centre of brewing. The optional city tour with a visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum sheds light on the influence of the German immigrants of days gone by. One particular brand that was founded here has had an impact on the American way of life like no other – find out more at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Further south, you have the option to visit Chicago with its interesting mix of huge skyscrapers, diverse architecture and parks right on the shore of Lake Michigan.
Day 14 Milwaukee to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Chicago airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 15 London.
Arrive this morning.
Extend your time in Toronto: If you would like to spend some time in the Canadian city of Toronto before embarking the Hanseatic Inspiration, we hope to offer the opportunity to join a two night extension in the city. Our pre-cruise extension will include two nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, a city tour of Toronto and an excursion to Niagra Falls. If you would be interested in joining the extension, please register your interest at the time of booking and we will be in touch once the details are confirmed (subject to minimum numbers).
Dates and Prices
Prices per person based on double occupancy16 to 30 September 2024 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Price | |
1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £9895 | |
2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £10295 | |
3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | £10695 | |
4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £11195 | |
5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £10895 | |
6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £11495 | |
7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £11895 | |
8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | Not Available | |
9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | Not Available | |
10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | Not Available | |
2 Panoramic cabin for sole use | £12695 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHI160924
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 13 nights aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration on a full board basis • Mini-bar with soft drinks in your cabin restocked each day • Onboard team including lecturers • Gratuities • Transfers • Landing fees • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, shore excursions (further details of the optional excursions will be available to pre-book three months before departure and payment will be made on board), Canadian and US visa/visa waiver.
Please note that all bookings (including those made by Commodore Club members) are subject to a 20% deposit and that the balance payment will be due 150 days before the date of departure. Please also note that between 149 and 70 days before the date of departure, cancellation charges shall be 40% of the total holiday price payable.
Ship to Shore: Please note that we will be at anchor at the following ports and will use tender boats or Zodiacs to transfer ashore: Tobermory, Killarney, Mackinac Island and Fayette.
Extend your time in Toronto: If you would like to spend some time in the Canadian city of Toronto before embarking the Hanseatic Inspiration, we hope to offer the opportunity to join a two night extension in the city. Our pre-cruise extension will include two nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, a city tour of Toronto and an excursion to Niagra Falls. If you would be interested in joining the extension, please register your interest at the time of booking and we will be in touch once the details are confirmed (subject to minimum numbers).
-
Deckplan
Hanseatic Inspiration
Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a five-star expedition ship launched in October 2019. With a maximum of just 230 passengers (199 passengers in Antarctica), this unique vessel offers an informal and relaxed atmosphere on board with more open deck space than any other expedition ship. There is a qualified expedition team of naturalists who will accompany you ashore and provide informative talks in the comfort of the well-designed HanseAtrium, and a crew of 175 offering the most exquisite and attentive service on board.
Also of Interest
A Week on Lake Constance
Discover beautiful Lake Constance & the surrounding region staying at the Steigenberger Insel Hotel
Steigenberger Insel Hotel
Itinerary at a glance
- Zurich / Konstanz / Black Forest / Mainau / Friedrichshafen / Meersburg / Arenenberg / Zurich
Autumn in Maritime Canada & New England
A journey from Montreal to Boston discovering the St Lawrence River & Nova Scotia aboard the Exploris One
Exploris One
Itinerary at a glance
- Montreal / Quebec / Saguenay / Baie Comeau / Gaspé / Percé / Prince Edward Island / Strait of Canso / Halifax / Portland / Gloucester / Boston
A Week on Lake Annecy
Discover the charming alpine town of Annecy & the treasures of Haute-Savoie
Le Pelican Hotel
Itinerary at a glance
- Annecy / Chamonix / Lake leman / Yvoire / Aravis Massif / Lake Bourget / Annecy
Alaska's Inside Passage
An Expedition exploring the Alaskan Coast & Inside Passage aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration
Hanseatic Inspiration
Itinerary at a glance
- Vancouver / British Columbia’s Inside Passage / Wrangell / Petersburg / Kupreanof Island / Endicott Arm / Tracy Arm / Chichagof Island / Hubbard Glacier / Tsaa Fjord / Kodiak Island / Homer / Katmai National Park / Seward / Seattle
Wilderness & History on the Great Lakes
A voyage from Toronto to Milwaukee aboard the Hanseatic Inspiration
Hanseatic Inspiration
Itinerary at a glance
- Toronto / Lake Ontario / Lake Erie /Windsor / Detroit River / Lake Huron / Tobermory / Parry Sound / Killarney / Sault Sainte Marie Canal / Thunder Bay / Lake Superior / Mackinac Island / Fayette / Lake Michigan / Milwaukee
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000