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.
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 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. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration for embarkation. Sail late this evening.
Day 2 Lake Ontario & Lake Erie.
Enjoy a day of cruising 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 morning 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. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon cruising as we continue our journey across the expansive Lake Huron.
Day 7 Sault Sainte Marie Canal.
Your adventure continues with an exciting lock passage through the Sault Sainte Marie Canal. As the largest lock system in the world, the Soo Locks are a masterpiece of engineering. Built around 150 years ago, huge container ships can master the change in height of around six metres between Lake Huron and Lake Superior.
Day 8 Thunder Bay, Lake Superior.
Find a spot to relax on deck or enjoy the ship’s facilities as we sail across Lake Superior, the largest of the five Great Lakes measuring nearly 32,000 square miles in surface area. We stop at the spectacular coastal landscapes of Canada’s Thunder Bay where on an optional tour to Fort William and the Kakabeka Falls you can marvel at the “Niagara Falls of the North” where the water plunges for 40 metres. Alternatively, join an optional hiking tour to the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park where you will climb a flat topped mountain with dramatic granite cliffs.
Day 9 Lake Superior.
Cruising along the northern shore of Lake Superior, you can relax and enjoy the panoramic view or learn interesting details about the First Nations from the team of experts on board before the Hanseatic Inspiration passes the locks again at Sault Sainte Marie.
Day 10 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 11 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 12 Fayette & Lake Michigan.
Over breakfast we arrive in Fayette on the banks of Lake Michigan. During the industrialisation of the 19th century, the township of Fayette had one of the region’s most productive iron smelters. A landing in Fayette Historic State Park will turn back the hands of time, the historic townsite, once a bustling iron smelting industrial community features more than 20 historic buildings. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon sailing on Lake Michigan.
Day 13 Milwaukee to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Chicago airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 14 London.
Arrive this morning.
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.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 26 September to 9 October 2025 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £9895 | £9395 |
| 2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £10295 | £9795 |
| 3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | £10695 | £10195 |
| 4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £11195 | £10695 |
| 5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £10895 | £10395 |
| 6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £11395 | £10895 |
| 7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £11795 | £11295 |
| 8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | £12195 | £11695 |
| 9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | Not Available | Not Available |
| 10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | Not Available | Not Available |
| 2 Panoramic cabin for sole use | £12695 | £12195 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHI260925
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 12 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.
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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.
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Ship Directory
Ship DirectoryPlease find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the Hanseatic Inspiration for your upcoming voyage. Operated by our German associates, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the Hanseatic Inspiration is a newly built, five-star expedition ship that was launched in October 2019. There are a total of 120 cabins and the public areas for your enjoyment and relaxation include a lounge area where recaps and lectures take place, an expansive Sun Deck with pool area and the Ocean Spa. There are also three exceptional restaurants on board to cater for all your dining requirements. We hope this information answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Built: October 2019
Gross tonnage: 15,650
Length: 138 metres
Beam: 22 metres
Draught: 5.7 metres
Speed: 16 knots
Ice class: PC 6
Passenger capacity: 230 (199 for cruises to the Antarctic & Spitsbergen)
Crew: 175
Language: German/EnglishAIR-CONDITIONING
The cabins, suites and public areas are equipped with air-conditioning.
BEDS
All cabins and suites have a double bed that can also be separated to make two single beds. If you would prefer a configuration of two single beds please request this at the time of booking. All Grand Suites and Junior Suites also have a sofa bed.
BOUTIQUE
In the onboard boutique on Deck 4 you will find a selection of men’s and women’s clothing, jewellery, gifts and everyday items.
BRIDGE
Due to its crucial importance as the control centre for nautical and technical processes, the bridge is a highly sensitive area. This is why international safety regulations prohibit it being open to the general public. However, guests have the opportunity to visit the bridge, unless prevented by nautical interests or the local regulations of the coastal regions we are passing, by prior arrangement with the officer on duty. The bridge officers will be happy to give you information about the itinerary, the ship’s course and position as well as other nautical aspects.
BUTLER
In the Junior Suites and Grand Suites, there is a butler at your service. Among other things, the butler is responsible for packing and unpacking your clothes. This personal service is available around the clock.
CABINS & SUITES
There are 120 outside cabins/suites with categories as below;
Outside Cabin, Panoramic Cabin, French Balcony Cabin & Balcony Cabin
These four cabin types are identically equipped and furnished, with the exception of the window and balcony areas, and all feature the following;
• Heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Rain shower
• Free mini bar (soft drinks)
• Coffee machine
• Separable beds
• Extras in the cabin and service privileges (see chart)
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart) Junior Suite
• Separate living and sleeping areas
• Separate dining area
• Sleeping area with panoramic view
• Separable beds
• TV in living and sleeping areas
• Bathroom with two sinks and rain shower
• Separate toilet
• Steam sauna in shower area
• Heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Free mini bar with a selection of spirits
• Coffee machine
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart) Grand Suite
• Separate living and sleeping areas
• Separate dining area
• Sleeping area with panoramic view
• Separable beds
• TV in living and sleeping areas
• Veranda with space heaters
• Daylight bathroom with two sinks, free-standing bath, rain shower and veranda access
• Steam sauna in shower area
• Heated wall in bathroom (e. g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Separate toilet
• Free mini bar with a selection of spirits
• Coffee machine
• Extras in the suite and service privileges (see chart)
Please note: If you would prefer separate bedrooms, there are a total of six Balcony Cabins/Suites on Decks 6 and 7 (cabin numbers 609/611, 608/610, 646/648, 647/649, 734/736 and 735/737) with a connecting door to the neighbouring cabin/suite.
On embarkation you will be welcomed with a small bottle of champagne and a selection of fruits that will be replenished each day. Each cabin has a mini bar that will be restocked with soft drinks every day free of charge. A wide range of breakfast options and a selection of meals are available through the cabin service (24 hour service).
DINING
There is a choice of three spacious open-seating restaurants including the Hanseatic Restaurant with its relaxed atmosphere, the buffet style Lido Restaurant offering both indoor and outdoor seating, and the Speciality Restaurant, the Nikkei, where you will be taken on a culinary voyage of discovery with Japanese and Peruvian creations. The maître D’ will be happy to accept table reservations for the Speciality Restaurant (open only in the evening) at the beginning of your cruise. Guests in the Grand Suites and Junior Suites may make table requests for the Hanseatic Restaurant.
Cuisine The cuisine on board is international and includes: early-bird breakfast, breakfast, bouillon, lunch and dinner (there are three restaurants to choose from in the evening with flexible opening hours), afternoon coffee/tea time, midnight snack.
Allergies We would be happy to take into consideration any special requests regarding dietary requirements and/or food allergies. Please inform Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests upon embarkation.
DRESS CODE
During the day the atmosphere on board is casual and in the evenings casual, elegant attire is recommended.
E-MAILS
You can send and receive e-mails using your on board e-mail address, details of which will be provided to you upon embarkation. E-mails of up to 1MB of data are free of charge to send.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation.
EXPEDITION EQUIPMENT
If the cruising area and any time spent ashore call for it, you can borrow a pair of rubber boots on board. On expeditions in extreme regions such as the Arctic and Antarctic, a warm parka (sizes XS – XXXL) is at your disposal for the duration of the cruise. Snorkelling equipment, standup paddle boards, fishing rods and snowshoes (Antarctic only) are also offered in the relevant regions; each cabin/suite has a set of Nordic poles and Swarovski Optik binoculars. There is a Mud-Room and changing room with lockers available for when returning from shore activities and Zodiac excursions.
EXPERTS/PRESENTATIONS
Expeditions are accompanied by experts who will be happy to answer your questions about the cruising area. They will share their in-depth knowledge of the destination in fascinating talks, images and presentations, discussions and personal conversations. The experts will also accompany you on Zodiac landings and included walks and hikes. Talks will be held live in the HanseAtrium. The live broadcast and recordings can be viewed in every cabin/suite.
FILM PROGRAMME
You may use the guest portal to watch a range of documentaries and feature films on your television, which you can directly access.
INTERNET/WI-FI
Internet usage is complimentary for one hour per guest per day (subject to connectivity) after which there is a surcharge. The entire ship is equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots that you can use to access the Internet from your laptop, tablet or mobile device. Tablets can also be borrowed from reception free of charge (subject to availability). The charges for Wi-Fi and Internet use will be deducted from your onboard account. Due to a potentially unstable satellite connection that depends on the weather and ship’s position, especially in northern and southern cruising areas, this service cannot be guaranteed at all times. In extreme regions, such as the Arctic and Antarctic, the TV, radio, Internet, email and phone services may not be available on a daily basis due to satellite positioning.
LAUNDRY & IRONING SERVICE
The Hanseatic Inspiration offers a laundry, dry cleaning and ironing service.
LIFT
The various decks are connected by two lifts. Deck 9 is only accessible on foot.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
All monetary transactions on board the ship are processed by Reception. The onboard currency is the Euro. To ensure cashless transactions, an account will be set up for you which you will settle at Reception at the end of your cruise. The following means of payment are accepted: MasterCard, American Express, Visa and German EC/Maestro cards. Please note that, in general, foreign currencies cannot be changed on board.
MEDICAL SERVICES
The Hanseatic inspiration has a modern, well equipped ship’s hospital (Deck 3) under the supervision of an experienced ship’s doctor. Guests who are being treated for any medical condition should contact the ship’s doctor directly after embarkation. It is important to bring any medications required on board with you in sufficient quantities in your hand luggage. In the case of an accident caused by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises or its staff members either on board or during a shore activity organised by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, treatment is provided free of charge. Treatment for seasickness is subject to a charge if you make use of the medical services. Thrombosis prevention medication is offered on board if required (subject to a charge). A fee is charged for all other medical treatment in accordance with the valid German medical fee schedule (GOÄ). The costs for any treatment or medication will be charged to your onboard account. At the end of the cruise, you will receive a separate invoice to submit to your health insurance provider.
MINI BAR
Soft drinks are available free of charge from the mini bar in your cabin/ suite and are restocked daily. In the Grand Suites and Junior Suites, you can also enjoy a selection of fine spirits free of charge.
NEWSPAPERS
Depending on satellite reception, you will receive the latest daily newspapers containing the most important information from around the world.
PHOTOGRAPHER
There is a professional photographer on board. It is possible to have digital images burned onto CDs and/or printed (at a surcharge).
POST
The Reception staff will post your postcards and letters from most ports where this facility is available. Your onboard account will be debited with the appropriate charges.
PUBLIC AREAS
Fitness Room
There is a large fitness room with ocean views which is open 24 hours a day and includes workout machines and free weights. In a separate area, a range of classes is offered including yoga, pilates and spinning. Timings will be detailed in the Daily Programme. All classes are complimentary - personal trainers are available at extra cost.
HanseAtrium
The HanseAtrium is the main lounge area on Deck 4 and the venue for the presentations from experts and recaps about the day’s events and sightings. There are floor to ceiling LED screens which project stunning images around the room creating a relaxing atmosphere and there is a Bar with a selection of drinks on offer. Next door is the quieter ‘Invisible Lounge’ which is the ideal place to hide yourself away with a good book.
Inspiration Walk
The Inspiration Walk allows access to the bow of the ship for front row wildlife sightings and incredible views.
Library
The Library is located in the Observation Lounge on Deck 8 and is stocked with the latest fiction books and travel literature.
Ocean Academy
The Ocean Academy provides a wonderful space for learning with interactive computers, four Study Seats for user-friendly digital learning, a Study Wall for enhanced learning as well as microscopes for studying samples from explorations ashore.
Observation Lounge
The Observation Lounge offers 180 degree panoramic views which can be enjoyed whilst relaxing over afternoon tea, accompanied by music from the grand piano, or with a pre-dinner cocktail from the bar. There is a large selection of books in the library area and close by is the Pool Bar.
Pool Area & Sun Deck
There is a spacious pool area on Deck 8 including a heated swimming pool, a whirlpool and bar. There are plenty of deckchairs and sun loungers for your use and towels and blankets are provided. A flexible canopy means that the entire pool area can be used whatever the weather. The Sun Deck also features two extendible glass-floored balconies which provide the unique feeling of floating over the ocean.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa offers a complete wellness programme from soothing massages to cosmetic treatments and a hairdresser. The spa operates a ‘green’ spa concept with use of carefully selected natural products and vegan brands. Reservations can be made once on board and treatments are at cost. Use of the sauna and steam bath are complimentary.
SAFE
Each cabin/suite has a private safe for storing your valuables.
SMOKING
Smoking is not permitted in any of the cabins or suites or in any public areas. Guests may smoke cigarettes, cigarillos, pipes and cigars in the Smoker’s Lounge (Deck 4) and on the private balcony/veranda of your cabin/suite. There is also a designated outdoor smoking area on the port side of the ship near the pool. The smoking of pipes and cigars is only permitted in the Smoker’s Lounge.
STABILISERS
The ship is equipped with a stabiliser system that can be extended in a side swell to weaken the rolling movements of the ship in rough seas.
TELECOMMUNCATIONS/MOBILE PHONES
The ship is equipped with a satellite communications system. Depending on the satellite reception, this allows you to make direct telephone calls to any destination worldwide directly from your cabin/suite. Please be aware that a charge is incurred immediately upon dialling a telephone/ fax number. The ship is equipped with a GSM mobile network. This system also enables you to use your mobile phone or smartphone at sea in areas where your mobile provider cannot generally guarantee connectivity (service subject to a charge; prices vary depending on the mobile phone provider).
TELEVISION/RADIO PROGRAMME
You will receive the channels available in the region where the ship is currently located via satellite.
TENDER & ZODIAC SERVICE
In all ports in which the Hanseatic Inspiration is not docked at the pier, but is at anchor, you will go ashore on the ship’s own tender boats or the motorised rubber boats (Zodiacs).
VOLTAGE
In your cabin/suite, you will find outlets for 220 V (50 Hz) alternating current as well as outlets for 110V (60 Hz). In general, we would recommend that you bring a travel adaptor for different outlets with you. For safety reasons, the use of electric kettles, hair straighteners and irons in the cabins is not permitted.
PLEASE NOTE: The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
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- Halifax / Prince Edward Island / Iles de la Madeleine / Gaspe / Tadoussac / Saguenay / Quebec / St Lawrence / Toronto / Lake Ontario / Welland Canal / Lake Erie / Windsor / Detroit River / Lake Huron / Tobermory / Killarney / Parry Sound / Sault Sainte Marie / Mackinac Island / Milwaukee
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000