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. 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 and the St Lawrence River. 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.
We will experience the unique cultural heritage of the region during our time in Quebec, Montreal and Toronto and amongst the many scenic highlights of our voyage will be the Saguenay Fjord National Park and the beautiful island of Iles de la Madeleine. There will be 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. A highlight for many will be sailing across Lake Huron with its myriad of islands and miles of greyish-pink granite shoreline capped with conifers plunging into the emerald waters of the lake. Here we 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. Our final days will be spent visiting the historic locks at Sault Sainte Marie and beautiful Mackinac Island which, founded during the American Revolution is full of old-world charm.
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. There will be a range of optional excursions on offer in each port of call as well as ample time to relax on board whilst cruising through some stunning scenery and hopefully spotting some of the astounding marine life of the region. 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 Halifax, Canada.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Hanseatic Inspiration and embark. Sail this evening.
Day 2 At Sea.
Enjoy a leisurely day at sea. Join one of the lectures or relax and enjoy the facilities on board.
Days 3 & 4 Prince Edward Island & Iles de la Madeleine.
In Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, we will explore the birthplace of Canada. The history of the confederation is overruled by the beauty of nature during a scenic drive, or on a visit to learn about oyster fis hing. We then visit the Iles de la Madeleine where spectacular red sandstone cliffs jut out of the sea on the northern coasts of the 12 main islands. Sand dunes creating lagoons, adjacent wetlands, and miles of windswept beaches link most islands. During an optional afternoon tour explore the island with its breathtaking views of the Cap Alright Lighthouse or take a culinary tour to discover the region’s culinary delights including cheese, fish and the art of brewing.
Day 5 Gaspe.
The small town of Gaspe is defined by the surrounding picturesque bays and cliffs. Enjoy a scenic drive across the peninsula. Alternatively, you can explore the forests with a hike in Forillon National Park. For any bird enthusiasts, this area will be of particular interest as the rugged coast is a haven for northern gannets and auks which nest here.
Day 6 Tadoussac.
Our expedition continues to Tadoussac, one of the country’s oldest villages. The onboard experts will explain the great history from the early Woodland period to the First Nations and today’s economic importance. With some luck you may spot beluga, blue, humpback or fin whales while whale watching.
Day 7 Saguenay.
One of the largest tributaries of the St Lawrence River, Saguenay is particularly picturesque at this time of year. Experience the wilderness on a hike or by seaplane. When cruising in the Saguenay Fjord you may be lucky to spot belugas, which can be found here year-round, hunting for fish and plankton.
Day 8 Quebec.
Spend a full day in Quebec and explore the old town with its many steps and experience the blend of French and Canadian culture. There will be a choice of optional excursions today. Enjoy a city walk with tea at the historic Chateau Frontenac or join a trip to Montmorency Falls and Ile d’Orleans - at around 80 metres high, this is one of North America’s most important pilgrimage sites, with truly outstanding sights to behold.
Day 9 Montreal.
Today we arrive in Montreal, the world’s second largest French-speaking city where a choice of optional excursions will be available. Take a city tour which combines picturesque townhouses and wide boulevards with a walk in the underground city. Alternatively, visit the wineries in the Eastern Townships enjoy a tasting.
Day 10 Cruise on the St Lawrence River.
Enjoy a full day of sailing on the river, with the opportunity to join one of the lectures on board, spend some time wildlife spotting from the deck or relax and enjoy the facilities on board. The Hanseatic Inspiration negotiates seven locks with a height difference of up to 15 metres. This will take place during the day to allow you to watch the thrilling manoeuvres from the spacious decks.
Day 11 Toronto & Lake Ontario.
In Toronto, a city tour by tram shows how skyscrapers, parks and trendy neighbourhoods harmonise. As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is Canada’s economic centre and one of the world’s leading financial centres, after Montreal had played this role for decades. The city is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the five Great Lakes.
Day 12 Welland Canal & Lake Erie.
The next stage of your journey is the lock adventure in the Welland Canal. Follow the challenging passage on the circulation at the bow or the many open deck areas. Through eight locks, our small ship overcomes almost 100 metres in height, which corresponds to a lock lift the height of Niagara Falls. Later we cruise across Lake Erie whose history dates back to the end of the ice age some 13,000 years ago.
Day 13 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 14 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 15 Killarney.
The small coastal town of Killarney bears its Irish roots in its name. Here the unspoilt nature harks back to the time of the first trappers. George Island is a ‘green island’ that can be reached by ferry and shows its colourful side in autumn. Discover Killarney at your own pace and enjoy a Zodiac cruise with beautiful scenery and a good chance of spotting wildlife. With a bit of luck, cormorants, Canada geese and bald eagles can be spotted.
Day 16 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 illustrates 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 17 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 18 Mackinac Island, 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 19 Milwaukee to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Chicago airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Day 20 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: Prince Edward Island, Isles de la Madeleine, Gaspe, Tadoussac, Tobermory, Killarney and Mackinac Island.
Dates and Prices
19 September to 8 October 2026 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
1 Outside cabin Deck 4, 5 & 6 | £14295 | £13795 |
2 Panoramic cabin Deck 4 & 5 | £14795 | £14295 |
3 French balcony cabin Deck 6 | Not Available | Not Available |
4 Balcony cabin Deck 5 | £16495 | £15995 |
5 French balcony cabin Deck 7 | £15795 | £15295 |
6 Balcony cabin Deck 6 & 7 | £16795 | £16295 |
7 Balcony cabin Deck 6 | £17495 | £16995 |
8 Balcony cabin Deck 7 | £17995 | £17495 |
9 Junior suite with balcony 6 & 7 | Not Available | Not Available |
10 Grand suite with veranda Deck 6 & 7 | Not Available | Not Available |
4 (Sole) Balcony cabin for Sole Use Deck 5 | £22995 | £22495 |
Tour Reference Code: SCHI190926
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 18 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: Prince Edward Island, Isles de la Madeleine, Gaspe, Tadoussac, Tobermory, Killarney and Mackinac Island.
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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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Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000