Great Lakes cruises sail the five freshwater lakes that sit on the border of the United States and Canada. Voyages pass through locks, along wooded shorelines and between small harbor towns and big cities. They suit travelers who prefer small ships, relaxed pacing and history and nature close to home.
When to go
The season is short, from late spring to early fall, and departures are limited. Popular dates sell out early.
| When | What to expect | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| May–June | Cool to mild weather and green landscapes. Water is still cold. Fewer visitors in towns. | Quieter ports, spring scenery |
| July–August | Warmest weather and the busiest season in lake towns. Long evenings on deck. | Families, island visits, outdoor activities |
| September–October | Crisp air and fall color, especially around Lake Superior and Georgian Bay. Cooler nights. | Fall foliage, photography |
Routes compared
Lake Superior
The largest and wildest lake. Itineraries may visit Duluth, Thunder Bay and the Apostle Islands. Expect rocky shores, forests and long stretches without towns. The water stays cold even in summer, and fog can roll in quickly, so bring a warm layer for time on deck.
Lakes Michigan and Huron
These routes often include Mackinac Island, where cars are banned and horses and bikes rule, plus Georgian Bay and its many islands. Ships move between the lakes through the Straits of Mackinac. Voyages from Lake Michigan to Lake Superior pass through the Soo Locks at Sault Ste. Marie.
Lakes Erie and Ontario
Eastern routes call at ports such as Cleveland, Detroit and Toronto and pass through the Welland Canal, which lifts ships around Niagara Falls. Many lines offer a land excursion to see the falls.
Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence
Some voyages link the lakes with the St. Lawrence River, sailing through the Thousand Islands to Montréal or Québec City. This adds French-Canadian culture to the trip.
Where cruises leave from
Common start and end points include Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, Toronto, Thunder Bay and Duluth. Voyages that use the St. Lawrence often start in Montréal or Québec City. Many Great Lakes sailings are one way, so you will usually fly into one city and home from another. Browse all departure ports.
Which cruise line?
Large cruise ships do not sail the Great Lakes. The locks, harbors and canals limit the size of ships that can use them, so trips are on small ships of a few hundred guests or fewer.
- Viking sails its expedition ships on the Great Lakes, with lectures, small boats for exploring and onboard science programs.
- Several small-ship and expedition operators offer Great Lakes voyages, from casual coastal ships to luxury expedition vessels. Our advisors can compare them for you.
Small ships have fewer dining venues and little nightlife. In return, you get easy boarding, quiet decks and ports that larger ships cannot reach. Many Great Lakes voyages include guided excursions, and expedition-style ships may offer kayaks or small boats for exploring the shoreline. Ask what is included, because the style varies widely between operators.
Packing and travel documents
- Layers, a fleece and a waterproof jacket. Weather on the lakes changes quickly.
- Comfortable walking shoes for towns, trails and island visits.
- Binoculars for birds, lighthouses and passing freighters.
- Casual clothing. Dress codes on small ships are usually relaxed.
Most Great Lakes cruises visit both the US and Canada. A valid passport is strongly recommended and is often required by the cruise line. Check current entry requirements for Canada and the US, and see our US passport information if yours needs renewal.
See current Great Lakes cruises, or request a quote and an advisor will check availability on these limited departures.
