American Queen Cruises | Roundtrip Chicago (Milwaukee)
16 Day Cruise | 2023 & 2024
Urban allure launches this remarkable voyage, fusing with mystic Michigan hideaways. Join us on this true Lake Superior showcase to discover its hidden treasures. The down-home charm remains authentic and precious in bewitching stops such as Duluth, Thunder Bay and Marquette. Set sail with American Queen Voyages (formerly Victory Cruise Lines) on this special journey for dreamers and discoverers alike.
Itinerary
Navigated Waterways Include:
Lake Michigan, Straits of Mackinac, Lake Huron, Georgian Bay, Soo Locks, and Lake Superior. |
Day 1 - Hotel Stay in Chicago, IL
Day 2 - Embark in Chicago, IL Day 3 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Michigan Day 4 - Mackinac Island, MI Day 5 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Superior Day 6 - Marquette, MI Day 7 - Houghton, MI Day 8 - Duluth, MN Day 9 - Thunder Bay, ON Day 10 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Superior Day 11 - Sault Ste. Marie, MI Day 12 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Michigan Day 13 - Green Bay, WI Day 14 - Green Bay, WI Day 15 - Muskegon, MI Day 16 - Disembark in Chicago, IL |
Sailing Dates | Rountrip Chicago (Milwaukee)
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Roundtrip Chicago (Milwaukee) | 16 Day CruiseDeparting From: Chicago, IL to Chicago, IL
Ports of Call: Chicago, IL • Milwaukee, WI · Mackinac Island, MI • Marquette, MI · Houghton, MI · Duluth, MN · Thunder Bay, ON · Sault Ste. Marie, MI · Green Bay, WI · Muskegon, MI · Chicago, IL *PRE OR POST CRUISE EXPERIENCES AVAILABLE itinerary
Day 1 | Hotel stay in Chicago, IL
Day 2 | Embark in Chicago, IL · Milwaukee, WI Day 3 | Sailing Lake Michigan Day 4 | Mackinac Island, MI Day 5 | Mackinac Island, MI Day 6 | Marquette, MI Day 7 | Houghton, MI Day 8 | Duluth, MN Day 9 | Thunder Bay, ON Day 10 | Sailing Lake Superior Day 11 | Sault Ste. Marie, MI · Soo Locks Day 12 | Sailing Lake Huron · Lake Michigan Day 13 | Green Bay, WI · Sturgeon Bay Day 14 | Green Bay, WI Day 15 | Muskegon, MI Day 16 | Chicago, IL / Milwaukee, WI 2023 Sailing Dates
Jun 2 - Jun 17 | Ocean Navigator
Jun 16 - Jul 1 | Ocean Navigator 2024 Sailing Dates
Jul 26 - Aug 10 | Ocean Voyager
Aug 9 - Aug 24 | Ocean Voyager |
Starting at
USD $6,299.00 - $15,999.00 Per Person, based on double occupancy * |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Hotel Stay in Chicago, Illinois (Included in the Cruise Fare)
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Arrive the day prior to your cruise and enjoy a complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening allows time to become acquainted with the city. For your convenience, our Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel, and our friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about the upcoming voyage to reservation of premium experiences. Representatives will be available to provide suggestions for dining, entertainment and sightseeing options to maximize your time here.
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Day 2 - Embarkation in Chicago, Illinois
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Situated at the mouth of the Chicago River, on the southern coast of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a city of art, music, and industry. After breakfast, disembark and choose your adventure in Chi town. Visit the Michigan Mile or get to know the city's rich architectural history with a river boat tour. With shopping, museums, dining, music and theater, there's something for every taste in this iconic American city.
pre-cruise experience | chicago HIGHLIGHTS TOUR
$79
Join us on a narrated driving tour of the "Windy City." Sit back as we make our way through Chicago and visit some of its most iconic attractions. Discover the quintessential Chicago experience at Millennium Park. Receive an overview at the welcome center, then explore the park's pavilion, famous Crown Fountain and the iconic Cloud Gate, dubbed by many as "The Bean." Take advantage of a photo opportunity at the acclaimed Adler Planetarium. And no visit to Chicago would be complete without a stop for lunch at Navy Pier. Here, you will be sure to taste the signature flavors of the city at any of the many featured restaurants. Our adventure will conclude at the vessel with plenty of time for embarkation! Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 3 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Michigan
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Lake Michigan is the third largest of the Great Lakes, and the only lake that does not share a border with Canada. Its shoreline has one of the largest collections of freshwater sand dunes in the world. Though culturally they are treated as separate lakes, Lake Michigan and Lake Huron actually form one continuous body of water, connected by the wide Straights of Mackinac.
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Day 4 - Mackinac Island, Michigan
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Cars are forbidden on Mackinac Island, Michigan, to preserve the quaint Victorian ambiance. Traveling from the port by foot, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage, make your way to the island's famous Grand Hotel. On a clear day, don't forget to ascend to the cupola to take in the extraordinary view. History lovers will enjoy a tour of Fort Mackinac--the site of battles in both the American Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.
premium | GREAT LAKE GUARDIANS: LIGHTHOUSE CRUISE ON THE STRAITS OF MACKINAC
$79
Climb aboard Mackinac’s most friendly ferry as we embark on an adventure on the waters of the Straits of Mackinac. As we glide across the deep blue waters, we will discover the history of the area through thoughtful commentary from our expert guide and witness the marvelous structures that safeguard the lakes and the ships that travel them. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 5 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Superior
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Rocky walls rise up toward firmament, embracing those who venture onto this stunning span of water. Perhaps morning will dawn upon wispy mists of coastal fog to greet early risers. See where the day takes you – a brisk walk on the Sun Deck, a cozy pint in The Tavern or just watching the scenery slip past… let your mood shift with the breeze, indulging every whim.
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Day 6 - Marquette, Michigan
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Located on Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the city of Marquette was founded during the mining boom in the 19th century. The iron ore deposits on the peninsula quickly brought wealth to the area, and by the early 20th century, Marquette had already become a popular summer haven. Today, the city is surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Superior's cliffs, beaches and forests. On your visit, explore the history of the region with a visit to the Iron Ore Industry Museum, and witness the beauty of the shoreline at the Maritime Museum and Lighthouse.
premium | iron & industry: the stories of marquette
$99
In the mid-19th Century, Marquette evolved into a bustling port and mining town for its vast reserves of iron ore were discovered beneath the surface of the earth. On today’s journey through the Iron Range, get a taste of the life of an iron miner at the dawn of the industrial age. At the Michigan Iron Industry Museum, interactive exhibits lead you through the history of Michigan’s notorious mines through informative displays and intriguing artifacts. Imagine what it must have been like to head into the dark mines every day as your journey continues to the Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum. Here, tour the tunnels used by 19th-century miners and admire the local artifacts from the mines — some of them quite large! Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 7 - Houghton, Michigan
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Nestled in the middle of upper Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula, our journey to Houghton takes us through the scenic Keweenaw Waterway. In addition to its natural beauty, this area has long provided rich natural resources, as one of the few areas in the world where native copper is mined. The charming city on the Keweenaw Peninsula entices wayfarers with its festivals, Finnish-tinged regional foods and a bounty of outdoor enjoyment. Many hockey-lovers make it a goal to visit Houghton – birthplace of the sport – beginning with the 1903 Portage Lakers. Come experience pure Michigan. No shore excursions are offered on this day.
premium | MICHIGAN COPPER MINING
$99
For centuries, the Keweenaw Peninsula was a bountiful copper mining community. At the Keweenaw National Historic Park Visitor Center, explore the story of the copper fever that swept the area and its impact on the community. Long before settlers arrived, Native Americans would use the copper to make tools for survival. But in the 19th century, a local geologist by the name of Douglass Houghton reported on the region’s plentiful mineral, driving a mining rush that would forever shape the community and the world. In fact, the American Industrial revolution can trace its roots to copper mined from Michigan’s upper peninsula. At the Coppertown Mining Museum, step back into the era of mineral mania through a series of historical exhibits. Then, get a firsthand look at a historic copper mine on a guided tour of the Quincy Mine, which has been meticulously preserved for educational purposes. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 8 - Duluth, Minnesota
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Marked by its distinctive Aerial Lift Bridge, the rotating JJ Astor Restaurant and America’s premier freshwater aquarium, Duluth captures the spirit of the Great Lakes. Marine traffic from the Atlantic on the Great Lakes Waterway and St. Lawrence Seaway pass by the harbor, making for fantastic ship-watching. Fuel your adventures with the area’s signature Juicy Lucy burgers and herring and trout so fresh they seem to have jumped straight from water to kitchen, washed down with a refreshing local brew. No shore excursions are offered on this day.
premium | LOCOMOTIVES OF LAKE SUPERIOR
$99
All aboard! Join us for a ride on the Duluth Zephyr, a historic locamotive with a fantastic view. Get a glimpse of downtown Duluth and the scenic northern shoreline of Lake Superior. Sit back and relax as you zip through town on the Zephyr. The railroad was an integral part of America’s economic growth in the 19th century. At the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, explore the history of the locomotive through fully restored trains, cabins and expansive exhibits dedicated to the preservation of the history of America’s railroads. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 9 - Thunder Bay, Ontario
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Today we dock at Thunder Bay, Ontario, where the sleeping giant formation protects the shore and the rugged cliffs jut up from the blue waters. Thunder Bay is the westernmost port on the grand Great Lakes-Saint Lawrence Seaway, a distant 1900 miles from its beginning on the Atlantic Ocean. During your stay, don't miss Fort William Historical Park and the nearby Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park.
premium | VOYAGEUR VENTURE
$79
Imagine traveling through the wild waters of the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes, crossing the North American continent from East to West in little more than a canoe. That’s exactly what the famous Voyageurs from the Hudson Bay Trading Company achieved. Follow the story of these intrepid explorers through Thunder Bay. Hear the ferocious roar of Kakabeka falls as you approach the towering cliff. Today, the scenic park offers a stunning view, but for the Voyageurs traversing the waters, it was certainly a force to be reckoned with. At Fort William, see firsthand just how the fur traders lived hundreds of years ago. Explore the historic buildings of the fort as reenactors depict life as it was at Fort William in the 1800s. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 10 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Superior
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Rocky walls rise up toward firmament, embracing those who venture onto this stunning span of water. Perhaps morning will dawn upon wispy mists of coastal fog to greet early risers. See where the day takes you – a brisk walk on the Sun Deck, a cozy pint in The Tavern or just watching the scenery slip past… let your mood shift with the breeze, indulging every whim.
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Day 11 - Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan
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The "Soo" locks allow ships to bypass the rapids of St. Mary's River as they make their way between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. The locks accommodate nearly 10,000 ships each year. In Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre tells the story of Ontario’s rich bushplane and firefighting history. The Ermatinger Old Stone House and Clergue Blockhouse include the oldest stone buildings west of Toronto.
included | sault ste. marie tour
Sault Ste. Marie is easily one of the most mesmerizing cities in Michigan. Here, you'll spot massive ships passing through the Soo Locks, while just outside waits near limitless natural beauty. Today you’ll see the Valley Camp Museum, River of History Museum, Das Gift Haus, Historic Water St. Homes, The Soo Locks and the Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church.
premium | CANADIAN HERITAGE AND HISTORIC SITES
$99
Enjoy an adventurous day filled with history as we dock near the United States-Canada border. Discover a unique bush plane collection at the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre. This museum collects, preserves, exhibits, and interprets a collection of bush planes and other related items. While here, experience an action-packed 3-D movie about fighting forest fires, climb an actual fire tower, and take a seat in a flight simulator. To complete the day, we will visit the Ermatinger National Historic Site to discover the rich history behind two of the city’s oldest stone buildings. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 12 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Michigan
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As we traverse across the aqua, turquoise and cerulean shades of Lake Michigan, watch dunes of sand slowly become lost in the horizon while sunlight plays upon the deck. Lake Michigan is the third largest of the Great Lakes, and the only lake that does not share a border with Canada. Its shoreline has one of the largest collections of freshwater sand dunes in the world. Though culturally they are treated as separate lakes, Lake Michigan and Lake Huron actually form one continuous body of water, connected by the wide Straights of Mackinac.
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Day 13 - Green Bay, Wisconsin
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Anthems of green and gold ring proud, but the song of the city harmonizes the whole spectrum. Experience the many colors of the city, from red-flowing wineries to shades of local cultivators in markets filled with man- and nature-made goods year-round. This pelican’s playground is home to craft breweries, boutiques, fresh seafood, and, of course, the NFL's Green Bay Packers.
premium | THE GREEN BAY PACKERS EXPERIENCE
$129
Explore the history of one of the most iconic franchises the National Football League has seen, the Green Bay Packers. Get an in-depth look into Lambeau Field as we enjoy a guided tour with a Green Bay Packers alum. Uncover the history of the sport and the legends from this notable team at the Hall of Fame and trace historic locations that are significant to the team along the Green Bay Packers Heritage Trail. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 14 - Green Bay, Wisconsin
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Anthems of green and gold ring proud, but the song of the city harmonizes the whole spectrum. Experience the many colors of the city, from red-flowing wineries to shades of local cultivators in markets filled with man- and nature-made goods year-round. This pelican’s playground is home to craft breweries, boutiques and, of course, fresh sea fare.
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Day 15 - Muskegon, Michigan
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Muskegon is one of the most picturesque towns on Michigan's west coast, from the historic ships at port to its colorful lighthouses dotting the famous dunes. This outdoor lovers’ haven on Lake Michigan’s eastern shore offers multiple state parks and trails, two paddle sport rivers, 26 miles of beaches and a winter sports park. Maritime history lovers gravitate here to tour the USS LST (Landing Ship, Tank) 393 Veterans Museum.
premium | THE LIFE OF PRESIDENT GERALD FORD
$79
Take a trip just outside of Muskegon to Grand Rapids, Michigan. As we make our way to and from the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum, experience the trend-setting city of Grand Rapids as our local guide provides thoughtful narration. President Gerald Ford had long honored Grand Rapids as his hometown, and even returned there to practice law after graduating from Yale University. Naturally, the city continues to pay tribute to President Ford via the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum. Here, we will learn about the life and presidency of the 38th President of the United States. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. |
Day 16 - Disembark in Chicago
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As the journey concludes, there are additional opportunities for you to take in the town. Consider a post-cruise premium experience with airport transfer, or enhance your vacation with a Chicago Highlights Tour.
POST-CRUISE EXPERIENCE | CHICAGO HIGHLIGHTS TOUR WITH TRANSFER TO O'HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
$79
Join us on a narrated driving tour of the “Windy City.” Sit back as we make our way through Chicago and visit some of its most iconic attractions. Discover the quintessential Chicago experience at Millennium Park. Receive an overview at the welcome center, then explore the park’s pavilion, famous Crown Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate, dubbed by many as “The Bean.” Then take advantage of a photo opportunity at the acclaimed Adler Planetarium before we conclude our journey. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. POST-CRUISE EXPERIENCE | CHICAGO HIGHLIGHTS TOUR WITH TRANSFER TO vcl preferred hotel
$79
Join us on a narrated driving tour of the “Windy City.” Sit back as we make our way through Chicago and visit some of its most iconic attractions. Discover the quintessential Chicago experience at Millennium Park. Receive an overview at the welcome center, then explore the park’s pavilion, famous Crown Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate, dubbed by many as “The Bean.” Then take advantage of a photo opportunity at the acclaimed Adler Planetarium before we conclude our journey. Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. POST-CRUISE transfer | CHICAGO DIRECT AIRPORT TRANSFER TO MIDWAY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
$39
Complete your journey with this direct airport transfer to the Midway International Airport (MWD). Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. POST-CRUISE TRANSFER | CHICAGO DIRECT AIRPORT TRANSFER TO O'HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
$39
Complete your journey with this direct airport transfer to the Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Due to the uncertain nature of the national COVID-19 pandemic and its effects; reservations, tour timing, and official pricing will be made available 180 days prior to each sailing date. post-cruise extended city stay | chicago post city stay
$799
Extended City Stay packages are customized programs in some of our most popular ports, so we can guide you through these amazing cities before or after your voyages. These exclusive programs offer guests the same comfort and simplicity as our Premium Excursions, but combine the freedom of our Included Excursions, allowing for a full cultural immersion, unlike any other! INCLUDED IN YOUR CITY STAY PACKAGE: • 3 Days/2 Nights hotel stay at the Sheraton Grand Chicago • Airport transportation to Chicago O'Hare Airport from the Sheraton Grand Chicago on the day of your departure • Disembarkation Day Post-Cruise Premium Shore Excursion: Chicago Highlights Tour • Two full American Breakfasts at the hotel • Chicago Architecture Boat Tour with meal • A local Victory I Concierge to help assist in planning your time in Chicago |
For reservations and more Information please call our Travel Specialist Toll Free at 1-888-756-9008 Email: Info@GreatLakesCruises.com |
American Queen Voyages recently implemented SAFECRUISE for their fleet of ships. SAFECRUISE insures guests’ safety and security during their complete cruise experience, including pre-boarding, boarding and onboard processes. Find out more at the link provided.
* Cruise fares quoted are in U.S. dollars, per person (based on double occupancy). Single Supplements also available.
Cruise Fares do not include government taxes and fees, port charges, airfare, travel insurance, gratuites,
personal expenditures or transportation costs incurred while traveling to and from embarkation ports.
You will receive the final embarkation and disembarkation times with your travel documents.
Rates and Schedules are subject to change at any time.
Cruise Fares do not include government taxes and fees, port charges, airfare, travel insurance, gratuites,
personal expenditures or transportation costs incurred while traveling to and from embarkation ports.
You will receive the final embarkation and disembarkation times with your travel documents.
Rates and Schedules are subject to change at any time.
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Updated: 1/25/22 - BB
