What You Need to Know Before Cruising the Great Lakes

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Essentials for First-Time Great Lakes Cruise Travelers

​If you're new to cruising the Great Lakes, you're in for a one-of-a-kind adventure. The Great Lakes offer an incredible blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and bucket list destinations. At Great Lakes Cruises, we specialize in helping travelers plan and book the cruise that best fits their must-see destinations and price point! We have been doing this for a while now, so let us help put your mind at ease for your first, but most likely not last, cruise on the Great Lakes. Whether you want to see scenic beauty, dive into the culture of other places, or enjoy the luxury of being on the cruise, GLC is here to guide you every step of the way.

When Is the Best Time to Book a Great Lakes Cruise?

​Cruise ships on the Great Lakes are much smaller than those that you would see on an ocean cruise, making them more exclusive with less availability. Due to this fact, we suggest booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance to secure your spot and get the best cabins available! Booking well in advance also gives you the chance to secure some of the most desired itineraries before those are fully booked! We are here to help you book early and secure the best of the best!

How Many Cruise Lines Are There?

​There are a lot of options available when it comes to cruises on the Great Lakes. These are some of the top cruise lines we work with!

Victory Cruise Lines

Victory Cruise Line is the  hallmark of North American cruising specializes in scenic coastal cruises across the Great Lakes.

Pearl Seas Cruises

​Pearl Seas Cruises bring small ship luxury cruises to the Great Lakes with an outstanding on-board experience.

Pontant Explorer Cruises

​Pontant Explorer Cruises are a french cruise line is known for its incredible excursions, outstanding French cuisine, and luxurious amenities.

Viking Expedition Cruises

Viking Expedition Cruises are known for inventing modern river cruises and continuing to refine it as an art. 

Tauck Cruises

​Tauck Cruises are known for their inclusion of expansive shore excursions and tours aboard luxury cruise ships.

How Many Days Are Great Lakes Cruises?

​The length of a cruise on the Great Lakes varies based on the destinations and the cruise lines. They typically range anywhere from 7 days to 16 days. The shorter ones typically only cover 1 or 2 lakes, and the longer ones cover a larger area and possibly all of the great lakes. Whether you are ready for a week long cruise or a two week long cruise we are here to find the one that best suits your needs!

What Is the Cost of a Great Lakes Cruise?

The cost of a Greats Lakes Cruise varies depending on the cruise line you choose, the itinerary, the length of cruise, the destinations, the excursions, and the cabin you choose. There are more budget friendly options that are around $6,000 per person, or more luxury options that range depending on the level of luxury you are looking for. You can visit our Great Lakes cruises 2025 and Great Lakes cruises 2026 pages for detailed pricing and availability!

When Is the Cruising Season on the Great Lakes?

​Cruise Seasons on the Great Lakes fall between the months of May and October and you can experience every season except Winter on a Cruise on the Great Lakes.

Summer

​Summer brings out all of the exciting and fun excursions including water-sports and other fun outdoor activities.

Fall

​During the fall, the leaves start to change colors and you get the chance to see the real beauty of all of the fall foliage.

Spring

​During Spring everything is blooming so you get to see the beauty in bloom, this time also is a less crowded time.

Winter

​During the Winter time, the Great Lakes freeze over so cruising is not quite possible!

No matter what season you go, as long as it is not Winter, you will have a wonderful time and get to enjoy the beauty of nature.

How Many Great Lakes Will I Visit?

There are a total of 5 Great Lakes: Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. Some cruises visit all 5 of them while others may only visit 1 to 3 of the great lakes. The amount of great lakes that you will ultimately visit will depend on the cruise you choose! Many of the shorter cruises focus on Lake Michigan and Lake Ontario, while others may take you to all 5! No matter how many lakes you visit, you will enjoy your trip and make lasting memories!

What to Expect Onboard: Ships, Cabins, and Amenities

​For a cruise on the Great Lakes, you can expect a small luxury cruise ship that focuses on comfortability, luxury, and elegance. Because of the size, these cruises are more exclusive as the ships only hold around 100 to 200 guests creating a more intimate experience compared to that of an ocean cruise. 

Though these cruise ships are smaller, they still offer an array of cabin options, ranging from small cozy cabins that offer a more intimate experience or full on suites with private balconies providing a more luxury option. 

The cruise ships also feature a delicious cuisine typically focusing on elegance and local cuisine! It is a great chance to enjoy a romantic dinner and try some yummy foods!

They also provide excursions at some destinations and provide onboard entertainment as well! Entertainment can range from performances, to lectures, and tastings. 

Planning Shore Excursions and Activities

​Great Lakes Cruises visit gorgeous destinations and while some include specially curated excursions, others do require that you plan and book your own excursions! This is where we come in! We can help you plan your excursions ahead of time so by the time you are on your cruise you have no stress and soak up every bit of the relaxation that a great lakes cruise includes. Some areas offer city tours, water-sports, kayaking, or other fun activities! Whatever your style of adventure is, we will find the excursion that suits you!

Must-See Destinations on a Great Lakes Cruise Itinerary

On a Great Lakes Cruise you will visit a plethora of must see destinations! Here are some of the top must-see destinations!

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Visiting Mackinac Island feels like stepping back in time—no cars, just bikes and horse-drawn carriages. Don’t miss Fort Mackinac, where you can tour restored 1880s buildings and learn about its history with both the British and American armies.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls, Ontario is a must-see destination, where the Niagara River flows from Lake Erie into Lake Ontario, creating the stunning Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls. 

Chicago, Illinois

Cruising the Great Lakes from Chicago is an unforgettable way to explore the region’s natural beauty, historic towns, and vibrant cities. From stunning shorelines to iconic landmarks, it’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Toronto, Ontario

Toronto is a vibrant cruise destination on Lake Ontario, offering a mix of city energy, culture, and waterfront charm. From its iconic skyline to diverse neighborhoods, it’s a perfect starting or ending point for a Great Lakes adventure.

Soo Locks, Michigan

In Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, the Soo Locks connect Lake Superior and Lake Huron and are the largest in the U.S., operated by the Army Corps of Engineers. On a Great Lakes cruise, you can take a Soo Locks boat tour to experience the locks in action—rising or lowering with 22 million gallons of water. There are also dinner and lighthouse tours, and Viking Cruises stops here on their Undiscovered Great Lakes itinerary.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

The Apostle Islands, along Lake Superior, are full of stunning rock formations, sea caves, cliffs, and historic lighthouses. It’s a dream for adventure lovers—with kayaking excursions in 18ft tandem kayaks that let you get up close to the rocks and wildlife. If you're craving adventure, this stop is a must!

Packing Tips for Your Great Lakes Cruise

Packing for a Great Lakes Cruise may leave you questioning exactly what you may need on your trip! Due to the fact that the weather and activities vary you may want to make sure you pack for diverse needs! Here are a few of the must haves when you go on a cruise!

• Rain Jacket/Jacket in case of chilly weather or a storm rolling through
• Layer-able Clothing in case the weather changes
• Comfortable Shoes for exploring
• Swimwear for excursions or onboard fun
• Casual Attire for the Destinations
• Elegant Attire for the Cruise Dinners
• Binoculars so you do not miss a thing

Cruise the Great Lakes with GLC

​At Great Lake Cruises we’re here as the expert to help you plan your entire trip starting with picking the right cruise line and itinerary all the way to booking the excursions and adventures that you want to take part in during your trip. Let us help simplify the process and take the stress of your shoulders so you can truly relax and enjoy your vacation! We will ensure your trip is seamless and one you will never forget!

Book your Cruise Today!