Pearl Seas Cruises | "Great Lakes Explorer Cruise" NEW
15 Day Cruise - Toronto to Duluth (Or Reverse) | 2024-2025
The New Great Lakes Explorer Itinerary from Pearl Seas Cruises sails all 5 of North America's Great Lakes over the course of 15 days. Embark the Pearl Mist in Duluth, Wisconsin or Toronto, Ontario. Explore the scenic lakes, rovers, sparkling bays and historic harbors of the Great Lakes. As you cruise through one of the natural wonders of the world, you will be captivated by the dramatic cliffs, sculptured islands and amazing rock formations carved into it's coastline.
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Day 1 - Embarkation Toronto, Ontario (or reverse)
Day 2 - Niagara Falls, Ontario Day 3 - Cleveland, Ohio Day 4 - Detroit, Michigan Day 5 - Midland, Ontario Day 6 - Parry Sound, Ontario Day 7 - Scenic sailing of Georgian Bay Day 8 - Mackinac Island, Michigan Day 9 - Traverse City, Michigan Day 10 - Sault St. Marie, Michigan Day 11 - Marquette, Michigan Day 12 - Day of Scenic sailing Day 13 - Thunder Bay, Ontario Day 14 - Duluth, Minnesota Day 15 - Disemark in Duluth, Minnesota Navigated Waterways include: All 5 of the Great Lakes & Georgian Bay. Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Heron, Georgian Bay, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario Map of Niagara Falls |
VIDEO COMING SOON!
Sailing Dates | Great Lakes Explorer Cruise - All 5 Lakes
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Detailed Itinerary
Pre-Cruise Experience Toront, Ontario (Optional Upgrade)
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For those guests who wish to start their cruise in style, PEARL SEAS CRUISES is offering a brand new Signature Pre-Cruise Package at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel Toronto. Enjoy a 1-night stay at this renowned 5-star hotel, located in the heart of Toronto’s exclusive Yorkville neighborhood. Pre-Cruise Packages must be reserved at least 30 days before your cruise date. Please call our Great Lakes Cruise Specialist at (888) 756-9008 for pricing and availability of this optional upgrade. Pre-Cruise Packages are not included in your Cruise Fare.
On the morning of your cruise, enjoy breakfast at the hotel, followed by a Toronto City Excursion. Discover the picturesque landmarks that make Toronto one of the most sensational places to visit in Canada. Explore the Saint Lawrence Markets, Chinatown, the Distillery District, and the renowned Fashion District. The excursion concludes at the ship, where all of your luggage will be waiting for you in your onboard stateroom. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruise out of the harbor as you begin your amazing journey onboard the Pearl Mist. |
Day 1 - Embark Toronto, Ontario
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Welcome to Toronto, the 5th largest city in North America and one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Located on the northern shore of Lake Ontario, this provincial capital offers a feast of restaurants, museums, theaters and more, all with waterfront views and fabulous public transportation to get you there. If you've extended your stay beyond embarkation, don't miss the Distillery District, the underground PATH shopping mall, and the Royal Ontario Museum.
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Day 2 - Niagara Falls, Ontario
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Niagara Falls are formed by a great limestone escarpment, jutting up 194 feet at the falls. The Welland Canal was first constructed in 1932 to allow ships to go around the falls rather than over them! Enjoy a tour with a local guide, take a drive along the scenic Niagara Parkway, or visit a local winery or lovely Niagara-on-the-Lake. On board, take a stroll on deck to watch our descent through the 8 locks of the Welland Canal, from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario.
Niagara Falls Experience Enjoy an exciting adventure through the majestic falls and the fertile countryside of the Niagara region. Take an exhilarating boat ride which brings you within feet of the Horseshoe Falls and its misty spray. Local Artisans & Journey Behind the Falls Start your journey at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, a retail and observation complex located in a renovated historical building. After, begin your Journey Behind the Falls, an amazing experience which offers a unique view of the Falls from below and behind. Be treated to the awesome spectacle of one-fifth of the world's freshwater crashing down to the basin below. Stop at Maple Leaf Place for lunch. Here, you will also learn the process of making syrup with the opportunity to purchase some to take home. Next, travel to a family-owned local winery for a tour of the vineyard and a tasting of some of the finest wines in the Niagara region. Visit a local lavender farm, where you can enjoy the beauty and aroma as you walk onto a field of this outstanding perennial flower. Along your tour, you will have the chance to taste lavender soda and lavender cookies. Enjoy a narrated motorcoach ride back to the ship. Niagara On-the-Lake Winery Experience Visit some of Niagara's unique wineries on a trip through wine country to the enchanting setting of Niagara-on-the-Lake and to the hidden gems across the Niagara Escarpment. Stop at Niagara Benchlands, home to hundreds of acres of vineyards. Be treated to a guided scenic vineyard walk with a behind-the-scenes experience. Delight your senses as you see, swirl, sniff, sip and savor some of Ontario's renowned wines. Take time to enjoy the farms, markets, and greenhouses, with plenty of great photo opportunities. Complimentary light snacks will be available on route, including a charcuterie at one location, along with distilled and sparkling waters. |
Day 3 - Cleveland, Ohio
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Cleveland is a city made up of dozens of diverse and eclectic neighborhoods, with a lively downtown area that dazzles after dusk. Stroll through the historic West Side Market which features more than 80 family-owned businesses. View the tombstone of John D. Rockefeller, who is buried at the beautiful Lake View Cemetery. Explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, containing one of the most renowned art collections in the world.
In the Tremont neighborhood, visit the home where the famous movie A Christmas Story was filmed, and have a cold brew at a bar said to have been frequented by Eliot Ness, the famous crime fighter who brought down Al Capone. No trip to Cleveland is complete without a trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where you can view Michael Jackson’s white sequined glove, Jim Morrison’s boy scout uniform, and Elvis’ motorcycle. Cleveland City Exploration Enjoy a narrated motorcoach exploration and learn all about the wonderful city of Cleveland. Explore downtown, Public Square, and the Theater District. Travel through University Circle, home to a variety of the area’s finest museums. Explore Euclid Avenue's "Millionaires' Row," once home to some of the nation's most powerful and influential industrialists. Travel to the Flats, known for its happening nightlife, and Ohio City, a trendy dining and entertainment hub with high-end cocktail bars and beer gardens, alongside fashionable bistros and gourmet farm-to-table restaurants. Along the way, your engaging guide will point out historic and iconic sites, with a possible stop at one of the Cleveland script signs for a group photo. Amish Country Experience Since the Industrial Revolution, the Amish have been largely known as hardworking, devoutly religious people who shun most types of technology. Spend a day in their company led by an Amish guide who will be with you throughout your journey. Begin at the Heritage Marketplace, where you can explore and purchase items at Amish-owned shops. Take a buggy ride and visit the Amish Heritage Museum which showcases important Bibles, hymnals, and clothing. Arrive at the Bricker's Amish home for lunch with a menu that features chicken, mashed potatoes, homemade noodles w/gravy, vegetable, salad, fresh baked bread with homemade preserves, and date-nut pudding. After lunch, depart for a ‘backroad tour,’ concluding at the Commons General Store. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Discover this amazing venue which tells a story that spans generations, from rock’s earliest artists to those budding artists of today. Discover a variety of exhibits that include handwritten drafts of hit singles, performance outfits, and instruments from some of history’s greatest concerts. Ranging from rhythm & blues, jazz, and folk rock to heavy metal and hip-hop, these exhibits represent numerous musical genres and highlight some of the world’s most iconic acts both past and present. |
Day 4 - Detroit, Michigan
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Detroit is commonly known as The Motor City, as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler have been producing cars there for more than a century. Though, it’s equally famous as the birthplace of Motown Records, and for its many beloved sports teams.
Today, through its revitalization, Detroit has taken on a new appeal. From eye-popping street art and jazz clubs to vintage cars and impressive art deco architecture, the city is perfectly vibrant, progressive, and charming. Shop for art, jewelry, artisan crafts, and more at the Eastern Market, the largest historic public market district in the United States, dating back over 150 years. Visit the renowned Detroit Institute of Arts, a remarkable museum located in the heart of Midtown with more than 65,000 works. For some exercise, take a walk along The Dequindre Cut Greenway, a two-mile urban recreational path that offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront and historic neighborhoods. Discover Detroit Walking Exploration Don’t miss this chance to admire magnificent architecture and learn about Detroit’s rise, fall, and renewal. Led by a local guide, enjoy a short walk from Pearl Mist to the nearby downtown area. Visit the Guardian Building, a designated a National Historic Landmark. Completed in 1929, the building is one of the boldest examples of art-deco architecture. Stroll through Campus Martius Park, a gathering place for both residents and visitors and recently named Top Public Square by USA Today. Learn the history of the Penobscot Building, an art-deco masterpiece that has dominated the city’s skyline for more than 80 years. View the Renaissance Center, a multi-towered skyscraper that is the tallest building in Detroit. Enjoy the opportunity to ride on a streetcar or the elevated “Detroit People Mover.” Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village Learn how Henry Ford changed the world of technology and manufacturing as you step into a world where past innovations fuel the imagination of generations to come. See the museum’s vast array of famous and rare exhibits like Thomas Edison’s laboratory, Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theater, and the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand, by taking a seat. Play pilot as you explore flight innovations, starting with the Wright brothers' achievements. In addition to touring the Henry Ford Museum, $15 of “Fun Money” will be provided for lunch with the opportunity to spend the afternoon at Greenfield Village. With its nearly one hundred historical buildings, the Village demonstrates how Americans lived and worked since the founding of the country. Many of the buildings, from the 17th century to the present, are staffed by costumed interpreters who conduct period tasks like farming, sewing, and cooking. A collection of craft buildings such as pottery, glass-blowing, and tin shops provide demonstrations while producing materials used in the Village and for sale. Dancing in the Streets Music City Experience On this sightseeing tour of Detroit, get a glimpse into the rich history of the city as you listen to our local expert provide narration about the music that makes Michigan so special. Stop at the Motown Museum in Hitsville, U.S.A., where the world’s biggest independent record company was born. It was in this very house that Berry Gordy produced an assembly line of hit songs from legendary artists such as Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, and many more. The Motown Sound was developed and perfected here. The heart and soul of Detroit’s finest singers, musicians, writers, producers and arrangers reverberates from artifacts and instruments that have remained since the studio’s relocation in the 1970’s. Experience the “Detroit Sound” firsthand with a live musical performance. Sway to songs spanning across all genres of music with Detroit natives, who have shared the stage with big names such as Beyonce’ and Lady GaGa, and have performed on broadcasts of the GRAMMY Awards, the Oscars, SNL, and American Idol. |
Day 5 - Midland, Ontario
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Midland serves as the gateway to Georgian Bay's stunning archipelago. The area is the ancestral homeland of the Huron-Wendat, the "people of the island," who called their land Wendake, "the land apart." French Jesuits arrived in the early 1600s, and built a mission, Sainte-Marie-among-the-Hurons, which today can be visited to explore the history of Wendat and French Jesuit settlements. The natural wonders of the region are accessible at the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, which provides habitat for the iconic trumpeter swan, native to the region and the symbol of Midland.
Excursion Experiences Culinary Walking Exploration A local guide will meet you at the ship to take you on a fun-filled afternoon sipping and tasting delicious, local fare in beautiful downtown Midland. Savor a curated lineup of food and drink from 6+ local culinary spots. Learn about the area's rich heritage and culture, and discover the stories behind Midland's murals, public art, and unique shops. On the day of your tour dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and be sure to arrive hungry! Dietary Note: Tastings can be vegetarian, but unfortunately not vegan, gluten or nut-free. All participants must sign a waiver. Martyrs Shrine Discover how the story of this shrine is an integral part of the collective history of Canadians. Learn about the Martyrs and their relations with the Indigenous peoples of the 17th century. Explore the grounds with a wide variety of beautiful outdoor spaces including forest, gardens, pathways, devotional spaces, and open lawn. Discovery Harbor Exploration Situated along beautiful Penetanguishene Bay, this picturesque historic site is a reconstruction of an original 19th century British naval and military base. Originally conceived during the War of 1812, the actual construction of a Naval Establishment would have to wait for peacetime. Becoming operational in early 1817, the base served as an important supply link to more northerly British outposts, and safeguarded presents destined for Britain’s indigenous allies. Using the detailed map provided, explore the many naval and military sites on the harbor, including a variety of historic naval vessels, sailor’s barracks, a square for military drills, and original officer’s quarters. Saint-Marie-Among-the-Hurons Follow in the footsteps of the first Europeans in Ontario with a visit to the 17th-century French Jesuit Mission headquarters. Here, the story of the first interaction between the native people and the Europeans is recreated with interactive educational exhibits. Led by our expert guide, explore a replica of the barracks, homes, and meeting places that housed the Jesuits and learn about their fascinating history. |
Day 6 - Parry Sound, Ontario
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Parry Sound is a picturesque port town on the shores of Georgian Bay. Its beautiful beaches, parks, and trails are part of the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO for its extraordinary terrestrial and marine biodiversity. The region's Provincial Parks offer opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, hiking, fishing, and nature trails. Hockey legend Bobby Orr hails from Parry Sound, which celebrates their home-town hero at the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame.
Excursion Experiences Kayak Georgian Bay Led by experienced and friendly guides, paddle along the calm and serene waters of Georgian Bay, taking in the picturesque scenery around you. From rugged rock formations to peaceful coves, explore the natural beauty of the area at a leisurely pace, perfect for beginners or those who have never kayaked before. Stop for breaks to take in the views and enjoy light refreshments at the end of your exploration. Parry Sound Waterfront Tour on Electric Bikes A guided e-bike ride is the perfect way to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the town of Parry Sound. A local guide will provide you with a narrated experience along the town's bicycle trails. Pass by the main downtown strip and follow the shoreline of Georgian Bay. Along the way, discover the town's history, landmarks, and industries. Further down the trail, you will learn about local plants, reptiles, migratory birds and other species at risk. Finish your excursion at Parry Sound Bikes, formerly the old fire hall, with the option to be escorted to the ship or explore downtown on your own. Georgian Bay Island Queen Cruise On this amazing journey aboard the Island Queen, we follow in the wake of early explorers as the captain brings the ship surprisingly up-close to the rugged shoreline of Parry Island and the Bay’s remote outer islands. Meander past granite shoals into narrow channels within an eco-system so unique that it has earned World Biosphere Reserve status from the United Nations. Get your camera ready as we cruise through the Rose Point Swing Bridge, Massassauga Provincial Park, through the channels of the outer islands, past Killbear Provincial Park, and through Hole in the Wall, one of the most amazing places in Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve. Georgian Bay Airways Flightseeing Adventure Enjoy a breathtaking aerial adventure which departs from our floatplane base in Parry Sound Harbor and follows Georgian Bay’s rugged coastline. Soar above the scenic Killbear Provincial Park, past historic Parry Island, and over the fantastic South Channel.Killbear Provincial Park Guided Walking Exploration Explore the Killbear Provincial Park where a local naturalist will educate you on the unique ecology of the Georgian Bay and guide you on a geology stroll through the windswept pines and to Parry Sound’s stunning shoreline. Parry Sound Shuttle Explore Parry Sound at your own pace using the local loop shuttle. Discover one of the many beautiful scenic lookouts or check the area’s variety of museum and cultural attractions. |
Day 7 - Scenic sailing of Georgian Bay
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As we make our way to Mackinac Island, Michigan, witness the natural wonders and majestic beauty of the Great Lakes from the comfort of your fully furnished private balcony. Along the way, delight in the locally inspired cuisine prepared by our team of master chefs.
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Day 8 - 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.
Mackinac Island Carriage Ride Be transported back in time on a guided horse-drawn carriage ride through this small and exciting Island. Classic Victorian architecture lines the streets along your journey to Fort Mackinac’s historic museum. This fortress is the oldest building in Michigan and commemorates the War of 1812. Continue to the Grand Hotel, where you can explore the grounds on your own and indulge in a delectable lunch at this historic site. |
Day 9 - Traverse City, Michigan
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Traverse City is known nationally as the "Cherry Capital of the World," as five of its counties make up the region that produces 40 percent of the annual tart cherry crop in the United States. Consistently voted one of America’s most charming small towns, it abounds in beautifully restored historic buildings, idyllic tree-lined neighborhoods, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Walk along the shoreline and admire the Grand Traverse Lighthouse one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes. Find your new favorite bottle of red, white, sparkling, or even cider on a visit to one of the local wineries. Stroll along Front Street in downtown, featuring a trove of independent bookstores, trendy boutiques, and a local distillery. Olde Mission Peninsula Winery Experience Old Mission Peninsula extends into Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay offering the ideal climate for growing varietal wine grapes which have been well recognized by wine enthusiasts the world over. On a scenic drive, enjoy the beauty of the Old Mission Peninsula and experience its award-winning wines. Along the way, visit three wineries, learn about wine production on vineyard tour, explore a wine cave, and be treated to two wine tastings and a full glass of your favorite variety. Leelanau Tales & Trails Relish the spectacular views on a scenic drive along the shoreline. Stop at Eyaawing Museum & Cultural Center to learn the story of the Grand Traverse Band of Anishinaabek, led by a native guide. Enjoy a guided exploration of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse, a restored keeper’s dwelling, and climb the Lighthouse Tower for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan, Cathead Bay, Grand Traverse Bay and the Manitou Passage. Travel through Leelanau State Park on your way to Fishtown-Leland, featuring weathered fishing shanties, smokehouses, overhanging docks, fish tugs and charter boats. Here, you will be treated to smoked fish samples. |
Day 10 - Sault St, Marie, Michigan
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Located at the mouth of Saint Mary’s River, Sault Saint Marie was originally established by Jesuit missionaries in the 17th century. Saint Mary’s River connects Lake Superior to Lake Huron and has provided trade access between the United States and Canada for hundreds of years. The blend of the native Ojibwa with the French and English settlers resulted in the rich and diverse culture of this incredible destination.
Soo Locks Boat Adventure Enjoy a live narrated cruise on the beautiful St. Marys River and actually "Ride through the Soo Locks." Learn the rich 300-year-old history of the area and the story behind the locks as you view many interesting sites along the Michigan and Ontario shorelines. Travel under the International Highway Bridge that connects Soo, Michigan and Soo, Ontario, Canada. Get an up-close view of the over 100-year-old Hydroelectric Power Plant, still operating today to supply electricity to local residents. Valley Camp Historic Sites Explore an actual Great Lakes Freighter at The Museum Ship Valley Camp, which houses a 20,000 square foot museum with over 100 exhibits inside her massive cargo. The Valley Camp once held a crew of 29 men in her cabins. Visitors are able to view these cabins to see how Great Lakes sailors lived and worked aboard ship, from the nicely appointed Captain’s quarters to the plain accommodations lived in by the Oilers and the Coal Passers. View the Edmund Fitzgerald memorial and exhibit which features two lifeboats from the stricken vessel. Torn away during the sinking, these lifeboats are two of very few major artifacts recovered after the tragic demise. The exhibit also features a video presentation about the events that occurred on November 10, 1975 which caused the tragic loss of one of the Great Lakes’ largest freighters. In addition to the museum exhibits, the Museum Ship Valley Camp displays four 1,200 gallon aquariums stocked with various species of fish from the Great Lakes region. Discovering Whitefish Island: An Indigenous Lead Interpretive Walking Tour Join us on an Interpretive Indigenous guided exploration of Whitefish Island, located in the heart of Baawaating (Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario). Led by knowledgeable and experienced indigenous guides, enjoy a journey through the island's rich history and learn the significance to the local communities. Learn about the traditional uses of the island, the native flora and fauna, and the importance of preserving its cultural and ecological heritage. Listen to traditional hand drum songs and taste fresh bannock and cedar tea with locally harvested maple syrup. Paddle and Learn: Interpretive Indigenous Guided Kayak Tour Embark on an awe-inspiring half-day kayaking through the picturesque waters of Baawaating (Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario). Navigate the serene St. Mary's River towards the scenic Bellevue Park, marveling at the captivating landscapes that unfold before you. Our seasoned guides, well-versed in indigenous culture, will accompany you on this enriching expedition, imparting their wisdom about the local ecosystem, traditions, and history. As you traverse the waterways, keep an eye out for magnificent wildlife such as bald eagles and blue herons while learning about the area's significance to Indigenous communities. |
Day 11 - Marquette, Michigan
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Lined with miles of Lake Superior shoreline, Marquette is the perfect city to explore Michigan’s pristine wilderness and scenic landscapes. Take a walk along one of its many pedestrian trails and admire the various historical lighthouses that adorn and protect its pristine shoreline.
Though area is known for its outdoor adventures, the arts and cultural scene is also very much alive, with an array of artists who invite you into their studios and galleries. Visit one of the area history museums, including the Iron Ore Heritage Museum, where you can learn about Marquette’s iron mining industry, which has flourished for more than 125 years. Venture downtown to shop at chic boutiques, jewelry stores, and specialty shops. After, relax with a refreshment at one of the local breweries, wineries, or tap houses. Historic Marquette Walking Exploration Led by a local guide, enjoy a walking exploration of Historic Downtown Marquette. Admire the unique architecture of the many historic buildings of red and white limestone. View the Marquette County Courthouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop at St. Peter’s Cathedral, known as the mother church of the Diocese of Marquette. Pass by an iron ore dock and a statue of Jacques Marquette, a French Jesuit missionary who founded Michigan's first European settlement. Admire the locally famous Harlow’s Wooden Man, built in 1875 by one of the founders of Marquette, Amos Harlow, who noticed a large cedar tree in the shape of a man and turned it into a sculpture that still stands more than 100 years later. Your fun adventure ends with a sweet treat! Magnificent Marquette Sightseeing Excursion Board our comfortable Motorcoach for scenic and narrated drive through Marquette. View iron ore docks and the many beautiful Victorian homes that embellish the city, including those in the East Side Home District. Admire Lake Superior Beach, Tourist Park, St. Peter’s Cathedral, and downtown Marquette. Stop at Marquette Maritime Museum & Lighthouse, a one-story, stone, hipped-roof Richardsonian Romanesque style structure built in 1891. Led by a guide, learn about the maritime history of Marquette, Lake Superior, and all the Great Lakes, as well as the sacrifices made by submarine veterans. |
Day 12 - Day of Scenic sailing
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Enjoy an afternoon aboard Pearl Mist, cruising the scenic Keweenaw Waterway. From the comfort of your private balcony, bask in the beauty of soaring sandstone cliffs, carved by glaciers, and sparkling spring waterfalls. Your onboard expert will provide commentary as we pass unique wildlife, historic lighthouses, and geological features that are over 1 billion years old.
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Day 13 - Thunder Bay, Ontario
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Northwest Ontario's largest city, Thunder Bay is a vibrant community surrounded by natural wonders, including thousands of square miles of Canadian wilderness and over 150,000 lakes and rivers. Explore the historic buildings and public art displays of Thunder Waterfront and North Core. Delight in a scenic drive to Kakabeka Falls, which means ‘waterfall over a cliff’ in Ojibwe and is also nicknamed the ‘Niagara of the North’ due to its size and accessibility. Venture to Fort William Historic Historical Park for a guided exploration of this living museum, featuring reconstructed buildings and historians dressed in period clothing.
Waterfront & North Core Walking Excursion Explore the historic buildings and public art displays of Thunder Waterfront and North Core. Visit the Lyceum Theatre, initially built in 1909 to accommodate travelling shows, later converting into a moving picture house in 1914. Stop at the Courthouse Hotel, a working courthouse until 2014, it was purchased a few years later and underwent an extensive five million dollar renovation to transform it into a boutique hotel. Explore CN Station, built by the Canadian Northern Railway between 1905 and 1906. Its success helped Port Arthur become a thriving transportation hub and port city and served as a station until 1977. As you explore the city, admire over 10 public art displays, ranging from large-scale outdoor sculptures to single paintings and prints. Sights & Tales of Thunder Bay Delight in a scenic drive to Kakabeka Falls, which means ‘waterfall over a cliff’ in Ojibwe and is also nicknamed the ‘Niagara of the North’ due to its size and accessibility. Upon arrival, you will have the option to remain at the viewing platform or proceed on to Mountain Portage trail for a guided nature walk to get a better view of the falls, gorge, and river. Venture to Fort William Historic Historical Park for a guided exploration of this living museum, featuring reconstructed buildings and historians dressed in period clothing. Visit the onsite Fort William fur trade post and learn about the city’s economic past in the fur trade industry. Along the way enjoy Finnish-style smoked fish samples and baked goods. |
Day 14 - Duluth, Minnesota
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Located along the picturesque shores of Lake Superior, Duluth is the biggest inland harbor in the world, despite being 600 feet above sea level and over 2,000 miles from the Atlantic Ocean. Both rugged and refined, the town is home to a world famous ariel lift bridge and charming neighborhoods filled with local breweries and restaurants.
Delve into its fascinating history with an exploration of the area’s many museums, including the Lake Superior Railroad Museum, which features immaculately restored locomotives, as well as exhibits that preserve, present, and interpret the history of railroading. Visit the famous 39-room Glensheen Mansion built with remarkable 20th-century craftsmanship, telling the story of the Duluth region. Later, discover dynamic works of art at The Duluth Art Institute. Waterways of Industry Join us on board for a scenic and in-depth look at Duluth from a historical, scientific, and ecological lens. Cruise through the harbor, where the industrial history of the city is on display, including the Great Lakes Tugboat Fleet and the Historic Grain Elevators. Continue up the St. Louis River towards the CN/Mesabi Taconite loading docks and the largest and most complete energy terminal on the Great Lakes, Midwest Energy. View the Duluth Aerial Lift Bridge from below, as well as the Blatnik High Bridge with spectacular views of the North Shore. Along the way, your expert guide will provide highlights of the Lake Superior shoreline and 200 years of Duluth industrial history. Includes charcuterie snack box and one beverage. Scenic Railways of Duluth Board your motorcoach and journey to the historic Union Depot, now home to the Lake Superior Railroad Museum. Your guide will set the stage, by first sharing the industrial significance of the area in route to the depot. Upon arrival at the depot, don’t miss the Iron Range No. 227, a “Yellowstone”-style locomotive that was one of the biggest steam engines ever built. After exploring the depot, board your vintage train car for a trip on the North Shore Scenic Railroad, a heritage railroad that runs through Duluth and will take you along the shore of Lake Superior. As you ride, enjoy narration, including the history of Duluth, its harbor, and the importance of the railroads to the development of Northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. Historic Glensheen Join your guide on board your motorcoach for a short drive to this lakeside mansion, the former family home of late 19th-century lawyer, entrepreneur, and capitalist Chester Adgate Congdon. Completed in 1908, Glensheen cost the present-day equivalent of approximately $22 million. Enjoy the late Victorian opulence of this striking mansion, set amid 12 acres of English-style landscaping and formal terraced gardens. Your guide will share details of the grounds, before heading inside to marvel at the eclectic mix of styles that grace the mansion’s 39 rooms. |
Day 15 - Disembark in Duluth, Minnesota
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After breakfast on board, begin your journey home, reflecting upon the incredible experiences you’ve had and the wonderful new friends made.
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For reservations and more Information please call our Travel Specialist Toll Free at 1-888-756-9008 Email: [email protected] |
**Optional Upgrade - Pre-Cruise Packages can be reserved up to 30 days prior to sailing.
Pre-Cruise Package Includes one night hotel stay, breakfast, city tour, luggage transfer & transportation to the ship.
Please call for pricing and details. 1-888-756-9008.
Pre-Cruise Package Includes one night hotel stay, breakfast, city tour, luggage transfer & transportation to the ship.
Please call for pricing and details. 1-888-756-9008.
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The Oyster Society is Pearl Seas Cruises’ exclusive guest loyalty program. Benefits of membership include:
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Complete Directory of all our Great Lakes Cruises
* 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, discretionary gratuites for vessel crew and tour operators,
Travel Protection, Personal Expenditures including Transportation Costs incurred while traveling to and from embarkation ports,
Transfer to and from the airport along with Hotel Stays and Cancellations (unless noted otherwise).
Shore excursions vary by departure and are subject to change.
Rates and Schedules are subject to change at any time.
Cruise Fares do not include, government taxes and fees, port charges, airfare, discretionary gratuites for vessel crew and tour operators,
Travel Protection, Personal Expenditures including Transportation Costs incurred while traveling to and from embarkation ports,
Transfer to and from the airport along with Hotel Stays and Cancellations (unless noted otherwise).
Shore excursions vary by departure and are subject to change.
Rates and Schedules are subject to change at any time.
Updated; 12/11/23 - lls
