American Queen Cruises | Great Lakes Grand Discovery
13 Day Cruise | Chicago to Montreal (Or Reverse) | 2022, 2023 & 2024
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City skylines ebb into lazy lake shores as we sail beneath empyrean ether. Marvel at the singular beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and the southern Canadian coast. Mackinac Island tenders a peace rarely found on the mainland. Niagara Falls inspires awe at every visit. These bounties and more await when you step aboard this AMERICAN QUEEN VOYAGES (Formally Victory Cruise Lines) voyage. |
BOOK NOW AND SAVE - RISK FREE* Book early and save up to $1,400 per person* on your 2022 cruise experience, You can change or cancel your voyage up to 121 days before departure - and receive a full 100% refund. Best Savings Are Right Now, but you must Act Quickly. * Terms & Conditions apply. |
Itinerary
Navigated Waterways Include:
Lake Michigan, Straits of Mackinac, Lake Huron, Detroit River, St. Claire River, Lake Erie, Welland Canal and Lake Ontario |
Day 1 - Hotel Stay in Chicago, Illinois
Day 2 - Embark in Chicago, Illinois Day 3 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Michigan Day 4 - Mackinac Island, Michigan Day 5 - Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan Day 6 - Little Current, Manitoulin Island, Ontario Day 7 - Scenic Sailing on Lake Huron Day 8 - Detroit, Michigan Day 9 - Cleveland, Ohio Day 10 - Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), Ontario Day 11 - Toronto, Ontario Day 12 - Scenic Sailing of Lake Ontario Day 13 - Disembark in Montreal, Quebec Map of Niagara Falls |
Sailing Dates | Great Lakes Grand Discovery
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13 Day - Great Lakes Grand Discovery ItineraryDeparting From: Chicago to Montreal (Or Reverse)
Ports of Call: Chicago, IL, Mackinac Island, MI, Sault Ste. Marie, MI, Little Current, Manitoulin Island, ON, Detroit, MI, Cleveland, OH, Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), ON, Toronto, ON, Montreal, QC 2022 sailing dates (Chicago to montreal)
Aug 25 - Sept 6 (Fully Booked)
2022 Sailing dates (montreal to chicago
Sep 23 - Oct 5 (Fully Booked)
2023 sailing dates (Chicago to montreal)
Aug 24 - Sep 5
Sep 29 - Oct 11 2024 sailing dates (chicago to montreal)
Sep 6 - Sep 18
Sep 28 - Oct 10 2024 sailing dates (Montreal to Chicago)
Sep 17 - Sep 29
Port Charges: $559.00 Per Person
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Starting at
USD $6,099.00 - $12,099.00 Per Person, based on double occupancy * |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Hotel Stay in Chicago, Illinois (Included in 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.
OPTIONAL UPGRADE - PREMIUM SHORE EXCURSION Join us on a narrated driving tour of Chicago as we visit some of its most iconic attractions at the upgrade rate of USD $79.00 per person. Please call for reservations. |
Day 3 - Scenic Cruise of 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 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.
INCLUDED | mACKINAC iSLAND tOUR
Located on Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is one of the leading tourist destinations in the mid-western United States. This island has undergone extensive historical preservation, and as a result the entire island has been listed as a National Historic Landmark. Here, you will find various architectural styles such as that of the famous Victorian Grand Hotel. Mackinac has a well-known ban on motor vehicles, so horses and bicycles are the primary modes of transportation used on the island.
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. PREMIUM | Lighthouses of Lake Michigan
$79
Climb aboard Mackinac’s most-friendly ferry as we explore five of Lake Michigan’s famous lighthouses. As we glide across the deep blue waters, our expert guide from the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association will explain the unique construction processes and qualities of lighthouses |
Day 5 - 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 HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario is one of the largest cities in northern Ontario, with a population of nearly 75,000 people. Just across the river is the United States city of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Split by the St. Mary's River, these two cities were once one, until the end of the War of 1812 when a border was established between Canada and the United States. Today, the two cities are linked by an international bridge.
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. |
Day 6 - Little Current, Manitoulin Island, Ontario
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Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world and Little Current is home to a rich history of first nation cultures and nautical exploration. Join local guides for a narrated drive through Manitoulin's picturesque countryside. We'll stop at the Immaculate Conception Church, which unites Ojibwe with European Catholic traditions, and visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation for a tour and intertribal dance & drum presentation.
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Day 7 - Scenic Cruise on Lake Huron
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Today we slip our moorings to survey the sapphire canvas of a boundless empire. Scenic sailing invites visitors to navigate the day as we cruise through the second-largest arena of inland sea in America’s Great Lakes. Engage in laissez faire, and curl up with a nautical novel on the deck as the rhythmic slap of spray keeps pace.
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Day 8 - Detroit, Michigan
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There’s no better place than the Motor City to choose an optional premium experience to explore the captivating history of the automotive industry – and so much more – at The Henry Ford. Be astounded by the museum’s vast and varied artifacts of American heritage. The extraordinary exhibits chronicle the lifespan of a nation. All guests may choose the included excursion to the Detroit Institute of Arts and its 100-plus galleries, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the West Canfield Historic District and other city highlights.
INCLUDED | dETROIT HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
Detroit was once the automotive capital of the world, and today, the city is approaching the vibrancy of its past. Brim with renewed energy, Detroit is made up of unique cultural communities and architectural wonders. Discover the largest city in Michigan, one that without a doubt helped build America.
PREMIUM | The Henry Ford Experience
$79
Discover America on a vibrant exploration of genius in all its forms on today's excursion to the remarkable Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Through a plethora of interactive exhibits, learn about innovation from America's greatest thinkers, makers and doers. Enjoy a self-guided tour in the museum that is second only to the Smithsonian in American cultural significance. The museum began as Henry Ford’s personal collection of historic objects, which he began collecting as far back as 1906. Today, the 12-acre site is primarily a collection of antique machinery, pop culture items, historical artifacts, automobiles, locomotives, aircrafts and so much more. This excursion will conclude at the docking location of the vessel for embarkation. PREMIUM | Stories that Shaped America: Exploring the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village
$129
Discover America on a vibrant exploration of genius in all its forms on today's excursion to the remarkable Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Enjoy a self-guided tour in the museum that is second only to the Smithsonian in American cultural significance. Then journey into America's past at Greenfield Village, located just next door. Hop on a real steam-powered train, "pull" glass with local artisans and use $20 of "fun money" to enjoy lunch from an 1830's menu. PREMIUM | Ultimate American Innovations: Inside The Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, and the Ford Rogue Factory
$149
Discover America on a vibrant exploration of genius in all its forms on today's excursion to the remarkable Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Enjoy a self-guided tour in the museum that is second only to the Smithsonian in American cultural significance. Then journey into America's past at Greenfield Village, located just next door. Hop on a real steam-powered train, "pull" glass with local artisans, and use $20 of "fun money" to enjoy lunch from an 1830's menu. Down the road, enjoy a fascinating Ford Rogue Factory Tour. Experience the new technologies implemented by Ford Motor Company in a factory setting and get an inside look of the manufacturing process of the iconic Ford F150. |
Day 9 - Cleveland, Ohio
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Step off the ship onto what some call America’s “North Coast” and discover why Clevelanders are so fiercely proud of their home. The reinvented city reverberates with vitality and a cool new atmosphere. Expand your mind at the world-class Cleveland Museum of Art, with over 45,000 works to explore. You can also feel the backbeat at the museum devoted to one of America’s finest gifts to the world – the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
INCLUDED | CLEVELAND HOP-ON HOP-OFF TOUR
As you tour the city of Cleveland, visit the following popular destinations:
The Cleveland Museum of Art: Comparable to the art museums of Europe, this multi-gallery museum presents both past and present-day art inside a historic building from 1916. Discover dynamic collections from all over the world at this cultural and intellectual focal point. Cleveland History Center: This center truly has something for everyone. Explore a collection of automobiles, wander through a millionaire’s mansion, or take a ride on a restored carousel. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Learn the history behind rock legends as you make your way up the pyramid of rock and roll history. With seven floors of exhibits, explore this complex and learn about the world’s greatest musicians and how they made musical history. The Arcade: Hop off in downtown across from the famous 4th Street to don some Cleveland apparel or do some shopping at the historic Arcade shopping center. Old Stone Church: Located in the heart of downtown, this historic landmark overlooks the plot founded by Moses Cleveland. Discover the beauty of the oldest building on Cleveland’s Public Square. Also nearby is the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, which commemorates the American Civil War. premium | The Cleveland Scene
$79
Upon your arrival in Cleveland, you may notice that some parts of town seem uncannily familiar. Chances are that's because you've seen the city before in multiple famous movies! Films like A Christmas Story and Major League were filmed right here in town. Today we will get a firsthand look at two filming locations to see if they are just like the movies, as well as insight into many of the other iconic movies filmed here. Cleveland is home to the original house featured in A Christmas Story. Discover memorabilia from the film as you tour inside. You can even pick up a Red Ryder or Leg Lamp of your own in the gift shop! Then we will go behind the scenes of the Cleveland Indians Stadium, and walk the field as a real player. premium | An Amish Experience
$129
Travel through the back roads of Ohio as we make our way to Geauga County, home to the country’s second-largest Amish population. As we depart from the big city, you will notice the towering buildings and bustling areas of business fade into an open countryside and vast farmland. You may see fewer cars and more horse and buggies driving along the roads as we enter “Amish Country.” This is where we will meet Mary Miller, as she welcomes us into her home for an authentic Amish Wedding Feast, where no one will leave hungry! Mary is a very gracious host and is happy to answer any questions you may have about Amish culture. We will continue our exploration to End of the Commons, the oldest operating general store in Ohio as well as an authentic one-room Amish school house. |
Day 10 - Niagara Falls, Ontario
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Begin your day in breathtaking Niagara Falls, which attracts millions of visitors each year. An optional pre-cruise premium experience takes you to the heart of its splendor for a Hornblower catamaran ride into the mist. Afterward, take lunch for a spin in the rotating Skylon Tower, followed by a tasting at local winery and shopping at Niagara-on-the-Lake. Deluxe motor coaches will transport guests a short distance to the ship in Port Colborne.
INCLUDED | nIAGARA FALLS, ON TOUR
Hop aboard the Hornblower catamaran to experience the majestic and mighty Niagara Falls up close. Stand on the outer decks to feel the mist or stand behind the glass walls if you prefer to stay dry. Continue along the scenic Niagara Parkway as we make our way to Queen's Landing for a delicious buffet lunch. Afterward, enjoy shopping in the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake before finishing the day at the beautiful Jackson-Triggs Winery. Enjoy a tour and wine tastings before returning to the ship.
PREMIUM | Meeting the Mist: Hornblower Boat Ride, Skylon Tower, Wine Tasting and Shopping at Niagara-on-the-Lake
$149
Niagara Falls is famous for its stunning views, and today we will experience the most spectacular vantage points of the city. As we make our way to this natural wonder, enjoy a scenic and relaxing driving tour, where our knowledgeable guide will emphasize notable landmarks and sights of cultural significance. Along the way, we will see the Table Rock Welcome Centre and the unique Floral Clock. Then experience the power and beauty of the mighty falls firsthand as we hop aboard the famous Hornblower catamaran for a ride right up to the base of the falls. Ride to the top of Skylon Tower to take in the 360-degree views on the observation deck before enjoying a first-class meal with an incredible view. In the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, taste wines from a local winery in a breathtaking setting and shop the boutiques of the charming downtown area. PRE-CRUISE | The Power of Niagara Falls
$79
Soak in the power and beauty of Niagara Falls firsthand. Hop aboard the Hornblower catamaran and ride up to the base of the falls, getting closer than you ever imagined. See, hear and feel the power of all three waterfalls. Then enjoy a relaxing drive along the Niagara Parkway, where you will see the unique Floral Clock, an operating clock with an intricately designed face made up entirely of colorful flowerbeds. Our adventure will conclude at the dock of the vessel for embarkation. |
Day 11 - Toronto, Ontario
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Ever-expanding Toronto is a gift to the senses. It’s become a canvas for the many artisans who’ve made it home and taken every opportunity to captivate uniqueness and beauty throughout its core. A quirky amalgam of culture flows freely through every inch of adventure throughout the metropolis. From freshness in farmers’ markers to boldness of cityscape, each visitor will certainly fall in love with a little piece of this smashing destination. INCLUDED | TORONTO CITY TOUR
Visit the following popular Toronto attractions with this included city tour:
CN Tower Enjoy a photo opportunity with this marvel in engineering that stands at 1,815 feet tall. The tower is not only the focal point of the Toronto city skyline but is also one of Canada’s most recognizable landmarks. Berczy Park Dog Fountain This small park in downtown Toronto is home to a majestic fountain that pays homage to none other than man’s best friend. The cheerful design features multiple breeds of our four-legged friends who all have their eyes on the prize—a bone situated at the top of the fountain! Distillery District The former Gooderham & Worts Distillery District was a derelict collection of 47 Victorian industrial buildings until 2003 when it had been restored. Today, the district houses an array of art studios, cafes, and micro-breweries. pre-cruise | toronto city highlights tour
$79
Sit back and relax as we embark on a narrated driving tour of Toronto from the comfort of our luxury motor coach. Travel through the lively city streets as our friendly and knowledgeable guide provides thoughtful commentary on the city's most important highlights. Discover the history of the city and the stories behind many of the iconic attractions as we glide through this thriving urban landscape. Enjoy a photo opportunity at the CN Tower, a stop at Berczy Park's famous "dog fountain" and the Distillery District. This excursion will conclude at the docking location of the vessel for embarkation. post-cruise | toronto city highlights tour
$79
Sit back and relax as you embark on a narrated driving tour of Toronto from the comfort of our luxury motor coach. Travel through the lively city streets as our friendly and knowledgeable guide provides thoughtful commentary on the city's most important highlights. Discover the history of the city and the stories behind many of the iconic attractions within the city as we glide through this thriving urban landscape. Enjoy a photo opportunity at the CN Tower, a stop at Berczy Park's famous "dog fountain" and the Distillery District. After our day exploring the city, it's time to say goodbye to Toronto as we conclude at the Toronto Pearson International Airport or Post-Cruise Hotel. |
Day 12 - Scenic Cruise on Lake Ontario
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The lower reaches of the St. Lawrence Seaway give way to unspeakable splendor at Thousand Islands, the glorious corridor leading us onto the lake. Search the intricate maze of lichen-cloaked mounds for glimpses of their bounty of wildlife. |
Day 13 - Disembark in Montreal, Quebec
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As the journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town. Enjoy the city at your leisure, or consider a post-cruise premium experience with airport transfer. |
For reservations and more Information please call our Travel Specialist Toll Free at 1-888-756-9008 Email: Info@GreatLakesCruises.com |
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Victory Cruise Lines recently implemented SAFECRUISE for their fleet of ships. SAFECRUISE will insure guests’ safety and security during their complete cruise experience, including pre-boarding, boarding and onboard processes. Find out more at the link provided.
More Cruises by American Queen Voyages
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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, travel insurance, gratuites,
personal expenditures or transportation costs incurred while traveling to and from embarkation ports.
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.
Rates and Schedules are subject to change at any time.
Updated 1/25/22 - BB
