Niagara & the Great Lakes
Niagara & the Great Lakes
8 Days, 7 Nights —
Milwaukee to Toronto
From: $5,995
On this 8-day Niagara & the Great Lakes cruise between Toronto, Ontario to Milwaukee, Wisconsin aboard the Viking Octantis, discover North America’s wilderness alongside renowned cultural attractions while cruising the striking waterways of the Great Lakes. Immerse yourself in the lakes’ compelling shipping history, experience the power of thundering Niagara Falls and keep watch for scores of migratory birds at Point Pelee. Led by a team of experts, explore sheltered bays and woodlands to uncover complex ecosystems and hidden treasures.
From outstanding beauty to historic cities and a deep connection to nature, the Great Lakes are an undiscovered treasure, boasting stunning national parks best explored via tranquil kayaking and hiking. This area is also rich in culture, with world‑class museums, vibrant cities and areas steeped in First Nations traditions.
Includes
- At least one complimentary excursion in every port of call/landing site
- Kayaks, zodiacs, RIBs & submarine excursions (where available)
- A Viking Expedition Kit with a variety of equipment to explore at no extra charge
- All Viking Excursion Gear needed for any relevant excursions
- Port taxes & fees
- Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase
Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Toronto, Ontario
Arrive in Toronto today, Canada’s largest city and the provincial capital of Ontario. Settle in to your stateroom and take time to explore your ship.
Day 2: Welland Canal & Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Enjoy a scenic cruise through the locks of the Welland Canal, a man-made shipping channel that connects Lake Ontario to Lake Erie. From Port Colborne, leave your ship and head to the region’s main attraction—Niagara Falls. Experience the power and majesty of these natural wonders as you walk along the top of the gorge. Or, you may choose to don a rain poncho to get up close to Horseshoe Falls during a thrilling boat cruise to its misty base. Alternatively, delve into nature during a hike at the Niagara Glen Nature Reserve.
Day 3: Point Pelee, Ontario
The southernmost point on the Canadian mainland, Point Pelee is an important stopover point for migratory birds; more than 350 different species have been spotted on this tiny sandspit that juts into the northwestern corner of Lake Erie. Canoe or kayak through the marshlands that comprise much of the spit. Or, hike along park trails to discover the local flora and fauna that inhabit the forests.
Day 4: Detroit, Michigan
Experience the resilient culture of Detroit, nicknamed “Motor City” because it is considered the automobile capital of the world, which sits on the border with the US and Canada. Celebrate 20th-century American ingenuity during a visit to The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and tour the centuries-spanning collection of works at the renowned Detroit Institute of Arts museum. Learn about the city’s maritime heritage or discover Detroit’s role in the Underground Railroad.
Day 5: Alpena, Michigan
Today visit Alpena, the gateway to the Thunder Bay National Maritime Sanctuary, an underwater preserve that protects an estimated 200 sunken vessels spanning much of the Great Lakes’ history of shipping. Paddle a kayak along the shoreline and view several of these shipwrecks that rest in the shallows, then learn more about the region’s strong ties to Lake Huron during a visit to the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. Join a scientist for a Privileged Access exploration of Thunder Bay Island or learn about the local ecosystem during a hike at North Point Nature Preserve.
Day 6: Mackinac Island, Michigan
Enjoy an exciting day on idyllic Mackinac Island, located in the Straits of Mackinac, which link Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. This charming island is well known as a haven for pedestrians and bicyclists; motor vehicles are banned here, and the only way to access the island is by boat. Take a sightseeing excursion by horse-drawn carriage to important historical sites. Or, choose to dine at the elegant Grand Hotel, a Victorian-era building with the world’s longest front porch. Alternatively, explore the forested shores of Mackinac Island by kayak.
Day 7: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Spend the day in Milwaukee, located along the scenic shores and steep bluffs of Lake Michigan. This vibrant city is renowned for its rich beer brewing traditions. During the second half of the 19th century, German immigrants arrived in Milwaukee in several waves, bringing with them their knowledge of industrial brewing techniques. Today, the city remains home to several iconic beer brands, including dozens of microbreweries. Indulge in a taste of the local German heritage during a visit to a local brewery and sausage house, or explore the city’s network of rivers via kayak.
Day 8: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Disembark your ship this morning as your journey comes to an end. Alternately, you may choose to extend your experience with a stay in Chicago.
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Direction | Nordic Balcony | Deluxe Nordic Balcony | Nordic Penthouse | Nordic Junior Suite | Explorer Suite | Owner’s Suite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28, 2023 | Toronto to Milwaukee | $6,295 | $6,795 | $8,495 | $10,095 | $12,495 | $16,495 |
| May 5, 2023 | Milwaukee to Toronto | $6,595 | $7,095 | $8,795 | $10,495 | $12,995 | $16,995 |
| May 12, 2023 | Toronto to Milwaukee | $6,795 | $7,295 | $8,995 | $10,795 | $13,495 | $17,495 |
| May 27, 2023 | Toronto to Milwaukee | $6,995 | $7,495 | $9,195 | $11,095 | $13,995 | $17,995 |
| Jun 3, 2023 | Milwaukee to Toronto | $7,295 | $7,795 | $9,495 | $11,495 | $14,495 | $18,495 |
| Jun 16, 2023 | Milwaukee to Toronto | $7,295 | $7,795 | $9,495 | $11,495 | $14,495 | $18,495 |
| Jun 23, 2023 | Toronto to Milwaukee | $7,295 | $7,795 | $9,495 | $11,495 | $14,495 | $18,495 |
| Jul 14, 2023 | Milwaukee to Toronto | $7,295 | $7,795 | $9,495 | $11,495 | $14,495 | $18,495 |
Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers
The Ship
Viking Octantis
The 378-passenger Polar Class 6 Viking Octantis is optimally sized and built for expeditions – small enough to navigate the St. Lawrence River, while large enough to provide superior handling and stability in the roughest seas. The ship features public spaces that are familiar to Viking’s ocean cruise guests but that have been reimagined for expeditions, as well as new public spaces created specifically for expeditions.