Overview

In our own backyard is one of the world’s grandest waterways—and in the early days of summer 2012 we would like you to join us on an unforgettable voyage from Montreal, down the St. Lawrence Seaway, and through the Great Lakes to Chicago. Why travel to faraway destinations when breathtaking scenery, remarkable history, and one-of-a-kind ecosystems lie at your doorstep?




On this magnificent voyage, cruise all five lakes and also navigate the fantastic canals of the St. Lawrence Seaway. Begin with a combination of wonderful scenery and impressive engineering. The St. Lawrence Seaway, which stretches for more than 2,340 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the heart of North America, is a technological marvel of canals and locks. The stretch of the Seaway from Montreal to Lake Ontario is considered one of the most amazing engineering feats in history. Seven locks will lift our ship 247 feet above sea level in order to enter Lake Ontario.

Right after transiting this incredible waterway, encounter the Thousand Islands, one of the most scenic stretches of the entire area. This small archipelago of verdant islands, shared between the U.S. and Canada, is truly a North American gem. And the undisputed queen of Lake Ontario is Toronto, where we will spend a full day exploring this dynamic and cosmopolitan city. To pass from Lake Ontario to Lake Erie, Yorktown will pass through the other engineering marvel of the Seaway, the incomparable Welland Canal, whose eight locks will lift our ship 326.5 feet over the Niagara Escarpment.

In the Great Lakes, a new world opens up before you. The pristine habitats of Point Pelee National Park and Manitoulin Island are home to more than 370 species of birds, including the rare Red-shouldered hawk. Manitoulin is also the ancestral land of the Ojibwe tribe, and we have arranged to arrive at the Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve in time for a traditional powwow. Also call at Mackinac Island, a Victorian treasure where visitors travel about in horse-drawn carriages: cars and buses are banned from the island.

Our ship is the American-flagged and -operated 138-guest Yorktown. This handsome, comfortable small cruise ship features cabins that face outside, a lounge and dining room that are surrounded by large windows, and broad promenade decks.

This Great Lakes voyage has had travelers raving about the beauty of the scenery and the pleasures of the cruise. This is a voyage you will never forget, and it is right here, in your own backyard.