Great Lakes Cruises

Play Video Great Lakes Cruises

Cruise the scenic Thousand Islands and travel to charming coastal towns found along the Great Lakes on an unforgettable journey. From castle-dotted archipelagos to the engineering marvel of the Welland Canal, our thoughtfully crafted Great Lakes cruises deliver both an enriching and relaxing experience aboard our modern small ships. 

Stroll along picturesque waterfronts in vibrant cities like Buffalo, Detroit, and Milwaukee. Step back in time on enchanting Mackinac Island, sail across Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, or admire the breathtaking power of Niagara Falls near Lake Erie. Enjoy the musical legacy of Motown, or explore the impressive Harley-Davidson Museum. Delight in coastal gems like Sheboygan and Escanaba, where tranquil shores and celebrated lighthouses await. Led by our engaging guides, you will experience the most personalized exploration of each Great Lakes destination.

Play Video Great Lakes Cruises

For a limited time, receive Free Airfare & Savings up to $1,000* on select Lake Michigan & Upper Peninsula cruises.

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Great Lakes Cruises Guest Reviews

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Featured Ports

Detroit, MI

Explore the rich history of the city as our local expert narrates the story of the music that makes Michigan so special. From jazz to gospel, R&B, rock, rap, and other genres, discover Detroit’s deep musical roots. Visit the Henry Ford Museum and discover the array of famous and rare exhibits, including Thomas Edison’s laboratory, Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theatre, and the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand, by taking a seat.

Mackinac Island, MI

Mackinac Island is a living Victorian town where personal motorized vehicles are prohibited. Be transported back in time on a guided horse-drawn carriage ride through this small and exciting island. Led by a knowledgeable local, explore the island’s incredible beauty, ride past the famous Grand Hotel and Victorian summer cottages, and learn how islanders rely upon horses, carriages, and bicycles for daily living.

Clayton, NY

The Port of Clayton provides a vibrant gateway to the Thousand Islands, blending history and waterfront charm. Explore Boldt Castle’s romantic architecture, the Antique Boat Museum’s classic craft, and the Thousand Islands Museum’s lively tales of river life. Downtown Clayton invites visitors to browse boutiques, galleries, and cafés that reflect the community’s river heritage and provide a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Discover Michigan’s oldest city, Sault Sainte Marie, where history, nature, and adventure meet. Cruise the scenic St. Marys River and pass through the famous Soo Locks while learning about their 300-year-old history. Visit the Museum Ship Valley Camp to explore an authentic Great Lakes freighter, view crew cabins, and see the powerful Edmund Fitzgerald memorial featuring two original lifeboats from the legendary shipwreck.

America's Most Awarded U.S. Small Ship Cruise Line

What Sets Us Apart

Discover the Great Lakes on an unforgettable small ship journey through dramatic landscapes and vibrant waterfront cities. Cruise the scenic Thousand Islands, featuring storybook castles and secluded islands scattered across the sparkling St. Lawrence River. Navigate the Welland Canal, an engineering marvel, and visit the harbors of Buffalo and Detroit with our expert guides.

A Truly American Journey

Our journeys are proudly American from bow to stern. Built, flagged, and crewed in the United States, our ships offer an authentic way to experience the landscapes and stories that make America extraordinary. On the Great Lakes, take in views of historic lighthouses perched on rocky points, freighters passing in the distance, and iconic sights like the Mackinac Bridge and the Soo Locks.

Onboard Enrichment

Learn about the region's rich maritime history from our onboard experts as they share tales of legendary shipwrecks, heroic lighthouse keepers, and the shipping routes that built the Midwest. Gain insight into the diverse freshwater ecosystems and wildlife, including migratory birds, native fish, and the ever-changing shoreline. In the evening, unwind with live music, from spirited piano and guitar melodies to folk songs rooted in the Great Lakes' cultural traditions.

All-Inclusive Cruising

Enjoy the largest staterooms in the industry, complete with a private balcony and inviting lounges and social areas on every ship. Relax and take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Lakes. Your cruise fare covers everything, including delicious meals and beverages, at least one excursion in every port, access to our signature nightly cocktail hour, onboard entertainment, and all port fees and gratuities. Every Great Lakes cruise also includes a hotel stay and transportation to the ship, creating a seamless journey from start to finish.

Stunning Balcony Views

Relax in the comfort of your spacious stateroom, with a private, fully furnished balcony that expands your living space and offers a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Lakes region. Glide past magnificent cliffs, forested shorelines, and lakeside towns rich in maritime history. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet morning coffee or simply unwinding, your balcony invites natural light and fresh air, creating a serene connection to the outdoors.

Great Lakes Region FAQs

The Great Lakes cruise season typically runs from spring through fall, generally May through October. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours, while early fall is known for scenic foliage along the shorelines. American Cruise Lines operates its Great Lakes itineraries within this seasonal window.

Great Lakes cruising is calmer and more stable than ocean cruising because the ships travel on inland freshwater rather than open ocean. There are no ocean swells or tides, though wind can still create some movement on larger lakes. Overall, the experience is often described as smoother, with less motion than is commonly felt at sea.

Cruise guests may see freshwater coastlines, forests, cliffs, and inland waterways, along with notable landmarks like islands and canals. Wildlife sightings can include birds, deer, and other regional species. American Cruise Lines highlights scenic cruising areas like Mackinac Island and the Great Lakes shorelines as key visual highlights.

Weather on the Great Lakes varies by season but is generally mild during the cruising months. Summers are typically warm, while spring and fall can be cooler. Conditions can change quickly, so travelers should be prepared for a mix.