Voyage to the Great LakesA cruise adventure through North America’s Inland Seas

Itinerary

August 18 - Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Embark
Fly to Toronto and embark Yorktown in the afternoon. Sail in the early evening. (D)

August 19 - Lake Ontario, Niagara Falls, Welland Canal, Port Colborne
Yorktown begins its dramatic passage from Lake Ontario to Lake Erie via the Welland Canal. A series of eight locks designed as a continuous flight of “stairs” lowers Yorktown 326.5 feet over a distance of 27 miles. Disembark for an excursion to Niagara Falls, one of North America’s most spectacular natural wonders, where you’ll see both the American Falls and Horseshoe (Canadian) Falls. Return to the ship to transit the Canal, and from the decks witness the mechanics of this engineering marvel which took over 100 years to complete. (B,L,D)

August 20 - Cleveland, Ohio
Sitting where the Cuyahoga River meets Lake Erie, Cleveland is home to a monumental downtown and a rich cultural legacy. Over nine million people visit this city on the lake, founded on the wealth of steel and oil barons. Cleveland’s industrial foundation is very much in evidence, though downtown’s steel warehouses and tool-and-die factories now house smart restaurants, cafés, and shops, and its many bridges lead to revitalized neighborhoods. Your tour of the city will include the striking I. M. Pei-designed Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, located on the Lake Erie waterfront. Also tour the superb Cleveland Museum of Art, noted for its collection of European paintings, as well as American, Asian, and African Art, or the Cleveland Botanical Garden. (B,L,D)

August 21 - Cruising Lake Erie and Lake Huron
Enjoy a day at sea as Yorktown navigates from Lake Huron through the St. Clair River into Lake St. Clair and on to the Detroit River. On your way to Lake Erie, pass by the glittering city of Detroit, with its beautifully renovated International Riverfront, attractive waterfront parks, and the Renaissance Center, home of General Motors’ world headquarters. (B,L,D)

August 22 - Mackinac Island
Arrive in beautiful Mackinac Island, a Victorian-era haven where cars are forbidden and bicycles share the road with horse-drawn carriages. During your exploration of this idyllic island you'll see the ancient limestone formations that were considered sacred by the Straits Indians; the impressive Fort Mackinac, built atop a high cliff by the British in 1780; and the landmark Victorian Grand Hotel. You'll also enjoy free time to stroll along streets lined with Victorian buildings and browse in the charming shops. (B,L,D)

August 23 - Charlevoix
The tumbling hills of Michigan’s scenic northwest are blanketed with maple and spruce. Explore lovely Charlevoix, including the whimsical “mushroom” houses built by local architect Earl Young. (B,L,D)

August 24 - Saugatuck, Michigan
Arrive this morning in Saugatuck, nestled off the shores of Lake Michigan and Kalamazoo Lake. Originally a lumber town, Saugatuck eventually became known for its fruit production, especially its peaches. In the early 1900s Saugatuck was a prime summer destination for Chicago urbanites. Today, it is known for its historic buildings and churches, unique shops, and many art galleries, which you will have the opportunity to visit. Also take a scenic ride through the dunes on specially designed dune schooners. (B,L,D)

August 25 - Chicago, Illinois, Disembark
Disembark in Chicago following breakfast. (B)