If you’re planning a trip to the Great Lakes, you may be wondering how long a typical cruise lasts. The answer depends on several factors, including the cruise line, itinerary, and your own preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the different options available for Great Lakes cruises and help you determine how long of a trip is right for you.
Cruise Lines
Several cruise lines offer trips to the Great Lakes, each with their own unique itineraries and durations. Some popular options include American Cruise Lines, Victory Cruise Lines, and Pearl Seas Cruises.
American Cruise Lines offers both 8-day and 11-day cruises that depart from Chicago and visit ports in Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ontario. Victory Cruise Lines has a 10-day itinerary that departs from Toronto and travels through all five of the Great Lakes. Pearl Seas Cruises offers a 10-day trip that starts in Toronto or Chicago and includes stops in Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ontario, and Quebec.
Itineraries
The length of your Great Lakes cruise will also depend on the itinerary you choose. Some trips focus entirely on one lake (such as Lake Superior or Lake Michigan), while others travel through multiple lakes.
For example, American Cruise Lines’ 8-day itinerary spends most of its time on Lake Michigan but also includes stops in Green Bay (Wisconsin) and Mackinac Island (Michigan). Their 11-day itinerary adds more stops in Michigan as well as ports in Wisconsin and Ontario.
Victory Cruise Lines’ 10-day itinerary travels through all five Great Lakes, with stops in Cleveland (Ohio), Duluth (Minnesota), Mackinac Island (Michigan), Niagara Falls (New York), and more.
Pearl Seas Cruises’ 10-day trip starts in either Toronto or Chicago and includes several ports in Michigan before heading north to Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario) and continuing on to Thunder Bay (Ontario) and Duluth (Minnesota).
- 8-day trips
- 10-day trips
- 11-day trips
Factors to Consider
When deciding how long of a Great Lakes cruise to take, there are several factors to consider:
Budget
Longer cruises tend to be more expensive than shorter ones due to the additional days at sea and more ports of call.
Time Constraints
If you only have a certain amount of time for your vacation, a shorter cruise may be more feasible. However, if you have the luxury of time, a longer trip can allow for more relaxation and exploration.
Interests
Consider what types of activities and destinations interest you most. If you’re a history buff, you may want to choose an itinerary that includes stops at museums and historic sites. If you’re more interested in natural beauty, look for trips that visit national parks or scenic areas.
In Conclusion:
The length of your Great Lakes cruise ultimately depends on your budget, time constraints, and interests. Whether you choose an 8-day trip or opt for a longer excursion through all five lakes, there are plenty of options available to suit any traveler’s needs. By considering these factors and doing your research on different cruise lines and itineraries, you can find the perfect Great Lakes cruise for your next vacation.