Trip Summary
Discover the majestic beauty of North America’s Great Lakes on a deluxe 8-night voyage aboard Le Bellot, a state-of-the-art small ship offering refined comfort and five-star amenities. This enriching itinerary explores five iconic lakes, seamlessly blending natural wonders, cultural heritage, and regional history. From Milwaukee’s revitalized waterfront to the Victorian charm of Mackinac Island and the engineering marvels of the Soo and Welland Canals, each stop showcases a distinct facet of the Great Lakes’ story. Guests will witness thundering Niagara Falls, connect with Ojibwe traditions on Manitoulin Island, and sail through the UNESCO-protected Georgian Bay.
Aboard the elegant Le Bellot, enjoy the intimacy of a 92-stateroom ship featuring private balconies, gourmet dining, open bar service, and PONANT’s signature Blue Eye underwater lounge. Daily excursions are led by expert guides, complemented by enriching talks from Smithsonian Journeys Experts and a Dartmouth faculty host. With curated experiences in both the U.S. and Canada, this journey offers a rare chance to explore the Great Lakes in luxurious style, surrounded by fellow Dartmouth alumni, family, and friends.
Event Itinerary
Day 1: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Arrive in Milwaukee and transfer to the ship Le Bellot for embarkation
- Enjoy a Welcome Dinner as you begin your journey on Lake Michigan
Day 2: Lake Michigan & Mackinac Island
- Take a guided horse-drawn carriage tour on Mackinac Island, including the Grand Hotel and Fort Mackinac
- Explore the island's Victorian charm and scenic views before sailing onward
Day 3: Sault Ste. Marie
- Choose between visits to Tahquamenon Falls or the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
- Cruise through the Soo Locks into Lake Superior, returning via the historic Canadian Lock
Day 4: Little Current, Manitoulin Island
- Visit the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation and experience indigenous traditions
- Optional hike to Bridal Veil Falls or kayaking on the Kagawong River
Day 5: Parry Sound & Lake Huron
- Cruise Georgian Bay’s Thirty Thousand Islands or explore Killbear Provincial Park
- Learn about the area’s unique flora, fauna, and glacial landscapes
Day 6: St. Clair River & At Sea
- Sail past Detroit along the historic trade routes of the Detroit and St. Clair Rivers
- Take in views of Motor City and the Ambassador Bridge
Day 7: Port Colborne & Lake Erie
- Visit Niagara Falls, including a close-up boat ride near Horseshoe Falls
- Relax in the afternoon with scenic sailing on Lake Erie
Day 8: Welland Canal, Canada
- Sail through the engineering marvel of the Welland Canal’s eight locks
- Witness the ship rise 326 feet from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario
Day 9: Toronto, Ontario
- Disembark in Toronto and transfer to the airport for flights home