Travelpack

Milwaukee • Mackinac Island • Sault Ste. Marie • Parry Sound • Killarney • Tobermory • Windsor • Welland Canal • Toronto • Saint Lawrence River • Montreal • Quebec • Saguenay • Tadoussac • Gaspé • Îles de la Madeleine • Halifax

Experience a spectacular 20-day luxury journey from London through the Great Lakes and along the Saint Lawrence River, blending breathtaking nature, vibrant cities, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Sail aboard the boutique Hanseatic Inspiration as you explore charming islands, historic towns, soaring fjords, and iconic cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec—all framed by the fiery colours of autumn. From whale-watching in Tadoussac to engineering marvels like the Welland Canal and the cultural depth of Detroit and Halifax, this adventure delivers inspiring moments at every turn for travellers seeking comfort, discovery, and wow-factor scenery.

Day 1: Milwaukee
London Heathrow Airport to Milwaukee Gen. Mitchell Field Airport Via Chicago O'Hare International Airport
Stay at Kimpton Journeyman Hotel by IHG

Day 2: Great Lakes Expedition / Milwaukee, Lake Michigan
Begin your expedition in Milwaukee, where you embark on the Hanseatic Inspiration. Settle into your outside cabin and explore the ship's amenities, from the spa and saunas to the extensive sports programme. Attend the welcome briefing and enjoy a gourmet dinner as the ship departs for Lake Michigan, marking the start of your Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River journey.

Day 2:Mackinac Island, Lake Huron
Mackinac Island is considered a natural jewel of the Great Lakes, one of the most beautiful islands in the USA. Discover this small, car-free idyll at your own pace, either by bicycle or on a carriage ride. While the Victorian mansions and the Grand Hotel recount tales from the 19th century, Fort Mackinac evokes memories of the American Revolutionary War.

Day 3:Sault Ste. Marie
A stroll through Sault Ste. Marie allows you to immerse yourself in captivating immigrant stories at the museum or marvel at the impressive lock system that separates Canada and the USA.

Day 4: Parry Sound
The small HANSEATIC inspiration is truly in its element as it navigates the charming water labyrinth to Parry Sound. Discover the town and the nearby lakeshore on the Marine Walking Trails, or embark on a boat tour through the 30,000 Islands. The islands rise densely from the water, forming a diverse archipelago landscape with narrow channels and imposing cliffs. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the unforgettable panoramic views at Killbear Provincial Park, where pink granite shores and autumn-red forests meld into a breathtaking scene.

Day 5:Killarney
The small coastal town of Killarney carries its Irish roots in its name. George Island, which can be reached by ferry, is a green island that now displays its colourful side in autumn. Exploring this uninhabited isle is defined by numerous outdoor activities and a profound sense of freedom. Discover Killarney at your own pace and enjoy a Zodiac ride showcasing beautiful landscapes and excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. With a bit of luck, you may spot cormorants, Canada geese, and bald eagles.

Day 6:Tobermory
Maritime charm awaits you as you journey on Lake Huron to the fishing village of Tobermory in Georgian Bay. Limestone coastlines, small coves, and Canadian flora define your impressions during an individual exploration along the Bruce Trail.

Day 7:Windsor, Detroit River
Ahead of you lies the vast expanse of Lake Erie and the impressive passage along the Detroit River to the Canadian city of Windsor. From the ship, enjoy the finest views of the skyline of Detroit former "Motor City" of the USAon the opposite riverbank. Your visit to Detroit takes you to the roots of automotive history and showcases the architectural variety of this once-again thriving city. Following in the footsteps of Henry Ford, the namesake museum commemorates the "masterpieces" of roads and rails.

Day 8:Welland Canal
The next stage of your journey is the lock adventure in the Welland Canal. Follow the challenging passage from the bow's observation deck or from the many open deck areas. Your small ship will navigate through eight locks, overcoming almost 100 metres in elevation, equivalent to the rise of the Niagara Falls. This feat is made possible by the retractable bridge wings.

Day 9: Toronto, Lake Ontario
In Toronto, a city tour by tram showcases how skyscrapers, parks, and trendy neighbourhoods harmoniously coexist. As Canada's largest city, Toronto has taken over from Montreal, which held this role for decades, to become the nation's economic hub and one of the world's leading financial centres. The city is situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the five Great Lakes. Additionally, Toronto is not far from North America's most famous waterfall,s the Niagara Falls.

Day 10:Saint Lawrence River
Next, an extraordinary passage awaits you: the lock adventure on the Saint Lawrence River. This nautical masterpiece is accomplished by only a few ships. From the deck, you can closely observe the overcoming of elevation changes in the seven locks.

Day 11: Montreal
Afterwards, Montreal, the world's second-largest French-speaking city, welcomes you with its European charm. A city tour connects picturesque townhouses and wide boulevards with a stroll through the underground city. Alternatively, the vineyards in the Eastern Townships may awaken the sommelier within you.

Day 12:Quebec
French savoir vivre and Canadian joie de vivre invite you to explore the historic district of Quebec. Discover the city's landmarks on a city tour. Your journey takes you past some of Canada's oldest French settlements, leading to the Montmorency Falls and Ile d'Orleans.

Day 13: Saguenay
The Indian Summer adds vibrant accents in shades of red and yellow to your route. While the timing and intensity of this natural phenomenon are difficult to predict, your travel period is ideal for capturing these vivid impressions. One of the largest tributaries of the Saint Lawrence River, the Saguenay, is especially picturesque at this time of year. Experience the wilderness actively with a hike or from above in a seaplane. As you cruise through the Saguenay Fjord, you might be fortunate enough to spot belugas, which can be found here year-round, hunting for fish and plankton.

Day 14:Tadoussac
During the passage, the onboard experts will share the region's rich history from the early Woodland period and the First Nations to its current economic significance. Near Tadoussac, you may be fortunate enough to spot belugas, blue whales, humpback whales, or fin whales during a whale-watching excursion.

Day 15: Gaspe
The local colour of the small town of Gaspe is defined by the surrounding picturesque bays and cliffs. The vibrant hues of autumn are once again on display as you embark on a scenic drive across the peninsula and through Forillon National Park. This paradise for amateur ornithologists can also be actively explored on a hike.

Day 16 - 17:Iles de la Madeleine, Prince Edward Island
On the les de la Madeleine, red cliffs and long sandy beaches create intoxicating island impressions. Alternatively, a culinary tour offers a delightful combination of cheese, seafood, and brewing craftsmanship. In Charlottetown, on Prince Edward Island, you will explore the birthplace of Canada. The history of the Confederation is complemented by the natural beauty experienced during a scenic drive or a visit to an oyster fisher.

Day 18: At Sea
Spend a full day at sea enjoying the ship's amenities, expert lectures, and onboard activities. Relax in the spa, attend a briefing on upcoming ports, or join an interactive workshop in photography, wildlife, or navigation.

Day 19:Halifax, Nova Scotia
Arrive in Halifax, where your expedition concludes. After breakfast, disembark and transfer to your onward journey, whether it's a city exploration, a connecting flight, or a hotel stay. Take in the scenic harbour views and reflect on your Great Lakes and St. Lawrence adventure.

Day 20: Halifax Premium Tour
Halifax Premium Tour: Peggy's Cove, Citadel & Titanic Cemetery. This half-day small-group tour from Halifax offers a convenient and comfortable way to explore several of Nova Scotia's top attractions without the hassle of planning transportation or tickets. Travelling by air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off included, you'll enjoy a scenic drive to the charming fishing village of Peggy's Cove to see its iconic lighthouse. The tour continues to the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, where a costumed guide leads you through historic grounds, tunnels, and prison cells dating back to 1745. You'll pass by the Victorian-era Halifax Public Gardens before stopping at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the well-known resting place of more than 100 Titanic victims. The experience wraps up with a narrated driving tour of downtown Halifax, showcasing landmarks such as Pier 21 and the Halifax Farmers Market, before returning you to your chosen drop-off point.

Day 20: Halifax Premium Tour

What is included in the offer:
• Return flights from Heathrow with 23kg baggage
• 2 nights at the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel by IHG, Milwaukee
• 18 nights full-board cruise on board Hanseatic Inspiration
•All meals
• Selected soft drinks
• 24-hour room service
• Expert-led explorations & shore excursions
• Zodiac landings
• Lectures and daily briefings
• Extensive sports programme
• Spa with Finnish sauna, steam sauna, indoor and outdoor relaxation area
• Gratuities
• 2 nights at the Prince George Hotel, Halifax
• Halifax Premium Tour: Peggy's Cove, Citadel & Titanic Cemetery

Based on 2 adults sharing
Deposit: £3,299pp
• B02611 Heathrow from £13,499pp

Meal Plans