Helpful Things To Know Before You Go

• The season for cruising the Great Lakes runs from late May to mid-September, and is the only viable period for these cruises, as the rest of the year the water is variably frozen over. You may catch autumnal colours in late August and early September in the northern areas.
• The Great Lakes sit within US and Canadian territories, using the US and Canadian dollar respectively. Tipping is expected in both countries, so be sure to keep cash on hand and take tips into account when planning meals and activities on land.
• Expect lots of ‘sea’ days, and plan accordingly. The Great Lakes are enormous and crossing them takes some time. Bear this in mind when choosing your cruise, with an eye for the shipboard facilities and entertainment you’re most interested in, so you can enjoy your time aboard your luxurious ship to the fullest.
• Given your Great Lakes cruise will occur during the warmer months of the year, packing for cold weather isn’t necessary, but bringing waterproofs in case of sudden showers while hiking or exploring is a good idea. Suncream, too, is a must-have.
• Great Lakes cruises are often one-way, meaning you’ll be departing from a different airport to the one you arrived at when you return home. This offers a good opportunity to pursue a post-cruise holiday inland to explore more of North America.

Things To Do

• Visit Niagara Falls. Accessible via the Niagara River off Lake Erie, these towering falls and their attendant city make for an absolutely unforgettable destination for any traveller. Truly a magnificent sight, and one you’ll not want to miss.
• Explore bustling American and Canadian cities. From Chicago to Toronto, there’s some famous and iconic cities studding the shores of the Great Lakes. Your cruise here is a great chance to discover the many wonders they have to offer.
• Marvel at spectacular scenery and natural beauty. From the shimmering surfaces of the lakes themselves and the daily spectacle of the sunset over the waters to rugged island shores, the Great Lakes hold fathomless beauty. Nature lovers can hike in a number of state parks or visit islands, enjoying the views in every moment.
• Learn local history and culture. From the far-reaching history of the indigenous peoples of North America to the storied tales of the many colonists, the Great Lakes have many tales to tell. Their enormity, so great as to compare them to inland seas, has made them critical hubs of trade, civilisation and commerce throughout history.
• Take advantage of seasonal highlights. Cruisers coming early in the Great Lakes season may get the chance to attend the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan, featuring thousands of tulips. Meanwhile, those travelling towards the end of the season in September will have the chance to see the breathtaking autumnal colours begin to cover the forested horizons.

Why Book With Kenwood Travel

With decades of experience in crafting the perfect cruises, Kenwood Travel has the knowhow and the passion to bring your Great Lakes cruise dream to life. Our specialists have expert local knowledge that allows us to arrange the very best itineraries for you, giving you finely-tailored advice on which ports to pick and the best excursions for your desires, and so much more. Get in touch today, and we’ll help you plan the Great Lakes voyage of a lifetime.