American Queen Voyages announced three new Great Lakes sailings for fall 2022. For the first time in the cruise line’s history, guests will have evening shoreside options with overnights in Mackinac Island, Montreal, Toronto and Quebec City. Sailing departures for 15-day voyages are September 5 Montreal to Chicago, September 18 Chicago to Montreal and a 12-day roundtrip Montreal on Oct. 1, 2022. As an added bonus, the 12- and 15-day voyages depart during the heart of autumn onboard the Ocean Navigator, offering views of regional fall foliage.
“Our valued-travel advisors and guests shared how much they enjoy overnights in port while cruising Europe, so we adjusted these autumn voyages to offer opportunities to explore similar storied ports after the sun goes down here in North America,” said Shawn Bierdz, chief operating officer, American Queen Voyages, in a press statement. “Sunset strolls along the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal and sipping a warm cider during a Mackinac Island carriage ride are among the moments our guests can now enjoy.”
Ocean Navigator welcomes up to 202 guests, delivering immersive Lakes & Ocean experiences in North America sailing the Great Lakes, Canada, New England, Southeast U.S.A., Yucatan and Mexico. During these newly announced sailings the boutique coastal vessel will call on the ports of Clayton, N.Y., in the heart of the Thousand Islands region, and Port Weller, Ontario for the first time.
Overnight Port Highlights
Mackinac Island
The entirety of this charming island is a National Historic Landmark where motor vehicles are not allowed, so explorations of Fort Mackinac are done by horse-drawn carriage. Guests may visit the iconic Grand Hotel for a sunset cocktail. The coastal resort, famed for hosting presidents, authors and inventors, is also known for having “The World’s Longest Porch.”
Toronto
Toronto is the leading destination for tourists in Canada—a bold, dynamic city offering superb attractions, music and events. Considered Canada’s premier metropolis, the bustling city also provides diverse dining delicacies and a variety of culinary pursuits, including St. Lawrence Market, where the flavors of Toronto have come alive in authentic artisan foods for more than 200 years.
Montreal
This included city tour will showcase attractions that are urban wonders steeped in history. Guests will also have time to visit restaurants, music venues, and galleries well into the night.
Quebec City
The Chateau Frontenac—now a hotel—which towers over Upper Town, evoking the grandeur of a country estate. Within moments of appreciating the city’s sleek gentility, guests feel as if they are whisked across the Atlantic for a European getaway. An evening cocktail and charcuterie board at a local bistro will be a favorite dining activity in Quebec City for many.
Guest fares begin at $4,499 pp.
For more information visit aqvoyages.com.
Also, check out American Queen Voyages’ new partnership with Rocky Mountaineer. For more cruise news, click here.
