Let’s face it. Traveling on cruises internationally these days can be a challenge. Cancelled flights, lost baggage, cramped airline seats, missed connections….we’ve been there, done that.
That is why our recent experience onboard the Viking Octantis Great Lakes cruise was such an extreme pleasure. We boarded our flight here in San Diego for a smooth, on-time landing in Milwaukee. As always, the gracious Viking crew was on hand to welcome us and “hold our hands” as they whisked us away to our lovely hotel, the Pfister. Opened in 1913, this historic hotel, with murals and furnishings that hark back to the 19th century and feature famous German artists of the time, has hosted every US President since William McKinley.
We spent a delightful day exploring Milwaukee, which is filled with impressive historical buildings, a picturesque River Walk, and a colorful Farmer’s Market, among other sites of interest.
Mackinac Island Main Street
Photo credit: Joanne DiBona
Viking specializes in detailed and interesting shore excursions, and our first, a visit to Mackinac Island, was definitely a highlight of our trip. Cars are not permitted on this island and you can literally go back in time, as horse-drawn carriages are the only means of public transportation. It’s a unique and unforgettable blast to the past, indeed.
Our next port-of-call was Perry Sound, Ontario Canada. It goes down in history as the world’s deepest freshwater port. The town itself is very picturesque and worth a serious stroll. For a more in depth look at the flora and fauna of this region, pay a visit to the UNESCO-designated Georgian Bay Biosphere, where you can watch baby turtles hatch!
The next stop was the romantic and inspirational Georgian Bay Killarney. As photographers, we were inspired by this location, which has a historical significance, as it was the favorite site of the famous Canadian artists “Group of Seven.” Our photos reflect what the voyager can still experience onboard this cruise.
Squeezing through the Soo Locks Photo credit: Tony DiBona
Another exceptional experience onboard was squeezing through the famous Soo Locks, which allowed our ship to passage from Lake Huron to Lake Erie. The locks opened in 1855 to allow ships to bypass the river’s 21-ft fall over rolling rapids and it remains one of the greatest engineering feats of its day.
Our next to final stop were the Silver Islet & Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, where one can enjoy magnificent views of the granite-collared rock, eagles, and more from the comfort of a Viking high speed launch boat.
Kakabeka Falls Photo credit: Tony DiBona
Our final destination was the picturesque and historically-significant town of Thunder Bay, Canada. Not only does this lovely city feature delightful old neighborhoods and an exceptional culinary scene, you won’t want to miss a trip just outside of town to to the Fort William Historical Park. Here you will experience life in the 18th century, complete with authentic reenactments . It’s Canada’s version of Virginia’s Williamsburg, and definitely not to be missed. On your way, take some time to explore the thundering Kakabeka Falls and the picturesque hikes surrounding the area.
Both of Viking’s expedition vessels, the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris will be sailing Great Lakes itineraries starting in Spring 2024. The first sailings begin in April 2024.
We hope you’ll enjoy an entire gallery of our various experiences on this cruise adventure through the Great Lakes onboard the award-winning Viking line. For more photos of this beautiful region, check out our entire gallery of photos by clicking at this link below::