Guest of Honour 
Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom
19 m²
2
Great Lakes of North America
Milwaukee - Toronto
Dates:
11/9/2023
to
18/9/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
With featured guest the historian and political scientist Nicole Bacharan.
Set sail with PONANT aboard Le Bellot for an 8-day cruise discovering the Great Lakes of North America, in the heart of a flamboyant nature full of the colours of the Indian summer.
You will leave from Milwaukee, in the US state of Wisconsin, the beginning of your voyage following the footsteps of the first settlers, trappers and Native Americans, before a lovely sailing experience on Lake Michigan, a veritable inland sea.
The next lake, Lake Huron, boasts a myriad of islands in its northern part, with white rocks capped with conifers plunging into the sapphire waters of the lake.
You will also discover the charming city of Parry Sound, in the heart of the wonderful UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Georgian Bay.
Le Bellot will then sail the canal connecting Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. From this call in Port Colborne, you will be able to see the impressive sight of Niagara Falls. These three powerful waterfalls, renowned the world over, are an exquisite natural spectacle.
To round off your cruise, you will sail along the shimmering waters of Lake Ontario before making your way to the cosmopolitan city of Toronto, where you will disembark.
Ref : EE110923
Your itinerary
With featured guest the historian and political scientist Nicole Bacharan. A cruise crossing four of the five Great Lakes of North America, between the United States and Canada. UNESCO World Heritage Site:...
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Complete your trip
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Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE CHAMPLAIN
24/7/2023 to the 2/8/2023
LE BORÉAL
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
- New
- Last staterooms
LE PONANT
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Wi-Fi Internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Nicole Bacharan
Nicole Bacharan is a historian and political analyst, specialized in American society and relations between Europe and the United States.
She is a keynote or featured speaker at major conferences, and the author of more than twenty books, including several bestsellers, on international politics, the United States, and transatlantic affairs, as well as several educational novels for children and young adults.
As a consultant on foreign affairs, she is an expert commentator for top-tier French TV and radio, and a frequent analyst on American, Belgian, Swiss, and Italian television and radio stations. She publishes op-eds in, and gives frequent interviews to regional, national and international newspapers and magazines.
For many years, she has developed initiatives to promote the transatlantic relation and a better understanding between Europe and the United States. On the evening of 9/11, she left a mark on television viewers when she said “Tonight, we are all Americans”. In 2008, she testified as an expert witness in front of the Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Defense Committee on topics related to the full return of France to NATO.
Nicole Bacharan was an Associate Researcher at the Fondation Nationale des Sciences Politiques (Sciences Po Paris) and a National Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University (California)
On November 12, 2008, she was awarded the French Legion of Honor by President Nicolas Sarkozy.
Languages spoken: French, English
Photo credit: Patrice Normand
Nicole Bacharan will give few lectures, including :
- Is the United States still the world's policeman?
- The great days that changed America
- 2024: the United States, a nation on the verge of disintegration
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Nicole Bacharan
Nicole Bacharan is a historian and political analyst, specialized in American society and relations between Europe and the United States.
She is a keynote or featured speaker at major conferences, and the author of more than twenty books, including several bestsellers, on international politics, the United States, and transatlantic affairs, as well as several educational novels for children and young adults.
As a consultant on foreign affairs, she is an expert commentator for top-tier French TV and radio, and a frequent analyst on American, Belgian, Swiss, and Italian television and radio stations. She publishes op-eds in, and gives frequent interviews to regional, national and international newspapers and magazines.
For many years, she has developed initiatives to promote the transatlantic relation and a better understanding between Europe and the United States. On the evening of 9/11, she left a mark on television viewers when she said “Tonight, we are all Americans”. In 2008, she testified as an expert witness in front of the Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee and Defense Committee on topics related to the full return of France to NATO.
Nicole Bacharan was an Associate Researcher at the Fondation Nationale des Sciences Politiques (Sciences Po Paris) and a National Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University (California)
On November 12, 2008, she was awarded the French Legion of Honor by President Nicolas Sarkozy.
Languages spoken: French, English
Photo credit: Patrice Normand
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- With featured guest the historian and political scientist Nicole Bacharan.
- A cruise crossing four of the five Great Lakes of North America, between the United States and Canada.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Biosphere Reserve of Georgian Bay.
- An itinerary combining nature and culture: picturesque landscapes and geological curiosities, the history of the Native Americans inhabiting the region before European colonisation, charming villages, and metropolises bearing witness to North American economic vitality.
- Possibility of excursion to Niagara Falls.
- Charming port of call on Mackinac Island, with its preserved Victorian buildings.
- Opportunity to visit Chicago before your cruise.
Ports of Call & Excursions
11 September 2023 - Milwaukee
Embarkation 11/9/2023 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 11/9/2023 at 6:00 pm
Nested on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee, the largest city in the State of Wisconsin, harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. Industrial long ago, the city, known as Brew City because of its old breweries renowned all over the world, is experiencing a certain renaissance. While warehouses have given way to restaurants, bars, theatres and art galleries in the city centre, the district still retains traces of its manufacturing past. Further south lies Chicago, the economic centre of the Midwest, with an interesting mix of natural and urban landscapes: its immense skyscrapers, diverse architecture, many parks and magnificent beaches make the city a popular destination.
12 September 2023 - Sailing Lake Michigan
Arrival 12/9/2023
Departure 12/9/2023
You will sail the United States’ largest freshwater body, which gave its name to Michigan, one of the four states that border this lake measuring 500 km long and 200 km wide. The first colonists settled in the south at the end of the 17th century, on the site of the current megalopolis of Chicago. Wild landscapes of forests with sparkling colours, cliffs, golden sandy beaches and dunes as far as the eye can see stretch along its 2,600 km of shoreline. In the north, magnificent wind-swept islands rise out of the lake’s emerald waters. At 8 km long, the Mackinac Bridge, which spans the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, is one of the world’s longest suspension bridges.
12 September 2023 - Mackinac Island
Arrival 12/9/2023 midday
Departure 12/9/2023 early evening
Close to the banks of Lake Huron in the State of Michigan, Mackinac Island promises a real journey through time. Originally inhabited by Amerindians, then occupied by French and British colonists, this small island measuring only a few km² still retains an atmosphere of yesteryear today, with its Victorian-style buildings and elegant horse-drawn carriages. Fort Mackinac, on the heights of the island, is a reminder of the conflicts that punctuated the history of this strategic place, a former fur trade centre. In addition to this scenery from the past, the island offers magnificent fine sandy beaches and is home to one of the oldest National Parks in the United States.
13 September 2023 - Sault Ste. Marie
Arrival 13/9/2023 early morning
Departure 13/9/2023 mid afternoon
The oldest city in Ontario and the centre of one of North America’s oldest settlements, Sault Ste. Marie has a rich historical heritage due to its Amerindian, British and French influences. Linked to its neighbouring and homonymous American city by a bridge spanning St. Marys River, the city owes its name to the river’s many rapids, called “les saults de Sainte-Marie” by French colonists. The gateway to the Algoma region, renowned for its wild expanses, Sault Ste. Marie is also known as the home of the National Historic Site of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, which was completed at the end of the 19th century and constitutes the final part of a navigation network that connects the Atlantic Ocean to Lake Superior.
14 September 2023 - Little Current
Arrival 14/9/2023 early morning
Departure 14/9/2023 late afternoon
A small port town located along the North Channel of Lake Huron, Little Current is considered to be the gateway to Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world. The town’s emblematic construction, the Little Current Swing Bridge built in 1913, provides the only land access to the island, peaceful lands whose name means “the island of spirits” in the local dialect. A real haven of peace, sheltering wild nature and some hamlets, the place is ideal for outdoor activities such as horse-riding and hiking.
15 September 2023 - Parry Sound
Arrival 15/9/2023 midday
Departure 15/9/2023 late afternoon
The charming city of Parry Sound enjoys an exceptional natural setting in the heart of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, east of Georgian Bay. A holiday destination favoured by the province’s inhabitants, the city and its surroundings offer a condensed version of all that the Great Lakes region has to offer: windswept forests of conifers, rocky shores characteristic of the Canadian Shield, beaches of fine sand, clear and calm waters producing magnificent reflections that change with the time of day and luminosity… A real paradise for fauna and flora, the place will delight fans of nature and photography.
15 September 2023 - Sailing Lake Huron
Arrival 15/9/2023
Departure 15/9/2023
A natural border between the American State of Michigan and the Canadian province of Ontario, Lake Huron is one of the five American Great Lakes and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. Comprising the main lake, Saginaw Bay, the North Channel and Georgian Bay, and home to around 30,000 islands, it offers varied coastal landscapes and unique views. From your ship, you’ll thus be able to admire the wild beauty of the wooded and at times craggy coastline of Manitoulin Island, or the spectacular cliffs of the Bruce Peninsular.
16 September 2023 - Sailing St. Clair River
Arrival 16/9/2023
Departure 16/9/2023
Forming a natural line of separation between the United States and Canada, the St. Clair River, which flows from Lake Huron into Lake St. Clair, is a significant element of the Great Lakes Waterway. Used in the 18th century for the fur trade by the French colonists of North America who sailed it on small boats to trade with the Amerindians, it was then travelled by freighters transporting lumber, iron ore and copper from the Great Lakes region to the cities of the Rust Belt.
16 September 2023 - Sailing through Detroit
Arrival 16/9/2023
Departure 16/9/2023
During your navigation along the Detroit River, an important commercial waterway linking Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair to Lake Huron, you will sail along the largest city in Michigan. You’ll then enjoy panoramic views over the skyscrapers of the former Motor City, jewel of the automotive industry, Fordism and Motown music in the 20th century. You’ll also be able to admire the Ambassador Bridge, which spans the river and enables access to Windsor, on the Canadian shore of the river. This steel suspension bridge, over two kilometres long, was constructed in 1929. This bridge alone carries over 25% of trade between the United States and Canada.
17 September 2023 - Sailing Lake Erie
Arrival 17/9/2023
Departure 17/9/2023
Located to the south of Lake Huron and connected to Lake Ontario by the Welland Canal, Lake Erie, which owes its name to one of the Amerindian tribes which peopled its banks before the arrival of the French in the 17th century, is remarkable for its unique ecosystem. Its shallow fish-filled waters make it an excellent fishing spot, while its banks, famous for their many migratory birds, attract photographers and ornithology enthusiasts.
17 September 2023 - Port Colborne
Arrival 17/9/2023 midday
Departure 17/9/2023 evening
Port Colborne is a small port city located in southern Ontario, at the mouth of the Welland Canal. It is well-known for one of the longest locks in the world: measuring 420 metres, this lock, the 8th in the canal, has an observation footbridge and marks the final transit point before the Erie Canal. In addition to the discovery of this tremendous hydraulic infrastructure, this port of call will be your privileged access point to the famous Niagara Falls, renowned all over the world for their spectacular beauty. Located on the river of the same name, which means “water thunder” in Amerindian language, these wonders of nature are among the most powerful waterfalls in the world.
18 September 2023 - Toronto
Arrival 18/9/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 18/9/2023 at 7:00 am
The largest city in Canada and capital of the province of Ontario, Toronto fascinates as much by its incredible diversity as by its size. Make sure you visit the CN Tower, the tallest tower in the western hemisphere, as well as the St. Lawrence Market whose stalls reflect the multicultural wealth of this city known as the global city. Not far from there, the historic Distillery District unveils its brick-paved streets imbued with romantic charm and its myriad of small restaurants, cafés, boutiques, theatres and art galleries. The Royal Ontario Museum and its impressive collections devoted to the world’s natural and cultural history will also be an unmissable stop during this port of call.
Sugar shack & canoe
From the pier, you will embark your coach for a 45-minutes to the most western of the Manitoulin chain of islands, St. Joseph Island, located in the channel between Lakes Huron and Superior. You will enjoy the road lined with vibrant fall colours of red, orange and yellow.
Your first stop will be at Albert Crowder's maple sugar bush. Visit this preserved place where the methods used to produce the precious maple syrup are essentially the same as they were 135 years ago, using spile, tap & bucket to capture maple trees precious sap. You will be invited on a short hike through the maple bush and your host will explain the geology of the area which makes St. Joseph's Island the perfect location for harvesting maple syrup.
You will then proceed to second sugar shack, using more modern technic, and see the process of making maple syrup with a system of collecting sap via pipeline and vacuum. Mountain Maple Syrup currently taps over 6,500 maple trees and produces a natural and organic maple syrup. Your host will demonstrate the different stages and process to transform the sap into a flavoured syrup.
You will have the opportunity to try the "tire sur la neige", maple syrup poured over snow to make taffy. There will also be a chain saw wood carver on-site for the day demonstrating this unique Canadian artform.
After your visit, you will re-board your coach and proceed to the lunch venue, where the maple syrup will be honoured.
On the afternoon, you will enjoy a 60-minute experience paddling a large 10 or 14 passenger freighters canoe. These "rabaskas" were originally large canoes made of tree bark, used by the Algonquin people. They were also used by French and Canadian explorers to access the interior of North America, and by traders until the end of the 19th century. Each canoe will have two experienced guides and before leaving the launching area you will be outfitted with life jackets and given basic safety and paddling instruction.
Finally, you will proceed to the former community town hall, where you will be hosted by a musical group, dedicated to the celebration and sharing of the traditional music, dance, arts and crafts that are part of the Canadian culture and heritage. This hour-long musical performance will feature traditional French-Canadian folk music.
- Order of the visits may vary. For this excursion, we recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and dress warmly.
Total : €190
According to availability, price per passenger.
Hiking the Cup & Saucer trail
The Cup and Saucer Trail, located 18 kilometres west of the port of Little Current, is one of Manitoulin Island's premier tourist destinations. This unique hiking trail offers a panoramic view from 250-foot high cliff lookouts.
From the pier, board your coach for the scenic 30-minute drive to the foot of the trail. The hike takes about one hour to reach the summit and another hour to hike back down to the parking lot.
At 352 metres (1,160 feet), the Cup and Saucer is the highest point of Manitoulin island. The cliffs are at an altitude of 70 meters (230 feet) and the view on the forests and lakes are just incredible. Depending on the season, enjoy the fall colours at their best.
Upon returning to the base of the trail, you will be treated to a selection of Canadian wines and cheeses and locally smoked rainbow trout.
- Participants must be in reasonably good physical condition as some sections of the trail are steep and a good pair of hiking boots is recommended. The paths can be muddy and slippery when wet. The entire trail is approximately 9.5 km (5.9 miles) in length and takes about 2.5 hours to complete, with an elevation gain of 70 metres (230 feet), allowing for plenty of time for photos. There is one local guide for every 6 passengers taking part in the excursion.
Total : €200
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kayaking on Kagawong River
From the pier, you will board your coach for the short drive to the kayaking centre. On arrival, you will meet your instructor for a safety briefing, orientation and information on the river and Lake Kagawong. The Kagawong River flows from Lake Kagawong and empties into Mudge Bay on the North Channel of Lake Huron. The river falls over a limestone bluff at Bridal Veil Falls and is one of the most visited and beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ontario. This is the same geological formation as the mighty Niagara Falls.
You will be kayaking on the first part of the Kagawong River, which flows in a northerly direction out of the Lake and passes under Highway 540, just above Bridal Veil Falls. Here the water is calm, the current is gentle, the wetlands on either side of the river provide cover from prevailing westerly winds and the water is no more than 1.5 metre deep.
While silently kayaking the clean, cool waters of the Kagawong River, you might see beaver, muskrat and waterfowl migrating from the Canadian Arctic to warmer winter climates in the south.
At the conclusion of the one-hour kayaking ride, you will walk the riverside trail to the Bridal Veil Falls viewing platform. Not only will you have a great view on the falls, but also on the river, which is especially interesting in late September – mid-October, when there is a salmon run of thousands of fish.
On the way back to Little Current, a stop will be made at Chocolate Works, a family owned business. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or coffee and reward your kayaking efforts with a taste of small batch Manitoulin Chocolate.
- All participants will be asked to sign a waiver. Life-jackets are provided and must be worn. Wear clothing you do not mind getting wet. Your belongings will be stored in a waterproof container. There will be one instructor for every six paddlers participating. There is a choice between one and two-seater kayaks. You will be kayaking the same way out as back. Participants must be at least 16 years old.
Total : €240
According to availability, price per passenger.
Killbear Park
From the pier, walk a short distance to your coach for a 30-minute drive to Killbear park.
Located on the Eastern Shore of Georgian Bay, listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this park offers a diverse landscape from the granite rocks to the soft sandy beaches and the thick green forests. The fluctuating water levels of the Great Lakes have created a varied range of shoreline ecosystems.
Follow your guide on a one and a half hour walking tour through the park.
Learn about Killbear’s rocks of today which were once buried deep under a mountain range called the Grenville Mountains, and rivalled today’s Himalayas in size. The park’s predominant rock type is gneiss not granite. Signs that the glaciers scoured Killbear are impressed on its rocks and you can learn how to read them. With its mix of sandy beaches, rugged shoreline, windswept pines and views of the 30,000 islands, there are scenic views everywhere at Killbear.
Continue to the Visitor Centre, showcasing the dramatic Precambrian Shield. The Visitor Centre has exhibits pertaining to the flora and fauna, as well as the local history and geology of the area. The park has a live Massasauga rattlesnake and Eastern fox-snake on display. These two animals are both classed as species at risk and are listed as threatened in Ontario. They are the unofficial mascots of the park, and the park has undertaken years of research into these animals. The Visitor Centre portion of the visit include a self-guided tour of the Visitor Centre, and a walk along a 100-metre smooth path to the rugged rocky shoreline for a discussion on the geology of the area.
- This tour involves approximately 3 km (1.8 mile) of walking on forest trail and polished rocks. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes. Trail can be slippery when wet. The visit to the visitor’s centre is self-guided, some of the displays have informative plaques in English and French.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Bellot
Like the other ships in the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Bellot has been designed to provide absolute comfort for its passengers, even at the heart of the world's most remote and isolated regions.
Racy lines, state-of-the-art equipment, a refined design, a softly muted and at the same time convivial ambiance together with a deliberately restricted number of cabins all contribute to the modernity of Le Bellot, a unique ship in the world of cruising.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
CHICAGO ARCHITECTURAL HIGHLIGHTS (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Chicago
Meet and greet at Chicago O’Hare international airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to your hotel Sofitel Magnificent Mile 5*.
Check-in to your room.
Day 2 - Chicago
Today, your guide will point out historic areas, incredible photo opportunities and some of the world’s most recognizable architecture in Chicago’s “Loop.” You will have the chance to get off the bus for photos and discover of a few pieces of the city’s wonderful collection of public art – including Picasso, Chagall, Miro and Dubuffet. Chicago is a “Sister City” to Paris. The original plan included wide boulevards and many Beaux Arts structures including the magnificent Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. You will travel on famed Lake Shore Drive where you’ll see Chicago’s iconic skyline reflected in glittering Lake Michigan.
Next, you’ll have the chance to explore Millennium Park, the beautiful centrepiece of downtown Chicago. Millennium Park boasts one of the most impressive collections of public art in the world. First planned in 1997 as a way to create new parkland in Grant Park and transform unsightly railroad tracks and parking lots, Millennium Park has evolved into the most significant millennium project in the world. Here you’ll find the Concert Pavilion designed by Frank Gehry, the beautiful Lurie Gardens and the beloved “Bean”, (Anish Kapoor’s “Cloud Gate”) an enormous stainless-steel sculpture reflecting the skyline and a favourite spot for photos.
You will continue your city exploration with a Chicago River Architecture Cruise. Specially chartered by PONANT, you will find out how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world’s largest cities in less 100 years. You will float down the River discovering Chicago architecture and its history. Today’s skyline includes some of the world’s most striking and innovative buildings.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
In the mid-afternoon after your visit, you will be transferred to the port of Milwaukee to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Designed by French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, the Sofitel is one of Chicago's most remarkable modern skyscrapers, located near the famous Magnificent Mile shopping street. There’s a sophisticated but comfortable flair throughout the hotel, from the boisterous red-and-white décor at the restaurant CDA to the tidy natural-light-filled rooms with a panoramic view of the city.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in superior room at the Sofitel Magnificent Mile 5* local standards (or similar).
- Meals as described in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 tea or coffee).
- Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the program.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- The amount of twin rooms are limited and therefore cannot be guaranteed.
- The chartered cruise by PONANT is guaranteed from 50 passengers. If there are less than 50 passengers, the cruise will be shared with local clients.
Contact of your hotel:
Sofitel Magnificent Mile
20 E Chestnut St,
Chicago, IL 60611,
United-State
Telephone number: +1 312-324-4000
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel advisor; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$1,800
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
CHICAGO'S WORLD ART, ARCHITECTURE AND MUSIC (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Welcome to one of the world's greatest cities: Chicago, often called the Windy City. Immerse yourself for 4 days in the city's Art and Architecture, discovering its modernist masterpieces, spectacular skyscrapers and world class museums. Take a cruise on the downtown Chicago River and learn about the city and its history. Fine dining opportunities abound as you stroll around the legendary Oak Street. From arts and science to culture and gastronomy, this programme incorporates the essentials Chicago has to offer.
Day 1 - Chicago
Meet and greet at Chicago O'Hare international airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to your hotel Sofitel Magnificent Mile 5*.
Check-in to your room.
Dinner at leisure.
Day 2 - Chicago
Today, your guide will point out historic areas, incredible photo opportunities and some of the world's most recognizable architecture in Chicago's "Loop." You will have the chance to get off the bus for photos and discover of a few pieces of the city's wonderful collection of public art - including Picasso, Chagall, Miro and Dubuffet. Chicago is a "Sister City" to Paris. The original plan included wide boulevards and many Beaux Arts structures including the magnificent Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. You will travel on famed Lake Shore Drive where you'll see Chicago's iconic skyline reflected in glittering Lake Michigan.
Next, you will visit the renowned Art Institute of Chicago. Founded in 1879 and located in Chicago's Grant Park, it is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. The collection includes extensive Impressionist works plus Renaissance, American and Asian masters. The new Modern Wing is a stunning building overlooking Millennium Park.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
Afterwards, continue to explore the history and beautiful architecture of Chicago. On the Gold Coast near Lake Michigan, you'll see the mansions of early industrialists who built here after the Great Chicago Fire. Continue to trendy Lincoln Park to view the lovely gardens and discover how the city has kept its promise that the lakefront would forever be free and open to all.
Return to your hotel.
Your tour guide will have suggestions for dinner on your own.
Optional activity: Evening at the Jazz club
You will experience a classic Chicago evening! Historically, the city's unique location on the Great Lakes made it the crossroads of America for great food and music. Discover a famous spot for Chicago style BBQ baby back ribs, chicken, seafood and steaks.
Then you will go next door to an intimate Jazz Club. Sit back and enjoy some of the best musicians in the city in this "listening room" environment where jazz is revered. Some of the best known local and national jazz acts perform here. Acts range from standards to contemporary. You will be immersed in the joy that is jazz!
Day 3 - Chicago
Start your day with a trip to the leafy suburb of Oak Park. This is where the architect Frank Lloyd lived and worked. The first homes he designed are found on the lovely streets here. You will visit his Home and Studio for an in depth look at the master who was the forerunner of modern home design.
Return to Chicago to enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
Next, discover the Wabash Arts Corridor. Discover wonderful murals inserted into the urban setting of the vibrant South Loop. Whether they are humorous, whimsical, or profound, they all tell you something about the artist and yourself. You will also see some stunning, long forgotten architecture on "Motor Row" where automobile showrooms were as beautiful as the vehicles they sold. See how "adaptive reuse" of factory buildings now creates a neighbourhood of loft style homes for the modern era.
In the same neighbourhood, visit Blues Heaven at Chess Records, a small museum honouring the Blues legends that made Chicago famous. Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Etta James, and Chuck Berry all recorded here. The Rolling Stones took their name from a Muddy Waters song and recorded "2120 S. Michigan Avenue" there in 1964 as an homage to this great bluesman.
Experience a private concert with one of the city's best blues artists during your visit!
Return to the hotel in time for dinner on your own.
Day 4 - Chicago/Milwaukee
Check-out.
Start your last day with the visit of Millennium Park, the beautiful centrepiece of downtown Chicago. Millennium Park boasts one of the most impressive collections of public art in the world. First planned in 1997 as a way to create new parkland in Grant Park and transform unsightly railroad tracks and parking lots, Millennium Park has evolved into the most significant millennium project in the world. Here you will find the Concert Pavilion designed by Frank Gehry, the beautiful Lurie Gardens and the beloved "Bean", (Anish Kapoor's "Cloud Gate") an enormous stainless-steel sculpture reflecting the skyline and a favourite spot for photos.
You will continue your city exploration with a Chicago River Architecture Cruise. Specially chartered by PONANT, you will find out how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less 100 years. You will float down the River discovering Chicago architecture and its history.
Today's skyline includes some of the world's most striking and innovative buildings.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After your lunch, board your bus for a 2-hours transfer to the port of Milwaukee to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Designed by French architect Jean-Paul Viguier, the Sofitel Magnificient Mile 5* is one of Chicago's most remarkable modern skyscrapers, located near the famous Magnificent Mile shopping street. There's a sophisticated but comfortable flair throughout the hotel, from the boisterous red-and-white décor at the restaurant CDA to the tidy natural-light-filled rooms with a panoramic view of the city.
Your programme includes:
- 3-nights accommodation in Luxury room at the Sofitel Magnificent Mile 5* local standards (or similar), including breakfast.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 tea or coffee).
- Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinners.
- Tips for the local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- The amount of twin rooms are limited and therefore cannot be guaranteed.
- If you booked the optional activity: evening at the Jazz Club, it is mandatory to present your passport upon arrival at the jazz club as the entry is limited to adults over 21 years old in the United States.
- The chartered cruise by PONANT is guaranteed from 50 passengers. If less than 50 passengers are booked, the cruise will be shared with local clients.
Contact of your hotel:
Sofitel Magnificent Mile
20 E Chestnut St,
Chicago, IL 60611,
United-State
Telephone number: +1 312-324-4000
Duration of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel advisor; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$4,200
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Sugar shack & canoe
From the pier, you will embark your coach for a 45-minutes to the most western of the Manitoulin chain of islands, St. Joseph Island, located in the channel between Lakes Huron and Superior. You will enjoy the road lined with vibrant fall colours of red, orange and yellow.
Your first stop will be at Albert Crowder's maple sugar bush. Visit this preserved place where the methods used to produce the precious maple syrup are essentially the same as they were 135 years ago, using spile, tap & bucket to capture maple trees precious sap. You will be invited on a short hike through the maple bush and your host will explain the geology of the area which makes St. Joseph's Island the perfect location for harvesting maple syrup.
You will then proceed to second sugar shack, using more modern technic, and see the process of making maple syrup with a system of collecting sap via pipeline and vacuum. Mountain Maple Syrup currently taps over 6,500 maple trees and produces a natural and organic maple syrup. Your host will demonstrate the different stages and process to transform the sap into a flavoured syrup.
You will have the opportunity to try the "tire sur la neige", maple syrup poured over snow to make taffy. There will also be a chain saw wood carver on-site for the day demonstrating this unique Canadian artform.
After your visit, you will re-board your coach and proceed to the lunch venue, where the maple syrup will be honoured.
On the afternoon, you will enjoy a 60-minute experience paddling a large 10 or 14 passenger freighters canoe. These "rabaskas" were originally large canoes made of tree bark, used by the Algonquin people. They were also used by French and Canadian explorers to access the interior of North America, and by traders until the end of the 19th century. Each canoe will have two experienced guides and before leaving the launching area you will be outfitted with life jackets and given basic safety and paddling instruction.
Finally, you will proceed to the former community town hall, where you will be hosted by a musical group, dedicated to the celebration and sharing of the traditional music, dance, arts and crafts that are part of the Canadian culture and heritage. This hour-long musical performance will feature traditional French-Canadian folk music.
- Order of the visits may vary. For this excursion, we recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and dress warmly.
Total : €190
According to availability, price per passenger.
Hiking the Cup & Saucer trail
The Cup and Saucer Trail, located 18 kilometres west of the port of Little Current, is one of Manitoulin Island's premier tourist destinations. This unique hiking trail offers a panoramic view from 250-foot high cliff lookouts.
From the pier, board your coach for the scenic 30-minute drive to the foot of the trail. The hike takes about one hour to reach the summit and another hour to hike back down to the parking lot.
At 352 metres (1,160 feet), the Cup and Saucer is the highest point of Manitoulin island. The cliffs are at an altitude of 70 meters (230 feet) and the view on the forests and lakes are just incredible. Depending on the season, enjoy the fall colours at their best.
Upon returning to the base of the trail, you will be treated to a selection of Canadian wines and cheeses and locally smoked rainbow trout.
- Participants must be in reasonably good physical condition as some sections of the trail are steep and a good pair of hiking boots is recommended. The paths can be muddy and slippery when wet. The entire trail is approximately 9.5 km (5.9 miles) in length and takes about 2.5 hours to complete, with an elevation gain of 70 metres (230 feet), allowing for plenty of time for photos. There is one local guide for every 6 passengers taking part in the excursion.
Total : €200
According to availability, price per passenger.
Kayaking on Kagawong River
From the pier, you will board your coach for the short drive to the kayaking centre. On arrival, you will meet your instructor for a safety briefing, orientation and information on the river and Lake Kagawong. The Kagawong River flows from Lake Kagawong and empties into Mudge Bay on the North Channel of Lake Huron. The river falls over a limestone bluff at Bridal Veil Falls and is one of the most visited and beautiful waterfalls in Northern Ontario. This is the same geological formation as the mighty Niagara Falls.
You will be kayaking on the first part of the Kagawong River, which flows in a northerly direction out of the Lake and passes under Highway 540, just above Bridal Veil Falls. Here the water is calm, the current is gentle, the wetlands on either side of the river provide cover from prevailing westerly winds and the water is no more than 1.5 metre deep.
While silently kayaking the clean, cool waters of the Kagawong River, you might see beaver, muskrat and waterfowl migrating from the Canadian Arctic to warmer winter climates in the south.
At the conclusion of the one-hour kayaking ride, you will walk the riverside trail to the Bridal Veil Falls viewing platform. Not only will you have a great view on the falls, but also on the river, which is especially interesting in late September – mid-October, when there is a salmon run of thousands of fish.
On the way back to Little Current, a stop will be made at Chocolate Works, a family owned business. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa or coffee and reward your kayaking efforts with a taste of small batch Manitoulin Chocolate.
- All participants will be asked to sign a waiver. Life-jackets are provided and must be worn. Wear clothing you do not mind getting wet. Your belongings will be stored in a waterproof container. There will be one instructor for every six paddlers participating. There is a choice between one and two-seater kayaks. You will be kayaking the same way out as back. Participants must be at least 16 years old.
Total : €240
According to availability, price per passenger.
Killbear Park
From the pier, walk a short distance to your coach for a 30-minute drive to Killbear park.
Located on the Eastern Shore of Georgian Bay, listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this park offers a diverse landscape from the granite rocks to the soft sandy beaches and the thick green forests. The fluctuating water levels of the Great Lakes have created a varied range of shoreline ecosystems.
Follow your guide on a one and a half hour walking tour through the park.
Learn about Killbear’s rocks of today which were once buried deep under a mountain range called the Grenville Mountains, and rivalled today’s Himalayas in size. The park’s predominant rock type is gneiss not granite. Signs that the glaciers scoured Killbear are impressed on its rocks and you can learn how to read them. With its mix of sandy beaches, rugged shoreline, windswept pines and views of the 30,000 islands, there are scenic views everywhere at Killbear.
Continue to the Visitor Centre, showcasing the dramatic Precambrian Shield. The Visitor Centre has exhibits pertaining to the flora and fauna, as well as the local history and geology of the area. The park has a live Massasauga rattlesnake and Eastern fox-snake on display. These two animals are both classed as species at risk and are listed as threatened in Ontario. They are the unofficial mascots of the park, and the park has undertaken years of research into these animals. The Visitor Centre portion of the visit include a self-guided tour of the Visitor Centre, and a walk along a 100-metre smooth path to the rugged rocky shoreline for a discussion on the geology of the area.
- This tour involves approximately 3 km (1.8 mile) of walking on forest trail and polished rocks. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes. Trail can be slippery when wet. The visit to the visitor’s centre is self-guided, some of the displays have informative plaques in English and French.
Total : €90
According to availability, price per passenger.
TORONTO, BETWEEN HERITAGE AND SUSTAINABILITY
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Toronto
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will depart and start the day with a panoramic visit of Toronto.
Continue with the visit of Evergreen Brick works located in the Don Valley, outside of downtown Toronto. The Don River and the surrounding Valley has a rich history in shaping and influencing Toronto’s identity. Human settlement can be traced back as far as 7,000 years ago. Slate tools left behind by the Indigenous Peoples were discovered in 1886 during road building.
From 1889 to 1984, Evergreen Brick Works was home to the Don Valley Brick Works factory, one of Canada’s pre-eminent brickyards. Restored and revitalized by Evergreen, learn more about the history and geology of this site and how Evergreen transformed it into an award-winning community environmental centre and green technology showcase.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, start exploring Graffiti Alley. At a total length of 1 km, this is one of the city’s best examples of vibrant street art and in 2011, was designated as an area of municipal significance with artists receiving financial funding from the organization, StreetARToronto.
Continue with a guided tour of the Distillery District. The Distillery District was the site of the famous Scottish distillers called “Gooderham and Worts”. For many years these industrial buildings were alive with an army of distillers who took the grain arriving from ships in the port of Toronto (where your ship arrived) and carried it in bulk by horse and cart across to the Distillery District. Nowadays the entire industrial complex has been repurposed and is one of Toronto’s main attractions for both citizens living in the city and for visitors from overseas. Enjoy some free time as each building is alive with artisans, restaurants, coffee shops and craft stores and music is often played by local talented artists.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Lunch with beverages package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of white and red wine + 1 coffee and a liquor of your choice, Whisky or Carolans).
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : AU$530
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.