Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
- New
Lake Superior – a life-sized expedition
Thunder Bay - Milwaukee
Dates:
14/9/2024
to
24/9/2024
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Set off with PONANT aboard Le Champlain, on a brand-new 11-day expedition cruise to discover Lake Superior and enjoy an exceptional exploration of flamboyant nature in the Indian summer, and of the cultural riches of the Indigenous communities and colonies that have lived in the region.
Departing from Thunder Bay, explore the world’s largest freshwater lake, designated as a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve. It is split between the United States, in the south, and Canada, in the north. Its rocky shoreline covered in boreal forest rises from the shimmering waters and reveals stunning panoramas.
Le Champlain will first set a course for the Slate Islands, known for their Provincial Park and abundant nature, before continuing its voyage toward the lake’s North Shore Inside Passage taking time to explore this mineral and wooded region from the water or on land. From lighthouses dotting the shorelines decked in autumnal colours to an ecosystem with exceptional riches in Terrace Bay, Rossport and Red Rock, this larger-than-life corner of the world offers its enchanted visitors, precious moments filled with warm encounters with the local communities and historical sites discovery.
Next, your ship will take you to visit the community of Silver Islet, established on an old silver mine in an enchanting setting. Delight in the splendour of this lacustrine environment surrounded by blue, and meet the people who live there.
You will then make your way to the southern end of the lake where, upon arriving in the charming city of Bayfield, you will be greeted with a performance by members of the Ojibwe (Chippewa) tribe. After sailing along the Keweenaw Waterway, you will discover the Apostle Islands. This archipelago of 21 islands is a biodiversity sanctuary home to some 800 botanical species and invaluable treasures including its sea caves, remarkable geological formations carved out of red sandstone over time.
Finally, you will sail to your disembarkation port in Milwaukee, on Lake Michigan, where your cruise will draw to an end.
Ref : EC140924
Your itinerary
A brand-new expedition cruise departing from Lake Michigan during the Indian summer, to discover some of the archipelagos and wild shores of Lake Superior. Enjoy an unprecedented, immersive exploration of...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
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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- New
LE CHAMPLAIN
LE BOUGAINVILLE
13/12/2024 to the 23/12/2024
LE BOUGAINVILLE
LE LYRIAL
3/3/2025 to the 21/3/2025
- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
5/4/2025 to the 17/4/2025
*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
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- 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
Expedition programmes include activities such as landings in tender or local boats (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- A PONANT polar water-resistant parka is offered on board (no children sizes, in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Half calf rubber boots with non-slip soles, which will allow you to go ashore in 20 cm of cold water, keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths. Boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only) on Expedition cruises.
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- Winter trousers with waterproof over trousers are the ideal combination: water-resistance and comfort of trousers are essential
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket
- Woollen or thermolactyl Thermal underwear
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
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.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar or technical jacket
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children’s sizes)
- Windbreaker – Mandatory
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
- Hiking shoes
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Mosquito repellent, anti-itch balm and mosquito head net (Greenland)
- 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
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A brand-new expedition cruise departing from Lake Michigan during the Indian summer, to discover some of the archipelagos and wild shores of Lake Superior.
- Enjoy an unprecedented, immersive exploration of Lake Superior: Bayfield and the Apostle Islands, for a remarkable nature sanctuary and stunning red sandstone sea caves; the North Shore Interior Passage, from its rocky shorelines dotted with lighthouses to its boreal forest.
- Succumb to the charms of Bayfield and its incredible way of life, whether from a restaurant patio or by wandering around the shops selling local arts and crafts.
- Interact with the welcoming Canadian communities of Silver Islet, Terrace Bay, Rossport and Red Rock, living on the sites of the First Nations at the heart of the North Shore Interior Passage, and discover their ancestral and current traditions, in communion with nature.
- The outings and shore visits with an experienced team of naturalist-guides (inflatable dinghy in Canada, or tender, local boats).
- The possibility of hiking in the heart of the majestic boreal forest, of canoeing or kayaking.
- Sailing on three of the five Great Lakes of North America: Lakes Michigan, Huron and Superior.
- A call at Mackinac, a car-free island with an unspoiled natural environment, steeped in Victorian charm.
- Landscapes: jagged coasts, limestone cliffs, volcanic rocks, red sandstone caves, vineyards, orchards, boreal forest in dazzling colours, islands and archipelagos, lake landscapes, lighthouses.
- Wildlife: numerous bird species, including bald eagles, black-capped chickadees, and cedar waxwings; the possibility of observing caribou, raccoons, and American black bears.
Subject to weather conditions. The expedition highlights, encounters with the wildlife and itinerary described illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ports of Call & Excursions
14 September 2024 - Thunder Bay
Embarkation 14/9/2024 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 14/9/2024 at 8:00 pm
Situated in the north-west of Lake Superior, the Canadian city of Thunder Bay enjoys a strategic position on the seaway connecting the Great Lakes to the St. Lawrence, which explains why it is also called “Lakehead”. The city was also the terminus of a Canadian Pacific Railway corridor. This contributed vastly to its rapid growth in the 20th century. The historical museum is a must-see, as is the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, specialising in contemporary artwork by First Nations artists. Today, the city is a far cry from the small French fur-trading post established there in 1683. Nevertheless, a well documented historical reconstruction can be visited on the outskirts of the city: Fort William Historical Park.
15 September 2024 - Slate Islands
Arrival 15/9/2024
Departure 15/9/2024
To the north of Lake Superior, a stone’s throw from Terrace Bay, the Slate Islands form a archipelago made up of two main islands and a string of smaller islands. This territory imbued with the region’s history, which features forestry, mining and the first native settlements, is a preserved natural area called the Slate Island Provincial Park. A large caribou colony lives in harmony in this sanctuary of biodiversity, where no fewer than 50 animal species and 250 plant varieties flourish. In the heart of this pristine territory, between thick boreal forest, limestone and volcanic rock, and water in deep emerald green hues, enjoy unique and peaceful moments in communion with life, during Zodiac outings or kayaking.
16 September 2024 17 September 2024 - North Shore Inside Passage
Arrival 16/9/2024
Departure 17/9/2024
From the shores of Lake Nipigon, explore unspoiled parts of the northern Inside Passage of Lake Superior, also known as Gchi Gami, or ‘great lake’ in Ojibwe. Admire the cliffs marked with ancient petroglyphs during an outing on the water at Red Rock; discover majestic lighthouses at Battle Harbour; hike to the heart of the autumn-coloured boreal forest with all your senses awakened; discover a canyon at Terrace Bay; enjoy warm encounters with the Canadian communities on the sacred sites of the First Nations; marvel at the wildlife; visit historic sites at Red Rock… There are so many interesting things to do in this region where histories intersect over the centuries, and that is precisely what makes this as-yet-unexplored destination so rich.
18 September 2024 - Silver Islet, Lake Superior
Arrival 18/9/2024
Departure 18/9/2024
Silver Islet refers to both a small rocky island and a small community located at the end of the Sibley Peninsula, on Lake Superior, in north-western Ontario, Canada. A silver ore deposit can be found beneath the tiny reef, 380 metres under the lake. The mine was operated from 1869 to 1884 and proved to be very prosperous; however, the constraints linked to pumping the water and the extremely difficult working conditions resulted in its closure. Silver Islet is located in a fascinating natural setting enhanced by the waters of the lake. It is ideal for great encounters with the communities living there, and for really exploring nature, on foot, by Zodiac dingy and by kayak, to make the most of its extraordinary views.
19 September 2024 - Sailing Lake Superior
Arrival 19/9/2024
Departure 19/9/2024
Lake Superior stands in a league of its own. It is not only the largest and deepest of the Great Lakes of North America, it is also the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area, holding around 10% of the globe’s surface freshwater! It was named by the first European settlers, who had noticed its higher altitude compared to the other four lakes. Lake Superior connects with Lake Huron and Lake Michigan via the Sault Ste. Marie locks. From the decks of your ship, you will relish your experience of sailing on this vast inland body of water, and imagine it entirely frozen over during the winter months...
19 September 2024 - Duluth
Arrival 19/9/2024
Departure 19/9/2024
On the edge of Lake Superior, in Minnesota, Duluth is a flourishing port city founded in 1679 by the Frenchman Daniel Greysolon, Sieur du Lhut. In this region inhabited by the Ojibwe and Dakota tribes among others, the fur trade developed with the Hudson’s Bay Company and contributed to the city’s prominence. Exceptionally surrounded by stunning nature, Duluth is a holiday spot popular with wealthy families, as evidenced by the beautiful Victorian mansions such as Glensheen Mansion, built in the early 20th century. Enjoy wandering around the city or, if you would prefer a different perspective and another way to discover the region, take an excursion aboard the North Shore Scenic Railroad and visit its museum.
20 September 2024 - Bayfield & Apostle Islands
Arrival 20/9/2024
Departure 20/9/2024
Discover Bayfield, in the southern Lake Superior region in the state of Wisconsin. Founded in 1856, this small city, nestling in the curve of an unspoiled peninsula, projects an old-world charm with its Victorian houses. As soon as you arrive, you will dive into its traditions during a performance by the Ojibwe tribe, descended from the First Nations, for whom this region is the spiritual heart. Bayfield is also the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a protected natural area around the Apostle Islands, an archipelago comprising 21 enchanting islands offering dense forests, magnificent lighthouses, birdwatching, and remarkable red sandstone sea caves. Explore these islands on a local boat and discover their fascinating shorelines carved by the elements.
21 September 2024 - Sailing through Keweenaw Waterway
Arrival 21/9/2024
Departure 21/9/2024
South of Lake Superior, your ship will cross the Keweenaw Peninsula via the eponymous waterway along the Portage River. This stretch of land located in the north of the State of Michigan is part of the Copper Country, home to large mines run by the Native Americans over 5,000 years ago and rediscovered thanks to their descendants at the beginning of the 18th century. A copper rush ensued, with waves of immigration from Finland and Northern Europe. The river separates the towns of Houghton, in the south, and Hancock, in the northern part also known as Copper Island or Kuparisaari by the Finnish immigrants. So, crossing Keweenaw also means looking back over the region’s history.
21 September 2024 - Sailing Lake Superior
Arrival 21/9/2024
Departure 21/9/2024
Lake Superior stands in a league of its own. It is not only the largest and deepest of the Great Lakes of North America, it is also the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area, holding around 10% of the globe’s surface freshwater! It was named by the first European settlers, who had noticed its higher altitude compared to the other four lakes. Lake Superior connects with Lake Huron and Lake Michigan via the Sault Ste. Marie locks. From the decks of your ship, you will relish your experience of sailing on this vast inland body of water, and imagine it entirely frozen over during the winter months...
22 September 2024 - Mackinac Island
Arrival 22/9/2024 early morning
Departure 22/9/2024
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.
24 September 2024 - Milwaukee
Arrival 24/9/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 24/9/2024 at 7:00 am
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.
Le Champlain
Like the rest of the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Champlain successfully manages to subtly combine the desire to explore the remotest regions of the planet with the comfort and privacy of a cosily intimate ship.
To the innovative and environmentally friendly equipment are added elegant design and a unique atmosphere in keeping with the whole PONANT universe. Your dream of a cruise onboard a cosily intimate ship is thus made possible through the combination of an authentically genuine voyage experience together with discreet luxury.
Decks
Polar Expedition
Make your dreams of adventure come true, explore the boundaries of the world, and discover wild and legendary territories. The icy immensity of Antarctica, the constantly changing glaciers and icebergs of the North Pole, the mysterious mists of the North European coastlines, the most remote fjords on the planet… Every destination unveils unrivalled landscapes, home to increasingly varied fauna. Our team of naturalist-guides will share their knowledge with you during varied lectures about the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology, the fauna and flora, and will invite you to share special moments with the local populations.
Free solo supplement
FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
OVERVIEW OF THUNDER BAY (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Thunder Bay
Meet at Thunder Bay Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Delta hotel by Marriott 4*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Thunder Bay
After breakfast and check-out, start your morning with a historical walking tour of Thunder Bay.
Start your walk along Thunder Bay waterfront, including Prince Arthur’s Landing and Northcore, formally known as Port Arthur. Thunder Bay boasts over 400 pieces of public art in a range of mediums that pay homage to the city's history, culture and ties to the waters of Lake Superior.
You will make several stops such as Lyceum Theatre, Thunder Bay Courthouse, the Armoury and multiple churches. The focus of the narration for this portion will focus on the historical architecture styles used in this former remote outpost and the heritage of the first immigrants to settle in the area.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
At the end of your walking tour, board your coach and explore the areas of Thunder Bay beyond the shoreline including the story of the joining of Fort William and Fort Arthur to create modern day Thunder Bay and finally the charming area of the Bay & Algoma Historic district with its quaint shops, boutiques, cafes and well preserved historic buildings.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Delta hotel by Marriott 4* is located on Thunder Bay waterfront, close to all local attractions. The hotel features a restaurant and a gym.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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1-night accommodation Partial Lake View at the Delta hotel by Marriott, ,4* local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide.
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Hospitality desk at the hotel, the day of your arrival.
Your programme does not include:
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Diner on day 1.
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Personal expenses.
-
Visa if necessary.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Early check-in.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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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.
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Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
-
Early check-in might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
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This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
Contact of your hotel:
Delta Hotels Thunder Bay by Marriott
2240 Sleeping Giant Parkway
Thunder Bay P7A 0E7
Ontario, Canada
Telephone number: 807 344 0777
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$750
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.CHICAGO, WINDY CITY WONDERS
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Chicago
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
Once in the city, experience the renowned Chicago River Architecture Cruise on a ship privatized for Ponant guests. Float down the River and enjoy the wonderful architecture of the city, the historical bridges and the emblematic buildings of the windy city as it is called. Enjoy the comments of your tour guide specialized in architecture and find out how the city was constructed from the ground up after the Great Chicago Fire.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will explore with your English-speaking guide, Millennium Park, the beautiful centrepiece of downtown Chicago. 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 favorite spot for photos.
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 close up exploration 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.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
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Meals as mention in the programme.
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Beverages package during meals (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
-
Transfers and visits as mentioned in the program.
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide
Your programme does not include:
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Visas fees if necessary
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Other services not mentioned in the program.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
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$1,270
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.CHICAGO'S WORLD CLASS 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 – Milwaukee/Chicago
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
Board your bus for a 2-hours transfer to Chicago and start 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.
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.
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.
Continue with the visit of Millennium Park, the beautiful centerpiece 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 favorite spot for photos.
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 and seafood.
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
Après le petit déjeuner, libération de votre chambre et temps libre selon l’horaire de votre vol retour.
Vous serez conduit à l’aéroport en correspondance avec le vol sélectionné par PONANT ou de tout autre vol de départ choisi, sous réserve d’en avoir communiqué les détails au préalable à votre conseiller.
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.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
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 official check out time is at noon.
- 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 and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$5,080
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.