This Cruise Ship Sails into Thunder Bay

Now you can sail from Milwaukee into Ontario's Northwest on the Great Lakes Explorer. Here's everything you need to know about the Viking Octantis.

There's a new ship in town! Thunder Bay is welcoming the latest addition to its vibrant waterfront—a spectacular summer cruise that sails between the Northwest Ontario city and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

Photo of Sleeping Giant near Thunder Bay courtesy of Viking Cruises

The cruise is called the Great Lakes Explorer and is on offer from Viking Cruises. Travellers will set sail on the brand new Viking Octantis expedition ship that's packed with amenities—and specially designed to navigate the inland canals of the Great Lakes. 

Photo courtesy of Scott MacKay

There are 8 stops on this scenic Great Lakes voyage and travellers can choose to set sail from either city. Here's everything to expect on the 7-day adventure and some travel tips on the best things to do in Thunder Bay—either before or after your epic journey. 

Photo courtesy of Scott MacKay 

What Are the Ports of Call on the Great Lakes Explorer?

For travellers choosing to start their journey in Thunder Bay, the stops are as follows. 

1. Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada

Kakabeka Falls near Thunder Bay is a popular destination for nature-seekers.

The waterfront city of Thunder Bay is the jewel of Northwestern Ontario. Set on the shores of Lake Superior the city is known for its art-filled downtown, Indigenous art galleries, and easy access to some of Canada's most scenic landscapes. Hike boreal forests, watch for wildlife, and learn about Anishinaabe First Nations heritage.

2. Silver Islet, Ontario, Canada

Kayak across the remains of the world's largest silver mine in Silver Islet.

Kayak over the remains of what was once the world's largest silver mine or visit the steep slopes of Ouimet Canyon. Visitors even have the option of exploring in an underwater submarine! Check out the top things to do in Silver Islet

3. Scenic Sailing: Soo Locks Transit

Sail the St. Mary’s River and cross the Soo Locks, between Canada and the United States. Check out our guide to the Sault Ste. Marie waterfront. 

4-6. Explore Georgian Bay with Stops in Perry Sound, Killarney, and Manitoulin Island

Discover some of the 30,000 islands that comprise this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

7. Mackinac Island, Michigan, United States

Explore this car-free island by carriage, bicycle or on foot; kayak along the shoreline.

8. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Explore this revitalized town along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Book Your Voyage on the Great Lakes Explorer Today

Check out some frequently asked questions about the Great Lakes Explorer Viking Cruise. To book visit the website, call at 1-800-381-4596, or contact your travel advisor.

About Northern Ontario

Welcome to Northern Ontario, Canada! Bigger than Texas, wilder than the west, more welcoming than a campfire in October, Northern Ontario is like no place else. Sunset Country is famous for its spectacular fishing lakes, Superior Country stretches into the deep north wildnerness, Algoma Country has Lake Superior as their back yard, and the Northeast provides excellent vacation destinations close to Toronto and other large urban centres in Southern Ontario.

Recommended Articles

The Jewel of Ontario

A beginner's guide to Georgian Bay's North Channel

Renting a Boat in Ontario: What You Need to Know

9 places to rent a boat this summer for the perfect Ontario getaway.

Cruise the Trent Severn Waterway in Style

Boating Events in Ontario: A Complete Guide to Summer 2024

From poker runs to free concerts, Ontario boating events are your go-to source of fun this summer! Here's everything to add to your calendar.

5 Big Water Destinations

For Seasoned PWC Riders Only!

The Top 5 Water Sport Schools in Ontario

Get serious about summer fun.

19 Charming Lighthouses to Visit in Northern Ontario

Ever wanted to live like a lighthouse keeper? Now's your chance!

Montreal to Ottawa by PWC

Cruising the Lower Ottawa River

A Guide to Getting your Ontario Boating Card

Get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) and then get out on the water!

Find Your Way: Using a chartplotter on your PWC

How to Choose a Trailer for your PWC

From suspension to safety chains to security, we break down what you need to know when choosing a trailer for your PWC.

Free Passage on the Trent-Severn

Enjoy free passage through the historic lock stations of the renowned inland passageway.

A Day on the Magnetawan River: A PWC Adventure

Twisties, bays, and locks, oh my!

It's a Family Affair

Taking a PWC Trip on Georgian Bay

Fun on the Water

The Top 3 Boating Events in Ontario for 2022

Cruising the Upper Ottawa River

3 routes to explore on your boat.

8 Things to Know About Racing Your PWC

Here's all the info you need to enjoy a day at the races.

Rocking out in Rocktown

Larry Berrio Performs on Sudbury's Lake Wanapitei

Cruising on a Budget

Two Weeks and 10 Anchorages for under $1,000

High water remarks

How to deal with unpredictable water levels in Ontario