Welcome to Milwaukee where our Great Lakes Cruise Adventure Begins! Landing at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, we were greeted by a couple of Viking representatives at Milwaukee airport before even arriving at the baggage reclaim. Our luggage was on the belt by the time we arrived and we only had to walk towards the exit before the Viking guys approached us to take our luggage and guide us to the bus. Boarding the bus with 6 other guests who had flown in on our flight we had a 15 minute drive to the docking point, accompanied by some interesting commentary from a local guide along the way. 

Milwaukee is not just a gateway to the Great Lakes; it’s a city with its own personality with historic breweries, a strong Harley-Davidson culture, and an unexpectedly scenic waterfront. However, that would have to wait for another day, as Polaris was docked in a working dockyard with lots of industry going on around it, so not the prettiest place to board a ship. But with views of downtown Milwaukee from our gorgeous Nordic Penthouse suite we settled in to our home for the next week, the expedition ship Viking Polaris and let the excitement build as we chatted to some of our fellow guests about some of the places we would be visiting in the next seven days.

But before our explorations could truly begin, we gathered for the daily briefing in the stunning Aula Theatre, located at the very aft of the ship. With a hot drink in hand, freshly poured from the conveniently placed drinks station just outside, we stepped inside and took our seats. This session was our introduction to the expedition team and onboard scientists, offering fascinating insights into the journey ahead. We also got a sneak peek at the excursion options for the following day, ensuring we were well-prepared for the adventures that awaited us.

With the briefing wrapped up, we made our way to Pap’s Explorers’ Bar, conveniently just a few steps from our room. Thanks to the Silver Spirits package, we could enjoy a wider selection of drinks beyond the complimentary soft drinks, house wines, and beers included with meals. As the sun dipped over Milwaukee, we sipped on cocktails and nibbled on light bites, soaking in the golden-hour views before dinner.

Feeling a little travel-worn and without dinner reservations, we opted for a casual meal at the World Café, snagging a cozy table for two in the Aquavit Bar area at the very back. We kicked things off with a shared plate of sushi from the nearby sushi bar, followed by perfectly grilled steaks from the Grill Station, cooked exactly to our liking—simple, satisfying, and just what we needed.

To cap off the evening, we ventured down to The Hide, a tucked-away speakeasy-style bar on Deck 1. With its mobile drinks station, The Hide keeps things refreshingly uncomplicated—just spirits and a few wines, served neat or on the rocks. No fancy mixology here! We had the place to ourselves, spending a relaxed hour chatting with Jefferson, the bartender, and sampling some unique vodkas and gins. But eventually, fatigue won out, and we made our way back to our room, ready for the adventures ahead.

Jet lag waking us up nice and early, it was time to get ready for our first Viking excursion. Viking typically offers a variety of tours at each destination, with one or two included in the fare. Today, everyone was set for the included Milwaukee city tour, a four-hour coach journey with several stops along the way. Boarding our luxurious Viking branded coach, we pulled away from the dockyard accompanied by lively commentary on Milwaukee’s history, architecture, and culture.

The drive took us along Lake Michigan’s scenic shoreline, passing through affluent residential neighbourhoods before heading into Milwaukee’s quiet yet charming downtown. Our first stop was the Pabst Mansion, built in 1892 by Captain Frederick Pabst, founder of the Pabst Brewing Company, famous for Pabst Blue Ribbon beer—a household name in the U.S., though new to us.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with a sample of Pabst beer to enjoy while exploring the beautifully restored mansion, now a National Historic Landmark showcasing Milwaukee life in the early 1900s. A perfect introduction to the city’s rich heritage!

After leaving the Pabst Mansion, we headed east to the Harley-Davidson Museum, where we had an hour to explore its massive collection of motorcycles, from Serial Number 1 to today’s latest models. Even better, we got to hop on a few for the full Harley experience!

Our guide had recommended we try two Wisconsin favourites at the museum’s restaurant if time allowed. So, after a whirlwind tour of the exhibits, we made a quick stop to sample our first ever cheese curds and a pint of local Wisconsin Spotted Cow beer. Both were delicious! Not quite finished with Milwaukee, our scenic drive back to the ship took us through Milwaukee’s trendy south side, passing the colourful Public Market.

Back on board, it was time to bid Milwaukee farewell with a sailaway party on the open decks. With the sun shining, cocktails flowing, and the band setting the perfect mood, we soaked in the spectacular views as the ship glided away from the city. The real highlight? Watching the Milwaukee skyline unfold from Lake Michigan, a stunning sight made even more memorable as we sailed beneath the Daniel Hoan Memorial Bridge - a grand farewell to this lovely little city.

No sooner had we set sail than the expedition team invited guests down to the hangar area for an exclusive tour of the ship’s high-tech ‘garage.’ This vast space, tucked below deck, houses an impressive array of expedition equipment, some of the most advanced exploration gear on any cruise ship.

Lined up inside were two $4.5 million submarines, playfully named Ringo and George, capable of diving to 1,000 feet (though typically limited to 300 feet for guest trips). A ride in one costs $499 per person, but unfortunately, they wouldn’t be operating on our voyage.

Also in the hangar were two Special Ops boats costing about $1.2 million each. These sleek and powerful boats are designed to carry 12 passengers, a driver, and a narrator for high-speed explorations. Also stored down here are Multiple Zodiacs ready to launch for wildlife encounters and shoreline landings and a fleet of kayaks, perfect for guests looking for a more personal, up-close experience with nature.

The hangar itself is a feat of engineering, featuring three dedicated launch doors—one on either side for the submarines and a large rear garage door that deploys the Special Ops boats directly into the sea. While the submarines and Special Ops boats would remain in their berths for this voyage, we’d soon get the chance to venture out on the Zodiacs and kayaks—ensuring plenty of adventure ahead!

With a dinner reservation at Manfredi’s, we kicked off the evening with a pre-dinner drink in the Explorer’s Lounge, soaking in the relaxed ambiance before heading down to deck 1 for our meal. Arriving a little early, we took a quick detour to the Viking Shop, browsing through the selection of souvenirs and travel essentials - because let’s be honest, there’s always something tempting to pick up on board.

Dinner at Manfredi’s was every bit as delicious as we remembered, a feast of rich flavours and indulgent Italian cuisine. By the time we’d carbed out completely, the thought of any further entertainment, or even a night cap, was simply too much. Instead, we opted for an early night, retreating to our room to rest up for the adventures ahead. 

With an early arrival scheduled for Mackinac Island, our first order of business was passing beneath the iconic Mackinac Bridge—a nearly five-mile-long suspension masterpiece connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. At 7:30 AM, we made our way to the bow, where one of the expedition team members was providing live commentary as we approached this engineering marvel. The crisp morning air was quickly offset by the boozy, cinnamon-spiced hot coffees being passed around - because nothing says good morning quite like a little extra warmth in your cup. As we glided beneath the bridge, squeezing just under its towering span, we joined Polaris’ sister ship, Octantis, already anchored in the bay off Mackinac Island—a perfect start to another day of adventure.

With a tender required to get from the ship to the island, we no sooner arrived in Mackinac town than we hopped straight onto horse-drawn carriages for a scenic ride past the Grand Hotel and up toward Mackinac Island National Park. There, we switched to a larger, three-horse carriage for the steeper climb through the woods to Arch Rock, a breathtaking natural limestone arch with stunning views over Lake Huron.

From Arch Rock, we descended to Fort Mackinac, where we had time to explore its historic barracks and scenic overlooks before heading back into town for some free time. Keen to see more, we spontaneously rented a tandem bike - a first for both of us. After a wobbly start, we quickly got the hang of it and set off on the 8-mile loop around the island, thankful for the flat terrain.

With plenty of scenic stops along the way, our leisurely two hour bike ride turned out to be the perfect way to experience the island’s beauty—a fun, affordable, and highly recommended adventure!

After returning our tandem bike, we set off on foot to wander the charming streets of Mackinac Town, where the irresistible scent of fudge fills the air. With fudge shops on nearly every corner, it’s practically a requirement to sample some - so, naturally, we did.

Not quite ready to leave this storybook island, we took a short walk out of town to admire the historic Stone Church and get a closer look at the Grand Hotel, an aptly named landmark with its iconic white façade and sprawling porch. This idyllic island has it all - sweet treats, horse-drawn carriage, cute buildings, history and elegance - what a delight! Eventually, it was time to say goodbye, catching one of the last tenders back to the ship.

Though we were sad to leave the charm of Mackinac Island, our departure was made extra special with a synchronised sailaway, as we set off in tandem with Viking Octantis, Polaris’ sister ship. Eventually, we had to part ways, watching Octantis peel off toward a different destination while Viking Polaris headed from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron and we turned our attention to something we’d been eager to explore - the spa.

Having sailed on Viking’s ocean ships, we expected something distinctly Nordic, but nothing quite prepared us for this. For an expedition ship, this spa truly raises the bar. The infinity-style pool, stretching toward floor-to-ceiling windows, made it feel as if we were floating straight into the ocean. The hot and cold therapy rooms offered the perfect mix of relaxation and rejuvenation, while the badestamp (traditional Nordic hot tub), open to the elements, was the ultimate indulgence after a day of adventure.

After an hour of pure bliss, we emerged completely relaxed and ready for another wonderful evening on board - because if there’s one thing Viking does best, it’s ensuring every moment at sea is just as memorable as the destinations themselves.

That evening, we enjoyed dinner in the main restaurant, where while walk-ins are welcome, reservations are highly recommended as it tends to get busy. Despite the restaurant being almost full, service remained impeccable, and the food was every bit as delicious as expected.

After dinner, we made our way down to The Hide, where the fantastic live duo were performing an intimate late-night set. The cozy speakeasy was buzzing with fellow guests, savouring drinks poured by our favourite bartender, Jefferson, and great music creating an inviting atmosphere. It was the perfect way to wind down the evening before another exciting day ahead.

The next morning, we arrived in Alpena, but after several action-packed days, we decided to skip the shore excursions and instead embrace a leisurely day on board, indulging in the unparalleled comfort and amenities of Viking Polaris.

We eased into the morning with a late breakfast at Mamsen’s, savouring warm waffles with fresh berries and Norwegian brown cheese, paired with a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. With no rush to be anywhere, we took our time, enjoying the quiet elegance of the ship’s Scandinavian design, where every corner invites relaxation.

Feeling productive, we caught up on some laundry, conveniently located just steps from our suite - a small but thoughtful touch that we found very useful, especially as this voyage was part of an extended time away from home. Laundry done we settled into The Living Room, one of the ship’s most inviting spaces. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the passing scenery, cozy seating, and an extensive selection of books, it was the perfect setting to unwind, read, and sip on an endless supply of cappuccinos from the nearby bar.

That afternoon, we returned to the wonderful Nordic Spa, this time for pre-booked treatments to further elevate the already deeply relaxing experience. Whether it was the gentle hum of the heated treatment tables, the soothing aroma of essential oils, or the expert hands of the therapists, we both emerged feeling completely refreshed.

While Viking Polaris is an expedition ship, it’s also a haven of modern luxury and Scandinavian serenity, making it a fantastic place to spend a day at sea when you simply want to pause, recharge, and indulge in pure relaxation.

The next morning, we enjoyed a picturesque sail along Lake St. Clair, with Canada on one side and the U.S. on the other, as we made our way toward Detroit. The only thing on our morning agenda was a quick kayaking briefing in the Hangar, preparing us for the next day’s adventure on the water. With the briefing complete, we headed to the open decks for our approach to Detroit, admiring its iconic skyline as we glided toward the dock.

No sooner had we arrived than it was time to set off on our excursion to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Founded by the legendary Henry Ford, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of historically significant artefacts that paint a vivid picture of 20th-century American history. We had heard it was worth a visit, but we were completely unprepared for just how vast and fascinating it would be.

From presidential limousines to a replica of the Wright brothers’ first airplane, every exhibit told a story of ingenuity and progress. Walking through history, we stood before President Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theatre and even stepped inside the Montgomery bus where Rosa Parks took her stand for civil rights in 1955—a powerful and humbling moment.

What we expected to be a casual visit turned into a captivating deep dive into U.S. history, a must-visit for anyone visiting this city.

After a fascinating afternoon at the Henry Ford Museum, we were greeted back on board with a thoughtfully arranged shoreside welcome party. With live music playing, refreshing cold towels, and chilled drinks waiting, it was wonderful to return to our home from home. As we slipped our ropes most guests gathered at the ship’s bow, drinks in hand, where we enjoyed a scenic departure, gliding beneath Detroit’s many iconic bridges.

Dinner at Manfredi’s was, as always, exceptional, with every dish as indulgent as the last. But the real highlight of the evening awaited us in The Hide, where we had the privilege of attending a special talk from onboard guest speaker Susan, a renowned naturalist and bird specialist. For over an hour, she mesmerised the room with her inspiring stories of exploration, passion, and discovery—her lifelong fascination with nature, wildlife, and, of course, birds, captivating us all.

Sailing into Lake Erie, we arrived at our first Canadian stop—Point Pelee, the southernmost point of mainland Canada, sitting even farther south than Northern California! This unique spot is home to one of Canada’s smallest yet most ecologically significant national parks. At just 15 square kilometers (5.8 square miles), Point Pelee National Park plays a vital role as a migration highway for both thousands of birds and millions of monarch butterflies.

Eager to get up close to nature, we set off on a guided kayak trip through the park’s inland waterways. Meeting our fellow kayakers on the beach, we took a short walk inland to where our kayaks were waiting. Led by two experienced guides, we glided through serene, glassy waters, scanning the shoreline for wildlife—especially the most elusive locals - beavers. Though they remained hidden, the tranquil one-hour paddle through this lush, untouched landscape made for a peaceful and immersive experience.

Back at the beach, we were welcomed by the fabulous Polaris crew who had laid on a delicious BBQ lunch, finishing the meal with gooey, fire-roasted s’mores—because no outdoor adventure in Canada is complete without them! 🍁🔥🚣‍♀️

Later that afternoon, we set out once more, this time directly from the ship for a Zodiac ride along the rugged Point Pelee coastline. The lake was calm, the air crisp, and the scenery nothing short of spectacular. Not long into our journey, we noticed another Zodiac sitting motionless in the water. Concerned they might be in trouble, we steered toward them—only to realise we’d been set up in the best possible way.

As we pulled alongside, they revealed the surprise—a celebratory glass of bubbly! What better way to toast our unforgettable day in Point Pelee than floating in the middle of Lake Erie, surrounded by tranquility, with a dramatic sky brewing in the distance? A truly magical and unexpected moment to cap off our adventure. 🥂🌊

Hard as it was to believe, it was already time for the farewell briefing and crew parade in Aula, followed by the after-dinner farewell party in The Living Room. This incredible week had flown by far too quickly. But though the sun was setting on our Viking Polaris adventure, we still had one final, epic highlight ahead—a bucket list trip to Niagara Falls.

We arrived in Port Colborne early the next morning, boarding a coach for the scenic drive to Niagara along the picturesque River Road. With a quick photo stop at the top of the falls, our anticipation only grew as we caught our first glimpses of the mighty cascades. Then came the main event—a ride to the base of the thundering Horseshoe Falls aboard the iconic Hornblower. Clad in our bright red ponchos, we boarded the boat, excitement buzzing as we sailed toward the turbulent pools below the towering falls.

At 187 feet high and 2,590 feet wide, with 600,000 gallons of water crashing down per second, Horseshoe Falls is the most powerful of Niagara’s three waterfalls—and standing at the very front of the boat, we felt every drop of it! Though we knew to expect some spray, nothing could have prepared us for the absolute drenching we received as we entered the roaring mist—soaking wet, laughing uncontrollably, and absolutely loving every second. Having long dreamed of visiting Niagara Falls, this up-close and personal experience was everything we’d hoped for—and even better, we got to share the moment with some of our favorite crew members, Jefferson from The Hide and Joel from the Expedition Team.

What a way to end an unforgettable journey—soaked, exhilarated, and in awe of one of nature’s greatest spectacles. A perfect finale to an incredible week. 🌊🚢🥂

As night fell, we set sail once more, transiting the Welland Canal locks under the glow of moonlight. This marked the final leg of our voyage, as we entered Lake Ontario, bound for our last stop, Toronto, where we would soon disembark Viking Polaris. What a Week!

Coming from the UK, a cruise on the Great Lakes isn’t necessarily on everyone’s radar, but it absolutely should be. This journey had everything: vibrant big-city stops in the U.S., visits to charming smaller towns we had never even heard of before, and stunning landscapes that left us in awe at every turn.

But what made this truly special was the chance to explore places we might never have traveled to otherwise, all while sailing on a one-of-a-kind, luxurious expedition ship. And as if the experience wasn’t already incredible enough, we capped it all off with a bucket-list moment—sailing beneath Niagara Falls, fully immersed in the power, mist, and magic of one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders.

This wasn’t just a cruise—it was an adventure of a lifetime, made even more extraordinary by the comfort, elegance, and impeccable service of Viking Polaris. A truly unforgettable journey—and one we’d take again in a heartbeat. 🚢🌊✨

Thank you to Viking who hosted us on this cruise, including excursons and transfers. All air fares and pre and post hotel stays were paid for by us . Viking had no editorial control over any of our content, either before, during our after our voyage and have not paid us to promote them or this post.

If you enjoyed this blog why not take a look at some of our other blogs, especially our Viking Danube blog or our Viking Ocean Dining Guide.

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