In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys. This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture. Set sail with PONANT aboard Le Bellot for an 9-day cruise to discover the Great Lakes . Depart from Milwaukee, Wisconsin , the United States’ “brew city,” and begin your voyage by sailing the length of Lake Michigan , a veritable inland sea, following in the footsteps of the region’s indigenous Americans, first settlers, and trappers. On Mackinac Island , explore the island’s Victorian past by horse and buggy before continuing to Sault Ste. Marie , where you will have the opportunity to transit the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks for a foray into Lake Superior . Your next lake, Lake Huron , boasts myriad islands in its northern part, with white rocks capped with conifers plunging into the sapphire waters of the lake. Here you will discover the quaint town of Little Current , gateway to Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. Leaving Manitoulin Island, sail across Lake Huron to reach Detroit , the “Motor City”. Here you visit the Henry Ford Museum , an eccentric collection of objects reflecting Ford’s fascination with Americana, and Greenfield Village , a gathering of historic structures from around the country. From your call in Port Colborne, you will be able to see the impressive Niagara Falls . These three powerful waterfalls, renowned the world over, are an exquisite natural spectacle. Le Bellot will then sail the Welland Canal connecting Lake Erie and Lake Ontario . You will end in cosmopolitan and dynamic Toronto, Ontario , on the shore of Lake Ontario. Canada’s largest city will charm you with its museums, parks, and gardens.










In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
Set sail with PONANT aboard Le Bellot for an 9-day cruise to discover the Great Lakes.
Depart from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the United States’ “brew city,” and begin your voyage by sailing the length of Lake Michigan, a veritable inland sea, following in the footsteps of the region’s indigenous Americans, first settlers, and trappers.
On Mackinac Island, explore the island’s Victorian past by horse and buggy before continuing to Sault Ste. Marie, where you will have the opportunity to transit the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks for a foray into Lake Superior.
Your next lake, Lake Huron, boasts myriad islands in its northern part, with white rocks capped with conifers plunging into the sapphire waters of the lake. Here you will discover the quaint town of Little Current, gateway to Manitoulin Island, the world’s largest freshwater island.
Leaving Manitoulin Island, sail across Lake Huron to reach Detroit, the “Motor City”. Here you visit the Henry Ford Museum, an eccentric collection of objects reflecting Ford’s fascination with Americana, and Greenfield Village, a gathering of historic structures from around the country.
From your call in Port Colborne, you will be able to see the impressive Niagara Falls. These three powerful waterfalls, renowned the world over, are an exquisite natural spectacle. Le Bellot will then sail the Welland Canal connecting Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
You will end in cosmopolitan and dynamic Toronto, Ontario, on the shore of Lake Ontario. Canada’s largest city will charm you with its museums, parks, and gardens.

PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, have formed a unique alliance to offer themed sailings featuring experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts , and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that immerses guests in the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of each destination, and helps provide a deeper understanding of the places we explore.

With one included excursion per day and per guest, and the presence of expert lecturers on board, Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation. A refined way to journey far from the everyday, both in mind and in spirit. Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest is offered. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call. Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, or aboard local vessels. Your experts on board: The dedicated excursion team and one or more guest lecturers. Children: Children from one year of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on board Le Commandant Charcot ). The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Before the cruise
Day-by-day stops
After the cruise

Ponant
This superb yacht unique atmosphere a subtle blend of luxury intimacy and well-being. French flag
3 promotions apply to this voyage. Click any offer for full terms.
Children aged 6-11 eligible for discount when sharing with two full-fare adults. Baby equipment available on request. Kids club available on select voyages. Children: 6–17 years Child discount: 70%
Third adult in Deluxe Suite on sofa bed. Third person discount applies to adults and children. Maximum 3 persons per suite. Adult discount: 70% Child discount: 50%
Default rate: 2× Single supplement of 2.0x applies to all staterooms and suites. PONANT Bonus program members may receive reduced supplement on select departures.
210+ days before departure: 20% penalty 120–210 days before departure: 50% penalty 90–120 days before departure: 75% penalty 0–90 days before departure: 100% penalty Cancellation fees apply as per the schedule above. Travel insurance strongly recommended. Name change fee: $200 EUR
Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi onboard all vessels.
Your booking is made with Gvoya — the terms shown above are the Gvoya platform terms applied to this voyage. Full details: Booking Terms·Cancellation Policy
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2 key persons sailing on this voyage.