“A Great Lakes cruise offers an unforgettable journey through North America’s hidden treasures—where serene waters, historic cities, and breathtaking landscapes create a truly unique adventure.”
A Great Lakes cruise is a unique way to experience the beauty of North America’s largest freshwater lakes—Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, and Lake Ontario.
These cruises offer incredible views, historic stops, and luxurious experiences. However, they tend to be more expensive than many other cruises. Here’s why and how to make the most of your trip.
What Are The Great Lakes Cruise Ships?
Great Lakes cruise ships are special boats made to travel across North America’s five large freshwater lakes: Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario. These lakes stretch across the U.S.-Canada border, and cruising on them offers a unique adventure.
The ships stop at exciting cities like Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, and Toronto, allowing passengers to see beautiful sights, learn about local history, and enjoy different cultures.
These cruises also provide comfortable rooms and nice amenities on board. While it’s an amazing experience, Great Lakes cruises are often more expensive, making them a special kind of trip.
How Much Do Great Lakes Cruises Cost in 2025?
Most Great Lakes cruises in 2025 cost between $6,799 and $12,900 per person for trips that last 8 to 16 days. These cruises give you a special chance to see beautiful natural places and interesting historical sites.
With so many amazing spots to visit, Great Lakes cruises are a great choice for a memorable trip.
Why Are Great Lakes Cruises So Expensive?
Great Lakes cruises are expensive because they are exclusive and have limited availability. The short cruising season and smaller ships, which carry fewer passengers, increase costs per person.
High demand for these unique trips, along with the added amenities and high operating costs, also make prices higher. These factors make Great Lakes cruises a special and expensive experience.
Reasons for the High Cost of Great Lakes Cruises
1. Limited Ships and Season
Only a few ships can navigate the Great Lakes. Additionally, the cruise season is short, usually from May to October, when the weather is best. This short season increases demand, which means higher prices.
2. Small Ships
Small ship Great Lakes cruises hold fewer passengers, often around 300. With fewer guests, these ships offer more personalized service but also need to charge more per person to cover costs.
3. Luxury Experience
These cruises are known for premium experiences. High-quality service, fine dining, and spacious rooms make Great Lakes cruises similar to luxury river cruises. But this level of luxury also raises the price.
4. No Cheap Cabin Options
Unlike ocean cruises, Great Lakes ships don’t have interior rooms. All rooms have windows, which means there’s no low-cost, windowless cabin option. As a result, the starting price for Great Lakes cruises 2024 is higher than typical ocean cruises.
5. High Demand and Limited Competition
Great Lakes cruises are popular among travelers who want a unique adventure. With fewer cruise lines operating here, there’s less competition to drive prices down, keeping rates high.
6. Included Amenities
Great Lakes cruise fares often cover Wi-Fi, meals, drinks, and gratuities. These added services make the trip easier but increase the overall price.
7. Average Cost of a Great Lakes Cruise
Most Great Lakes cruises start around $5,000 per person for 7 to 10 nights. Higher-end suites can go up to $10,000 per person. Major cruise lines like Viking Great Lakes Cruise and American Queen Voyages offer these luxurious trips.
Tips to Save Money on a Great Lakes Cruise
Here are some helpful tips for saving money on a Great Lakes cruise.
1. Book Early or Last Minute
Booking well in advance can secure early discounts. Alternatively, if you’re flexible, last-minute deals may help you save.
2. Choose Off-Peak Dates
The shoulder months—April, May, and October—often have lower rates, as they fall outside the peak season.
3. Use a Travel Agent
A travel agent may have access to special offers or bundle deals for cheap Great Lakes cruises. They can also help you find the best 3-day Great Lakes cruise options if you want a shorter trip.
4. Pick a Lower Deck Cabin
Cabins on lower decks are typically cheaper. Though the view may be less impressive, it’s a good option for budget-conscious travelers.
Are Great Lakes Cruises Worth It?
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a Great Lakes cruise ship offers amazing scenery, stops in iconic cities like Toronto, Cleveland, and Chicago, and the chance to explore historic and cultural sites.
These cruises are especially popular among older travelers who enjoy a calm, scenic experience. Despite the price, many consider it a worthwhile journey.
Final Thoughts
A Great Lakes cruise may be more expensive than other trips, but it’s a truly unique adventure. By planning early, traveling in off-peak months, and considering options like a 3-day Great Lakes cruise or a lower-deck cabin, you can experience this memorable trip without overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Average Cost of a Great Lakes Cruise?
Most Great Lakes cruises cost around $5,000 per person for a 7-10 night trip. Luxury suites can reach $10,000 per person.
Why are Great Lakes Cruises so Valuable?
Great Lakes cruises offer a premium experience with beautiful landscapes, top-notch service, and included amenities like meals, Wi-Fi, and drinks. The short cruising season and limited ships also make these cruises more exclusive.
What Makes Great Lakes Cruises more Expensive than Ocean Cruises?
Unlike ocean cruises, Great Lakes cruises have limited ships, fewer cabins, and no interior rooms, so prices start higher. They also offer a more intimate, luxury experience with high crew-to-passenger ratios.
Are there any Cheap Great Lakes Cruises?
While Great Lakes cruises are generally on the pricier side, you can find deals by booking early, traveling during the off-peak season, or looking for last-minute deals.
What are the Best Great Lakes Cruises for Seniors?
Cruises from lines like Viking and American Queen Voyages are popular among seniors due to their relaxed pace, comfortable accommodations, and scenic routes that highlight historic and cultural sites.
Can I Find a 3-day Great Lakes Cruise?
While most Great Lakes cruises are longer, some cruise lines may offer 3-day Great Lakes cruises or shorter regional routes, especially in the off-peak season.
When is the Best Time to Book a Great Lakes Cruise?
For the best prices, try booking well in advance or looking for last-minute deals. Shoulder months like April, May, or October often offer lower rates as well.
Which Cruise Lines Operate on the Great Lakes?
Some popular lines are Viking Expedition Cruises, American Queen Voyages, Ponant, and Pearl Seas Cruises. Each provides a unique take on the Great Lakes experience.
What Amenities are Included in Great Lakes Cruises?
Great Lakes cruises often include Wi-Fi, meals, drinks, and gratuities in the fare, making for a more all-inclusive experience compared to typical ocean cruises.