Discover the USA Great Lakes: HANSEATIC Inspiration’s 2026-2027 Cruise Itinerary Revealed

The HANSEATIC Inspiration is set to embark on her maiden voyage through the majestic Great Lakes of North America during the 2026-2027 season, an endeavor made possible by her unique design, which enables safe navigation through the region’s narrower waterways. Following a completely sold-out 2025 season, demand remains high, with limited cabin availability for 2026. To cater to this interest, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has scheduled an additional five cruises for 2027.

The Great Lakes, a stunning formation of five interconnected freshwater bodies between the USA and Canada, present a distinctive cruising opportunity largely due to their narrow channels, locks, and remote coastal communities, which can only be accessed by smaller expedition vessels. The HANSEATIC Inspiration features a beam of approximately 22 meters and a shallow draught, allowing her to maneuver through tight locks and passages with precision.

Expeditions on this ship will last between 14 to 17 days. Guests will be taken to secluded bays using Zodiacs while onboard experts provide insightful lectures on the region’s geography and history. Notable contributors include Hapag-Lloyd’s long-serving captain Thilo Natke, who will lead hiking excursions, and historian Dr. Wolfgang Grams, who will delve into North America’s migration history.

The curated itinerary includes exciting stops at cities like Windsor, recognized for its picturesque riverfront and artisan breweries; Toronto, known for its vibrant Distillery District; Montreal, celebrated for street art and dining; and Quebec City, famous for its quaint lanes and French bakery culture. Onboard amenities include three restaurants (one uniquely combining Japanese and Peruvian cuisine), lecture spaces, and wellness facilities, including a 235 m² spa with natural cosmetics, a fitness center, and a pool with a counter-current system.

As the 2026 bookings fill quickly, Hapag-Lloyd has prepared for the 2027 season, which includes voyages through the Welland Canal—a 45 km route connecting Lake Ontario and Lake Erie that involves high ascents through eight locks. Such transitions, particularly the use of the Soo Locks between Lake Huron and Lake Superior, highlight the vessel’s capabilities in navigating challenging waters rarely attempted by expedition ships.

One notable itinerary, INS2615, departs from Milwaukee, proceeding through Lake Michigan and Huron, with stops at Mackinac Island and Windsor, before navigating the Welland Canal to Lake Ontario and following the St. Lawrence River toward Montreal and the Saguenay Fjord, eventually concluding in Halifax. Alternatively, the INS2715 itinerary circumnavigates Lake Superior, beginning and ending in Milwaukee while visiting locations like Silver Islet and Terrace Bay.

For further details on the ships and voyages, visit CruiseMapper.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.