HANSEATIC inspiration to Embark on First-Ever Voyage Across All Five Great Lakes in 2027 

June 2, 2026 Team Contributor

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has expanded its 2027 Great Lakes programme with two new extended expeditions aboard the HANSEATIC inspiration. For the first time, the vessel will sail all five Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River within a single itinerary.  

The newly announced sailings will operate between Milwaukee and Halifax, connecting Lakes Michigan, Superior, Huron, Erie and Ontario with the St. Lawrence River. In addition to two previously scheduled departures, the programme now includes four Great Lakes expeditions in 2027. It also reflects growing demand for deeper exploration of North America’s freshwater waterways.  

A Journey Across Five Great Lakes 

The new routes combine some of the region’s most iconic natural and cultural attractions. Travellers will experience Mackinac Island, the rugged landscapes surrounding Lake Superior, and the island-filled waters of Georgian Bay. The itineraries also include Toronto and access to Niagara Falls before continuing through the Welland Canal and the lock systems of the St. Lawrence River. 

Further east, the HANSEATIC inspiration will call at Montreal and Quebec before exploring the wildlife-rich waters around Tadoussac, Gaspé and the Îles de la Madeleine. The voyages conclude in Halifax, linking the Great Lakes region with Atlantic Canada in a single expedition. 

The ship’s compact design, shallow draught and retractable bridge wings allow it to navigate the narrow canals, locks and waterways that characterize the Great Lakes system. One of the voyage highlights will be the transit of the Welland Canal, which enables vessels to bypass Niagara Falls while moving between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. 

2027 Great Lakes Programme Highlights 

Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River – Five lakes, one voyage (INS2730) 

A new 21-day voyage from Milwaukee to Halifax, sailing through all five Great Lakes, Georgian Bay, the Welland Canal and the St. Lawrence River.  

Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River – Atlantic to lakes (INS2731) 

The reverse 21-day itinerary from Halifax to Milwaukee combines Atlantic Canada, the St. Lawrence River and extensive exploration of Lakes Huron and Superior.  

Great Lakes – Exploring all five lakes by expedition (INS2714) 

A 13-day expedition focused on all five Great Lakes, featuring lock passages, Zodiac operations and nature experiences around Lake Superior.  

Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River: Fall colours & culture (INS2718) 

A 19-day autumn voyage showcasing vibrant seasonal scenery, wildlife encounters and destinations stretching from the Great Lakes to Atlantic Canada. 

The announcement comes as cruise lines continue investing in longer, destination-focused itineraries. A similar trend can be seen in Explora Journeys’ recently unveiled 2028 cruise programme, which expands immersive sailings across multiple global regions. 

Looking ahead, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has confirmed that the HANSEATIC inspiration will return to the Great Lakes in 2028 during its seasonal repositioning voyages between the Arctic and Antarctica.

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