Victory Cruise Lines: Great Lakes, New England & Canada

When picturing a cruise, most people think of a large ship sailing out on the ocean or a river cruise winding through Europe. But there’s another kind of cruising that’s quietly gaining attention—coastal cruising.

Coastal cruises hug shorelines along seas, oceans, or even large lakes, stopping at smaller ports and scenic harbors that bigger ships can’t reach. Victory Cruise Lines does this beautifully, offering intimate, shoreline-focused itineraries on both the Great Lakes and the New England & Canada coast. Coastal cruises aren’t to be confused with river cruises, which sail inland on rivers and canals.

What Exactly Is Coastal Cruising?

Coastal cruising is all about staying close to shore. Instead of long stretches of just ocean, you’re rarely out of sight of land.

Ships are smaller, the pace is slower, and itineraries are built around towns, islands, and scenic spots that the big ships can’t get to. For some people, this is the best of river cruising and ocean cruising rolled into one. And for others who love ocean and river cruising, this is a segue to another type of cruising for a new type of destination.

You’ll find coastal cruises all over the world—Norway’s fjords, Southeast Asia, the Mediterranean, and closer to home, New England & Canada or even the Great Lakes. And that’s exactly where Victory Cruise Lines shines.

Small Ships, Big Comfort

Victory isn’t trying to compete with the big ships, and that’s the beauty of it. With just two ships—Victory I and Victory II—carrying fewer than 200 guests each, the experience feels more like being in a boutique hotel than a floating city. The atmosphere is friendly, relaxed, and never crowded. Think of it as a cozy inn on the water.

Onboard, you’ll find lounges with big windows for soaking in the views, comfortable staterooms, and dining that focuses on fresh, regional flavors. You won’t see things like water slides or climbing walls here. Instead, it’s all about personal service, great food, and a chance to really connect with the destinations.

And because the ships are small, they can slip into places bigger ships can’t—whether that’s Chicago’s Navy Pier, the Soo Locks, or the charming harbors of New England.

From the Great Lakes to New England & Canada

Victory offers two very different styles of itineraries:

Great Lakes

This is coastal cruising with a twist—on freshwater instead of the ocean. Itineraries cover all five lakes, with stops that mix history, culture, and natural wonders.

Depending on your sailing, you might see:

• Mackinac Island, Michigan – Famous for fudge, horse-drawn carriages, and Victorian charm.

• Sault Ste. Marie – Watch the ships rise and fall in the Soo Locks.

• Detroit, Michigan – A city with deep roots in industry, Motown, and the arts.

• Cleveland, Ohio – Home of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

• Niagara Falls – A highlight that never disappoints.

• Thunder Bay, Ontario – Gateway to Lake Superior’s rugged beauty.

New England & Canada

Victory also sails along the beautiful North Atlantic coast, especially popular in the fall when the foliage is at its most vibrant.

Picture yourself possibly exploring:

• Portland, Maine – Coastal charm, fresh seafood, and a lively arts scene.

• Halifax, Nova Scotia – A mix of maritime history and vibrant culture.

• Québec City, Québec – Cobblestone streets, French charm, and Old World beauty.

• Saguenay, Québec – Stunning fjords, outdoor adventures, and charming local culture.

• Gaspé, Québec – Rugged coastline, historic sites, and breathtaking scenery.

These itineraries are about more than just sightseeing—they give you time to dive into the culture, history, and scenery that make each port special.

Visit this map to see all of Victory Cruise Line's ports of call.

Victory Cruise Lines: From Past to Present

Victory Cruise Lines may be small, but its story is anything but ordinary. Its two ships, built in 2004, have a distinctly American small-ship legacy, and their latest chapter is generating excitement in the travel industry. In 2024, industry veteran John Waggoner, the original founder of American Queen Voyages, acquired the vessels and relaunched the beloved Victory Cruise Lines. Freshly refurbished and staffed with care, Victory returned to the water in 2025, offering boutique, destination-focused coastal itineraries across the Great Lakes, New England, and Canada.

Video Describing Victory Cruise Lines:

History

Ship Tour

What to Expect

All-Inclusive, No Stress

One of the things that makes Victory so appealing is the extensive inclusions in your fare. Here’s what’s typically covered:

• A pre-cruise hotel night and transfers.

• Transfers from hotel to ship, and from ship to airport.

• All meals, with menus highlighting local specialties.

• Wine, local craft beer, spirits, specialty coffees, and soft drinks.

• Wi-Fi

• Live, daily onboard entertainment

• Enrichment program with Victory’s LakeLorians.

• Guided shore excursions in every port, with options to upgrade.

That’s a big deal because it takes the stress out of travel planning—you know upfront what’s included, and you can just relax and enjoy.

Learn, Explore, Repeat

Victory doesn’t just take you places—it helps you understand them. On the Great Lakes, you’ll meet LakeLorians®—historians, naturalists, and local experts who share fascinating stories and insights. On New England & Canada sailings, you might learn about colonial history, the region’s maritime traditions, or French Canadian culture.

The shore excursions go hand-in-hand with this focus. You might tour Detroit’s Motown Museum, ride a horse-drawn carriage on Mackinac Island, hike in Acadia, or explore Québec City’s old town. Every stop has its own flavor, and the small-ship approach means the tours feel more personal and less rushed.

Life Onboard Victory

Life on board Victory feels relaxed and friendly. You’ll see familiar faces throughout the trip, and there’s a sense of camaraderie among travelers and crew alike. Entertainment is more intimate—think music, lectures, or storytelling rather than Broadway-style productions.

This style of cruising particularly appeals to individuals who enjoy river cruises. If you’ve enjoyed sailing with lines like Viking River or AmaWaterways, you’ll likely feel right at home on Victory.

Why Victory Cruise Lines Stands Out

When I think of coastal cruising, I think of Victory. Here’s why:

• Smaller ships that feel personal and welcoming.

• Shore-hugging itineraries with constant scenery.

• Frequent, fascinating port stops.

• Enrichment that helps you connect with each destination.

• A relaxed pace that puts the focus on the experience, not the glitz.

Victory delivers everything coastal cruising promises--- slipping into smaller ports, soaking up the culture and history, and traveling at a pace that lets you really enjoy it all.

Your Next Coastal Adventure Awaits

If you’re ready for small-ship charm, enriching excursions, and stunning coastal scenery, reach out today and let’s start planning your next unforgettable cruise adventure with Victory Cruise Lines.

Happy Traveling!

-Connie