Time to take to the seas...or at least the lakes. Once again this year you'll be able to cruise the Great Lakes in style on a luxury cruise ship.

Last year Viking Cruise lines launched its new line of cruise ships which included the phenomenal luxury liner, Octantis, and they will take to the waters once again in 2023.  Although Viking had offered Great Lakes cruises before last year, the Octantis offered the new Great Lakes Collection cruise lasting 15 days. The new ship and specialty routes helped make 2022 a record-setting cruise season for the Lakes with more than 150,000 passenger visits to ports large and small, generating an economic impact of about $125 million.

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As 2023 is well underway, and interest has spread, this season is set to be even bigger. This year's cruising season, which runs from May to October, will see 11 vessels operated by eight cruise lines hit the waters of the majestic lakes that surround Michigan. Ships from Viking Cruises, Pearl Seas Cruises, American Queen Voyages, St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, Ponant, Vantage, Hapag-Lloyd, and Plantours Cruises will all serve passengers on a variety of excursions.

According to Mlive, experts in the industry predict 2023 to see nearly 170,000 passenger visits which is an increase of 15% over 2022. That travel could see a  total economic impact of $180 million. With the introduction of new ships and fantastic ports of call, travelers are finding they don't have to travel far for amazing cruising experiences.

Again leading the way in luxurious options again will be the Octantis. Considered the youngest vessel on the lakes, the ship is 665 feet and accommodates 378 passengers along with 256 crew members. Throughout the 5 decks, passengers will find a wide variety of suites, deluxe staterooms, a library, terraces, pools, dining experiences, lounges, shops, spas, and even the height of luxury...penthouse suites.

Cruise packages start at $12,995 for the 15-day Great Lakes Collection cruise on Viking. If that's too many days at sea, or the price tag is a little steep, Viking does offer other excursions that travel the Great Lakes as well starting at $5,995 as do other cruise lines.

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