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Victory Casino Cruises

Updated over 3 months ago

Review Highlights

“ Advice- Card games the lower denomination tables fill up before ship leaves dock so get there early if that's your desire for the night. ” in 103 reviews

“ Food was nice, boat ride out to sea was sun filled, gambling was entertaining, and the drinks were well poured. ” in 7 reviews

“ It really was an awesome evening...... .. I will be going again.. ” in 9 reviews

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180 Christopher Columbus Dr

Terminal B-2 Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral, FL 32920

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Welcome Aboard! Victory Casino Cruises is America’s Best and Biggest Casino Cruise Ship! Four decks of Vegas-style casino action...40,000 square feet...five hour cruise on the Atlantic Ocean with great food and FREE DRINKS while gaming!! Non-smoking decks on 1 and 4. You must be at least 18 years of age to gamble and 21 years of age to consume alcohol. Bus Schedule Information on our website. If when you join us, you find anything less than the best experience, please reach out to the manager on duty or our Cruise Director, Steve. We want our guests to be happy with their visit to our casino. Make your reservations online, print your boarding pass and bypass the lines at ticketing to get right on the ship! Visit our Website for details on pricing and our sailing schedule! …

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We were on last year and loved it when Rocky and Rollers were on so when are they booked again?

Hello Denise! Rocky and the Rollers will be here 11/26 and then 2 times in December. They join us 2 times per month. More info on our website! www.victorycasinocruises.com

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327 reviews

My fiancée and i went on the sunday day cruise . Nice boat and cruise . Boat is not huge . Older crowd wich is fine . If you dont gamble This probably wont be a good thing. There are no other activities . Besides sitting and watching the ocean. We did well playing Slots and blackjack . There is probably a different vibe on the evening cruise . As i saw They had a dance floor amd dj area . Not operating in daytime . Restrooms and Common areas clean . It is a older vessel Groupon has discounted tickets .

See all photos from Fabian M. for Victory Casino Cruises

The Victory Casino Cruise gets a bad rap because very few accept the fact that the casino has a statistical probability against you winning. Go with the intention of having a fun afternoon gaming and if you win ...great. Remember to Set a limit and pace yourself. The boat went out to sea at 10am and returned at 4pm. We started out finding seats in the open air deck area and enjoying the live music. 45 minutes in you can start gambling. On the way back you stop gambling about 45 minutes before docking. We spent that time listening to an entertainer that played excellent music and was skilled at getting people on the dance floor. The food was mediocre/poor quality to me but many others loved it. The full priced drinks are superior to the free drinks and the blackjack table is hands down the best experience.

Have not been on this casino cruise since before Covid hit. Before the pandemic, they had a buffet that was great and worth getting the Groupon. You had the two well drinks, the buffet and $10 credit for the slots or what you wanted to use it for. Now.... no buffet... you get an option of "a la carte" which means, a burger, a sandwich, quesadilla, wings or a salad. Actually, it's not too bad. I had the wings which were pretty big and came with with 3 pieces of celery and my choice of ranch or blue cheese. My wife chose the Philly Cheesesteak and it had good amount of meat and cheese. So, for the Groupon, you get a good meal and the soft drinks and coffee are free refills during the voyage. You can purchase upgrades for your meals and the prices are moderate. We came on Memorial Day, not a normal operating day for them, but it was nice to get out. Water was choppy and the boat moved A LOT. They do warn you about that and when they are going to turn in the water. As for the casino, a lot of people love it.. depends on your "poison", but people do win money. We signed up for the bingo, but if there are not enough people signed up, they refund you your entry. Go on their website to see the special days with music or more money winning options. UPDATE: when the ship is getting close to Port, do not head for the exit. They use wristband colors to tell you when to come up to get ready to disembark. It's better to stay on deck 1 and have a soft drink or coffee while you're waiting to be called.

A fun day out with friends and family. We ate a breakfast sandwich($6) before the cruise left. After the boat goes out 3 miles the games and slot machines begin. There are 3 bars throughout the boat, including a sports bar and one outside with a DJ. $15 and $25 craps, $15 back Jack, roulette and poker games. There's a video roulette game on the same floor as the dance floor . They also have bingo and slot tournament. There's usually fun games where you can win. FreePlay and lots of specials if you call ahead and ask. For lunch there's various sandwiches and salads which are all around $12-$15 nonalcoholic drinks for free. And alcoholic drinks are free while you're gambling. So if you're in central Florida, this is a good place to go.

Dressed up for costume contest. Won $100 free play

Everything was perfect. Easy boarding, good food, polite staff. They had live music, dancing and of course Bingo and gambling tables and machines.

I was mislead, and honestly it feels as if it was done with malicious intent. If not, then treated with the "well you're on the ship now." If you have a coupon that reads "$10 slot credit," to me that sounds like $10 slot credit. Attached is the coupon that I used with the fine print. Nothing on there read anything about having to spend another $40 dollars more for "8 credit points," or whatever. I was expecting to spend a good amount as everything seemed wonderful! However, after informed of that little surprise, I didn't spend another dime. One of the workers even informed me that they themselves didn't know about that fact until after a couple of months working for this company. That was pretty revolting. Taking the bad with the good, if you're weary about being on a boat then this is where to start. The captain notifies passengers via intercom every step of the way. The ship does rock around a little bit, but there are plenty of places to get fresh air. Also, they do keep it relatively cool. I believe it was 65° outside and honestly it was about the same temperature inside (*Update, found a thermostat that was locked at 50°). If you're planning on drinking, then this is a safe haven. Drinks were good, food was good, and the staff was amazing. If you're well informed prior to departure, then this spot is the place for you.

Wife took me for my 67th birthday. We had a great time. Food was ok but not worth the cost. Free drinks while you gamble is a nice touch.

I went today with a group. It included bus ride, entry, free entree and $20 free play for $35! Well worth it. I am a slot player and loved all the machines. The Philly cheese steak was great. Free water/tea/coffee and soft drinks. The ONLY reason they do not get 5 stars is it was FREEZING on the boat. I had read that prior to going so I dressed in long pants and long sleeve shirt and had a small jacket. I was so cold even with the jacket on I had to drink 3 cups of coffee to get warm. It did seem to get better after more people got on the boat. Also, staff is wonderful. Especially the lady who was tending to the bathrooms. She was working her butt off. Please be sure to tip her also.

There are some pros and cons to victory casino cruises. The pros include that a beautiful ride into the ocean, a fun outdoor bar in the 4th deck, and great employees. However, the machines are old and the food is fair at best and limited. Everything is pretty outdated. If they had a buffet (I hear that they used too) , and added some glitz to liven up the place, it would be a fun place to spend the evening.

My BF and I went here for the first time last night. It was our first time gambling, and didn't really know what we were doing. One of the dealers, Gino (from the UK) was extremely helpful and patient with us. He helped us learn how to play BlackJack, and we had a great time?

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• Casinos & Gaming

Victory Casino Cruises

• 180 Christopher Columbus Drive Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
• (321) 684-5350 855-GO-VICTORY (468-4286)

Victory Casino Cruises – Port Canaveral Review

Mike is our Senior Editor and experienced gambling strategist . A former hockey player, he transitioned to the casino industry after finishing his B.A. in English. Blackjack systems, online casino guides, gambling terms, and more - Mike is familiar with all fine points of gambling.

Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral offers a unique gambling experience aboard a cruise ship off the coast of Florida. ... It stands out with over 600 slot machines and 100 table games , ensuring a variety of options for its guests. Explore our detailed Victory Casino Cruise review for more insights.

• Victory Casino Cruises – Port Canaveral Gambling and Games
• Victory Casino Cruises – Port Canaveral Venues and Services
• Victory Casino Cruises – Port Canaveral Contacts and About
• Victory Casino Cruises – Port Canaveral FAQ

Gambling in Victory Casino Cruises – Port Canaveral

Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral offers a diverse range of gambling options. With over 600 slot machines on board , guests have plenty of choices for quick and engaging play. You'll be delighted by the variety of themes and styles available.

The casino also features 100 table games, including popular options like blackjack, roulette, and poker . You can also enjoy classics like Craps and Baccarat, ensuring a comprehensive gambling session. There's no PvP poker, but you should check the retail sportsbook.

Casino Games

Victory Casino Cruises boasts a wide array of slot titles such as Dragon Lines, Emperor Pinguin, and Jaguar Mist , appealing to various tastes. Table game enthusiasts can enjoy classics like blackjack and roulette. If you prefer poker, there are 3 Card Poker, Let It Ride, Mississippi Stud, and Ultimate Texas Hold'em.

The rest of the table games include Craps and EZ Baccarat . Sports betting is also available, covering events like football, basketball, and boxing. Guests can try their luck in lottery-style bingo. The diverse gaming options ensure a comprehensive experience for all visitors on board.

• Dragon Lines
• Emperor Pinguin
• Jaguar Mist
• Breaking Bad
• 3 Card Poker
• Mississippi Stud
• Ultimate Texas Hold'em
• Let It Ride
• French Roulette
• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• Any 2 Card Blackjack
• Football Bets
• Basketball Bets
• Baseball Bets
• Racing Bets
• Boxing Bets
• Hockey Bets

Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral Venues and Services

While there are many cruise ship casinos operating off the coast of Florida there are only a few that are exclusively day cruises . Victory Casino Cruise – Port Canaveral is one of them. Due to that fact, it is a lot smaller than other cruise ships and therefore has fewer additional venues and services.

Still, the compact size of this casino cruise doesn't compromise on quality, ensuring a pleasant experience . For more details on other cruise casinos in the area, check out our guide on casinos in Cape Canaveral . There are plenty of options to choose from.

Dining, Bars, and Entertainment

Victory Casino Cruises offers dining options like the Atlantic Café, providing a casual dining atmosphere with a variety of dishes. For a more refined experience, guests can enjoy A La Carte Dining , which offers a range of culinary delights. You can also grab a drink at the Dolphin Bar and Sportsbook Lounge.

• Atlantic Café
• A La Carte Dining

Bars & Night Life

• Dolphin Bar
• Sportsbook Lounge

Attractions and Entertainment

Contacts and about victory casino cruises – port canaveral, how to get to victory casino cruises – port canaveral.

Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, FL, is the departure point for gambling cruises. You can rely on bus Route 9 to get you two minutes away from the port, but traveling by car is the easiest way. Start your trip in Orlando and take Martin Andersen Beachline Expressway (FL-528) in the direction of East until you reach the conjunction with US-1 highway. Keep driving in the same direction on Florida State Road A1A until you reach Cape Canaveral Island (you will recognize it when you see the Cape Canaveral lighthouse). Then, get off the highway and drive along George King Boulevard. Follow the boulevard, take a turn on Jetty Park Road and then another one on Christopher Columbus Drive. We remind you that since the casinos are on ships, you should buy a ticket. You can do that by contacting the Victory Casino Cruises agents in their offices, online, or over the phone. While you make your booking for the casino cruise trip, make sure to ask if the company offers parking, shuttle service, or another type of organized service for the travelers.

• Public Transport Route 9
• Shuttle Service Yes
• Nearest Highway I-95
• Parking Slots 100+

Our Opinion About Victory Casino Cruises – Port Canaveral

Victory Casino Cruises offers a distinctive day cruise gambling experience . The range of table games and slots ensures there's something for every player. However, the lack of onboard accommodation might be a downside for some.

The 24/7 operation allows flexibility for visitors, fitting any schedule . The dining and bar options complement the gaming experience well. Should Victory Casino Cruises wish to add or adjust any information, they're welcome to contact us at [email protected] or through our contact page .

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for more information about Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral? Our FAQs cover everything from gaming options to amenities, ensuring you have all the details for a great visit. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning guest, find answers to your questions here .

How big is Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral?

Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral was opened in 2006. We're not aware of its exact size , but It is big enough to feature hundreds of slot machines, a variety of table games, a bingo hall, and a high-quality retail sportsbook.

How many slot machines are there at Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral?

You can choose between more than 600 slot machines at Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral. Among the most popular titles you'll find on board are Dragon Lines, Emperor Pinguin, and Jaguar Mist. You can place bets starting from as little as $0.01.

What are the table limits for blackjack at Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral?

The blackjack limits vary but are typically suitable for both low and high rollers . You should check with the casino cruise staff once on board. You should know that dealers stand on all 17's and they pay all blackjacks 3 to 2 odds.

How old do you have to be to gamble at Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral?

Guests to Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral have to be 18 years or older to gamble on board. This is in line with the corresponding laws and regulations. Make sure to bring your passport or driver's license to prove your age and identity before boarding.

Victory Casino Cruises Port Canaveral offers a comprehensive gambling experience with over 600 slot machines and 100 table games. The day cruise format is perfect for those looking to enjoy a few hours of gaming without the need for overnight accommodation. The unique gambling cruise stands out among other Florida casinos for its distinct approach.

• Cruise ship casino
• Electronic slot machines
• Traditional casino table games

Disclaimer: With regard to any changes related to the information about a casino, we won't be held responsible if such differences occur. We advise our readers to double-check the official website of the casino for the most accurate information.

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Embark on the voyage of a lifetime

Discover All-inclusive coastal cruising along America’s five Great Lakes, the storied St. Lawrence Seaway, and the Canadian Maritimes

DESTINATION All Five Great Lakes Great Lakes + St. Lawrence Seaway Great Lakes + Thunder Bay New England + Canada

DATE April 16, 2025 April 26, 2025 May 02, 2025

DATE April, 2025 May, 2025 June, 2025 July, 2025 August, 2025 September, 2025 October, 2025

PORT Chicago Toronto Montreal Portland

A Thirst for the unexplored

A world of discovery and wonder

Victory Cruise Lines® invites you to experience the unparalleled intimacy of small-ship cruising along North America’s most captivating waterways. Our meticulously crafted itineraries traverse the grandeur of the Great Lakes and the enchanting allure of the Canadian Maritimes.

Aboard our elegantly appointed Victory I® and Victory II® , you’ll discover a world of secluded harbors, pristine coastlines, and serene seaways—destinations often inaccessible to larger vessels. Prepare to embark on a journey that redefines comfort and exploration.

Journey Victoriously

DESTINATIONS

Set sail on a journey of adventure and discovery through North America’s Great Lakes and Maritimes

DESTINATION

ALL FIVE GREAT LAKES

Explore vast inland seas where ancient cultures thrive and breathtaking natural wonders await. From the thundering power of Niagara Falls to the ethereal dance of the aurora borealis, experience the heartland’s grandeur.

GREAT LAKES + THUNDER BAY

Experience the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural wonder as you explore Duluth, Thunder Bay, and Marquette. Discover hidden treasures and create lasting memories on this journey for both dreamers and explorers.

GREAT LAKES + ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY

Sail through stunning landscapes where vibrant cities meet tranquil lakeshores. Discover the charm of Mackinac Island and the awe-inspiring power of Niagara Falls. This unforgettable journey awaits.

NEW ENGLAND + CANADA

Discover charming coastal towns, historic landmarks, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the rugged shores of New England to the vibrant city of Montreal, this unforgettable journey is a nature lover’s dream.

THE VERY BEST OF AMERICA’S GREAT LAKES

No one knows the Great Lakes and Canadian Maritimes like Victory Cruise Lines!

Portland to Toronto

11-night cruise & hotel.

Chicago to Toronto

10-night cruise & hotel.

Chicago Roundtrip

15-night cruise & hotel.

Chicago to Montréal

12-night cruise & hotel.

Journey Beyond

SO MANY REASONS TO LOVE VICTORY

Our guests enjoy an amazing array of amenities designed to elevate their experience at every moment.

1-NIGHT PRE-CRUISE HOTEL STAY

with complimentary ground transfers between the hotel and the vessel.

UNLIMITED BEVERAGES

including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local beers and specialty coffees.

ACCLAIMED CUISINE

breakfast, lunch and dinner served in multiple venues.

OCEANVIEW STATEROOMS

all oceanview suites and staterooms, appointed with the comforts of home.

LIVE DAILY ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT

enrich your curiosity onboard and on-shore with our own LakeLorians®.

INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS

meet destination experts in every port.

OPEN BARS & LOUNGES

unlimited beverages throughout the vessel.

GOURMET SELECTIONS

regionally inspired dishes with intricate and artful plating.

UNLIMITED WIFI

stay connected while you disconnect, on us.

HIKING STICKS

there’s nothing quite like a good walking stick, take one, we think you’ll agree.

UNLIMITED WiFi

Victory i + victory ii.

Designed for discovery. Outfitted for personalized adventure.

Designed for Discovery

OUR VICTORY SHIPS

Purpose-built for comfort and adventure, these identical sister ships welcome just 190 guests on cultured journeys exploring the far reaches of North America. Intimate and agile, they can easily navigate lakes, canals, locks, tranquil bays, and hidden ports where larger ships cannot go.

VICTORY I & VICTORY II ARE WAITING TO TAKE YOU ON YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE.

Now’s the time

Begin your Adventure

Take a deep dive into the world of Victory Cruise Lines. Choose your dream itinerary and join us aboard, we can’t wait to show you our favorite hidden corners of the Great Lakes and Canadian Maritimes.

OUR COMPANY CONTACT US

VICTORY IN THE NEWS

FOR GROUPS AND CHARTERS 2025 CRUISE GUIDE 2025 VOYAGE CALENDAR

BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS PASSENGER TICKET CONTRACT LEGAL NOTICES/PRIVACY POLICY

© 2024 Victory Cruise Lines. All rights reserved.

© 2024 Victory Cruise Lines.

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• (855) 556-7193

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Victory Casino Cruises

• 180 Christopher Columbus Drive Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
• (855) 468-4286

Victory Casino Cruises

• Big Norm’s Club V
• Schedule & Pricing
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• EZ Baccarat
• Ultimate Texas Hold ‘Em
• Mississippi Stud
• 3 Card Poker
• Let It Ride
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Minimum Age: 18 years of age to sail and/or gamble, 21 years of age to consume alcohol. Valid Government I.D. Required.

We do not allow smoking anywhere inside our ship. However, it is permitted outside on Deck 4.

Proper attire required (shoes and shirts).

Wheelchair and handicap scooter accessible (except for Transportation for scooters). We have 3 elevators on board and we also have a marine crew that will be happy to assist you up and down the ramp; if necessary. If you require a wheelchair during the cruise, you would need to provide your own.

YOU'RE INVITED

Cleveland is about to see a surge of new maritime tourists.

Two 190-passenger vessels are returning to the Great Lakes.

One of the grandest Great Lakes cruise lines is making a comeback in 2025 and promises to bring thousands of maritime tourists back to the Port of Cleveland.

The two Victory Cruise Lines vessels, Victory I and Victory II, will return to Cleveland after a year-long hiatus. The 190-passenger vessels were out of commission in 2024 after their previous owners went bankrupt and were forced to sell the ships at auction in April.

The ships were operated by American Queen Voyages under the names Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator.

John Waggoner, who founded American Queen in 2011 but left the company a few years ago, came out of retirement to repurchase the vessels for a relatively cheap $1.9 million. He has since refurbished the ships and established the Victory brand. 

Onboard one of the Victory cruise ships.

"As long-time enthusiasts of maritime adventures, my wife Claudette and I are thrilled for the team to open reservations of the inaugural season and we prepare to sail these magnificent waters," Waggoner said in a statement announcing their return. "Our cruise experience will offer many special touches, including being the only cruise line to dock at Chicago’s Navy Pier, and most of all, our ships will be a home away from home exploring all five Great Lakes."

Most other Great Lakes cruises originate or end in Milwaukee, but the Victory line is unique in that it bookends in Chicago and Toronto. Itineraries vary by voyage, but the vessels touch all five Great Lakes and make stops not just in Cleveland but also Mackinac Island, Sault Ste. Marie, Detroit, Niagara Falls and more.

Cruises are an increasingly popular way to explore the Great Lakes for those seeking an elevated experience and willing to pay for it. There's the inherent beauty of the lakes and the surrounding nature, of course, but sailing back and forth between two countries is also a big selling point. Another driver is that vacationers are seeking "experience" travel. People also increasingly want to explore destinations closer to home. Companies therefore are significantly increasing their investments in the region with new and larger ships, longer routes and more frequent service.

Victory will offer 36 voyages next season, though not all routes run through Cleveland.

"When they are sailing, they are one of the more frequent cruise lines that call on Cleveland and just about everywhere else on the lake," said David S. Gutheil, chief commercial officer at the Port of Cleveland. "Victory will make more stops than any of the other lines will." 

The dining room onboard a Victory cruise ship. 

The Victory boats were built in 2001. They span 286 feet in length, which is small for cruise ships but necessary to navigate the Great Lakes waters. "None of the cruise lines on the Great Lakes are big because they can't be," a spokesperson for Great Lakes Cruises said. "If they're too big, they can't fit through the canals and the locks that they have to go through."

Victory says the boats are "purpose-built to cruise on all five Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the French-Canadian Maritimes, offering a refreshing alternative to river and ocean cruises. The size and maneuverability of these ships are perfectly suited for coastal cruising in this region.

The ships are currently registered in Nassau, Bahamas.

A nine-night cruise from Chicago to Toronto starts at $5,799 per guest, an 11-night cruise from Chicago to Montreal runs $6,999 and a 14-night roundtrip from Chicago costs $8,699.

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Victory Cruise Lines returns to Navy Pier with trips across the Great Lakes

You don't need to leave Chicago to hop on a cruise.

Great Lakes cruises are making a comeback at Navy Pier.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

You can once again see all five of the great lakes on Victory Cruise Lines. Their cruise ships have not been at Navy Pier for a year.

The founder and chairman, John Waggoner, joined ABC7 on Thursday to talk more about the experience.

The full interview can be viewed in the video player above.

Reservations for Victory Cruise Lines are open now. More information about dates and prices can be found on their website .

Staying current is easy with Crain’s news delivered straight to your inbox.

Free of charge.

Want to catch a coastal cruise from navy pier you can in 2025..

Jack Grieve is a Crain’s reporter covering the news people are talking about, from Chicago and West Michigan to Cleveland , Detroit and New York .

Navy Pier's only coastal cruises traversing the Great Lakes are making a comeback in 2025.

The two Victory Cruise Lines vessels, Victory I and Victory II, will return to Chicago after a yearlong hiatus. The 190-passenger vessels were out of commission in 2024 after their previous owners went bankrupt and were forced to sell the ships at auction in April.

The ships were long operated by American Queen Voyages under the names Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator. John Waggoner, who founded American Queen Voyages in 2011 but left the company a few years ago, came out of retirement to buy the vessels back for a relatively cheap $1.9 million. He has since refurbished them and established the Victory brand.

"As long-time enthusiasts of maritime adventures, my wife Claudette and I are thrilled for the team to open reservations of the inaugural season and we prepare to sail these magnificent waters," Waggoner said in a statement announcing their return. "Our cruise experience will offer many special touches, including being the only cruise line to dock at Chicago’s Navy Pier, and most of all, our ships will be a home away from home exploring all five Great Lakes."

Most other Great Lakes cruises originate or end in Milwaukee, but the Victory line is unique in that it is bookended by Chicago and Toronto. Itineraries vary by voyage, but the vessels touch all five Great Lakes and make stops at Mackinac Island, Sault Ste. Marie, Cleveland, Detroit, Niagara Falls and more.

Cruises are an increasingly popular way to explore the Great Lakes for those seeking an elevated experience and willing to pay for it. There's the inherent beauty of the lakes and the surrounding nature, of course, but sailing back and forth between two countries is also a big selling point. Another driver is that vacationers are seeking "experience" travel. People also increasingly want to explore destinations closer to home. Companies therefore are significantly increasing their investments in the region with new and larger ships, longer routes and more frequent service.

The return of the Victory coastal cruises promises to be a boon to Navy Pier's businesses. "I think this is a great tourism booster," said Navy Pier President and CEO Marilynn Gardner.

Victory will offer 36 voyages on the Great Lakes each season and bring thousands of maritime tourists to the pier.

"We always like to say the pier is the city's welcoming front porch and a gateway to the Great Lakes, so it's really just a great opportunity to ensure international tourists are able to see our incredible city from the lake and experience all the incredible ports in between," she added.

The victory boats were built in 2001. They span 286 feet in length, small for cruise ships but necessary to navigate the Great Lakes waters. "None of the cruise lines on the Great Lakes are big because they can't be," a spokesperson for Great Lakes Cruises said. "If they're too big, they can't fit through the canals and the locks that they have to go through."

Still, the ships boast 101 suites and decks and can accommodate 84 crew members in addition to the 190 passengers.

Victory says the boats are "purpose-built to cruise on all five Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the French-Canadian Maritimes, offering a refreshing alternative to river and ocean cruises. The size and maneuverability of these ships are perfectly suited for coastal cruising in this region." The ships are currently registered in Nassau, Bahamas.

A nine-night cruise from Chicago to Toronto starts at $5,799 per guest, an 11-night cruise from Chicago to Montreal runs $6,999 and a 14-night roundtrip from Chicago costs $8,699.

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Cruise stops in Cleveland will double in 2025 with return of Victory ships

• Published: Aug. 20, 2024, 3:09 p.m.

Victory Cruise Lines will return to the Great Lakes in spring 2025. The cruise line's two ships, Victory I and Victory II, were renamed the Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager after they were purchased by the American Steamboat Co. in 2019. Shown here, the Ocean Navigator docked in Cleveland in 2022. Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

• Susan Glaser, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The number of cruise stops in Cleveland is set to double next year with the return of Victory Cruise Lines to the Great Lakes.

The small cruise line’s two ships will relaunch in 2025 after a dormant 2024.

David S. Gutheil, chief commercial officer for the Port of Cleveland, said he expects more than 50 cruise ship calls in Cleveland in 2025, up from 23 in 2024.

The Victory ships will account for approximately 30 of those stops, he said.

“ This is very good news for Cleveland and the Great Lakes and shows that interest in cruising on Great Lakes is strong,” Gutheil said. “Cleveland is one of the most popular stops on the itineraries.”

The two Victory ships – dubbed Victory I and Victory II – have been regulars in Great Lakes cruising for nearly a decade.

In 2019, the two ships were purchased by American Queen Steamboat Co., which changed its name to American Queen Voyages in 2021.

Earlier this year, American Queen Voyages declared bankruptcy and shut down, putting numerous vessels up for sale at auction.

John Waggoner – a previous owner of American Queen Steamboat Co. – bought the two former Victory ships (which had been renamed) with plans to relaunch them in spring 2025. Sailings are available starting in mid-April.

“As long-time enthusiasts of maritime adventures, my wife Claudette and I are thrilled for the team to open reservations for the inaugural season as we prepare to sail these magnificent waters,” said Waggoner in a statement last month. “Our cruise experience will offer many special touches, including being the only cruise line to dock at Chicago’s Navy Pier, and most of all, our ships will be a home away from home exploring all five Great Lakes.”

The two ships, which hold up to 190 passengers each, feature 95 staterooms, several restaurants, lounges and other features.

Stops in Cleveland will be included on several different Great Lakes itineraries, which typically travel between Chicago and Toronto and vice versa. The ships dock at the Port of Cleveland, just west of Cleveland Browns Stadium.

Other ports of call include Niagara Falls, Detroit, Mackinac Island and Sault Ste. Marie.

Other cruise ships expected in Cleveland next year include the Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis, Pearl Mist, Le Champlain and MS Hamburg.

Great Lakes cruise business -- and Cleveland’s port -- take a hit with American Queen shutdown

Touring Viking Polaris, the cruise line’s newest Great Lakes ship, now stopping in Cleveland (photos)

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