America's Great Lakes are collectively considered the largest body of fresh water on Earth, and these epic waters are a joy to cruise, cloaked by green pine forests, with classic lighthouses dotting rocky cliffs. Another option is a journey through the Deep South along the mighty Mississippi absorbing unique history and culture as you go.

Great Lakes Region

Embark on an expedition cruise exploring North America's Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River, rich in history and natural beauty.

Chicago: Begin your adventure in vibrant Chicago, renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural offerings.

Lake Huron: Cruise past freighters along the Detroit and St. Clair River System, a vital waterway connecting the western and eastern Great Lakes.

Welland Canal: Descend between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario through the impressive locks of the Welland Shipping Canal, a marvel of modern engineering.

Erie Canal: Journey through the historic Erie Canal, a key commercial route in the early 1800s that transformed New York City into an economic powerhouse.

Thousand Islands: Explore the picturesque Thousand Islands along the US-Canada border, with highlights like Dark Island and Singer Castle.

Lake Michigan: Discover the diverse wildlife of Lake Michigan, including trout, salmon, and bald eagles.

Mackinac Island: Experience the unique charm of Mackinac Island, a car-free retreat famous for its fudge and peaceful atmosphere.

Niagara Falls (Port Colborne): Witness the raw power of Niagara Falls in Port Colborne, surrounded by rich maritime history and stunning landscapes.

The American South

Travelling the Lower Mississippi is an experience like no other. Absorb the rich culture and Civil War history of the region as you pull in and out of vibrant cities from Memphis to New Orleans. Be entertained in true Deep South style with its trademark blues, jazz and country music. Marvel at the architecture including antebellum homes, Greek revival and colonial-era buildings.

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• We Know USA. From rivers to lakes, to vibing cities and unspoiled wilderness, this diverse landscape has something for all travellers, but what kind of adventure are you looking for? With a firsthand experience cruising North America, we will find the right trip for you!

If you'd like to learn about some of our other Great American Waterways, please contact us. You may also be interested other North America cruising destinations including Alaska, West Coast USA or Canadian Arctic and Northwest Passage.

Alaska • Antarctica • Antarctica Express • Asia • Asia River Cruises • Australia • British Isles • Canadian Arctic & Northwest Passage • Central America • Chatham Islands (New Zealand) • Classic Antarctica • Europe • Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Circle • Fiordland & Stewart Island (New Zealand) • French Polynesia • Galapagos Islands • Great America Waterways • Greenland & Iceland • India • Indian Ocean • Indonesia • Japan • Kimberley Coast (Australia) • New Zealand • North Pole • Norway • Patagonia • Ross Sea • Sailing Adventures • Scandinavia • South East Asia • South Pacific • Spitsbergen • Subantarctic Islands • Tasmania & South Australia • The Adriatic • The Arctic • The Mediterranean • USA • West Coast USA