River and lake cruises in The Great Lakes USA
Cruising is increasingly popular in the UK, despite the recession. Latest UK cruise industry figures released by the Passenger Shipping Association at World Travel Market estimate that 1.72m Brits took an ocean cruise in 2012, 20,000 passengers more than in 2011. The Great Lakes USA offers holidaymakers a unique cruising experience on both the lakes in the region and the Mississippi River.
The Great Lakes were formed more than ten thousand years ago when the last glaciers melted. Over the centuries, these huge inland seas—which contain more than one-fifth of the world's standing fresh water—have fascinated humankind and the best way to explore them is by boat.
The Great Lakes Cruise Company
The only travel company in the world to specialise in Great Lakes cruises offers unforgettable adventures on these legendary waters with a variety of exciting itineraries. Each distinctive cruise ship offers a relaxing and friendly atmosphere, delightful accommodations and impeccable service. Carefully selected enrichment lecturers and expert tour guides will add to your enjoyment, as you explore fascinating ports and absorb the breathtaking scenery.
greatlakescruising.com
The American Queen Steamboat Company
Last year the American Queen paddlewheel steamboat returned to the Great Lakes region to take guests once more on steam boating adventures. The American Queen is the only authentic paddlewheel steamboat in the US and offers all the adventures and amenities that have made steam boating such a cherished American tradition—the history and heritage, the warm ambiance of a floating antebellum mansion, the thrill of exploring Mark Twain's America, the succulent dining, the showboat-style entertainment and dancing the night away to the sounds of swing, big band, New Orleans Jazz and Delta Blues music, and live storytelling by regional authors, historians and performers that create our own "edutainment" experiences. Combine this with gracious service from the all-American staff, and you have an experience that can only be found aboard the American Queen.
This year there are a number of new features to make steam boating holidays better value than ever before. For example, a deluxe hotel night ashore, select shore excursions and an alternate dining venue on board are all now included in the price of your voyage. There are also complimentary soft drinks, bottled water, and wines and beers at dinner.
americanqueensteamboatcompany.com
Hucks Houseboat Rentals
These popular houseboats are based in Wisconsin and offer you the chance to re-live the adventures of Huckleberry Finn by taking a houseboat along the Mississippi River through Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Hucks are the only houseboats with the luxury of a hot tub on deck and have the newest houseboats on the river.
Take advantage of Minnesota's lakes and rivers for a unique lodging option. River and lake house boating provides a floating cabin, offering the ultimate freedom for holiday makers who love the water. Minnesota houseboat rentals and houseboat vacations are on beautiful waters such as Voyageurs National Park and a few other large bodies of water. A typical houseboat includes fishing boat, electricity, furnished galley and a grill on the boat deck, some sleeping up to a dozen people.
hucks.com
