Great Lakes Cruise Company - Sailing America's Inland Oceans
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Great Lakes Cruise Company is a division of Conlin Travel
Voyages of Discovery on America's Inland Seas
Cruise the Great Lakes About the Ships
Grande Caribe | Grande Mariner | Niagara Prince

Grande Caribe (left) Grande Mariner (right) Niagara Prince (center)

With unique designs that allow easy travel through shallow waters and narrow channels, the Grande Caribe and Grande Mariner offer soft adventure in casual, unpretentious surroundings. The itineraries are specially tailored to the active and inquisitive senior traveler who prefers small quiet ports to tourist traps. With a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, it is easy to socialize and make friends with the typically retired, well-traveled and sociable group onboard. The ships are cozy and comfortable, with a relaxed atmosphere evident in the BYOB policy and informal dress code. Along the way, your captain and onboard lecturers offer enjoyable informational commentary, as you cruise past the breathtaking scenery. The crew, chefs, guest lecturers, outside entertainment, and land tours are all carefully chosen, to provide a pleasurable and relaxing vacation.

Dining

Listen for the ringing of the quaint hand-held Colonial bell, as one of the energetic crewmembers walks the ship to invite guests to the dining room. The high standard of food served has pleased even the most discerning gastronome. Menus are posted daily. The chefs are eager to please and guests are welcome to submit special dietary restrictions. Refreshments and snacks are available 24 hours a day in the lounge and dining room. There is an open seating policy.

BYOB

Guests love the unusual "Bring Your Own Bottle" liquor arrangement, which reduces onboard expenses typically associated with cruising. Mixers, ice, snacks, refrigeration, and storage are provided around the clock in our lounge where you can help yourself.

Onboard Activities

The ships are perfect for those who enjoy conversations, reading, card playing, and occasional entertainment by talented guests and crew (there is a piano aboard both ships). The ships have three common areas: the lounge; dining room; and outside top deck that all offer options for socializing and enjoying activities while onboard. The Cruise Directors offer a variety of activities for guest participation.

Special Features

The patented bow ramps allow passengers to disembark without the need for docks or jetties. Shallow drafts let the ships sail through shallow waterways, while retractable pilot houses are ideal for sailing under low bridges and locks. Each ship also features a stern swimming platform and two launches (one of them with a glass bottom), which can be boarded from the stern. All cabins feature fresh air ventilation systems, which continuously feed in fresh air and remove "used" air.

Cabins

Cabins range in size from 72-96 sq. ft. and feature twin beds, some convertible to a queen-sized bed, a small private bathroom with shower, individual air conditioner, and ample storage space. Cabin current is 110 V.