Victory Cruise Lines Relaunches Great Lakes Voyages With Refurbished Ships

Victory Cruise Lines has officially returned to the Great Lakes region with two refurbished ships, Victory I and Victory II, under the direction of Founder and CEO John Waggoner, formerly of American Queen Voyages. Originally designed for comprehensive Great Lakes cruising, each 190-passenger vessel has been modernized to offer immersive voyages highlighting local culture, history, and natural beauty. The relaunch follows the purchase of the ships in 2024 and the closure of American Queen Voyages due to pandemic-related challenges.

Ship Christening and Launch Events

The relaunch became official with the christening of Victory I in Toronto on April 27, 2025. During a ceremony in the Compass Lounge, Emily Coleman, daughter of John and Claudette Waggoner, performed the ceremonial bow-breaking using a bottle of Crown Royal Canadian Whisky in a nod to the hosting city. Toronto city representatives, along with partners from Destination Toronto and the National Museum of the Great Lakes, were present to commemorate the occasion.

Victory II is scheduled for its naming ceremony at Chicago’s Navy Pier on May 12, 2025. Both vessels will operate numerous cruises throughout the Great Lakes, offering 33 departures from April through October. The itineraries range from 9 to 15 nights, including sailings that pass through Lakes Erie, Huron, Michigan, Ontario, and Superior.

Itineraries and Onboard Highlights

Guests can expect calls at iconic destinations such as Niagara Falls via Port Colborne, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, and Detroit’s Henry Ford Museum. Many voyages incorporate cultural tours, including a sampling of local cuisine and guided visits to noteworthy maritime landmarks. Shore excursions feature behind-the-scenes access to venues like Lambeau Field, as well as the historic Soo Locks located in Sault Ste. Marie.

On board, passengers can unwind at multiple dining venues, including the Tuscan Stone Grill, or relax in a spa and salon. A signature addition is the LakeLorian program, conducted in collaboration with the National Museum of the Great Lakes, which offers educational lectures and interactive discussions. Fares start at $4,999 per person and typically include a pre-cruise hotel stay, transfers, daily port excursions, Wi-Fi, and onboard meals and beverages.

Market Position and Revival

Speaking about this new chapter, John Waggoner said, “As we celebrate the return of Victory Cruise Lines to the Great Lakes, I must reflect on the amazing feat by an incredible team that has brought this vision to life once again. Thank you to everyone here, as well as those not in the room today, who believed in us and shared our passion for cruising on these historic waters.” He also emphasized his longer-term vision: providing regional, small-ship adventures that allow travelers to experience “the grandeur and beauty of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway.”

With both Victory I and Victory II in operation, Victory Cruise Lines has renewed its commitment to small-ship cruising by focusing on closer-to-home adventures. The company aims to boost tourism in port communities while offering a more intimate alternative to large oceanic cruise lines. In the coming seasons, the line anticipates expanding itineraries and forging additional partnerships with local museums and cultural institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Victory Cruise Lines unique in the cruise industry?

The company specializes in small-ship cruising tailored for the Great Lakes and Canada. Its ability to dock at Chicago’s downtown Navy Pier and offer immersive local experiences sets it apart from larger, more traditional ocean liners.

What are the highlights of Victory Cruise Lines itineraries?

Each voyage features a mix of historical excursions, cultural tours, and scenic transits. Passengers can visit Niagara Falls, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Soo Locks, Mackinac Island, and Detroit’s Henry Ford Museum, among other attractions.

How has Victory Cruise Lines adapted after the pandemic?

The line was reacquired by John Waggoner following the closure of American Queen Voyages in early 2024. Extensive refurbishments on Victory I and Victory II, combined with carefully curated itineraries, have allowed the brand to relaunch successfully with a focus on North American travel.

How many passengers can Victory I and Victory II accommodate?

Each vessel carries up to 190 guests, offering a more intimate onboard environment compared to larger mainstream cruise ships.

When was Victory I officially christened?

The christening ceremony for Victory I took place on April 27, 2025, in Toronto, with Emily Coleman, daughter of the CEO, performing the ceremonial bow-breaking.

This renewed commitment to small-ship exploration across all five Great Lakes signals fresh opportunities for travelers to discover these storied waters. As the season unfolds, Victory Cruise Lines looks ahead to continued growth, deeper regional partnerships, and unique journeys that highlight North America’s cherished freshwater coasts.