Exploring the Soo Locks from the Water in Sault Ste. Marie
When most people think of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, the iconic Soo Locks come to mind. These engineering marvels are a vital link between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, allowing ships to pass through the St. Marys River despite the difference in water levels. While visiting the locks on foot or from observation platforms is a fantastic experience, there's another, more immersive way to truly appreciate the scale, history, and beauty of the Soo Locks—by taking a boat tour with Original Soo Locks Boat Tours.
Why the Soo Locks are a Must-See
The Soo Locks, which have been in operation since 1855, are the largest and busiest locks in the world, and they’re crucial to the shipping industry. Each year, more than 10,000 vessels pass through the locks, carrying essential cargo such as iron ore, coal, and grain. The sight of massive freighters moving through the locks is awe-inspiring and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of international trade and transportation.
While watching the locks from a shore-side vantage point can be thrilling, there's something extraordinary about seeing them from the water itself. A boat tour gives you a unique perspective, allowing you to witness the movement of these ships up close, feel the power of the locks, and take in the beautiful landscape that surrounds this historic site.
The Boat Tour Experience
At the Original Soo Locks Boat Tours, we offer an unparalleled experience of the Soo Locks and the St. Marys River, all from the comfort of our fully equipped tour boats. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of nature, our tours cater to all interests.
Close-Up Views of the Soo Locks in Action
One of the highlights of our tour is the chance to watch ships pass through the locks in real time. As we approach the Soo Locks, you’ll get a front-row seat to the intricate process of lowering and raising massive freighters. The sight of these colossal ships navigating the locks is mesmerizing. You’ll witness the mechanics of the locks at work, you might even catch an unforgettable sight—a massive Great Lakes freighter gliding past, towering above the water like a floating giant.
Learn About the History and Engineering of the Soo Locks
Our experienced crew is passionate about the Soo Locks and their rich history. During the tour, you'll hear fascinating stories about how the locks were constructed, the role they’ve played in shaping the region’s economy, and the ongoing efforts to maintain and upgrade them. We delve into the details of the engineering behind these massive structures, explaining how they continue to serve one of the busiest waterways in the world.
Scenic Views of Sault Ste. Marie and Surrounding Areas
While the Soo Locks are the centerpiece of our tour, the scenery along the St. Marys River makes your journey just as unforgettable. As you explore this historic waterway, you’ll enjoy close‑up views of the working waterfront, the Cloverland Hydro Plant—built in 1902 and still generating power today—and the impressive day‑to‑day operations of Algoma Steel across the river.
Our narrated Soo Locks boat tour takes you through both the U.S. Soo Locks and the Canadian Locks, giving you the rare chance to cruise along both the U.S. shoreline and the Canadian shoreline in a single trip. You’ll also experience the New Lock construction, witnessing history in the making as one of the Great Lakes’ largest modern engineering projects takes shape.
This St. Marys River cruise offers incredible opportunities for photography, sightseeing, and capturing the power and beauty of Great Lakes freighters, historic landmarks, and Sault Ste—Marie’s iconic waterfront.
Whether you're visiting with family, a group of friends, or you're traveling solo, our boat tours offer a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone. Families with children will love seeing the massive ships up close, while photography enthusiasts will appreciate the incredible photo ops. Our knowledgeable guides are always ready to answer questions, making the experience fun and educational for all ages.
When to Take a Soo Locks Boat Tour
The best time to take a boat tour of the Soo Locks depends on your interests. The summer months (June through September) offer the warmest weather and the busiest shipping season, meaning you'll see more vessels and larger ships passing through the locks. For those seeking a more serene and quieter experience, the early fall months provide a beautiful setting with vibrant autumn colors.
Original Soo Locks Boat Tours operates from May through October, ensuring you have plenty of opportunities to experience the Soo Locks no matter when you visit.
In addition to our classic Soo Locks sightseeing cruises, we offer a variety of specialty Sault Ste. Marie's boat tours are designed for every kind of traveler. Enjoy a scenic and relaxing waterfront Dinner Cruise with great food and waterfront views, dive into Great Lakes shipping culture on our popular Boatnerd Cruise, or join the fun on our high‑energy Rock Around the Locks Cruise featuring live entertainment. These unique tour options make Original Soo Locks Boat Tours one of the top choices for St. Marys River cruises, offering unforgettable experiences for families, visitors, and maritime enthusiasts alike.
Book Your Tour Today
Ready to see the Soo Locks from a unique perspective? Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is the best way to experience this historic marvel. Our knowledgeable crew, comfortable boats, and stunning views ensure a memorable outing for all. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, our tours offer a fresh, unforgettable view of one of the world’s most important waterways.
Book your tour today, and don’t miss the chance to experience the Soo Locks like never before!
Your Sault Ste. Marie Trip Planner:
- Tickets → Reserve Tickets Here
- Tour Schedule → Soo Locks Boat Tour Schedule - Sault Ste. Marie
- Family Four Pack Discount → Families Save At the Soo Locks Boat Tours
- Dinner Cruises → Dinner Cruise in Sault, Michigan
- Boatnerd Cruises → 2026 Boatnerd & Sunset Cruises in Sault Ste.Marie
- Photo Gallery → Soo Locks Boat Tour Photo Gallery
- Places to Stay → Lodging & Hotels in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan
- Camping and U.P. Guide → Explore the Upper Peninsula Travel Guide