Planning a Michigan Upper Peninsula Vacation?

 

Discover Specialty Cruises in Sault Ste. Marie

When planning a Michigan Upper Peninsula vacation, you'll find no shortage of stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and historic attractions. But if you're looking for an experience your family will talk about long after the trip ends, consider adding a specialty cruise with The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours to your itinerary.

Located in beautiful Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours has been introducing visitors to the world-famous Soo Locks, Great Lakes freighters, and the scenic St. Mary's River since 1934. While our Classic Soo Locks Tour remains a must-do attraction for visitors of all ages, our specialty cruises and seasonal events offer unique opportunities to experience the region in exciting new ways.

Whether you're planning a summer family vacation, a weekend getaway, a camping trip to Michigan's Upper Peninsula, or a Great Lakes road trip, these unforgettable cruises can become the highlight of your visit.

Specialty Cruises Worth Visiting In Sault Ste. Marie

Looking for unique things to do in Sault Ste. Marie? Our specialty cruises offer experiences that go beyond a traditional sightseeing tour. These limited events have become favorites among visitors and locals alike, providing memorable ways to explore the Soo Locks and St. Mary's River.

Boatnerd Cruises

For Great Lakes ship enthusiasts, few experiences compare to seeing a massive freighter up close. Our popular Boatnerd Cruises give guests additional time on the water to watch, photograph, and learn about the vessels that travel through the Soo Locks.

Guests enjoy expert narration, games, prizes, and incredible photo opportunities while experiencing one of North America's busiest shipping corridors. Whether you're a lifelong ship watcher or seeing your first 1,000-foot freighter, Boatnerd Cruises offer an unforgettable Great Lakes adventure.

Dinner Cruises

There's something special about enjoying a relaxing dinner while cruising the beautiful St. Mary's River.

Our Dinner Cruises combine great food, stunning waterfront views, and the unique experience of traveling through one of the world's most famous lock systems. It's the perfect evening for couples, families, groups, and anyone looking to add a little extra magic to their Upper Peninsula vacation.

As the sun begins to set and freighters pass by, you'll discover why Dinner Cruises have become one of our most anticipated specialty events.

Rock Around The Locks

One of our most popular summer events, Rock Around The Locks combines live music, good food, and a cruise through the famous Soo Locks.

Guests enjoy an energetic evening on the water filled with entertainment, scenic views, and plenty of fun. Whether you're visiting from out of town or looking for a unique night out close to home, Rock Around The Locks delivers an experience unlike anything else in Sault Ste. Marie.

Little Sailors Day - KIDS RIDE FREE

Designed especially for families, Little Sailors Day introduces children to the exciting world of Great Lakes shipping and maritime adventure.

Young sailors can participate in hands-on activities, games, educational demonstrations, water safety activities, face painting, and more while enjoying a classic lock cruise on the St. Mary's River. This is one of the biggest maritime events in the Upper Peninsula dedicated to kids and young adults.

Children ages 5-17 ride free with a paid adult (limit two children per adult), making this one of the best family values of the summer season and a favorite tradition for many returning visitors.

Fireworks Cruises

Experience spectacular fireworks displays from the best seat in town... the water.

Few places in North America can celebrate two countries and two major holidays in the same week. Thanks to our unique location on the international border between the United States and Canada, guests have the opportunity to enjoy both the Canada Day fireworks on July 1st and the Independence Day fireworks on July 4th from the deck of one of our vessels.

There's nothing quite like watching the night sky lighting up with color while cruising the beautiful St. Mary's River. Add in the sights of the Soo Locks, Great Lakes freighters, and the waterfront skylines of two nations, and you've got an unforgettable summer experience that's uniquely Sault Ste. Marie. Enjoy front-row views, avoid the crowds, and make memories that will last long after the fireworks fade. Please reserve early as these firework cruises fill up quickly! 

Themed Cruises Add Extra Fun to Your Soo Locks Adventure

In addition to our specialty cruises, The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours offers a variety of themed cruises throughout the season.

Unlike our specialty events, themed cruises operate during our regular Classic Soo Locks Tour schedule and include the same narrated lock experience guests know and love. The difference is a little extra fun for everyone on board.

Guests and crew are encouraged to dress up, participate in themed activities, and enjoy a unique atmosphere while still experiencing the famous Soo Locks and St. Mary's River. From tropical fun and pirate adventures to classic decades and seasonal celebrations, themed cruises add personality and excitement to an already unforgettable experience.

These family-friendly events have become a favorite tradition for many guests and crew members alike, creating fun memories and unique photo opportunities throughout the season.

Why Families Love Visiting Sault Ste. Marie

A cruise aboard The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours is often just one part of an incredible Upper Peninsula getaway.

Visitors can spend the day watching ships navigate the Soo Locks, exploring local shops and restaurants, visiting museums, discovering Great Lakes maritime history, and enjoying the beauty of the St. Mary's River waterfront.

Adding a specialty cruise to your vacation creates an experience that combines sightseeing, entertainment, history, and family fun into one unforgettable adventure.

Start Planning Your Upper Peninsula Adventure Today

Summer vacations are often planned months in advance, and many of our specialty cruises have become annual traditions for families, ship enthusiasts, and returning visitors.

Whether you're searching for things to do in Sault Ste. Marie, planning a Michigan Upper Peninsula vacation, or looking for a unique Great Lakes experience, The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours offers memories you simply can't create from shore.

Come experience the excitement of the Soo Locks, the beauty of the St. Mary's River, and the unforgettable experiences that have made The Original Soo Locks Boat Tours a family tradition since 1934.

Specialty cruise schedules vary throughout the season.  Visit our website for the latest event calendar, cruise schedules, and ticket availability.

Reserve your tickets and learn more at www.originalsoolocktours.com.

 

We’d love to have you on board!

Photo Gallery →  Photo Gallery 

Themed Cruises →  Themed Cruises & Events

Tour Schedule →   Soo Locks Boat Tour Schedule

Places to Stay →  Hotels, Motels & Condos, Sault Ste. Marie