From Navy Pier to Niagara: Victory Cruise Lines charts a new course

Victory Cruise Lines is back in business. On May 12, their newest vessel was christened at Navy Pier before its inaugural ten-night cruise with six port stops, including Niagara Falls and Toronto. The ceremony's highlight was when Molly Grace Applegate, the twelve-year-old granddaughter of owners John and Claudette Waggoner, christened Victory II.

Victory offers a more intimate and luxurious experience on the Great Lakes and Canadian coasts. Its small ships, Victory I and Victory II, are designed for travelers seeking personalized and relaxed voyages, far from the crowded, commercial cruise lines that dominate the industry.

“We’re redefining what it means to cruise,” says John Waggoner, the maritime veteran behind Victory Cruise Lines, in an email. “With our small ships, we give guests the space to relax, explore, and connect with destinations on a deeper level. It’s a more thoughtful way of traveling.”

The company’s fleet, which previously operated under different names, now serves as the gateway to some of North America's most picturesque and less-explored corners. From the Great Lakes to Canada’s vibrant coastal towns, the ships take passengers through stunning landscapes, offering a much closer connection to the places they visit.

With a high staff-to-guest ratio, each passenger receives individualized attention, making the experience feel less like a typical cruise and more like an exclusive getaway. "Our goal is to make every guest feel like they’re the only one on board," Waggoner says. "We want them to have a customized, memorable experience beyond the standard cruise itinerary.”

Onboard, guests can dive into various enriching activities, from educational talks about the region’s history and culture to guided shore excursions beyond the typical tourist path. “It’s about offering a deeper connection to the destinations," says Emily Thompson, a longtime shore excursion manager for Victory. "We focus on curating experiences that allow our guests to understand the places they’re visiting, not just see them from the deck of a ship.”

Victory’s voyages are designed for those who want to explore the culture, history, and hidden gems of the regions they visit. The ships dock in charming coastal towns, bustling cities, and lesser-known spots, offering an authentic view of the Great Lakes and Canadian coasts. This isn’t your average cruise; there’s no need to rush through a checklist of sights. It’s about enjoying the journey and immersing yourself in the local culture.

In Tuesday’s ceremony, remarks were made by Jordan Engerman, Vice President of Partnerships at Choose Chicago. “Victory Cruise Lines will bring thousands of visitors to Chicago, and we are proud that the cruise line is docking right here downtown at Navy Pier,” Engerman said. “Cruise visitation supports local jobs and businesses across the city and is yet another way for travelers to explore our rich and diverse destination.”

Victory Cruise Lines’ 2025 schedule is packed with remarkable itineraries, providing a wide variety of experiences:

• All 5 Great Lakes Cruise: This 10-night journey sails across all five Great Lakes, linking Toronto and Chicago, with stops at historic landmarks, charming towns, and vibrant cities.

• Great Lakes & Thunder Bay: This 15-night round-trip cruise from Chicago features extended stays in Thunder Bay, allowing exploration of the more remote areas of the Canadian wilderness.

• Great Lakes & St. Lawrence Seaway: This 12-night journey takes cruisers from Chicago to Montréal, with an unforgettable passage through the iconic St. Lawrence Seaway.

As the company embarks on another season, it remains committed to delivering not just a cruise, but a travel experience that lasts long after you’ve disembarked.

For more information on their 2025 itineraries and to book a trip, visit Victory Cruise Lines’ website.