Lake Superior One of the world’s largest freshwater bodies and the largest of the Great Lakes, its picturesque north shore features deep bays flanked by high cliffs, a rocky shoreline and thick forests. With a deep history in maritime shipping and fur trading, the lake today enjoys a reputation for memorable summer cruising. Boat excursions are offered aboard a mix of vessels from cruise ships to sailboats, catamarans, small boats and inflatables. Trip durations range from a few hours to multi-day tours. This lake of many islands features historic lighthouses, national parks, cultural heritage experiences, fishing and unique birdwatching. Among Superior’s must-see sites is the famous Sleeping Giant in the port town of Thunder Bay. This natural wonder is a land formation resembling a giant man laying in slumber who, according to Ojibwe legend, is identified as the spirit of deep water. Georgian Bay When Samuel de Champlain discovered the bay in 1615, he called it “la mer douce” (the sweet/calm/fresh sea). Famous for its more than 30,000 islands, rugged vistas and historic past, Georgian Bay is a northeastern arm of Lake Huron, one of the five Great Lakes of North America that make up the largest freshwater system on Earth. In the early days, the bay named for King George IV was a significant hub for fur trading and logging. Today, it’s a paradise for cruising – a destination so distinctively beautiful that it inspired renowned Canadian Group of Seven artists such as Tom Thomson and A.J. Casson to render paintings of its windswept white pines and granite-sculpted shorelines. Several companies offer various cruises that range from a few hours to a week, with many of them incorporating onshore excursions to one or more of the bay’s many islands. Such excursions include exploring iconic caves, visiting historic lighthouses, nature walks, hiking trails and Indigenous cultural attractions. CSANews | SUMMER 2025 | 19 Travel
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