Victory Cruise Lines returns to Navy Pier, throughout the Great Lakes

CHICAGO, IL - Victory Cruise Lines is making a grand return to Chicago’s Navy Pier in 2025 with its newly acquired ships, Victory I and Victory II, now renamed Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager. These ships, each with a capacity for 202 passengers, will offer an exciting series of cruises across all five Great Lakes, revitalizing the region's cruising industry after a brief hiatus due to their former owner, American Queen Voyages, filing for bankruptcy.

John Waggoner, who purchased the vessels in an auction earlier this year, has ambitious plans to breathe new life into Great Lakes cruising. The 2025 season promises a comprehensive itinerary featuring 36 voyages over a 197-day period, with trips ranging from ten to twelve days. This marks a significant expansion, as these cruises will not only navigate all five Great Lakes but also explore unique ports and offer cultural excursions.

Victory Cruise Lines' return is expected to boost regional tourism, with an estimated 7,000 passengers sailing in the upcoming season. The relaunch underscores the appeal of Great Lakes cruising, combining intimate, small-ship experiences with the grandeur of North America's largest freshwater lakes. The cruises will feature routes that include major ports such as Cleveland, Toronto, and Detroit, as well as stops in scenic locales like Niagara Falls and Green Bay.

The ships are set to undergo substantial refurbishments before their 2025 launch, ensuring a modern and comfortable experience for all guests. With their return, Victory Cruise Lines aims to set a new standard for luxury cruising on the Great Lakes, highlighting both the natural beauty and cultural richness of this often-overlooked region.