Victory Cruise Line surpassed any expectations on Victory II’s inaugural cruise (Chicago to Toronto) sailing to the Great Lakes.It was our first experience with the company (now the passionate project of cruise visionary John Waggoner) but many of our fellow passengers had cruised with them when they were part of American Queen Steamboat Company. Their remarks were consistent with their praise, “If John Waggoner is at the helm, it will be a first-class product.”Our vessel was in glorious display in her prime dock position at Navy Pier.When we entered the ships lobby, and were offered a glass of champagne, and instinct told us there would be a lot to celebrate for the length of the cruise!The crew, staff and management were exceptional! They could compete with any luxury line for their attention to details and the extra gestures that made the guests feel like VIP’s.The hotel Manager, Louisa, has made her career in the cruising industry and it shows with her constant visibility, empathy and interest in the guests. It would not be unusual to see her check the coffee machine and if it was running low, to change it herself. ALL HANDS-ON DECK was the rule when it comes to service on the Victory II!You have to affix a smile on your face to walk in the corridor because every team member would greet you as you pass with an enthusiastic “Good morning!”How could you not be thrilled to start your day aboard this vessel?!The food was not only delicious - but it was also a work of art! There were locally sourced ingredients and offerings that spoke of a corporation that added options for a global traveler’s palate. Desserts were too good to resist (there is a gym that I consciously ignored) and selections like the “opera cake” were presented with a chocolate Treble Clef “painted” on the plate. So much planning must have been done to have this voyage sail so smoothly!The two sea days were filled with options during the day: Trivia challenges, Arts and Crafts classes, new release movie viewings in the Compass Lounge, brunch, afternoon tea, martini demonstrations, informative lectures…or you can curate your own cruise option by an afternoon siesta.A pleasant surprise was, though this is an intimately sized ship, they even have their own spa. Guests could book a menu of massage and facial options as well as schedule manicures, pedicures and haircuts.The talent of the “house band” was exposed from the first few notes of the guitar player, lead singer and “Lakelorian”, Ian Ross. With the trio of Ian, Zach on the drums and James on keyboard, there isn’t a genre of music that they couldn’t execute. They had a different play list of music for each evening, and, with the enthusiastic prodding of the audience, they played way past their standard hour.Good music can make or break a voyage when you generally are a captive audience after the early evening departure. They kept it fresh and lively, and it was rare to see anyone retire during their performance. The crowd showed their appreciation by dancing to The Beatles, Jazz and American Rock and Roll.A special shout out to our fabulous and pleasant cabin steward, Eka, who worked around OUR schedule and never missed cleaning our room twice a day. More importantly, he gained our trust the first day when he discovered my wallet had fallen out of my pants (draped on the chair) into the waste basket. He left a personal note explaining his discovery. Second, only to that were the sweet treats that were a part of every evening’s turn-down service.It appears I have gotten a little winded with my memories of such a wonderful cruise fresh in my mind on our return home, but I wanted to take a moment and recognize their excellence. Last but not least, the excursions and the destinations were wonderful and is why travelers choose the Great Lakes. Where else can you experience the majesty of Niagara Falls (and be soaked by its mist), the feeling of time travel on Mackinac Island or endless options that only cities like Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago and Toronto can offer?Victory Cruise Lines – we will CHOOSE you, anytime!
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The indisputable joy of sailing is brought to life on the M/V Victory I and II, agile intimate ships that easily navigate canals and locks, tranquil bays, and hidden ports where larger ships dare not go. Our unique destinations include the Great Lakes, Cuba, St. Lawrence Seaway, Canadian Maritimes and New England.
Onboard, fresh, modern design tips its hat to our maritime past as spacious, open-air lounges, inviting dining venues, and generous windows ensure you never miss a chance to savor the spectacular view.See more
