Ocean Voyager Review

Operated by American Queen Voyages, which specializes in North American cruises, the 202-passenger Ocean Voyager offers a relaxed way for U.S. passengers to explore their continent and for cruisers from further afield to discover big-name destinations including all five Great Lakes.

Previously called Victory 1, the ship now sails under the umbrella American Queen Voyages brand on the lakes and ocean program formerly operated by Victory Cruise Lines.

The five-deck vessel -- launched in 2001 and refurbished in 2019 -- is very comfortable and offers an intimate small ship experience and that’s one of the factors that draws back repeat passengers, mostly seniors, to this ship, as well as identical sister vessel Ocean Navigator and the line itself. The ever-smiling crew members offer high levels of conscientious personal service. You can expect them to address you by name within a couple of days and remember your favorite cocktail and food preferences.

There are two restaurants, outside deck space for lounging in warm weather and the enrichment program supports the in-depth exploration of destinations that include the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway, Canada and New England and the southeast U.S. Fares cover a high number of inclusions, such as included tours in every port and all drinks.

The Ocean Voyager Deck Plan Features Cozy Public Areas

The social hub of the ship is the Compass Lounge and the adjoining pub-style The Tavern.  These two rooms form the heart of the vessel, particularly on sea days, and during the daily cocktail hour when canapes are served and for after-dinner drinks and entertainment. And as all drinks, aside from premium bottles of wine, are included in the fare, it's probably no surprise that the ship has such a convivial atmosphere. Any solo cruisers will quickly make new friends and as nothing ever feels rushed or overly busy, crew members have time to stop and chat.

Passengers looking for all-dancing all-singing entertainment won't find them on this ship and aside from daily music, when the ship is sailing the onboard vibe is fairly quiet and most folks relax with a book, watch the passing scenery, mingle over a coffee or cocktail with fellow passengers or treat themselves to a massage or treatment in the small spa.

There's space outside, with loungers and chairs on the traditional wooden decks. It would be a nice additional touch if the ship had a hot tub on one of the sundecks.

Ocean Voyager Features a Choice of Seven Cabin Categories

For a ship of its size, Ocean Voyager features a pretty big number of cabin grades; seven in total. That said, cabins are on the small size compared with newer ships and start at 146 square foot. A minor curiosity is that the smallest cabins are not the cheapest, so study the deck plans before booking.

All staterooms are ocean-facing with fixed windows and, aside from the two Owner's Suites, they don't have walk-out balconies. The cabins are spread over four decks and are priced according to their position and whether or not they have a "veranda" The four lead-in cabins, which are actually bigger than some others, are located at each end of Deck 1.

Aside from the two suites, the size of the cabins means they are made for function rather than lounging during the day. However, the immersive itineraries on Ocean Voyager mean you are probably going to spend time out on shore tours and exploring destinations independently and most onboard time will be in the lounge, bar or on the open-air top deck. When it's time to sleep, the cabins may be compact but they are well appointed and the beds are comfy.

Ocean Voyager Food is Tasty and Varied

The ship offers two restaurant options; the main Coastal Dining Room on Deck 1 and The Grill up on Deck 4, which is the place to go for panoramic dining with a view. We really liked the fact that portion sizes are not overwhelming, but if you want more then of course you can order it.

Lobster lovers should note that this is not a ship where it is limited to one special dinner per cruise but is one of the always available options in the evening. Vegetarian choices are good (and special dietary requirements can be accommodated) and carnivores can tuck into roast prime rib of beef that's featured in The Grill carvery each night.

American Queen Voyages COVID-19 Rules

For the most up-to-date testing, masking and vaccination requirements aboard American Queen Voyages' Ocean Voyager, please refer to the American Queen Voyages health and safety protocols.