Just back from this trip and it lived up to my expectations, which were all good. That being said, one's expectations must really be managed before embarking on this trip. Because this trip has a very high price tag, people may expect it to be an all inclusive, very luxurious experience such as If you are expecting a Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas type of cruise, this is not the trip for you. It is not that type of trip.

The higher price tag comes in part due to the many behind the scenes costs of running a small ship on North American itineraries such as: required pilot fees for naviagating the Great Lakes; very high fees for transiting locks; North American price tags for goods and services.

Plus, the Pearl Mist is a wonderful shp. It is the perfectly size vessel, with only 200 passengers. Cabins and bathrooms are very spacious and all have balconies. Great showers. Very clean. Everyone is constantly cleaning all of the time. Service/crew is superb, genuine and sincere. Itineraries very unique, calling on many places one has always wanted to visit, but never gotten around to it. The two public lounges, as well as library, are lovely. Every cabin even has its own Keurig coffee maker. And though rooms are not equipped with safes, it is my understanding that you may have one upon request. Ambience/dress is comfortable and casual. And I found our cabin to be one of the quietest cabins I've ever had on any vessel. Read more