Which Soo Locks Boat Tour Is Better?

Author Edith Carli

Posted Jan 16, 2023

Reads 21

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Soo Locks in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers two incredible boat tours, one of which might be the perfect fit for your family. Both tours take visitors past the St. Mary's Falls Lock and into Lake Superior, allowing them to see the iconic freighter ships passing through to get to their final destination.

The Tüx-n-Awe tour is the longer of the two tours and features an hour-long journey into the straits of St. Mary’s Falls where visitors will witness natural beauty complete with rolling hills and a scenic impression that can only be found near this very special part of Michigan’s landscapes. There are also historical sites along this tour and visitors may also get a glimpse at Mackinac Bridge connecting lower Michigan and upper Michigan. For those looking for a more educational experience, guided narration is included in this tour to deepen your knowledge about Soo Locks and its importance in historical trading regions.

On the Douglas Tour, visitors will still have the opportunity to meander through the Straits of St. Mary’s but with a fraction of time out on Lake Superior in comparison to its counterpart -about 15 minutes (rather than 60 minutes). The Douglas Tour includes a narrated explanation as well, and still passes Mackinac Bridge on top of glimpsing passing freighters headed towards their final destinations by way of Soo Lock. Though this tour is shorter in duration than Tüx-n-Awe, it still encapsulates true northern beauty while allowing travelers to enjoy watersports such as wakeboarding along some parts during their passageway route.

If you’re unsure which Soo Lock boat tour is right for your family or group, you may want to consider that hour-long Tüx-n-Awe pays off with an adventure filled with incredible sights as well as noteworthy education about the area’s history for more mature adventurers seeking after knowledge along their exploration journey; whereas Douglas Tour offers a more leisurely experience with watersport activities put into play if desired -just what younger members can look forward towards on boating trip activities!

What is the difference between the daytime and evening Soo Locks boat tours?

The Soo Locks boat tours run during both the daytime and evening. While these boat tours are both enjoyable and educational experiences, they can differ significantly depending on the time of day.

First, a daytime boat tour gives visitors the opportunity to witness first-hand what goes on near and in the Lock. With optimal lighting from the sun, visitors can see every detail and color of the boats, hand-operated machinery, natural scenery, and wildlife along the river and canal. Light reflections on water add to the splendor of a daytime voyage at Soo Locks. Additionally, with more hours of daylight, travelers have a longer period for observing passing vessels as well as gaining greater mobility around town outside of when the sun sets.

In contrast, an evening tour is unique from a visual standpoint thanks to spectacular views provided by special lighting displays while exploring local hot spots such as Soo Harbor or Canada’s Memorial Park area that may not be visible in full daylight. Moreover, many participants have reported encountering wildlife sightings during this time that can be quite rare during daytime hours due to their nocturnal activity habits. Last but certainly not least is exceptional star gazing opportunities experienced during night time hours when crossing open waters to visit adjacent destinations such as Big Garlic Island or Whitefish Bay Island.

There’s something so special about taking a break and enjoying your summer vacation while cruising thru Soo Locks at frequently different times between day and night allowing you to experience nature’s beauty in its entirety!

What kind of sights can be seen on the Soo Locks boat tour?

The Soo Locks boat tour offers a unique and exciting opportunity for travelers to explore the Great Lakes region. From the comfort of a vessel, tourists can witness ships of all sizes as they make their way through one of the world’s oldest canals, the Soo Locks. The locks were first installed in 1855, and millions of visitors from across the globe have delighted in their views since then.

No matter the season, opportunities abound on this memorable tour. In winter, viewing large chunks of ice slowly drift by are a popular sight. Some will even feature attractions like fireworks during special occasions. As spring comes around and the canal is reopened after being exposed to harsh winter conditions, a new journey awaits. Those lucky enough to take it will see boats of all types (including a massive ore freighter) as they traverse up and down through the locks.

During summer, enjoy views of stunning blue waters reflecting off sandbars or small islands that appear here and there along-side beautiful shorelines. Wildlife sightings are also popular on these tours – especially for bird enthusiasts who can witness bald eagles in their natural habitat as they soar high above! Sunsets over Lake Superior offer an almost dreamlike atmosphere when viewed from the ship's deck. On cloudy days or rainy evenings you can witness another natural wonder – an illuminated Lock at night! It’s an incredible site that remains etched in memory long after disembarking from this amazing boat ride!

So whether you're looking for historic landmarks or breathtaking views of nature - the Soo Locks boat tour has it all! Take one and make memories that last a lifetime!

Are there any discounts available for the Soo Locks boat tour?

The iconic Soo Locks boat tour is an exciting way to explore the beautiful St. Marys River between Lakes Huron and Superior. From April to October, visitors can take a cruise in a specially designed tour boat right through the locks. But are there any discounts available?

The good news is that bargains do exist for this must-see attraction of the upper Great Lakes region. Depending on the time of year, there are a number of discounts available on your Soo Locks boat tour ticket. Military personnel and their families can get discounted rates with proof of service. Canadian residents can take advantage of special discounts for their home country nationals. AARP members also receive a discounted rate throughout the season at various outlets near the locks.

Additionally, many packages are offered for those who want to make more out of their stay in Sault Ste Marie, including packages combining lodging, dinner and the boat tour at discounted prices too! Many hotels in the city offer cruise package specials that include tickets to the Soo Locks Boat Tour.. It’s always worth checking out all your options before you book your tour, as there may be great deals or special offers available all year round!

Are there any special perks that come with the Soo Locks boat tours?

There are many unique and exciting perks that come with taking a boat tour through the historic Soo Locks in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This boat tour will give you access to a part of maritime history, as the locks have been in regular operation for over 160 years - it is the only place where ships can pass between Lake Superior and the other Great Lakes. To top it off, on your journey, you’ll be traversing beneath towering cliffs on one side and lighthouses on the other - giving you awe-inspiring views of inland oceans and lush foliage.

This experience is further enhanced by experienced tour captains who accompany every journey. These captains offer unique insight and stories that explain the significance of Lock #1, as well as the nearby Sault Ste Marie National Heritage Site. Moreover, each destination offers something unique – such as Bridge 21 – where your captain will share histories regarding major battles between rivaling fur trade companies.

If that wasn’t enough to excite your curiosity, Soo Locks boat tours offer unparalleled opportunities for wildlife sightings - including rare birds, and candid shots of otters along the waterways. After passing through both locks and experiencing life on a ship from centuries past, you’ll also be able to peak into one of America’s largest coffee factories - located in Bay City. Not to mentioned a chance for souvenirs or treats at one of several local stores along St Mary's River!

No matter what type of adventure you seek - whether it be mariners tales or snapshots brimming with wildlife sightings; Soo Locks boat tours provide an attraction-packed entertainment experience with few rivals.

How long is the Soo Locks boat tour?

The Soo Locks boat tour is one of the most popular attractions in the Great Lakes region, captivating visitors with its natural beauty and rich history of area shipping. Depending on who you ask, the size of the tour can vary slightly, but overall the Soo Locks tour generally runs for about 90 minutes to two hours in total duration.

During your visit, you’ll cruise along historic St. Marys River, passing by towering ships and beautiful scenery. Your journey begins and ends at the Soo Locks Visitors Center in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, from where you’ll board a comfortable excursion boat and begin a unique experience of lock navigation. You'll get a close-up look at how huge vessels are raised or lowered 21 feet in order to transit between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Along the way you’ll learn about the current lift bridge and locks systems along with historical facts about this fascinating system that are shared by knowledgeable local guides.

The sights don’t stop there – during this incredible journey there is plenty to explore including seeing majestic lighthouses, preserved 19th century timber schooners as well as hundreds of birds (loons are known to be spotted from time to time!) The boat tour allows for ample opportunity for questions as well as plenty of photo ops - guaranteeing that all participants will leave with some great memories!

Is there a commentary provided during the Soo Locks boat tours?

Soo Locks boat tours offer a unique opportunity to view the Great Lakes and Soo Locks up close. These guided tours are both relaxing and captivating, and many visitors wonder if there is a commentary provided. The answer is yes!

The experienced crew that leads each tour provides interesting commentary throughout the journey. Through stories, they explain the local history and the importance of the Great Lakes, as well as the history of the iconic Soo Locks. They share stories about life growing up in the area, including tales about workers who built or operated on boats. Tour guests will learn about different types of vessels passing through or moored at the Soo Locks, as well as learn more about other notable features in the area such as Fort Brady and St. Marys River.

Moreover, tour staff often also provide fun facts surrounding regional wildlife and popular legends told by locals over generations. By noting interesting details that set it apart from any other lock tour in North America, crew members will engage participants with fascinating accountings that add to the experience. As they describe what they see while riding through bustling waters between Lake Huron and Lake Superior, tourists get an unforgettable insight into this unique maritime landscape!

Edith Carli

Edith Carli

Writer at CGAA

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Edith Carli is a passionate and knowledgeable article author with over 10 years of experience. She has a degree in English Literature from the University of California, Berkeley and her work has been featured in reputable publications such as The Huffington Post and Slate. Her focus areas include education, technology, food culture, travel, and lifestyle with an emphasis on how to get the most out of modern life.

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