Great trip!
We just returned from our Toronto to Chicago cruise and had a great time. Here are a few tips. First, if you can manage the upgrade to the Four Seasons in Toronto, do it, because the Toronto Fairmont is not up to the hotel's usual high standards. The rooms are very small, the breakfast offerings were mediocre, and the coffee was really bad. Second, opt for the Dune Buggy excursion at Muskegon. The highlight of that excursion is not actually the dune buggy ride (nice, but tame) but instead the visit to Pleasant Valley winery nearby for wine tasting and lunch. What a beautiful little place! Third, opt for the Art Institute tour in Chicago (where the Fairmont was much more up to expectations). The Millennium Park walking tour is superfluous since your hotel is literally across the street from the park. Fourth, if you were excited about the prospect of visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, temper your expectations. I am a huge rock fan, but I was frankly disappointed in what the museum had to offer--mostly just collections of guitars and clothing worn by famous artists. Finally, be prepared for Detroit to surprise you in a good way! A beautiful downtown area awaits, and the excursion to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village was superb. Oh, and the Ponant ship that you sail on? It is absolutely fantastic all around--cabins, public spaces, food, bar, and service all top-notch. We would sail again on Le Champlain in a heartbeat. It never felt crowded with just 180 guests aboard. The five tour directors did excellent work overall. High marks to Tauck for this trip!