Soo Locks Boat Tours Sault Ste. Marie Michigan
Experience the awe of massive freighters navigating the historic Soo Locks on a captivating boat tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Soo Locks Boat Tours Sault Ste. Marie Michigan
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the awe of massive freighters navigating the historic Soo Locks on a captivating boat tour.
"Cruising through the locks and watching water levels rise up close is simply fascinating!"
🚢 Catch a Freighter!
Check shipping schedules online for the best chance to see a freighter pass through the locks.
🎟️ Book Special Cruises Early
Haunted Riverboat cruises sell out; book tickets in advance to guarantee your spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cruising Through the Locks
Soo Locks
Experience the engineering marvel as water levels rise and fall, guiding massive freighters through the waterway.
Live Commentary & History
Onboard the boat
Learn fascinating facts about the locks' history, construction, and the Great Lakes shipping industry.
Up-Close Freighter Views
St. Mary's River
Get an unparalleled perspective of colossal freighters from the water, a true boat lover's dream.
Haunted Riverboat Cruise
St. Mary's River
A spooky and historical journey with tales of the area's past, especially fun during Halloween.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Freighter Views
Book Ahead, Especially for Special Cruises
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Catch a Freighter!
Check shipping schedules online for the best chance to see a freighter pass through the locks.
🎟️ Book Special Cruises Early
Haunted Riverboat cruises sell out; book tickets in advance to guarantee your spot.
🚶♀️ Walk Around the Boat
Enjoy 360-degree views from both indoor and outdoor seating areas on the boat.
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Even on sunny days, it can be breezy on the water. Rain can make seats wet and stairs slippery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Catch a Freighter!
Check shipping schedules online for the best chance to see a freighter pass through the locks.
🎟️ Book Special Cruises Early
Haunted Riverboat cruises sell out; book tickets in advance to guarantee your spot.
🚶♀️ Walk Around the Boat
Enjoy 360-degree views from both indoor and outdoor seating areas on the boat.
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Even on sunny days, it can be breezy on the water. Rain can make seats wet and stairs slippery.
📸 Great Photo Ops
The locks and freighters offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Soo Locks Boat Tours for their fascinating insights into engineering and Great Lakes shipping. The up-close views of freighters and the informative live commentary are major highlights. While some mention potential weather-related discomforts like wet seats, the overall experience is highly recommended for its educational value and unique perspective.
"The Famous Soo Locks Boat Tour is an unforgettable experience! Cruising through the locks and watching the water levels rise and fall up close is simply fascinating. The live commentary on board was informative and engaging — we learned so much about the history, engineering, and significance of the locks while enjoying the beautiful views along the way.
The reception area is quite spacious, with a convenient ticket window and a fairly big gift shop where you can pick up some nice souvenirs. The boat was comfortable, the staff was friendly, and everything was smooth and well-organized. Perfect for families, history lovers, or anyone looking for a unique experience in Sault Ste. Marie. Highly recommended!"
anita airon
"We did the Haunted riverboat cruise for the second time and we loved it!! So full of history and information! This second time was a Halloween costume party, so it added some extra fun to the whole experience. My boyfriend has lived in the Soo for most of his life and even he learned things about the area he never knew - and the fact they were spooky things makes it even better."
Connie Mianecki
"Loved it. Cute was fantastic and learned allot about the locks, Canadian steel mill and saw how works. Best of all you go thru American and Canadian locks."
Raquel Moody
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Soo Locks Boat Tours are located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, easily accessible by car. Parking is available near the reception area. If you're planning a road trip around the Great Lakes, Sault Ste. Marie is a key stop.
Information on public transportation directly to the tour departure point is limited. Driving or ride-sharing services are the most common ways to reach the location.
Yes, you can watch freighters from various viewing points along the St. Mary's River and the observation deck at the Soo Locks Visitor Center. However, a boat tour offers an up-close experience.
Many visitors drive, especially those on Great Lakes road trips. The drive from major Michigan cities like Detroit or Grand Rapids is scenic, taking several hours.
Yes, Sault Ste. Marie offers several hotels and accommodations within a short distance of the boat tour departure point, making it convenient for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the tour type and duration. It's best to check the official Soo Locks Boat Tours website for the most current pricing information.
Tickets can often be purchased on the day of the tour at the reception area, but it's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular times or special cruises, to ensure availability.
Operating hours vary seasonally. Tours typically run from spring through fall. Always check the official website for current operating schedules.
Inquire directly with the Soo Locks Boat Tours about potential group rates or family packages.
Standard tours usually last around 1.5 to 2 hours, providing ample time to experience the locks and learn about the area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll cruise the St. Mary's River, go through the American and Canadian locks, and learn about their history and operation from onboard guides.
Yes, most boats have restrooms, and snacks and drinks are typically available for purchase onboard.
Absolutely! You can move around the boat to get different views and take photos from both indoor and outdoor seating areas.
Yes, it's a great family-friendly activity. Kids are often fascinated by the massive ships and the lock system.
This special cruise offers a historical and spooky tour of the river, perfect for those who enjoy local lore and a bit of Halloween fun.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful lighting for photographing the locks and freighters. Sunset can be particularly stunning.
You'll get unique perspectives of massive freighters, the lock chambers, the surrounding shoreline, and the city.
Yes, with open decks and various vantage points, it's easy to capture great shots. Just be mindful of other passengers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the locks and ships, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details on distant freighters.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of private property and other guests.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The onboard commentary is usually delivered in an accessible way, making it interesting for younger audiences too. Consider bringing snacks or purchasing them onboard, as kids can get hungry. The ability to walk around the boat also helps if little ones need to move. The Haunted Riverboat Cruise can be a fun, slightly spooky adventure for older children and teens.
🚢 Boat & Freighter Enthusiasts
You'll gain an intimate understanding of Great Lakes shipping and the engineering prowess required to operate these vessels. Make sure to check shipping schedules beforehand to maximize your chances of seeing specific ships. The live commentary on the tours is often rich with technical details and historical anecdotes that enthusiasts will appreciate.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay attention to the onboard commentary, which is often packed with historical facts and stories. Visiting the nearby Soo Locks Visitor Center can further enrich your understanding of the site's historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Soo Locks
These locks have been in operation since the mid-19th century, with continuous upgrades and expansions to accommodate larger vessels. The sheer scale of the operation is awe-inspiring, and understanding the mechanics behind how they work provides a deeper appreciation for their importance to commerce and transportation on the Great Lakes. Many visitors are surprised by the speed and efficiency with which these enormous ships are moved.
During your tour, the onboard commentary will often highlight the history of the locks, including stories of their construction, the challenges faced, and their role in the development of the region. It's a fascinating glimpse into industrial history and a testament to human ingenuity.
Freighter Spotting: A Boat Lover's Paradise
The Edgar B. Speer is one of the freighters that frequently navigates these waters, and seeing the first ship of the season pass through is a notable event for locals and visitors alike.
For the best chance to witness freighters, it's advisable to check shipping schedules online. While tours run regularly, knowing when a large vessel is expected can enhance your visit. The sight and sound of these working ships are a powerful reminder of the vital role of maritime trade on the Great Lakes.
Beyond the Locks: Exploring Sault Ste. Marie
For those interested in the history and operation of the locks, the Soo Locks Visitor Center provides additional exhibits and information. It's a great place to learn more about the engineering and economic significance of this vital waterway. The surrounding area also offers opportunities for scenic drives and enjoying the natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Don't forget to check out the gift shop at the reception area for souvenirs to remember your visit. Many visitors find it a pleasant place to pick up mementos of their unique experience at the Soo Locks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit