Detroit, Michigan

United States

Explore the world-class Detroit Institute of Arts, home to Diego Rivera's stunning Detroit Industry Murals and thousands of masterpieces.

Currency US Dollar (USD)

Language English

Time Zone EST (UTC-5)

Best Time to Visit May–Sep

Typical Duration 7-14 nights

Price Range From $5,790 pp

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port No

Gateway to the Great Lakes offering scenic cruises through the region's natural waterways and access to charming lakeside destinations like Mackinac Island.

Cruises that visit Detroit, Michigan

Build Your Day in Detroit, Michigan

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 4:00 PM

Usually about 8 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation Interactive activities were fun and challenging. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 31k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Thu

Comerica Park Several restaurants and bars, carousel, tons of fun photo props provided. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 26k

Great Lakes Crossing Outlets Tidy, spacious, and multiple stores to serve diverse demographics. Outlet mall · ★ 4.5 · 25k Open · Closes 9 PM

Detroit Institute of Arts Live music on Fridays and always fun things to do in the kids workshop. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 14k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

Campus Martius Park A very welcoming atmosphere with several activities for a wide age range. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 13k

Fox Theatre Had a wonderful experience for a comedy show at the Fox Theatre. Event venue · ★ 4.7 · 10k

Fairlane Town Center ... good clothes and offers you great discounts at most of the stores Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 10k Closes soon · 7 PM

The Mall at Partridge Creek Lots of great stores, easy parking, and a comfortable outdoor setting. Shopping mall · ★ 4.5 · 8k Open · Closes 8 PM

Detroit Riverwalk There was plenty of activities to do, and a fun carousel for the kids. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 6k

Experience Zuzu One of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to in Detroit. Asian · ★ 4.7 · 4k

New Center One Multiple first level shops and bistros Business center · ★ 4.3 · 4k Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History The staff is incredible and the exhibits are very interactive. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 4k Closed · Opens 9 AM Thu

The Whitney One of the best dining experiences in Detroit! Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 3k

Grey Ghost Detroit This is easily one of the best restaurants in Detroit. Chophouse restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 3k

The Apparatus Room It's my top recommendation for restaurants in Detroit! New American · ★ 4.4 · 3k

Sexy Steak Best restaurant in the metropolitan Detroit area Steak · ★ 4.6 · 3k

Michigan Central It also has a few creative interactive family friendly activities. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 3k Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

Guardian Building WOOW BEAUTIFUL ART DECO building with FREE tour from souvenir shop. Historical landmark · ★ 4.7 · 3k

Beacon Park ... was great it was clean and many activities for the kids to do Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 3k

Selden Standard Easily the best restaurant in Detroit, and dare I say my favorite. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 3k

Nike Community Store - Detroit Great inventory and helpful staff parking right around the corner Sportswear store · ★ 4.3 · 2k Closes soon · 7 PM

William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor There are bike rentals, a carousel, food and gardens to walk through. State park · ★ 4.7 · 2k Closed · Opens 8 AM Thu

ADELINA Best food in metro Detroit by far. Italian · ★ 4.8 · 2k

Fixins Soul Kitchen First time in Detroit, and I couldn’t have picked a better restaurant! Soul · ★ 4.4 · 2k

The Heidelberg Project Wonderful to see the locals reusing discarded items to create art! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closes soon · 7 PM

Tin Roof Drinks are priced right and the bartenders are the best. Live music bar · ★ 4 · 2k

Outdoor Adventure Center There are a lot of hands on activities that you can climb on and through. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 2k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Thu

General Motors Renaissance Center The car exhibit is always a fun stop on every Detroit trip. Business center · ★ 4.4 · 2k

Grand Circus Park It is conveniently located for all activities. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k

The Sugar House Great ambiance, amazing cocktails, friendly & knowledgeable staff! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 1k

Lumen Detroit This is one of the best restaurants in Detroit! Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k

Tower Center Mall They always have nice affordable clothing Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 1k Open · Closes 9 PM

Standby Delicious & creative cocktails, friendly bartenders & a cool vibe. Bar · ★ 4.6 · 1k

Dossin Great Lakes Museum Something for adults and even has a few hands on activities for children. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 10 AM Thu

Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails One of Detroit's best restaurants in the city. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k

The Skip Great drinks, outdoor experience, and fantastic service. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.5 · 1k

The Monarch Club The ambiance, the drinks, and most importantly the service! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.3 · 1k

Sunset Point Plenty of parking, so much to do and easy to get to. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k

Bad Luck Bar Elevated, experimental cocktails in an intimate, cozy and classy space. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.7 · 1k

Chene Square Many nice stores, friendly & helpful service Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 1k Open · Closes 11 PM

Detroit-Windsor Tunnel Easy to pass Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 1k

The BELT Just head down there and you’ll guarantee find something to do. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 1k

shelby Inventive well crafted drinks in a fun unique atmosphere. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Kamper's Rooftop Bar Lovely rooftop bar, great food, and gorgeous views of the city. Bar · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Side Hustle Lounge The space is cozy, the atmosphere hits just right, and the music is a vibe. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Time Will Tell Attentive bartenders, custom music, cozy decor, intimate setting. Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Millender Center It is cheap and covered parking. Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 0k Open 24 hours

Shops On Top The variety/quality of the clothing and accessories are fantastic. Shopping mall · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closes soon · 7 PM

Parker's Alley Very nice place, clean and good for snack or ice cream to cool you down. Shopping mall · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open 24 hours

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Detroit, Michigan

About Detroit, Michigan

Detroit has emerged as a vibrant gateway for Great Lakes cruising, offering passengers a fascinating blend of industrial heritage, cultural renaissance, and access to some of North America's most scenic waterways. As a primary port of call, Detroit serves as a launching point for memorable journeys throughout the Great Lakes region, with Viking Ocean Cruises and PONANT EXPLORATIONS regularly featuring this dynamic city on their itineraries. With 66 upcoming cruises and a strong concentration of seven-night voyages, Detroit provides excellent opportunities to explore the region's natural beauty and charming coastal communities.

Cruises departing from Detroit typically venture to iconic destinations including Mackinac Island with its famous fudge shops and Victorian charm, the picturesque waters around Alpena, and the international ports of Toronto and Port Colborne in Ontario. The peak season runs from May through September, with summer months offering ideal weather for Great Lakes exploration. The port itself benefits from its downtown location, placing passengers within easy reach of Detroit's renowned attractions, including the Henry Ford Museum, Motown Museum, and the revitalized Riverfront District.

Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler seeking a fresh perspective on North American waterways, Detroit offers an accessible and enriching departure point. The city's warm hospitality, combined with the promise of discovering charming island communities and historic Great Lakes ports, makes it an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a distinctly American cruising experience.

Detroit's Renaissance Art District

Explore the vibrant Corktown neighborhood and the world-class Detroit Institute of Arts, home to Diego Rivera's iconic Detroit Industry Murals. This cultural hub showcases the city's artistic revival with galleries, street art, and historic architecture that tell the story of Detroit's creative resurgence and industrial heritage.

Iconic Coney Island Hot Dogs

Indulge in Detroit's legendary street food at historic Coney Island restaurants along Lafayette Avenue, where chili-topped hot dogs have been a local tradition since 1917. These iconic eateries offer an authentic taste of Detroit's working-class food culture and casual dining charm.

Riverfront Riverwalk Stroll

Walk the scenic Detroit Riverwalk, offering stunning views of the Detroit River and Windsor, Ontario across the water. This beautifully landscaped pathway features parks, public art installations, and waterfront attractions perfect for a refreshing port day experience with photo opportunities.

Eastern Market's Local Treasures

Discover Eastern Market, Detroit's historic public market operating since 1891, brimming with fresh produce, local crafts, and artisan goods. Browse vendor stalls, sample local specialties, and experience the vibrant energy of this beloved neighborhood gathering place.

Motown Museum Music Legacy

Visit the legendary Motown Museum in the historic Hitsville U.S.A. building where Diana Ross, The Supremes, and Stevie Wonder recorded chart-topping hits. This intimate museum celebrates Detroit's unparalleled contribution to American music and popular culture history.

Cruise Lines at Detroit, Michigan

Viking Ocean Cruises (75 cruises)
American Cruise Lines (23 cruises)
PONANT EXPLORATIONS (3 cruises)

Cruises Departing From Detroit, Michigan

Cruises Visiting Detroit, Michigan

Ship Schedule at Detroit, Michigan

Detroit, Michigan Location

Other Cruise Ports in United States

Albany, New York

Alpena, Michigan

Alton, Illinois

Amelia Island, Florida

Anacortes, Washington

Anchorage, Alaska

Annapolis, Maryland

Astoria, Oregon

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail from Detroit, Michigan?

Two cruise lines operate from the Port of Detroit: Viking Ocean Cruises and PONANT EXPLORATIONS. Both offer ocean cruises with 66 upcoming departures, providing travelers with multiple options for Great Lakes and regional itineraries.

When is the best time to cruise from Detroit, Michigan?

The peak cruise season from Detroit runs from May through September, with June, July, August, and September being the most popular months. May also sees strong cruise activity. This period offers the best weather for Great Lakes cruising and visiting destinations like Mackinac Island and Toronto.

How much do cruises from Detroit, Michigan cost?

Cruise fares from Detroit range from $5,790 to $59,990 per person, depending on the cruise line, itinerary length, cabin type, and season. Viking Ocean Cruises and PONANT EXPLORATIONS offer various price points to accommodate different budgets and preferences.

What are the top destinations from Detroit cruises?

Popular destinations from Detroit include Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Mackinac Island, Michigan; Toronto, Ontario; Port Colborne, Ontario; and Alpena, Michigan. These ports showcase the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the Great Lakes and surrounding regions.

What can I see and do in Detroit during a port day?

Detroit offers rich cultural attractions including the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, and the historic Fisher Building. Visitors can explore the revitalized downtown riverfront, enjoy local dining and shopping, or visit the nearby Henry Ford Museum. The city's automotive heritage and vibrant arts scene make it an engaging destination for cruise passengers.

How do I get from Detroit port to the city center?

The Port of Detroit is conveniently located near downtown, typically within walking distance or a short taxi/rideshare ride to major attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at the port. Many cruise lines also offer organized shore excursions for passengers who prefer guided tours.

Is the Detroit cruise port a tender port or dock port?

The Port of Detroit is a dock port, meaning cruise ships tie up directly at the terminal, allowing passengers to disembark and board conveniently without requiring tender boats. This makes for easier port access and more time to explore the city and surrounding attractions.