Thunder Bay, Ontario

Thunder Bay, Ontario

Canada

Dive into the wreck-filled depths of Lake Superior and discover the stories of shipwrecks that shaped maritime history.

Currency Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Language English
Time Zone EDT (UTC-4)
Best Time to Visit May–Aug
Typical Duration 14 nights
Price Range $11,190–$27,995 per person
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port No

Gateway to the Great Lakes with scenic cruises exploring North America's inland waterways and historic port cities.

Cruises that visit Thunder Bay, Ontario

Build Your Day in Thunder Bay, Ontario

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 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Getting around:
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Thunder Bay Upscale chain for steak & seafood Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 3k Closed · Opens 4 PM
Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park Dramatic waterfall with viewing points Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 3k Open · Closes 6 PM
Terry Fox National Historic Monument Tribute to a legendary activist & runner Monument · ★ 4.8 · 2k Open · Closes 8 PM
Intercity Shopping Centre Good variety of shops and foods in the food court. Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 2k Open
Hillcrest Park Flower gardens, views & a WWII memorial Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k Open · Closes 11 PM
Fort William Historical Park Fur trading post with costumed actors Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Showcase Always good variety of well stocked unique gifts 🎁 for anyone & everyone Home goods store · ★ 4 · 1k Open
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park Lakeside park for camping & recreation Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 1k Open · Closes 6 PM
The Foundry Vibrant gastropub with live music Pub · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 5 PM Tue
Madhouse ... atmosphere, friendly bar service and the honey dill dip was so good! Pub · ★ 4.4 · 1k Open · Closes 12 AM
Thunder Bay Centre The place had more upscale products and well maintained displays. Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 1k
Prospector Steak House Veteran chophouse in a former bank Steak · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed
Nook If you are in Thunder Bay, don't miss a brunch here. Italian restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k Open · Closes 9 PM
Bight | Restaurant & Bar Contemporary Canadian dining spot Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM Wed
The Persian Man Both were reasonably priced and delicious. Donut shop · ★ 4.5 · 1k Open · Closes 5 PM
Mount McKay Scenic Lookout Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 1k Open · Closes 10 PM
Anchor & Ore Outdoor seating·Fireplace·Great cocktails Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 1k Closes soon · 2 PM
The Industry Social House Happy hour food·Great cocktails·Vegetarian options Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 1k Open · Closes 12 AM
Tomlin A gem in Thunder Bay, delicious unique dishes, great service and vibe! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 5 PM Tue
Thunder Bay Country Market Here you can get fresh products from A-z, everything is there. Farmers' market · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed
Winners & HomeSense Very big store for shopping good quality products with decent prices. Department store · ★ 4.1 · 0k Open
Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar Upbeat bistro preparing global dishes Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM Tue
Calico Coffeehouse Consistently great drinks, baked goods, service, and immaculate vibes! Cafe · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 5 PM
Lot 66 Chic wine bar & steak/seafood spot Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM Tue
Centennial Conservatory Botanical arboretum & greenhouses Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM Tue
St Paul Roastery Simple menu, good coffee, and reasonable prices. Coffee shop · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open · Closes 3 PM
Wayland Bar & Grill Happy hour food·Great cocktails·Live music Bar & grill · ★ 4.4 · 0k Open · Closes 12 AM
Seler Restaurant & Wine Wine bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed
The Sweet North Friendly staff, great coffee, deserts, and tons of parking! Bakery · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 3 PM
The Habit Coffee & Bakeshop Amazing lattes and innovative treats, and the staff were so friendly. Coffee shop · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
The Tilted Turret Pinball Pub Top notch pinball bar with beautifully maintained machines. Pub · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 12 AM
Mckellar Confectionery BEST coney sauce in town, and amazing prices. Hamburger restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 7 PM
Thunder Bay Museum Local history museum & research library Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 1 PM Tue
Island Spice Jerk House Best homemade Jamaican food ever highly recommended. Jamaican restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 8:30 PM
Black Pirates Pub Great cocktails·Doesn't accept reservations·Live music Live music bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 PM Wed
Lot 88 Steakhouse & Bar Fantastic prime rib, terrific service, great atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed
Up Shot Coffeehouse Great atmosphere Excellent coffee Welcoming service. Coffee shop · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open · Closes 3 PM
Dawson General Store Fresh local ingredients, fluffy and light but packed with flavor. General store · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open · Closes 9 PM
Centennial Square Great little mall with lots of amenities. Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 0k Open
Grotto Trattoria Fireplace·Great cocktails·High chairs Italian restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM Tue
Alexander Henry - Transportation Museum of Thunder Bay Admission fee·Restroom History museum · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 6 PM
La Casa Nostra Ristorante The service is second to none, the atmosphere is so friendly and the food ! Italian · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed
Giorg Cucina e Barra Stylish bistro for refined Italian mains Italian · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed
Goods and Co. Variety of vendors that were reasonably priced. Market · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed
Waterhouse Outside food allowed·Great cocktails·Karaoke Bar · ★ 4.1 · 0k Open · Closes 2 AM
Bamboo Restaurant Thunder Bay The food came out hot, tasted amazing, and the staff made us feel welcome. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closes soon · 2 PM
Café Ora Such a bright cheery space to sit with a coffee and enjoy DELICIOUS food. Cafe · ★ 4.5 · 0k Open · Closes 3 PM
ELDAR Cafe Delicious food, great coffee, and such a cozy vibe. Cafe · ★ 4.7 · 0k Open · Closes 6 PM
Barkeep Beautiful Cocktails, Beautiful Ambiance, and Beautiful Bartender. Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 4 PM Tue
The Chanterelle Banquet hall · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open
The Social Small local bar good drink selection and good staff Bar · ★ 4.4 · 0k Open · Closes 11 PM
Copper Kettle Coffee House The coffee was amazing, beautiful decor, and excellent service! Coffee shop · ★ 4.9 · 0k Open · Closes 7 PM
Pocketchange Bar Perfect food Perfect atmosphere Perfect drinks Perfect service Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 5 PM Wed
Malabar Mandi Kitchen Restaurant Best food and outstanding service. Halal restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open · Closes 12 AM
Authentique Gift Shop Lots of selection, reasonable prices and very nice people to deal with. Gift shop · ★ 4.6 · 0k Open
Amethyst Gift Centre The items for sale are diverse and there is something for everyone. Rock shop · ★ 4.2 · 0k Open
The Ugly Delicious Stock and Soup Company The chicken apple brie sandwich is TO DIE FOR. Soup shop · ★ 5 · 0k Open · Closes 3 PM
Howl at the Moon - Thunder Bay Cash-only·Outside food allowed·Live music Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 7:30 PM Tue
Thunder Bay Tourist Pagoda Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 0k Open · Closes 4 PM
The Loop The customer service I received while shopping at The Loop was excellent! Clothing store · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed
Truly Superior Eats & Treats We had the dinner for 10 at $160.00…a real bargain for quality food. Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Open · Closes 5 PM
Seniors farm Dina’s green banana porridge is so tasty and nutritious. Food manufacturer · ★ 5 · 0k Open · Closes 5 PM

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

Next Departures from Thunder Bay, Ontario

About Thunder Bay, Ontario

Thunder Bay, Ontario serves as a fascinating port of call on Great Lakes cruises, primarily accessed through Viking Ocean Cruises' carefully curated itineraries. While this isn't a major embarkation hub, the port offers a unique stopping point for passengers exploring the Great Lakes region, with 18 upcoming cruises typically ranging from 14-night voyages that connect to destinations like Toronto, Detroit, Cleveland, and Port Colborne. The summer months of May through August represent peak season, making this an ideal time to experience what this northern Ontario port has to offer.

Visitors stepping ashore in Thunder Bay will discover a city rich with natural beauty and cultural heritage. The iconic Sleeping Giant rock formation dominates the landscape, while the city's waterfront and local museums provide glimpses into the region's maritime and indigenous history. Whether you're seeking outdoor exploration or cultural enrichment during your port day, Thunder Bay delivers an authentic Great Lakes experience that complements the broader cruise itinerary.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Terry Fox Monument & Legacy

Pay respects at the iconic Terry Fox Monument overlooking Lake Superior, honoring the Canadian hero's Marathon of Hope. This powerful waterfront tribute offers stunning views and a deeply moving connection to Canadian history. The nearby Terry Fox Lookout provides panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding landscape.

2

Fresh Lake Superior Whitefish

Savor authentic Great Lakes cuisine at local restaurants serving freshly caught whitefish, a Thunder Bay specialty. Try traditional preparations at waterfront dining establishments where you can enjoy regional flavors while gazing at Superior's vast waters. Local chefs celebrate this iconic ingredient in both classic and contemporary dishes.

3

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

Hike scenic trails through this stunning provincial park featuring dramatic cliffs, pristine forests, and breathtaking Lake Superior views. The park's distinctive rock formations create an otherworldly landscape perfect for photography and nature immersion. Multiple trail options accommodate various fitness levels within your port hours.

4

Thunder Bay Waterfront Market

Explore the vibrant waterfront district filled with local artisan shops, galleries, and craft vendors showcasing regional talent. Browse handmade goods, Indigenous artwork, and unique souvenirs reflecting Thunder Bay's rich cultural heritage. The walkable waterfront promenade combines shopping with scenic Lake Superior views.

5

Indigenous Culture & History

Discover Thunder Bay's deep Indigenous roots at cultural centers and museums celebrating Anishinaabe and other First Nations heritage. Learn about traditional practices, view authentic artwork, and understand the region's significant role in Indigenous history. Local guides offer genuine insights into living cultures that shaped this region.

Cruise Lines at Thunder Bay, Ontario

Cruises Departing From Thunder Bay, Ontario

Cruises Visiting Thunder Bay, Ontario

Ship Schedule at Thunder Bay, Ontario

Thunder Bay, Ontario Location

Other Cruise Ports in Canada

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thunder Bay's UN/LOCODE?

The UN/LOCODE for Thunder Bay, Canada is CATHU.

Where is Thunder Bay port located?

Thunder Bay sits on Lake Superior in Ontario, Canada.

What type of port is Thunder Bay?

Thunder Bay is an official port in Canada.

What kinds of cargo does Thunder Bay handle?

The port handles general cargo, bulk shipments, and related goods.