Victory Cruise Lines Returns to the Great Lakes

John Waggoner, the visionary entrepreneur behind the resurgence of Victory Cruise Lines, is bringing the boutique cruise line back to the Great Lakes and Canada with two 190-passenger ships. Having previously founded what became American Queen Voyages (AQV), Waggoner is excited to reintroduce these vessels to the market following AQV’s closure in February 2024, just five years after he sold it. AGENTatHOME caught up with Waggoner to discuss the story behind Victory’s return to service and what travelers can expect.

A Strategic Acquisition

Waggoner’s return to the cruise industry was sparked by a desire to continue his passion for travel. “I felt too young to retire; retiring just isn’t for me!” he stated. When the Victory vessels went up for auction, Waggoner and his wife, Claudette, seized the opportunity to acquire them at a competitive price. Recognizing the strong demand for cruising in the Great Lakes, Waggoner saw this as an opportunity to craft memorable experiences for travelers.

The Transition from AQV

Reflecting on his time with American Queen Voyages, Waggoner explained that he sold his companies, including AQV, to Crestview Partners in 2019. He subsequently took on a senior board position at Hornblower, where he was removed from the day-to-day operations of AQV. “It was tragic to see the business dissolve, especially on the rivers,” he lamented, noting the multiple leadership changes that occurred during his absence. By late 2023, Waggoner departed Hornblower, reigniting his focus on the Victory Cruise Lines brand.

Unique Itineraries and Port Access

Victory I and Victory II will offer exclusive cruises, including itineraries that feature overnight stays at Navy Pier in Chicago—an advantage not offered by other cruise lines. With port stays of up to 13 hours, guests will enjoy a more immersive experience exploring all five Great Lakes. In partnership with the National Museum of the Great Lakes, Victory Cruise Lines will introduce a Lakelorian program that enhances onboard enrichment through local experts. The smaller size of the ships enables them to dock in-town rather than relying on tenders, enhancing guest convenience.

Inclusive Cruise Experience

Travelers booking with Victory Cruise Lines can expect a comprehensive cruise fare that includes numerous amenities. Each voyage features a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay with complimentary ground transfers, ocean-view accommodations (some with balconies), and an included tour at each port. Dining options are plentiful, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner in multiple venues, alongside unlimited beverages that include a diverse wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers, and specialty coffees. Guests can also enjoy unlimited Wi-Fi and live onboard entertainment daily.

Targeting the Baby Boomer Market

Waggoner acknowledges his familiarity with the Baby Boomer demographic, noting that the Victory Cruise Lines experience is tailored to this audience. “So many of us have traveled globally and don’t want to sit on a plane for hours. We want to discover our backyard,” he said, highlighting the importance of unique, local experiences.

Collaboration with Travel Advisors

Victory Cruise Lines recognizes the pivotal role of U.S. travel advisors in its success. Waggoner expressed enthusiasm about collaborating closely with travel agents to promote their Great Lakes experiences. With a dedicated sales team led by Vice President of Sales Bob Salmon and marketing efforts spearheaded by Vice President of Marketing Kari Tarnowski, the cruise line is poised to deliver exceptional experiences and drive sales through travel advisor partnerships.

Victory Cruise Lines is set to redefine cruising in the Great Lakes, offering unparalleled experiences and creating unforgettable memories for travelers. With Waggoner at the helm, the future looks bright for this boutique cruise line.

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