Victory Cruise Lines Christens Victory II at Navy Pier
Victory Cruise Lines has officially christened its newest vessel, Victory II, in a festive ceremony on Chicago’s Navy Pier. On Monday, founder and chief executive officer John Waggoner’s granddaughter, Molly Applegate, performed the traditional blessing by breaking a bottle of Maker’s Mark across the ship’s bow. Against the skyline of Lake Michigan, Applegate’s champagne substitute marked the vessel’s entry into service on the Great Lakes.
“There is no city in the world quite like Chicago, and we are delighted to celebrate here today at Navy Pier as Victory II joins Victory I in sailing the Great Lakes once again,” said Waggoner. His remarks underscored the cruise line’s commitment to showcasing all five Great Lakes and providing guests with unforgettable travel experiences. Victory II carries up to 190 guests in spacious accommodations designed to bring travelers closer to the lakes’ ever-changing landscapes.
Victory II follows the relaunch of the brand’s first ship, Victory I, which was christened in Toronto on April 27 by Waggoner’s daughter. Together, the sister ships form a small fleet scheduled to spend the summer exploring the Great Lakes, with departures from Chicago, Toronto, Milwaukee and Montreal. Victory Cruise Lines has planned 33 departures this season that call at ports on Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario, offering itineraries ranging from five to twelve nights.
Chicago’s role as host port for Victory II drew praise from local tourism officials. “Victory Cruise Lines will bring thousands of visitors to Chicago and we are proud the cruise line is docking right here downtown at Navy Pier,” said Jordan Engerman, vice president of partnerships for Choose Chicago. Engerman highlighted the economic benefits of cruise visitation, noting that arrivals support local jobs and businesses while giving travelers a fresh way to explore the city’s vibrant dining, arts and cultural scene.
Designed specifically for the Great Lakes, both Victory I and Victory II feature shallow drafts that allow access to smaller harbors and historic waterways inaccessible to larger ships. Onboard amenities include panoramic lounges, a sun deck with cozy seating areas, locally inspired cuisine and expert-guided shore excursions. Passengers can choose from themed cruises focused on lighthouses, maritime history, Indigenous culture and regional cuisine, all while sailing past iconic shoreside scenery.
The christening on Chicago’s iconic pier capped months of preparation. The ship arrived in the city on May 10 following a series of safety drills and crew training exercises. Waggoner and his leadership team welcomed port partners, hospitality executives and community leaders aboard for a preview cruise prior to the public naming ceremony. Attendees toured Victory II’s elegant staterooms, visited the gallery showcasing Great Lakes art and sampled the ship’s signature dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
With both vessels now active, Victory Cruise Lines is positioned to fill a niche in North American cruising by offering intimate, regionally focused voyages. The Great Lakes region has seen growing interest from baby boomers and cultural travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Victory’s small-ship format and all-inclusive pricing model allow guests to unpack once while visiting multiple states and provinces, from Michigan’s Thunder Bay to Ontario’s thousand islands and Wisconsin’s Door County.
As Victory II sets sail on her inaugural passenger voyage this week, the cruise line looks ahead to a full season of departures that run through October. Chicago’s waterfront will remain a hub of activity as the ships rotate in and out, bringing new waves of visitors to the Midwest. For those seeking a unique blend of maritime heritage, diverse ecosystems and urban exploration, Victory Cruise Lines’ Great Lakes itineraries offer a memorable summer of discovery.
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