RV Travel Destinations – Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours Reviews

The Soo Locks stands out as a significant marvel in engineering and an essential stop for anyone exploring America’s waterways. Found on the St. Marys River between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, these locks facilitate passage for around 10,000 vessels every year, ranging from massive freighters to smaller recreational boats.

Overview of the Soo Locks

For RV travelers, the Soo Locks offer an exceptional mix of history, adventure, and natural beauty. The locks themselves have been operational since 1855, making them steeped in rich history. Going on a boat tour here means you’re not just floating down any river; you’re part of a centuries-old tradition of maritime navigation.

THE EDWIN GOTT GOING THROUGH THE LOCKS WITH OUR BOAT TOUR

A boat tour through the Soo Locks isn’t just about watching ships pass through– although that is undeniably cool. You’ll experience the thrill of being elevated and lowered between the different lake levels, a process powered purely by gravity.

YOU CAN SEE THE WATER ENTERING THE LOCK

The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and make the experience interactive by sharing intriguing stories and fun facts about the locks, the ships, and the local area. Trust me, you’ll find it fascinating.

The Famous Soo Locks boat tour caters to everyone, whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with kids and pets. The tours usually last about two hours and cover several miles of the river, providing ample time to soak in the scenery and snap some great pictures. Cruze along with stunning waterfront homes, picturesque lighthouses, and perhaps spot some wildlife too!

In short, the Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours encapsulate a perfect blend of education, excitement, and relaxation. Whether you’re a history junkie, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique experience, these tours have something for everyone. So buckle up your seatbelt (or, in this case, strap on your life vest) LOL, and get ready for an unforgettable water journey!

Why Visit Soo Locks by RV

Visiting the Soo Locks by RV offers a unique and flexible way to explore one of Michigan’s most iconic destinations. Situated in Sault Ste. Marie in the Upper Peninsula, the Soo Locks are a marvel of engineering, connecting Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes. For RV travelers, this stop provides the perfect blend of convenience, natural beauty, and history.

THE FAMOUS SOO LOCKS BOAT TOUR ENTERING THE LOCKS

One of the biggest advantages of visiting the Soo Locks by RV is the abundance of RV-friendly amenities. Nearby campgrounds, such as Aune Osborn Campground and Soo Locks Campground, offer scenic spots right by the water, complete with full hookups, picnic areas, and modern facilities. These campgrounds are just minutes from the Locks, allowing easy access to boat tours and the Visitor Center. Additionally, ample parking facilities near the Soo Locks accommodate RVs, making day trips to the locks and surrounding attractions hassle-free.

TRAVELING OVER THE MACKINAW BRIDGE TO GET TO THE UPPER PENNINSULA

We traveled across the Mackinaw Bridge from the Michigan peninsula. We stayed at Mackinaw Mill Creek campground, which was appropriate for our desire to bike ride around the Mackinaw City area, and an RV park that could accommodate our large RV.

The location of the Soo Locks in the Upper Peninsula also positions it as a great hub for exploring other local attractions. From scenic drives along Lake Superior’s shoreline to exploring nearby state parks like Tahquamenon Falls or Whitefish Point, an RV trip to the Soo Locks becomes a gateway to a full Upper Peninsula adventure. With the freedom of your RV, you can enjoy everything this region has to offer at your own pace.

How Do The Soo Locks Work?

As mentioned earlier, the Soo Locks are an essential part of the Great Lakes shipping system, allowing vessels to move between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes (Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, and Lake Erie). The key challenge is that Lake Superior is about 21 feet higher than Lake Huron, so the locks help ships navigate that elevation change.

Here’s how the Soo Locks work, step by step:

1. Entering the Lock:

A ship approaches one of the locks, and the lock gates open to let it in. Once inside, the gates close behind the ship.

2. Filling or Draining the Lock:

The water level inside the lock is then adjusted depending on the direction the ship is heading:

If the ship is going from Lake Superior to Lake Huron, water is slowly drained out of the lock to lower the ship to the level of Lake Huron.

If the ship is going from Lake Huron to Lake Superior: Water is let in to raise the ship up to the higher level of Lake Superior.

This is done using gravity—water naturally flows in or out of the lock through tunnels or valves at a rate of one and a half million gallons a minute!

3. Exiting the Lock:

Once the water level inside the lock matches the level of the lake the ship is heading to, the opposite set of gates opens, and the ship can continue on its journey.

Fun Facts:

The Soo Locks handle an enormous volume of cargo every year, particularly iron ore, coal, and grain.

The locks operate from late March to mid-January. During the off-season, they’re closed for maintenance.

There are multiple locks at the Soo complex, but the largest and most used is the Poe Lock, capable of handling the biggest ships on the Great Lakes.

On our boat tour the Edwin Gott was going through the locks while we were in an adjacent lock. That ship is three hundred yards long! It was impressive to watch our boat and the Edwin Gott rise twenty-one feet inside the locks.

The whole process is surprisingly quick, often taking less than an hour to move a ship through. Without the locks, the steep drop between the lakes would make shipping impossible!

From the time we entered the locks and were joined by other tour boats to the time the water entered and later exited the lock, it was about thirty minutes to get the tour boat through.

Ticket Prices and Booking Information

Understanding ticket prices can help you budget for your adventure. Adult tickets generally range from $30 to $40, while kids can often hop on for about $15 to $20. Some tours also allow pets, often for a nominal fee. You’ll want to check individual tour operators as prices can vary slightly.

Booking tickets in advance is a smart move. Many operators offer online booking options, making it easy to secure your spot well ahead of your visit. This way, you avoid any last-minute rush or disappointment if the tours sell out, especially during peak seasons. We booked our Famous Soo Locks Boat Tour through their website. The tickets were $30 each.

Group rates are often available if you’re traveling with a bunch of friends or family. Discounts for groups of 10 or more can be significant, making it a cost-effective choice for larger gatherings. Additionally, look out for special promotions or combo deals that might include nearby attractions or dining options.

Booking online isn’t just convenient; it also opens up opportunities for early-bird discounts or special online-only deals. If you’re a planner, subscribing to the tour operators’ newsletters can keep you in the loop about any upcoming promotions.

It’s always a good idea to read the fine print on cancellation policies. Life happens, and plans can change. Knowing the policies ahead of time can save you from unexpected charges if you need to alter your plans.

What to Expect on the Soo Locks Boat Tour

The Soo Locks Boat Tour promises a unique blend of scenic beauty, engineering marvels, and educational tidbits. As soon as you step aboard, you’ll notice the comfortable and spacious seating, designed to offer excellent views no matter where you sit. The tour boats come equipped with restrooms and snack bars, ensuring a pleasant trip for everyone.

From the moment you leave the dock, the journey is filled with stunning visual attractions. You’ll glide past historic sites, iconic lighthouses, and charming waterfront homes. One of the highlights is watching massive freighters navigate their way through the locks—trust me, seeing such colossal ships up close is something else!

INSIDE THE LOCKS WAITING FOR THE NEXT BOAT TO ENTER

ALL BOATS ARE IN THE LOCKS AND THE GATES ARE CLOSING

THE LOCKS ARE FILLING WITH WATER

The guides on these tours are top-notch. They’re not just there to point things out; they bring the history and mechanics of the Soo Locks to life with engaging stories and interesting facts. They combine humor and knowledge to keep both kids and adults entertained.

Worried about bringing your kids or pets along? Don’t be. The tours are designed with families in mind. There are kid-friendly activities on board, and the staff usually go the extra mile to ensure everyone has a good time. Pets are often welcome too, though it’s always best to check the specific tour’s pet policy ahead of time.

Routes typically cover several miles and can last 90 minutes to two hours, providing plenty of time to soak up the experience without feeling rushed. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, each tour offers a fresh perspective on this incredible waterway.

ENTERING THE LOCKS FROM THE LAKE SUPERIOR SIDE TO DROP TO LAKE HURON

Best Times to Visit the Soo Locks for a Boat Tour

The optimal time to explore the Soo Locks is during the warmer months, typically from late May to early October. This period promises milder weather, longer daylight hours, and a bustling atmosphere due to the peak tourist season. Summer months, especially June through August, are ideal for capturing the locks in their full glory, with frequent ship movements and vibrant surrounding scenery.

We visited the Locks in September when the temperatures were in the seventies. As you can see from the pictures, it was a perfect day.

If you’re okay with slightly cooler weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in late spring or early fall. May and September offer a calmer experience, without the hustle and bustle of peak season. Plus, these months can often provide discounted ticket prices and more flexible booking options.

When it comes to weather, it’s important to be prepared for sudden changes. Bringing a light jacket, especially for evening tours, can be a game-changer. Also, don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses because even in cooler months, the sun can be quite strong on the water.

Special events can also enrich your visit. The Engineers Day in late June lets visitors walk across the locks, providing a unique perspective you won’t get on the boat. Several local festivals around the summer months add extra layers of fun to your trip.

If you’re looking for a quieter and more intimate experience, visiting during off-peak times like weekdays or early mornings can be a good strategy. The serene environment lets you enjoy the locks and surroundings at your own pace without the crowd-induced rush.

Reviews for the Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours

The Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours have long been a popular attraction for visitors eager to experience the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks up close. With a reputation for offering an educational and engaging tour, the reviews of this boat tour reflect both the highlights and areas where some improvements could be made.

Positive Feedback

Many reviewers praise the tour’s informative narration, where guides provide in-depth historical and technical information about the locks and the Great Lakes shipping industry.

Visitors often mention how fascinating it is to witness the large freighters being raised and lowered as they pass through the locks. The tour is highly recommended for families and history buffs, as the live commentary adds context to the incredible scale and importance of the locks.

Additionally, guests appreciate the comfortable seating on the boat and the smooth ride, which allows everyone to enjoy the views of the surrounding area, including the Canadian shorelines.

Constructive Criticism

While the majority of reviews are positive, some travelers have noted that tours can feel a bit long, particularly for those with small children.

A few reviewers also mention that the boats, while functional, are showing signs of age and could use some updates. Weather conditions can also affect the experience, with windy days making outdoor seating less enjoyable.

We found neither of these issues to be a problem for us. We like long boat rides so enjoying a relaxing tour around the area and through the locks was very enjoyable. I could see where kids could get bored, so be prepared just like you would for a longer car trip.

Overall Impression

The Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours are consistently rated as a must-do activity when visiting the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The combination of historical insight, live demonstrations of the locks in action, and the unique vantage point from the water makes it a memorable and worthwhile experience for most travelers.

Nearby Attractions and Activities to Enhance Your Trip

The area around the Soo Locks is packed with attractions and activities that can round out your visit perfectly. Start your exploration with the River of History Museum, just a short stroll from the docks. The museum offers a deep dive into the rich history of the St. Marys River and its influence on the region.

Nearby to the Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours is the Tower of History. We did not have time to visit it, but it looked like a great way to view the Soo Locks from a high vantage point.

,

For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Rotary Island Park provides a picturesque setting for a walk or picnic. It’s a great spot to unwind after your tour, with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and scenic river views. Don’t forget to bring your camera, as it’s a haven for birdwatchers.

If shopping is on your agenda, the downtown area is home to a variety of unique boutiques and local shops. Here, you can find everything from handmade crafts to local souvenirs. The Soo Locks Visitors Center also features a gift shop with educational books and memorabilia.

Dining options near the Soo Locks are plenty. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, there’s something for every palate. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with views of the river, perfect for a relaxing meal while watching the ships go by.

Outdoor activities are also abundant. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are popular along the St. Marys River. If you’re up for a short drive, Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers hiking trails and stunning waterfalls, making it an excellent day trip destination. Family-friendly spots and pet-friendly parks are plentiful, ensuring everyone in your group has a memorable time.

To learn more about us, you can read this article.

Please feel free to leave a comment before you go!

,

WANT TO WORK ONLINE FROM ANY DESTINATION? WITH AFFILIATE MARKETING AND OTHER METHODS, WE CAN TEACH YOU HOW!