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The Great Lakes were formed ten thousand years ago by retreating glaciers. The sweet water seas of Great Lakes are one of newest, yet also one of oldest cruise destinations in world. Seven night cruises started here over a century ago with palatial ships such as "North Land ” and "North West”, and today cruisers are only now rediscovering beauty and excitement of region.

Sailing on Great Lakes, passengers enjoy a new port of call every day, visiting small picturesque towns, turn-of-the-(20th)century resorts, or a historic city with magnificent galleries and architecture. Some of things that can be enjoyed along route include: world class theatre, salmon fishing, First People dancing and drumming, or hiking through woodland glades.

The largest cruise ship on Lakes system may come to you as a surprise, because it is a German company called Hapag-Lloyd, well-known for one of most luxurious cruise liners, Europa, rated best in world for last five years. Hapag-Lloyd is a subsidiary of world's largest tourism group — TUI. On Great Lakes line sets sail with a wonderful Three Star ship called C. Columbus, which has been plying these waters for over five years.

Recently M/S Columbus won awards for World's Best Ship in Great Lakes from Berlitz Publishing's Ocean Cruise and Cruise Ships 2005, by Douglas Ward; it also won an award for Best Cruise Ship from Luthansa City Center.

I race down old Navy Pier in Chicago, dodging tourists who are nonchalantly strolling attractions, restaurants, and vendors, and at end of pier is my ship. As I board C. Columbus I am immediately given a Willkommen au Bord like a member of family. The German crew is crisp in speech, manner, and demeanor, but smiling faces are beguiling witnesses to a crew of fun people. I meet ship's Director of Hotel Operations, Stefan Doktor, while checking in. He assures me that my starboard bow cabin is one of nicest outside staterooms. with a large oval window for a porthole. My bags are silently whisked off.

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As I write this, I lie on my oversized bed, in my oversized suite in DoubleTree Hotel in Del Mar, California. On my right sits a 27 inch Zenith television complete with an interactive music jukebox, a pleasing digital movie selection, and a variety of video games patiently waiting for me to challenge them.

On my left hangs a set of curtains, which I choose to keep closed. From fourth floor, I have a breathtaking view of parking lot, but knowing that a few miles down road waits a beautiful California beach, it's worth stay.

The amenities are expected: lots of tropical looking trees, a gym, business center, restaurant, and a pool shaped like a gigantic puddle (you know, all squiggly and such). When I checked in, man at front desk gave me some freshly baked, and again oversized, cookies — five of them. Of course I couldn't eat all of them at once, so I saved a few for breakfast.

After being in my room for about an hour, a delectable assortment of gourmet cheese was delivered to my door. After trying each one, I thought about heading down to gym. It always appeared to be empty and clean, but sitting in my room doing absolutely nothing seemed like a much better idea, especially after all those cookies (I wouldn't want to lose them). This gym has approximately ten polished chrome weight and cardio machines that practically beg for me to put my fingerprints all over them. Luckily, right out side front entrance is an easy escape route to pool where you can erase evidence.