Longitudinal World Cruise IV

Explore the history of American achievement during the 20th century at the Henry Ford Museum of Innovation. Founded by famed automobile manufacturer Henry Ford, the museum contains an extensive collection of historically significant artifacts and Americana that tell the story of 20th-century American society. Enjoy a guided tour, during which you can admire American ingenuity through exhibits showcasing the evolution of presidential limousines during the past century and a replica of the airplane flown by the Wrights at Kitty Hawk in 1903. Enjoy free time to browse the museum’s many culturally important items, such as the limousine President John F. Kennedy was riding in on November 22, 1963 in Dallas, President Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theatre and the Montgomery bus where civil rights icon Rosa Parks refused to surrender her seat in 1955.

Delve into the world of automobile manufacturing during a visit to the Ford Rouge Factory. Designed by renowned architect Albert Kahn and built along the banks of the Rouge River in Dearborn, the River Rouge Complex opened in 1928 and was a manufacturing marvel, the largest integrated factory in the world at the time. Throughout its history, it has produced such iconic vehicles as the stylish Thunderbird and high performance Mustang; today, it produces the F-150 pickup truck. Upon arrival, meet your docent, who will lead you on a two-hour tour. Marvel at the immense scale of the factory’s size as you learn about its storied history of harnessing American ingenuity to facilitate game-changing technology and sustainable design. You will also get an inside look at the production of the F-150 and gain insight into modern manufacturing’s most progressive concepts.

Glimpse the stately elegance and beauty of the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House on the scenic shores of Lake St. Clair. Edsel, the only child of Ford Motor Company founder Henry Ford, was a lifelong philanthropist whose effect on the city of Detroit can be seen to this day. Before you begin your journey by motor coach to this National Historic Landmark, a Tudor Revival-style estate designed by renowned architects Albert Kahn and Jens Jensen, you will embark on a panoramic drive past iconic landmarks that showcase Detroit through the lens of the Automobile Age. Continue along the shoreline of Lake Shore Drive to admire the stunning views and architectural wonders of the mansions comprising the elite enclave of Grosse Pointe before arriving at the Ford House. Here, you will explore its 87 acres of lakeside grounds and gardens as you gain insight into the legacy of the Ford family.

Dive into the iridescent décor of some of Detroit’s famed landmarks and visit Pewabic Pottery’s studio. Embark on a scenic drive to view some of the city’s installations of the stunning tiling works of the renowned Pewabic Pottery. Their colorful tiles grace the buildings of Washington DC’s Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium. Step inside The Guardian Building, one of the most striking art deco buildings in the world, before continuing on to Pewabic’s headquarters, a National Historic Landmark Tudor Revival Building, for an insightful tour of the facility and ceramic works on display. During a workshop, you will learn about the techniques used in the creation of these eye-catching tiles, then have a go at glazing your own. Your masterpiece will be sent directly to your home after firing in the kiln.

Travel back in time and experience a slice of Americana during a visit to the renowned Greenfield Village. Founded in 1933 by famed industrialist Henry Ford, this 80-acre village is a sanctuary that preserves 300 years of American history. Upon arrival, board the only operational 19th-century roundhouse in the Midwest, where you will receive a narrated overview of the village and details on the different neighborhoods and individual attractions located here. After disembarking the train, you may join a guided tour or take the opportunity to explore on your own. Perhaps, visit the Menlo Park Lab (where Edison invented the lightbulb), the family home of the Wright brothers, or take a ride in a Ford Model T. You can board the train as many times as you like for faster transit to various corners of the village. At the designated time, you will return to your ship.

Uncover the culture, architecture and communities that shaped Detroit’s evolution through the 20th century. From its boomtown days as a manufacturing powerhouse to its place among the world’s wealthiest cities by the 1950s, the turbulent history of Detroit can be seen in the architecture, public art and preservation efforts throughout the city. Meet your guide and set out on foot through the downtown area, where remnants of its former opulence can still be seen along Woodward Avenue. Gain insight into Detroit’s past as you explore streets where commercial and industrial enterprises have been repurposed into new ventures and opportunities. See the neighborhood surrounding the Eastern Market, the city’s storied hub of public commerce, known for its charming mix of old and modern. Pass by the recently renovated Michigan Central Station as you journey back to your awaiting ship.

Journey to Belle Isle to explore this picturesque island park and gain insight into its rich history. After a short drive by motor coach, set out on foot along Belle Isle’s eastern shoreline to follow the Blue Heron Lagoon Trail. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the sites that you pass. See the Belle Isle Lighthouse and take in the views of passing freighters and the Windsor skyline across the water. Trace the Detroit River as you continue to Hipster Beach, pausing for photos along the way. Next, continue to view more of the island’s signature landmarks, including Sunset Point and the grand James Scott Memorial Fountain. View the neo-Gothic Nancy Brown Peace Carillon and pass beneath its tower, then conclude your walk at the Belle Isle Aquarium and Conservatory. View its diverse plant life and historic exterior before returning to your ship.