Grand Sightseeing Tour Aboard the Vista Star

Vista Fleet offers harbor tours that consistently impress with knowledgeable guides and beautiful views of Duluth's waterfront. Bill and Phil get special mentions for their expertise and entertaining commentary about the area's maritime history and the massive freighters passing through. The tours run on schedule and provide excellent opportunities to see historic ships up close, with some lucky passengers spotting famous vessels like the Arthur M. Anderson. Staff members are generally friendly and attentive, making the experience feel welcoming for couples and families alike. The boats themselves show their age a bit, with some worn furniture that becomes more noticeable on rainy days when everyone crowds inside. Bar service can be slow during busy times, and a few guests found the food portions disappointing on dinner cruises. Sound quality for the narration can also be tricky when weather forces everyone indoors. Despite these minor issues, most visitors leave genuinely impressed. The tours have maintained their quality for decades, with one reviewer happily returning since the 1980s. It's a reliable choice for understanding Duluth's harbor heritage.