As I embark on an ambitious journey exploring the waterways of six different countries, my first major stop brought me to the historic shores of Burlington, Vermont. I spent 90 minutes aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen, a cruise that perfectly bridges the gap between America’s revolutionary past and its vibrant present.
The Experience: More Than Just a View
The narrated cruise is a masterclass in storytelling. As we sailed, I learned that Lake Champlain, often called the “Sixth Great Lake”, was once a high-stakes “water highway” which connected St. Lawrence River in Canada and the Hudson River in New York.
A few historical gems I picked up:
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The Hero: The ship is named after Ethan Allen, who led the Green Mountain Boys to a pivotal victory at Fort Ticonderoga in 1775. This was the first offensive victory for American forces in the Revolutionary War.
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The Waterfront: It’s hard to believe, but the scenic park where we boarded was the third-largest lumber port in the US during the 1800s. It was reclaimed from industrial rail yards in the 1980s to become the public treasure it is today.
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The Mystery: I kept an eye out for “Champ,” the legendary lake monster, though the only “monsters” I saw were the massive waves hitting the 1837 stone breakwater!
Nostalgia Through the Lens
One of the most exciting parts of the deck experience was the coin-operated telescopes. There is a distinct, satisfying whirring sound as you wind the timer, a mechanical countdown that adds a bit of old-school thrill to the viewing.
Through the high-powered lens, the distant Adirondack Mountains felt close enough to touch. While I focused on the scenery, my friends enjoyed the onboard dining. They absolutely loved the food, and the atmosphere on deck made for a perfect afternoon meal.
My Highlight: A Connection Across Cultures
While the history was fascinating, the absolute best thing that happened that day wasn’t on the narrator’s script.
I met a very smart autistic boy and his family on board. I had brought some small gifts from my home in The Gambia, and I decided to share them with him. When he received them, he gave me the most incredible, genuine smile.
In the middle of a global tour spanning six countries, that moment reminded me that the best part of travel isn’t the monuments—it’s the human connection. Sharing a piece of Gambian culture in the middle of a Vermont lake turned a great boat trip into a lifelong memory.
Local Guide Tips for Burlington:
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Bring Quarters: You’ll want them for the telescopes! The “winding” sound is part of the charm.
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Dining: If you’re hungry, don’t hesitate. The kitchen on the Spirit gets a big thumbs up from my group.
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Photography: Head to the top deck early to get a panoramic shot of the Burlington skyline as you pull away from the dock.
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Weather: It gets very cold depending on the season. Keep in mind to check the weather first before your trip.
This was an unforgettable addition to my 6-country boat tour. Stay tuned for my next stop!
Have you ever shared a gift from your home country while travelling? I’d love to hear your stories of “human connections” in the replies!
