Marquette to Muskegon: Cruise ships bring big tourism dollars to the Great Lakes

The Pearl Mist cut through the smooth water of Muskegon Lake on a cloudy early June morning.Six decks lined with dozens of private balconies towered over Heritage Landing as about 200 people walked down a ramp ready to explore the small lakeshore town that’s bursting with local art, breweries and cultural landmarks.This was the first cruise ship to dock at Muskegon in two years.’Everyone is so ready to get out and travel,’ said Cindy Larsen, president of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.