One of the most unique ways to see the city of Chicago is by taking a boat tour on the river through the heart of downtown. You’ll experience the absolute best sights of Chicago, while learning a bit about the city’s history at the same time. Travelers and city sight seers might feel a bit overwhelmed by the large amount of boat tours that are offered throughout the city, so I thought I would narrow down the list of choices to help make your selection a bit easier.
Before choosing a Chicago boat tour that is right for you, you should decide what type of tour you would like to experience. There are both public tours and private cruises that are offered at a wide variety of price ranges. You’ll also have to decide if you are looking for a basic city tour, or perhaps an evening dinner cruise. The varieties of tours are plentiful, so be sure to plan ahead and pick the type of tour you are looking for well in advance.
Architectural Cruises
An architectural cruise through the city of Chicago is my most recommended boat cruise. Chicago is rich in architectural history, and an architectural cruise can provide the absolute best sights of the city while you cruise along both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. There are quite a few private companies which offer this type of tour. The best architecture cruises feature experienced guides which will talk you through the most historical points of the city. This type of boat cruise will usually run approximately 60 to 90 minutes, during which you will learn about many of Chicago’s buildings created by some of the most famous architects in the world.
Architectural cruises are seasonal tours which usually operate regularly during the months of April through November, weather permitting. The most common architecture tours are offered by Shoreline Sightseeing, Chicago’s First Lady, Chicago Line Cruises, Seadog, and Wendella Boats. These companies offer slight variations in price, schedules, boarding locations, and types of boats used. Be advised that the tours are usually quite similar, so travelers should choose their tour based on the prices and schedules that best fit their needs. Most boat tour companies strongly recommend to make reservations and purchase tickets in advance.
If you choose an architectural tour, I highly recommend that you arrive early to board the boat. Arriving early will allow you to choose your best seat, which will usually be a seat located on the top outside deck of the boat. Sitting outside will give you the absolute best view of the city. Be sure to bring your camera, because you’ll have an endless amount of photo opportunities.
Skyline Cruises
A skyline cruise in the City of Chicago will please just about anyone, offering a beautiful glimpse of the city amongst a relaxed atmosphere. Skyline cruises will usually offer a 30 minute boat ride which depart from Chicago’s Navy Pier, another popular city destination. You’ll be able to find a skyline boat tour being offered at just about any time of the day, generally during the months of April through November, depending on the weather. There are some exceptions as to the length of a skyline cruise. There are some boats which will offer a 90 minute to 2 hour cruise, and the experience of the ride can vary.
If you are looking for a short and lower priced skyline cruise, your best bet is to check out the cruises that Shoreline Sightseeing has to offer. For a longer skyline cruise, view the schedules of Wendella Boats and Windy of Chicago. If you choose to board the Windy of Chicago boat, be prepared for a completely unique experience. The Windy of Chicago is a tall ship with high sails that docks along Navy Pier. The 90 minute skyline cruise on this sail boat offers a ride like no other. Prices for all skyline tours vary, so take some time and see which each company offers so that you can experience the right cruise at the right price.
Lunch and Dinner Cruises
You’ll find a large amount of lunch and dinner cruises in the City of Chicago. These types of boat cruises generally run approximately 90 minutes to 3 hours. Which type of cruise you choose is completely up to your personal preference. There are lunch and dinner cruises offered every day of the week, with weekend brunch options available. You can also experience unique champagne and cocktail cruises. The most common lunch and dinner cruises are offered by Odyssey Cruises, Mystic Blue Cruises, and Spirit of Chicago, all which depart and return to Navy Pier.
Menu selections, operating schedules, and prices for Chicago lunch and dinner cruises all vary. The best advice I can give you is to visit each company’s website to see what sparks your interest. I personally have had nothing but great experiences with all of these companies.
A Chicago attraction such as a boat tour and boat cruise are certainly a must while in the City of Chicago. Keep in mind that these aren’t the only choices available, but are some of the most basic and best options to go with. There are all other sorts of cruises that are offered depending on the time of the year, including unique speedboat rides on the Seadog. Celebration and fireworks cruises are also common during various seasons, so plan ahead and see what is available during the time you are interested in scheduling a cruise. All of the cruises I have mentioned will most certainly provide you both an enjoyable and memorable experience.
