Top Chicago Day Cruises

Experience one of the world’s most beautiful cities on a cruise down the historic Chicago River. On this architecture cruise, head down the main branch of the Chicago River, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the old Post Office Building. Take in magnificent city skyline views as you see more than 40 notable buildings, including the John Hancock Center and the Wrigley Building, and learn about their distinctive architecture from your onboard guide, an expert in architecture.

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history, and explores more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. Then venture through the Chicago Lock on to the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!

Admire all of Chicago's fabulous lakefront sights and attractions on this Lake Michigan boat tour. Cruise along Lake Michigan and take in amazing views of the city’s famous skyscrapers from a great vantage point. Feel free to bring a lunch and enjoy drinks from the onboard bar as you relax on this sightseeing cruise.

Our Chicago Signature Lunch Cruise is an unforgettable way to experience the city from the water. Spend your afternoon on Lake Michigan with dining, picturesque views, DJ entertainment, and an assortment of games. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared lunch buffet, a fully stocked bar, and incredible views of Chicago’s skyline and attractions from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Whether for a scenic lunch for two or for an unforgettable afternoon with friends and family, our Lunch Cruises are perfect for any occasion and serve as the best way to see Chicago from the water! 

The Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise departs near the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge on Wendella's world class tour boats. The Cruise will navigate from the Chicago River, through the Chicago Lock and out onto Lake Michigan. Watch the sun slowly set behind the city from the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan on this serene and romantic cruise.

Marvel at the magnificent architecture on the Chicago River with expert tour guides! All ages welcome. Each architecture river tour is narrated by a professional guide which leads passengers down the Chicago River to discover the city’s most renowned landmarks. In addition to historical insight on well known structures such as the Civic Opera House, Trump Tower & the Merchandise Mart, passengers will also get a chance to learn about current and upcoming developments. The Chicago River Cruise navigates the three primary branches of the river including the main branch to Navy Pier, the north branch to Goose Island and the south branch to Chinatown.

Interested in exploring Chicago from the perspective of ghosts and gangsters? Want to really immerse yourself in the history of this great American city, right from the locations that started it all? This tour visits the locations frequented by some of Chicago's most notorious gangsters along with many of the most haunted locations in Chicago! You can get the best of both worlds with this 2 in 1, history-based guided walking tour of Chicago’s gangsters and ghost stories, right from the famous Chicago Loop Vice District! Tour departs from 71 E Wacker Drive.

Leave the hustle and bustle behind! Explore Chicago's shores with a leisurely trip around Lake Michigan. Take in the world-famous skyline, enjoy spectacular views, and discover the Windy City from the water. Windy is the Official Ship for the City of Chicago. At 148 feet long, she is one of only a few 4 masted Schooners built in the United States. You will enjoy a relaxing sail around aboard a truly historic vessel. Select from Pirates and Maritime Stories Sail at 1pm, Skyline/Architectural Theme at 3pm and 5pm, and Skyline Sunset Sail at 7pm. This sail is approximately 75 minutes. The ship leaves promptly at the scheduled time, please allow for time to park, off the pier if necessary.

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length architecture tours. Hop aboard our world class vessels as our local authentic tour guides showcase our amazing city.

No city embraces summer quite like Chicago. Join in the celebration with friends and family on this epic fireworks cruise. Get up-close and personal every Wednesday and Saturday night with an unobstructed 360-degree view of this exciting and thunderous spectacle.

Experience the best of Chicago with a Premier Lunch Cruise and spend your afternoon on Lake Michigan with dining, picturesque views, and DJ entertainment. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared plated menus, creative cocktails, distinctive service, and breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline and attractions from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Whether for a scenic lunch for two or for an unforgettable afternoon with friends and family, our Lunch Cruises are the perfect way to elevate any occasion and see Chicago from the water!  Includes 2-hour lunch cruise on Lake Michigan 3-course, chef-prepared plated menu Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium DJ curated music Guaranteed table for your party size Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

Experience the best of Chicago with a Premier Dinner Cruise and spend your evening on Lake Michigan with dining, picturesque views, DJ entertainment, and dancing. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared plated menus, creative cocktails, distinctive service, and breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline and attractions from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. Whether for a romantic dinner for two or for a special evening with friends and family, our dinner cruises are the perfect way to elevate any occasion and see Chicago from the water! Includes - 3-course, chef-plated menu - Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower - and Adler Planetarium - DJ-curated music - Guaranteed table for your party size - Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea Extras & Upgrades: - Creative cocktails, wine, and beer are available for purchase from our fully stocked bar

Welcome to Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours! We’re proud to present you with an in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tour that delves into one of the most remarkable American cities today. Known for unique, daring, and historical architectural pursuits, it’s hard to cover all of the design and building treasures that make up the Windy City today. If you’re ready to learning more about the designs, people, and innovations behind these creations, throw on your captains hat and get ready to cruise along the Chicago River and see what architects from around the world travel to see in Chicago. Tour departures from 465 N. McClurg Ct.

Enjoy a private two-hour sailing experience for up to six people along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront.  Kick back, relax, and let the US Coast Guard licensed captain treat you to stunning views of Chicago’s spectacular skyline.  Make the experience your own.  The flexibility of a private charter allows customization of virtually any aspect of the sailing adventure from guest list to music selection to sailing route.  All charters are NON-SMOKING experiences.

Enjoy a private two-hour sailing experience for up to six people along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront.  Kick back, relax, and let the US Coast Guard licensed captain treat you to stunning views of Chicago’s spectacular skyline.  Make the experience your own.  The flexibility of a private charter allows customization of virtually any aspect of the sailing adventure from guest list to music selection to sailing route.  Three departure times offered daily.  All charters are NON-SMOKING experiences.

Our flagship vessel boasts a Tiki Chic vibe, two climate controlled decks, two bars, two bathrooms, premium sound system, outdoor and indoor viewing areas. Our upscale "Admirals Lounge" features top-shelf alcohol, including the captain's private reserve. Your adventure starts on the Chicago Riverwalk when you board vessel. Enjoy a beverage as you complete the unique experience of transiting the Chicago Locks. Once on Lake Michigan take in the stunning views of Chicago's skyline.

Experience the best of Chicago with a Premier Plus Architectural Lunch Cruise and spend your afternoon on the Chicago River with dining, picturesque views, and a narrated architectural tour of the city. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared, plated menus, creative cocktails, distinctive service, and breathtaking views from our climate-controlled interior and open-air outdoor deck. Whether for a celebratory lunch for two or for a special afternoon with friends and family, our Architectural Lunch Cruises offer the most breathtaking views of Chicago with an accompanying narrated tour highlighting the history of the city from the water.

See Chicago the Island Party Way. Our floating Tiki Bar offers you the opportunity to take in all the sights and sounds as you relax and enjoy a beverage. Have questions about the buildings you'll see along the river? Our helpful staff will be happy to answer questions.

Our Signature Chicago 4th of July Fireworks Dinner Cruise is the ultimate way to kick off summer's biggest celebration. The spectacular Chicago fireworks will captivate you as you enjoy the show from your front row seats on the water. Unparalleled festivities are in store this 4th of with dining, dancing, and magnificent skyline views on Lake Michigan for a casual evening out. Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet and gorgeous views of Chicago's spectacular architecture while soaking in the beautiful summer weather. You'll marvel at famed city landmarks, such as the Willis Tower, and Adler Planetarium, from our climate-controlled interior and open-air roof decks. We keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ. Set sail on an unforgettable 4th of July celebration! Includes Must be 21 or older with valid ID 3-hour dinner cruise on Lake Michigan Delicious dinner buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts

Our Independence Day Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan is an unforgettable way to celebrate and experience the city from the water. While onboard, you’ll enjoy chef-prepared menus, creative cocktails, beer, wine, and Chicago's most incredible views from the water. This holiday, celebrate with distinctive service from our climate-controlled interior and open-air outdoor decks while you cruise past Chicago's skyline. After dinner, watch sparks fly on the water and enjoy a spectacular fireworks display as they fly overhead, honoring the nation’s birthday. Include Must be 21 or older with valid ID 3-hour dinner cruise on Lake Michigan Delicious plated dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts Spectacular views of the city skyline and local landmarks Guaranteed table for your party size Live DJ entertainment Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

A Truly Special Event Sail! During the summer, every Wed & Saturday night, Tall Ship Windy sails from Navy Pier for our guests to enjoy the spectacular night fireworks from the best seat in town. Enjoy the amenities of the 148 foot, four masted Schooner that is the official ship of the City of Chicago. Sail from Navy Pier and see the picturesque Chicago Skyline. Enjoy one of the best summer fireworks displays in the nation aboard a world-class tall ship. Then, get your history fix with a rousing rendition of traditional shipboard working songs against the backdrop of the brilliantly lit Chicago skyline. This is a one of a kind uniquely Chicago experience. The Wednesday Fireworks Boat Tour departs promptly at 8:45pm. The Saturday tour departs promptly at 9:15pm.

The ultimate custom sightseeing experience in Chicago! Enjoy the City from great vantage points and photograph the world-famous skyline. We zip you to many sights around the local waterways including the Navy Pier, Soldier Field, Fort Dearborn, Vietnam Memorial, Wolf Point, Shedd Aquarium, and many others. Come aboard our safe and seaworthy US NAVY built Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB), and experience a unique & personal tour of the City!

Treat yourself to an unforgettable Chicago experience with this private sailboat cruise under the Navy Pier fireworks. Over the course of two hours, you’ll sail along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront with a view of the city skyline. You’ll have the perfect vantage point to enjoy the incredible fireworks from Navy Pier. This customizable experience allows you to choose your own, route, music, and guest list. Enjoy a private two-hour sailing experience for up to six people along Chicago’s beautiful lakefront.  Kick back, relax, and let the US Coast Guard licensed captain treat you to stunning views of Chicago’s spectacular skyline.  Make the experience your own.  The flexibility of a private charter allows customization of virtually any aspect of the sailing adventure from guest list to music selection to sailing route.  The unique view of the Navy Pier fireworks from the water is an unforgettable experience!  Offered Saturday evening in season.  All charters are NON-SMOKING experiences.