Chicago · LAKE MICHIGAN CRUISES
Out past the lock and the whole skyline stands up behind you. The 15 below cover the skyline runs, the sunset sailings and the tall ships, with departure docks, run times and prices — and a note on which get properly cold after September.
A 1.5-hour Chicago architecture cruise with live narration, Lake Michigan skyline views, and river landmarks from Wendella.
“This was a great tour if you are wanting to many of the buildings and the skyline from the lake. The guide was knowledgeable with the history and construction of the buildings”
1.5-hour Chicago architecture cruise on the River and Lake Michigan with expert guides, the Chicago Lock, and deck or indoor seating.
“Perfect to see both the architectures on the river and the Chicago skyline from the lake”
A 90-minute Chicago sunset cruise from the Magnificent Mile to Lake Michigan, with skyline lights, on-board bar, and expert narration.
“Beautiful views of the Chicago skyline at all stages of the sunset. Our tour guide (Stevie B?) was energetic and even took photos of us on the boat. He went above and beyond. I would definitely take this ride again, must see views of the city!”
Chicago skyline on a Lake Michigan cruise from Navy Pier. Dog-friendly, restroom onboard, pre-recorded commentary, and great sunset views.
“Very beautiful 😍 loved the ride. Family enjoyed it very much. Thank you for the memories. Would love to have a little more time.”
Chicago by Night River and Lake cruise at night, guided skyline views plus a real ride through the Chicago Harbor Lock system.
“We had 1 night in Chicago and thia trip was the the best was to get the most out of the city by night... this was an amazing experience, it's just a shame we were only there for 1 night... we will definitely be back again and this will definitely be on the list again”
A quick Lake Michigan skyline cruise from Navy Pier with clear audio commentary and great photo angles for $32 per person.
“Loved the length of the trip and fantastic views of the skyline.”
A 1.5-hour Chicago sunset cruise with the Chicago Lock transfer, skyline views over Lake Michigan, and a cash bar with local favorites.
“A must do. Such breathtaking views and so fun. Our tour guide, Kay (my apologies if mis-spelled), was fantastic. Aside from the knowledge she shared, she made the experience personable by going around to everyone. My boyfriend and I had a great conversation with her. An absolute gem.”
Chicago River and Lake Michigan cruise with live guide stories, architecture views, and skyline photo time. Pass Navy Pier and Soldier Field.
“This is a lovely cruise, especially at night with the lights. There were a few moments where we stopped for several minutes, and I'm sure for good reason, but it was definitely a lull.”
City Cruises Chicago lunch cruise on Lake Michigan with skyline views, small-group vibe, chef-prepared buffet, and DJ entertainment.
“It was not clear exactly where the ship was. I only saw 600 E Grand Avenue, we were at the pier at 11:45 for a 12:30 sailing. It took us 44 minutes to find the boat. We got there at 12:29 and just made it. I would have been extremely angry if I lost over $500.00 had we missed it. We are from PA and not familiar with the area. 600 E Grand is the address for the shopping mall and ithe information desk could not help us. The food was fine, music a little loud. Staff very friendly”
A 2 to 3 hour Lake Michigan sunset dinner cruise from Navy Pier with an all-you-can-eat buffet and DJ dance party.
“A very pleasant experience, excellent service and the view is impressive. I definitely recommend it.”
Chicago skyline dinner cruise on Lake Michigan with a 3-course chef-plated meal, DJ music, and seasonal fireworks upgrade in summer.
“Hands down the worst meal to be had in the Windy City. Dry, over seasoned proteins, undercooked and over salted vegetables and all served colder than room temperature. Servers & Bartenders were fantastic. DJ S-Rock made the evening fun & our “table-nieghbors” were a delight to chat with & dance the night away. As an apology a meet & greet with the captain was offered. What would have been appropriate would have been to have chef come and apologize for passing off that sub-par slop as a hundred dollar plus dinner.”
A 30-minute Lake Michigan speedboat from Navy Pier, with skyline views of Willis Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and Grant Park.
“This tour was fun. Interacting with other people made it more fun. However, I wish we could have gone faster. I found out Seadog has another boat (Red Boat) which is called the Extreme. I would have purchased that one if it was an option. Someone actually shouted, "Faster!" But, we didn't get that. Overall it was fun. If you want a fast thrill, purchase the Extreme Seadog boat ride activity”
Take a narrated First Lady cruise that pairs close-up Chicago River views with Lake Michigan skyline, plus the Harbor Lock engineering moment.
“A great time out with the family. The level of detail was just right to keep everyone entertained but not so detailed that made anyone feel like they needed to be an architect. The guide was fantastic with sharing facts and weaving stories into a well rounded story of the city. I would take this tour again if given the chance.”
Ride a historic Chicago fireboat through locks from Lake Michigan to the Chicago River, with expert narration, sights, and snacks.
“I have lived in Chicago for many years, but it was a friend from out of town who found this tour online. The historic fireboat offers good views from all parts of the boat, and our guide provided a nice mix of architecture, city history, and funny stories. I have been on river tours many times, but the lake portion of the tour was something new for me. It was great to look back at the sweep of the city from a distance outside the breakwater.”
Chicago skyline at night on a 1.5-hour cruise of the river and Lake Michigan, with live guide commentary and bright Buckingham Fountain views.
“Seamus was fantastic. He was a great guide with a relaxed, funny manner that really made the tour enjoyable. Bar staff were super friendly.”
Every kind of day out in the city, and the best of each.
