City Cruises Chicago: Premier Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise

Brunch with a skyline view is hard to beat. This City Cruises Chicago trip pairs a 2-hour Lake Michigan cruise with unlimited mimosas and big-name views like the Willis Tower and John Hancock. The vibe is part date night, part party, and the ride stays calm in the harbor area.

I especially like the freshly served brunch buffet feel and the way the crew keeps things moving, from boarding to getting you seated. The DJ entertainment also turns the boat into a lively hangout instead of a quiet sightseeing cruise.

One thing to plan around: boarding time matters. When people arrive late, the gate can close quickly, and once you’re on the boat, seating can be mostly assigned indoors, so if you’re chasing maximum breeze time or the perfect window spot, you’ll want to be ready to ask early.

Key points before you go

• Big skyline lineup from Willis Tower and John Hancock to the Shedd Aquarium area
• Unlimited mimosas plus unlimited coffee, tea, iced tea, and water
• Climate-controlled interior decks for Chicago weather swings
• DJ music makes it fun, but the volume may be intense for some people
• Tables are assigned based on needs, which can affect where you sit for views
• Boarding is early, not flexible if you’re late you may miss the boat

Navy Pier departure, the real trick to not missing the boat

This cruise leaves from 600 E Grand Ave, right by Navy Pier. It’s also convenient if you’re walking in from the Pier area or using public transportation, since this part of Chicago is built for foot traffic and transit connections.

Here’s the practical part: boarding starts before departure, and you should treat it as strict even if you think you have time. One set of info says boarding begins an hour prior, and another says 30 minutes prior. Either way, the safe move is to show up early and give yourself margin to find the right dock area, check in, and get directed to your deck.

If you’re the type who likes to know what you’re stepping onto, you might run into a small surprise: some people have said they had to contact the company to learn the exact ship name. If that detail matters to you, check your confirmation details ahead of time so you’re not scrambling at the pier.

A small comfort detail you’ll appreciate once you’re on board: there are restrooms onboard, and because the cruise largely stays in calm harbor waters, you’re less likely to feel motion. Still, if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s smart to bring medication you trust, just in case.

The 2-hour route: skyline views from North Avenue Beach to Navy Pier

You’re on the water long enough to feel like you escaped, but not long enough to get bored. The timing works for a mid-day reset, especially with brunch waiting for you.

The cruise passes by North Avenue Beach and then cruises in and out of Navy Pier. That matters because you’re not only viewing the city from one angle. Coming in and out of the Pier area helps you see the skyline shift as the boat turns and changes your sight lines.

You’ll also pass by major landmarks that make this cruise feel like more than generic lake sightseeing. The views you can expect include:

• Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)
• John Hancock
• Shedd Aquarium
• Aon Center
• Plus the Adler Planetarium as you pass along the route

What’s the value of this route? In a short window, you get a concentrated skyline tour without having to fight traffic or line up for separate attractions. You’re basically collecting Chicago’s greatest hits from the best possible vantage point: out on the water.

One possible drawback is that the ride can feel like cruising along established shoreline sections rather than a long, open-water adventure. If your idea of a cruise is wide-open horizon time, you may feel the route is more “harbor-friendly sightseeing” than “big-water voyage.” For many people, that’s exactly what they want because it stays smooth and easy.

Brunch buffet and unlimited mimosas: what you get for the money

This is a brunch cruise where the food and drinks are part of the package. You get:

• Brunch buffet
• Unlimited mimosas
• Unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water
• A guaranteed table for your party size

That last point is quietly important. On a busy day at Navy Pier, it’s easy to end up standing around. A guaranteed table means less hunting and more eating, which is exactly what you want when you booked brunch for a specific time.

How good is the food? Based on the overall pattern of feedback, most people find the brunch solid to good, with some also describing it as excellent. A few comments mention buffet items not staying hot, and at least one person felt the food did not match expectations for the price. So I’d frame it like this: you’re paying for the combination of skyline cruise + drinks + a full brunch setup, not for a fine-dining menu.

The drink situation is also worth understanding. Unlimited mimosas are included, but other alcoholic drinks are not included and can be purchased. That means if you’re the type who wants cocktails beyond mimosas, budget extra.

Coffee matters more than you’d think on a party brunch. You’ll have unlimited coffee and multiple tea options, which is a win if you want to pace yourself instead of jumping straight from bubbly to more bubbly.

If you’re traveling with dietary needs, there are vegetarian selections available with advance notice, and the company asks you to note dietary restrictions in the special requirements area when booking. If allergies are involved, put it in writing during checkout. It’s the easiest way to avoid awkward moments later.

DJ energy: fun atmosphere, with one loud-music caveat

This cruise includes live DJ entertainment, and for a lot of people that’s the main draw. The boat becomes a social scene, not just a sightseeing stop. Food gets refilled, the skyline keeps moving past, and the music gives everyone something to focus on besides scanning for parking or catching the last light.

The caveat? Music volume. Some people love the party feel, while others have said the disco-style volume can be too loud. If you’re sensitive to sound, consider wearing ear protection you already own, and don’t assume the quietest spot will be obvious. Inside spaces can still carry sound, and deck locations can vary based on crowding.

Also, plan on interacting with a staffed, organized flow. People report the crew is friendly and organized, with hosts helping guide parties to their assigned tables. That helps a lot on a boat, where everything is tighter than a restaurant.

Seating and window hopes: how to think about “where you sit”

You’ll be assigned seating as you board. Tables are based on needs and capacity, and the staff directs you to your deck first, then a host guides you to your table(s). That’s good for efficiency, but it also means you may not get the exact seat you imagined.

Some people have reported disappointment about not getting a window table, even though they wanted one for the best photo views. Others described the experience as great anyway, with the overall skyline making up for seating differences.

So here’s what I recommend: treat window seating as a bonus, not a guarantee. If you care a lot about it, ask early once you’re on board. And if you’re bringing a group with mixed view expectations, set a plan in advance. One person can prioritize photos, while others can enjoy the buffet and DJ without waiting for the perfect angle.

Another small comfort issue to consider is outdoor breeze time. Several comments suggest seating can be limited for enjoying the outside air, especially if you prefer to stand or sit where you feel the wind. The cruise is climate-controlled inside, which is great for comfort, but if weather is perfect outside and you want to stay out, keep an eye on deck access and where you’re allowed to linger.

Weather, decks, and how smooth the ride really is

Chicago weather can change fast, even in summer. The good news is that the cruise has climate-controlled interior decks, so you’re not stuck freezing or sweating the entire time.

The cruise is also designed to stay in calm waters for most of the experience, meaning motion sickness is less likely. You might still want to pack a backup if you’re very sensitive, but most people find it easy enough.

If you’re thinking about photos, remember that glass and angles can matter. Interior decks are comfortable, but for the cleanest skyline shots, you’ll likely want deck time too. Just be realistic about crowds and how long you’ll be able to linger outside.

If severe weather hits, the company’s plan is to remain dockside and provide the dining service. That means you still get the brunch experience, but you should expect the view portion to shift depending on the conditions.

One more practical note: smoking is only allowed on the outside decks. If you’re bothered by smoke, choose your seating accordingly and be aware that outdoor areas can change with foot traffic.

What the experience is like onboard, from timing to table flow

This is not a long, open-ended hang. It’s structured. You board ahead of time, get directed to your deck, and then your host leads you to your table(s). Once seated, the buffet and drink flow takes over.

The cruise also includes guaranteed table seating, which makes it easier to plan your group. You’re less likely to end up with split seating or no place to put your plates.

Time-wise, it’s a great mid-day option. The cruise departs at 12:30 pm, and it returns back to the same meeting point. That keeps it simple if you’re continuing your day with museums, dinner plans, or a Lake Michigan walk.

And if you’re celebrating something small, you may be allowed to bring a cake. It must be in a closed, covered container and stored at your table because there’s no storage onboard. There may be a cake cutting fee, so treat that as part of your budget.

Who should book this Chicago brunch cruise

This cruise fits best if you want a mix of skyline sightseeing and a social food-and-drink experience. I’d put it in the sweet spot for:

• Couples who want a low-effort date with views and music
• Groups of friends who enjoy brunch as an event, not just a meal
• People who want to see a chunk of Chicago landmarks quickly without switching plans all day
• Families who like the “activity on the schedule” feeling, especially since there are high chairs available and there are no age restrictions

If you’re traveling with kids, note the age tiers that apply: children ages 3 to 11 get a discounted rate, and infants under 3 are free as lap children. That can make a boat brunch feel more manageable than some ticketed attractions.

If your priority is silence and calm sightseeing, you might find the DJ makes it feel more like a party cruise than a peaceful scenic ride. If your priority is maximum outside breeze and quiet window time, know that seating assignment and deck access can be limiting.

Price and value: what $105.25 gets you in real terms

At about $105.25 per person for roughly two hours, this is priced as a premium experience. The value comes from the bundle:

• Brunch buffet
• Unlimited mimosas
• Unlimited coffee, tea, and water
• Live DJ entertainment
• Guaranteed table
• Climate-controlled interior decks
• Skyline views you would otherwise pay to access via multiple activities

If you’d otherwise pay separately for a harbor cruise plus brunch plus drinks, the math can work out. Especially with unlimited mimosas included, the package can feel fair for groups who drink a bit.

But if you care mostly about the food, you should manage expectations. A few comments point to buffet items not staying hot or the food not matching the price. Think of the brunch as “good enough and convenient,” while the big value is the setting and the drinks.

I’d also consider timing. This is a cruise that typically gets booked about 25 days in advance on average, and the capacity can run up to 400 people. That suggests you should lock your date early if you’re going on a weekend or during peak season.

Should you book City Cruises Chicago’s Premier Lake Michigan Brunch Cruise?

Book it if your dream day looks like this: you start from Navy Pier, eat a filling brunch without hunting for a restaurant, enjoy skyline landmarks from the water, and keep the mood lively with DJ music and unlimited mimosas.

Skip it, or choose a different kind of cruise, if you’re very sensitive to loud music, you want guaranteed window seating no matter what, or you prefer a quiet, mostly outdoors sightseeing experience where everyone has the breeze spot they want.

My take: this is a strong choice for a fun mid-day outing in Chicago. Just arrive early, be ready for assigned seating, and treat the food as part of the package, not the main reason you’re going.

FAQ

Where does the brunch cruise depart from?

It departs from 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. The cruise ends back at the same meeting point.

What time does the cruise start?

The start time listed is 12:30 pm. Boarding begins before departure, and you should arrive early because late arrivals may miss the boat.

What is included with the brunch?

The brunch package includes a brunch buffet, unlimited mimosas, live DJ entertainment, scenic Lake Michigan views, a guaranteed table for your party size, climate-controlled interior decks, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water.

Are alcoholic drinks included besides mimosas?

The experience notes that alcoholic drinks are not included. Unlimited mimosas are included, but other alcohol would be something you’d purchase onboard.

Is there a dress code?

Yes. The dress code is cocktail attire. If you prefer to be safe, aim for business-casual style clothing and avoid shorts, tank tops, flip flops, or gym shoes.

Is the cruise accessible and can I bring a service animal?

Yes. Service animals are allowed, and the activity is described as handicap accessible. If you have special needs, you should note them during checkout.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The cruise sails rain or shine. In severe weather, the boat stays dockside and provides the full dining service. You may also be offered a different date or a full refund if the experience is canceled due to weather.