Take a leisurely cruise along beautiful Lake Michigan onboard this Formula Yacht which boasts a very roomy cabin and cockpit, with room for the whole family, and then some. This Yacht along with all the others in our fleet are professionally cleaned after each rental returns from dropping anchor at the Navy Pier's Northside "Playpen" (the hub of activity on the lakefront) where renters go to enjoy the Chicago skyline while celebrating life's special event(s), and/or simply to treat themselves to a day out on the water "just because" they deserve it.
"Artesian Chocolate," as she is affectionately named, is remarkable for her size and comfort. Notably, this Formula Yacht has expansive single-level interior, as well as her wide roomy space at the helm with lounge seating and a sun pad on the bow for several guests. She is equipped with a full bathroom, kitchen size galley, refrigerator, microwave, coolers, fire extinguishers, first aid kit and other safety equipment, as well as USCG Type-1 life vests for all passengers. Has a bumping Audio Sound System you can plug into either via Bluetooth, AUX or USB. This yacht is perfect for a group of up to 12 guests (with no more than 12 by Coast Guard regulations). For groups larger than 12 passengers, we suggest consider renting a matching size yacht, or power boat in our fleet of four boats to fit your desired guest capacity beyond 12 for simultaneous bookings, where you can ride out to your seaside destination in tandem, side by side, boat by boat for Fun Fun Fun!
EXCURSION VERSIONS:
Other than dropping anchor at Navy Pier Northside Harbor (aka "The Playpen"), or Monroe's Buckingham Fountain, keep in mind the Chicago River offers interesting architecture and historical sites great for sightseeing as well. You name the event, we will name the cruiser from our fleet to accommodate your rental needs.
FIREWORKS:
During summer season (Wed/Sat) nights the City of Chicago presents a fantastic fireworks display at the heart of Navy Pier which is a sight to behold from the Lake. We offer our vessels for Firework Party Cruise rentals throughout the summer as well at a minimum of 3hrs in duration.
CRUISING START TIMES:
Daytime (10am);
Afternoon (3pm); and
Evening (8pm) (for fireworks display)
(Give or take 1 hour outside the times listed here)
SPECIAL WATER EVENT DAYS & HOLIDAYS:
Memorial Day (MAY)
Juneteenth (JUNE)
July 4th Weekend (JULY)
The Chicago Scene Party (Two "Scene" events) (JULY)
Venetian Night (AUGUST)
The Air & Water Show Weekend (AUGUST)
Labor Day Weekend (SEPTEMBER)
These are major show-stopping weekends with spectacular sites and lots of activity out on the water, thereby noting a 15% increased rental rate on these high demand, high activity dates.
CAPTAIN STRUCTURE:
Captain's Prices may vary from one Captain to another Captain. Ours is a BARE BOAT RENTAL COMPANY ONLY, called "Chez Renee Voyage" where Captains are not included in our company's quoted prices listed herein. The Captains' fees are a separate transaction between renter and captain (this is a US Coast Guard Law), where you will hire the captain and pay them directly. You are welcome to hire your own licensed captain (with owner approval), or you may hire a captain who is familiar with our boats from a list we shall provide you upon reservation completion. Captains typically charge anywhere from $100-$125 per hour, with customary gratuity, so budget for that cost separately from the boat rental fee.
FUEL/CLEANING SURCHARGE:
There is an additional fuel and cleaning surcharge you will be expected to pay directly to us the day before departure. Fuel reimbursement will be $160 for our most popular itinerary to the playpen anchorage and back. Cleaning fee is $90 flat rate for any of the chartered slots, for a combined total of $250. Lastly, if a river cruise you choose, $250 additional for the reasons of extra fuel usage.
MARINA LOCATION/PARKING:
We are docked at 31st Street Marina Harbor which is about a 5-10 min taxi from downtown. There is paid parking available onsite, as well nearby, or hop a ride-share as a group. Drag a wagon to tote your belongings with ease.