Chicago Summer 2026 Boat Charters (Starting May)
Ready to turn your Chicago summer plans into an unforgettable day on the water? Cruise in style aboard our luxury 30-ft 2024 Chaparral 307 SSX — perfect for soaking up the sun, skyline views, fireworks, and Playpen vibes.
•Great for:
-Bachelor/bachelorette parties
-Birthdays
-Corporate outings
-Just-because days
•Capacity:
-Up to 10 guests + captain/crew
•Captain Info
-Once you’ve locked in your charter, we’ll send over easy-to-follow directions, helpful safety tips, and a handpicked list of approved captains for your bareboat charter. You will reach out to them directly to schedule and pay.
-Captain fees vary from $100-$170 based on dates on weekdays/weekends/special events
-Our recommended captains are fully experienced and familiar with our boat. They hold a USCG license to operate a boat and are well known in the Chicago Harbor and know the ins and outs and will make sure you enjoy the most out of your trip and while prioritizing your safety!
•Safety and Cleanliness
-We prioritize the safety of our guests. We have all the required USCG Life and Safety equipment onboard and are licensed to operate a bareboat charter in the State of Illinois.
-Expect a clean and sanitized boat upon boarding.
•Location
-31st Street Harbor
-3155 S. Lake Shore Dr, Chicago
Chicago, IL 60616
-Paid parking nearby | Lyft/Uber recommended
•Parking:
-There is an outdoor pay-for-parking in close proximity to the harbor as well as street parking. Please check for any closures of the pay-for-parking.
-Recommended to take Lyft/Uber to the harbor
•Choose Where You’ll Go
-Chicago Playpen – Anchor, swim and relax
-Skyline Cruises – Day or night
-Chicago River (4-hour minimum)
-Fireworks Cruises starting on Wednesdays @ 9PM and Saturdays @ 10PM
•Boat Amenities
-Premium JL Audio bluetooth sound system (bring your playlist!!!)
-Plenty of cooler space
-Complimentary water and ice
-Swim-friendly infinity step platform
-Sun lounge seating (Seats covert to a sunbed)
-Blue neon LED lights for night cruises
-Restroom onboard
-BYOB + snacks welcome
-Adult and Children Life vests
-Tons of storage
•Charter Guidelines:
-Maximum of 10 passengers plus captain/crew
-Must be 21 to drink alcohol
•Summer 2026 Events
-May 5: Cinco de Mayo
-May 23-25 Memorial Day Weekend
-June 8-10: NeoCon (Design Industry Event)
-June 12-14: Windy City Boat.& Yacht Show
-June 18-21: Juneteenth / Black Yacht Weekend
-June 28: Chicago PRIDE Weekend
-July 3-5: Independence Day Weekend & NASCAR Cup
-July 11-13: Blvck Scene Weekend
-July 19: Chicago to Mackinac Race
-July 25/26: Chicago Scene Boat Party
-July 31- August 2: Lollapalooza
-August 14-16: Chicago Air and Water Show
-August 20- 23: Chicago International Boat Show
-August 22/23: Chicago Triathlon
-September 5-7: Labor Day Weekend
Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! Here to help out and plan your trip in the Lake!