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Top boat rental reviews in Chicago, IL

5.0 average rating
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312k+ guest reviews
Pontoon / Tritoon Charter with Licensed Captain boat photo Pontoon / Tritoon Charter with Licensed Captain
Captain James was above and beyond!! So kind, helpful, and flexible with our group. He made the entire process easy from start to finish and was incredibly respectful and professional throughout. Just a genuinely great guy who clearly loves what he does. I’ve already recommended him to friends and family alike. Highly, highly recommend!
Robin profile photo

Robin Jun 2025

42ft Party Yacht w/ HUGE Open Seating Area! Playpen-Fireworks + More! boat photo 42ft Party Yacht w/ HUGE Open Seating Area! Playpen-Fireworks + More!
celebrated my husband's birthday) The owner of the boat gave us a surprise and showed us a greeting and balloons on the TV) I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to have a good time)
Виталина profile photo

Виталина Aug 2025

Chicago's Vintage Boat Charters boat photo Chicago's Vintage Boat Charters
Could not recommend Albert more! He made our boat ride so fun and informative! He had great music, everything you could need on a boat (cups, cold water, even watermelon for us!!), and shared fun facts with us about Chicago along the way. He was so accommodating of us needing a bit more time to get to the boat. Overall an amazing experience and I could not recommend him and his beautiful boat more!
Erin profile photo

Erin Aug 2025

The Spectacular SEA RAY 40 SUNDANCER  boat photo The Spectacular SEA RAY 40 SUNDANCER
Captain K and the whole team did a great job. Took my twins out for a river cruise and we had a very special day together. Boat was in great condition. Thank you K,
Robert profile photo

Robert Jun 2024

Ultimate Luxury Yacht Experience- Dance, Sun, and Unforgettable Party boat photo Ultimate Luxury Yacht Experience- Dance, Sun, and Unforgettable Party
Kevin was so hospitable and kind to us. We had zero problems and would use him again. Truly appreciate it!
Elise profile photo

Elise Jun 2024

Charter boat available with Captain Bob boat photo Charter boat available with Captain Bob
A M A Z I N G !!! HIRE captain Bob and don't look any further. He is knowledgeable about everything Chicago! He is a certified Captain and knows all about the water and boat rules, safety and does and donts. The boat itself is a gem, its like a Porsche on the water. Thank you Captain Bob, we will definitely recommend you to all of our friends.
Kamen profile photo

Kamen Jun 2024

Top questions

The cost to rent a boat in Chicago starts at $100 per hour, depending on the amount of time that you would like to use the boat.

With a Chicago boat rental, top destinations include the Chicago River for stunning views of the city's iconic architecture and skyline. Lake Michigan offers a chance to anchor near Navy Pier or the lively Playpen area for sunbathing and socializing. North Avenue Beach and Montrose Beach are popular spots for swimming and relaxing just offshore. For a quieter cruise, head to Belmont or Burnham Harbor near Museum Campus. Each destination offers a unique way to experience Chicago from the water.

Black Yacht Weekend is a floating boat party on Lake Michigan against the stuning Chicago skyline. In 2025, Black Yacht Weekend is happening from Thu, June 19 to Sun, June 22.
Chicago Scene Boat Party is an annual boat event on Lake Michigan. In 2025, Chicago Scene Boat Party is happening Fri, Jul 25 to Sun, Jul, 27 at The Playpen.

Belmont Harbor → North-side beaches and parks; lakefront neighborhoods; beaches like Montrose Beach (northward) or moving south along the lakefront into downtown as you cruise. Approximately 15-20 minutes cruise to playpen area depending on conditions and route
Burnham Harbor → South-lakefront destinations, Museum Campus area, near Soldier Field / McCormick Place; good for a longer cruise along the lakefront down south or up toward downtown. Approximately 10-15 minutes cruise to playpen area depending on conditions and route
Montrose Harbor → Montrose Beach, Montrose Point / Bird Sanctuary / North-side lakefront — ideal for a more relaxed, “local beach + harbor” experience; Approximately 20-30 minutes cruise to playpen area depending on conditions and route
Navy Pier Marina → Downtown lakefront, skyline cruises, quick access to beaches and the central “Playpen” area, easy city-side walkable access to hotels/restaurants/entertainment. Approximately 5-10 minutes cruise to playpen area depending on conditions and route

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