Boating season is back, Chicago! City Cruises Chicago is at the helm

Chicago boats
Captain Brian Parker, Associate Director of Marine Operation, aboard the Odyssey Chicago River Boat in Chicago. Photo credit AnnMarie Welser

Spring marks the beginning of the Chicago boating season. Boats have made the journey from storage units and dry docks back into Lake Michigan.

Although many boats are making their annual return, City Cruises Chicago is one of the few organizations that offer year-round boating services.

“It’s the start of a busy boating season. We’re excited for it; we’re excited for our passengers,” said Captain Brian Parker, Associate Director of Marine Operations.

City Cruises Chicago operates multiple boating experiences, including the Odyssey Chicago River Boat, Spirit of Chicago, Odyssey Lake Michigan and Seadog Speedboats.

boat
Chicago skyline from the Odyssey Chicago River Boat on the Chicago River Photo credit AnnMarie Welser

Although spring weather can be chaotic, there is no stopping the City Cruises Chicago crew.

“In Chicago, it can be 80 and sunny and it can be snowing two days later. So we have the only climate controlled vessel offering lunch and dinner cruises here on the river,” said Captain Parker.

The Odyssey Chicago River is a single-level climate-controlled, glass-enclosed dining vessel. The design of the ship was inspired by the Parisian Bateaux Mouches which take passengers along the Seine River.

Chicago river
Inside the Odyssey Chicago River Boat Photo credit AnnMarie Wesler

“We have a chef on board, exquisite service and spectacular views which offer a full range of the city as you’re going down the river,” said Grace Fuller, City Cruises Chicago General Manager.

The dining cruises include brunch and dinner boat rides, as well as special events such as upcoming Mother’s Day and Father’s Day cruises, and the United States Sail Grand Prix.

The boating season in Chicago officially begins May 1st. Local boaters are allowed to harbor their boats along the 14 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.

Chicago boats
The Seadog Speedboats in Chicago Photo credit AnnMarie Welser
Chicago boats
Odyssey Lake Michigan in Chicago Photo credit AnnMarie Welser
Featured Image Photo Credit: AnnMarie Welser