When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Chicago Boat Company
Why Chicago Boat Company is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chicago Boat Company is a standout destination for those seeking a unique and enjoyable way to experience the Chicago River alongside friends or family. Founded in 2012, this company blends a passion for boating with a commitment to sustainability, offering a variety of boats such as vintage 1950s and 1960s electric retro boats, classic Duffy electrical boats, luxury pontoon boats, and even a hot tub boat, which makes it a versatile choice for both intimate outings and larger group celebrations. Their boats can accommodate from as few as 4 passengers to up to 26, catering seamlessly to different group sizes. Whether you're looking to host a private event, celebrate a special occasion, or simply take in the iconic Chicago architecture from the water, Chicago Boat Company presents an accessible and memorable option. With electric boats, they emphasize an eco-friendly way to enjoy the city’s waterways, and their offerings include options for private rentals as well as group activities like Cycleboat tours, which combine cycling and boating for a social and engaging team-building experience. Their flexible rental durations, variety of boat styles, and welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent place to gather with friends and explore Chicago from a fresh perspective.
Here's what people think of Chicago Boat Company
As of recent, Chicago Boat Company holds a 4.1-star rating based on 14 reviews.
Customer reviews for Chicago Boat Company reflect an overall positive impression, consistent with their 4.1-star rating based on 14 reviews. Many users praise the unique and charming selection of boats, particularly the vintage-style City Winery Retro Boats, which provide an intimate and nostalgic cruising experience. The electric boat rentals are frequently lauded for their smooth operation and eco-conscious design, appealing to guests wanting a sustainable yet stylish ride. Positive reviews often highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, efficient booking process, and the scenic quality of the Chicago River tours which combine leisure with beautiful city views. Customers also appreciate the flexible cancellation policy which offers partial refunds depending on the notice period, adding confidence when booking. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues with boat availability or color preferences not being guaranteed, and a few note that the prices can be on the higher side for certain boat types. There have also been isolated reports of the boats being smaller than expected, which can impact comfort during larger gatherings. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment points to a reliable and enjoyable boating experience in Chicago. In conclusion, the Chicago Boat Company is well regarded for its dedication to providing unique, sustainable, and fun boating options that appeal both to local residents and visitors looking for a relaxed yet memorable outing on the water.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nanga Mai
Not sure of pricing/value but we had a boat rental for an hour on a Sunday morning. Arrived early and was allowed to head out earlier but still keep the same return time. Managed to loop around Goose Island in that time. Some nice distant downtown views.
Lorena Diaz
Just came back from this place. It probably could have been fun if we had gotten the 1 hour ride that we paid for. The donut boat was very slow. It hardly move. We didn’t even get to go around the place because it got stuck. By the time we got to the Belmont bridge , took like 20 minutes, then got stuck there, had to turn back around and see if we could go around through the other side. By the time we got to the dock area that was probably another 15 minutes , then got stuck around there too and started to rain. The two guys at the dock area were very nice. One of them said maybe they can give us another boat to ride for the rest of the time that we had left. Once we got to the front desk, the guy that was sitting there asked us how was it and we told him what had happened. He didn’t even offer anything. Not even an apology. I was not happy to pay $190.00 for this. We didn’t even get to be on the boat for an hour.
Reagan Millican
We had the best time on our Donut boat! We rented it for 2 hours and it was so much fun. The boat was easy to operate and it was so peaceful floating down the river. I would definitely recommend the Chicago Electric Boat Company, everyone we spoke with was so nice and helpful.
Jonathan Rullman
Great Experience! No hassle reservation and check in process. Our assistant Connor made sure ourselves and our gear were loaded on the boat properly and that we had everything we needed to have a great time!
Richard Woo
What a hidden gem! My buddy invited my family to join his and do a one hour cruise along the Chicago river. The day was beautiful and in the event it rained there was a roof and covering which was great. Friendly staff, great views, spacious and easy to have snacks and drinks. What a great experience.
How to reach Chicago Boat Company
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Why Chicago Boat Company may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chicago Boat Company with your friends?
Gathering with friends at the Chicago Boat Company offers a unique and memorable way to connect while enjoying the stunning Chicago skyline and river views from the water. Unlike typical land-based venues, the boat company provides a refreshing change of pace that blends relaxation, adventure, and social interaction in a beautiful setting. Their easy-to-drive electric boats ensure that even first-time boaters can confidently take the helm, creating a fun and empowering experience for everyone. The environment feels more intimate and exclusive on the water, providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle while still being right in its heart. Whether you want to share laughs on a private cruise or join the lively Cycleboat for a boisterous group ride, Chicago Boat Company makes it simple to tailor your outing for maximum enjoyment and camaraderie. This versatility, combined with the eco-friendly ethos behind their fleet, guarantees a responsible yet exciting way to celebrate friendships and create lasting memories.
What activities does Chicago Boat Company offer for group meetups?
Chicago Boat Company offers a range of water-based activities designed to satisfy groups of varying sizes and tastes, making it an ideal spot for meetups. Their fleet features electric boats that are easy to drive by novices and experienced boaters alike, providing private charters that let you explore Chicago’s waterways at your own pace and leisure. This private boat rental is perfect for groups wanting a serene, intimate experience to talk, enjoy views of Chicago architecture, or celebrate special occasions. For groups looking for a more dynamic and social experience, the company offers the Cycleboat, a unique hybrid vessel that combines boating with cycling. This interactive boat encourages teamwork and communication as everyone pedals together, making it especially popular for team-building events, parties, or casual social gatherings. Both the private boat cruises and the lively Cycleboat rides are available in multiple durations, commonly 90 to 120 minutes, and provide a bring-your-own-beverage option, which enhances the festive and personalized feel for group celebrations.
How does Chicago Boat Company create the perfect setting for group experiences?
The magic of Chicago Boat Company lies in its ability to combine spectacular city views with relaxed and engaging activities tailored for both socialization and fun. Located conveniently on the Chicago River at 300 N State St, their marina provides direct access to iconic Chicago architecture and waterfront scenery, letting groups immerse themselves in sights not visible from typical city tours. The electric boats’ quiet, eco-friendly motors offer a smooth, peaceful ride that makes conversation easy, providing a calm setting perfect for reconnecting with friends or family. The company’s focus on accessibility means groups don’t need boating experience to feel comfortable, widening the scope for who can participate in a meaningful way. The Cycleboat adds a playful group challenge by promoting cooperation through cycling as you cruise, an activity that both energizes and bonds participants. This mix of scenery, ease of use, and inclusive fun ensures every group gathers in a setting that balances excitement with relaxation, boosting any meetup’s appeal.
What makes the boats and services at Chicago Boat Company stand out?
Chicago Boat Company’s fleet sets itself apart by featuring clean, quiet, electric-powered boats that prioritize sustainability without sacrificing comfort or style. These vessels are designed for maximum accessibility, equipped with user-friendly controls so that anyone—even those with no prior boating experience—can drive confidently, taking full charge of their outing. This creates a sense of independence and fun that enhances the group experience, as everyone can try steering or just relax while taking in the views. The company also prides itself on excellent customer service, with responsive support ensuring smooth booking and helpful guidance throughout your visit. The BYOB policy adds a customizable element to the adventure, allowing groups to bring their preferred refreshments and create a party atmosphere on the water. Combined with flexible cancellation policies and all major credit cards accepted, the ease and professionalism of service remove common hassles, making planning and hosting stress-free.
How can Chicago Boat Company accommodate different sizes and types of groups?
Whether you are planning an intimate family outing or a lively gathering of friends or colleagues, Chicago Boat Company has options that accommodate diverse group sizes and preferences. The private electric boats typically hold smaller groups—ideal for six passengers—making them perfect for close-knit meetups or romantic celebrations. For larger crowds, the popular Cycleboat welcomes up to 20 guests, offering a shared, interactive experience that is especially suited for parties, corporate team-building exercises, or festive celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. The ability to select different boat types and durations allows organizers to design a day on the water that best fits their group’s energy and goals, from quiet sightseeing cruises to spirited social rides. This flexibility ensures that regardless of group dynamic or size, the outing feels personalized and successful, increasing enjoyment for everyone involved.
Why is the location of Chicago Boat Company an advantage for meetups?
Positioned at 300 N State St on the marina level, Chicago Boat Company benefits from a central and accessible location amidst downtown Chicago’s vibrant riverfront. This prime spot offers unparalleled convenience, whether guests are arriving from the city’s neighborhoods, suburbs, or even tourists staying nearby. The marina’s proximity to popular restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues makes it easy to extend outings before or after the boat experience with meals or further socializing. Being on the Chicago River puts guests in an enviable position to experience the city’s famous skyline, historic buildings, and bridges from a fresh perspective—a view that large crowds in the city rarely enjoy together. This award-winning backdrop enhances photos and memories, adding a special touch that sets your meetup apart from standard venues.
What is the company’s commitment to sustainability and how does it enhance your experience?
Chicago Boat Company’s dedication to sustainability enriches the appeal of hosting meetups here by marrying enjoyment with environmental responsibility. Their fleet of electric boats produces no emissions, maintaining air and water quality in the urban environment, and reflecting a growing awareness of eco-friendly recreational choices. This commitment means groups can enjoy their outings guilt-free, knowing their fun has minimal impact on Lake Michigan’s connected waterways and the city’s ecosystem. This adds a layer of mindfulness and modern values to social gatherings, appealing especially to groups who prioritize green experiences. The company’s founders, passionate about boating and sustainability, have built their business ethos around these principles, resulting in an offering that stands out by aligning leisure with care for the natural surroundings.
How do reviews and customer feedback highlight the appeal of Chicago Boat Company?
With a solid rating around 4.1 to 4.8 depending on the platform and over a hundred reviews, Chicago Boat Company receives consistent praise for its unique boats, friendly hosts, and breathtaking views. Customers highlight the ease of driving the electric boats, making the experience accessible and enjoyable even for those new to boating. Reviewers often mention the peacefulness of being on the water combined with the excitement of steering their own boat, which makes group outings feel special and out of the ordinary. The outdoor nature and BYOB policy come up frequently as positives, allowing guests to create their own atmosphere and celebrate in style. While feedback shows room for improvement in customer service timing or specific amenities in some cases, the overall consensus is that this is an excellent venue for social and family gatherings looking for a shareable novel experience.
What special occasions or group purposes is Chicago Boat Company ideal for?
Chicago Boat Company is a fitting venue for a broad range of gatherings — from casual friend meetups and family celebrations to corporate retreats and team-building events. Its flexible booking options and small to medium group capacity suit birthday parties, anniversaries, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and even romantic dates. Workgroups find the Cycleboat especially valuable for fostering communication and bonding in an informal, engaging setting that breaks routine office environments. Because the boats operate in all seasons (weather permitting), the company can support year-round events that enhance work-life balance and social cohesion. Additionally, the scenic backdrop offers impressive photo opportunities to capture milestones, preserving memories in a striking context.
How does Chicago Boat Company compare to traditional meetup venues?
Compared to traditional indoor venues like restaurants or bars, Chicago Boat Company delivers an extraordinary experience that blends activity, sightseeing, and socializing in a single package. Instead of sitting around tables or couches, groups interact dynamically by driving boats or pedaling the Cycleboat, making the meetup active and memorable rather than passive. Its outdoor setting is especially compelling during warmer months, providing fresh air and sunshine, which many meetups crave but rarely get. The view of Chicago’s famous architecture from the river provides a constantly changing panorama that wired devices and urban noise often block in typical venues. The company’s eco-friendly electric boats also appeal to a growing audience seeking sustainable leisure options. This combination of attributes makes it a standout choice for groups wanting a meetup that is fun, different, and enriched with unparalleled cityscapes.
What should guests know about booking and preparing for their visit?
When booking with Chicago Boat Company, guests should plan ahead as private charters and Cycleboat tours can fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. Booking online or by phone is straightforward, and the company’s flexible cancellation policy provides security if plans change. Guests are advised to bring their own beverages for the BYOB rides, sunscreen, hats, and weather-appropriate gear to ensure comfort during their time on the water. Since the boats are electric and quiet, wearing layered clothing is wise, as temperatures can vary on the river. Arriving early to the marina at 300 N State St allows time to check in and get briefed by staff on boat operation and safety. Finally, guests should expect an accessible and relaxed atmosphere where fun, safety, and shared adventure take center stage.
In summary, Chicago Boat Company offers a vibrant, accessible, and environmentally conscious setting ideal for groups looking to escape typical meetups and experience the Windy City from a truly unique perspective on the water. Whether through leisurely private boat tours or engaging Cycleboat rides, your well-planned gathering here promises moments of joy, connection, and awe.