When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Chicago Boat Rentals

Why Chicago Boat Rentals is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chicago Boat Rentals offers a fantastic way to experience the city from a unique vantage point on the water, making it a great place to meet friends for a memorable outing. Whether you're interested in leisurely cruising along the Chicago River or the expansive Lake Michigan, this rental service provides a variety of boats suited to different group sizes and preferences. The fleet includes power boats perfect for parties, sailboats, yachts, and spacious vessels that accommodate groups from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations of up to 36 people. Highlights include opportunities for sunbathing on the boat's bow, swimming in the lake, and taking in spectacular views of the Chicago skyline, especially at sunset or during Navy Pier's fireworks events. Their convenient online booking and availability of captained charters make planning your water adventure easy and seamless. The friendly and knowledgeable team supports custom experiences, ensuring your boat trip is tailored to your needs, whether for casual day outings, special events, or celebrations like marriage proposals and weddings. Adding to the appeal, many of the boats are electric and eco-friendly, allowing guests to enjoy the thrill of piloting their own boat while respecting the environment.
Here's what people think of Chicago Boat Rentals
As of recent, Chicago Boat Rentals holds a 4.4-star rating based on 13 reviews.
Reviews of Chicago Boat Rentals reflect an overall positive experience, with a solid rating of 4.4 out of 13 reviews. Customers frequently praised the uniqueness of the service, noting the fun and memorable opportunity to captain their own boat and enjoy spectacular city views from the water. Positive comments emphasize the fleet's variety and quality, the helpfulness of the staff, and how the boats provide a perfect venue for celebrations and relaxing outings with friends or family. Many reviews highlighted how easy and enjoyable the booking and rental process was, appreciating the option to have a captain if preferred for added convenience. On the downside, some users mentioned concerns about boat maintenance and occasional scheduling or communication hiccups, which could impact the smoothness of the experience. Despite these minor negatives, the majority of customers recommend Chicago Boat Rentals for the high level of enjoyment and unique opportunity it provides. Overall, the reviews affirm that Chicago Boat Rentals is a reputable and fun choice for anyone looking to explore or party on Chicago’s waterways, with plenty of positive testimonials underscoring its appeal as a great spot to gather with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Paulina Nakonieczna
Had an amazing experience with Chicago Boat Rentals! The crew was super professional, friendly, and so accommodating the entire time. They made sure everything ran smoothly and my group had an extremely fun and memorable day on the water. From start to finish, it was nothing but good vibes. I’ll definitely be booking with them every time I’m in Chicago. Highly recommend!
Archal Rami
The best boat rental in Chicago! We had a great time on their newest yacht the 46' ft one. Would highly recommend booking!
E S
I have researched and decided to book with Chicago Boat Rentals (Lake Shore Dr). Our date is June 25th. I did it online, but also spoke with the office. I am a bit nervous "...hoping no bait and switch..." it's a lot of cash; we will see. Online portal was easy - I received the confirmation documentation immediately at hitting send for the modest $150.00 deposit. We have a licensed captain in our party, but opted for one with the boat so he can enjoy himself. I will keep you all posted on how the experience goes as we move toward the date. ciao for now Update: June 21 as we approach the date, the ocrrespondence has been great with the company - mary has been wonderful to work with. Looking forward to the event - praying for sunshine!!! stay tuned for more reivew We had the best time - Captain Stephen and crew were amazing and despite being a little chilly - the sun was shining and we had a great time - totally recommend this boat rental!
Kirk D
Me and my family had a great time. The boat was very nice and super easy to use. The staff was super friendly and Dwayne was very helpful with directions on how to use the boat and suggestions on where To go.. I will definitely be going back.
Felice Gerri
I mean, water sports are the best. Chicago Powerboat Rentals has fair prices and nice boats (not old and beat up). I've been here multiple times and always bring friends from out of town.
How to reach Chicago Boat Rentals
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Why Chicago Boat Rentals may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chicago Boat Rentals with your friends? Because it offers a unique and memorable way to experience Chicago unlike any other gathering spot. Imagine leaving the busy city streets behind to unwind and bond on the water, where panoramic views of Chicago’s iconic skyline create a stunning backdrop. Chicago Boat Rentals gives you the freedom and privacy to be the captain, steering your own adventure with your closest friends on board. Whether you want to soak up the summer sun on the bow of a cruiser, splash in Lake Michigan’s waters during a swim break, or sip drinks while taking in breathtaking sunsets, this is where you craft moments that last. The combination of a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, the thrill of navigating your own boat, and the chance to celebrate milestones in a private, scenic setting makes Chicago Boat Rentals an ideal spot for meetups. It’s not just a boat ride — it’s a social experience that encourages laughter, connection, and the joy of discovery on Chicago’s waterways.
What activities does Chicago Boat Rentals offer that make it perfect for a group meetup? Their fleet includes a variety of vessels designed to accommodate groups of different sizes, from intimate gatherings to larger parties. Onboard, you and your friends can enjoy the spacious seating areas perfect for socializing, sunbathing on the bow under open skies, and even take refreshing swims in Lake Michigan using the onboard ladders to climb back aboard quickly and safely. For those who want to cruise scenic routes, options include daytime and sunset cruises along the Chicago River or out toward Navy Pier — each providing spectacular skyline views that serve as a natural photo studio. On select evenings, you can witness the city come alive with fireworks displays viewed from your private vessel, making celebrations even more special. Importantly, Chicago Boat Rentals allows you to drive your boat yourself, enabling your group to experience a sense of adventure and autonomy on the water that few other venues offer.
How does Chicago Boat Rentals cater to different types of group events? Flexibility is a key strength. The rental options range from comfortable 18-foot pontoons for smaller groups to larger 40-foot cruisers that can accommodate up to 11 people, ensuring ample space for everyone on board. This makes it an excellent choice for casual weekend hangouts, birthday parties, anniversaries, or even corporate team-building outings looking for an engaging environment. Additionally, Chicago Boat Rentals can accommodate BYO beverages and snacks, or offer catering options to enhance the experience, so you can customize the day according to your group's preferences. Their well-maintained vessels come equipped with sanitary standards and private charters, which means your group has exclusive use of the boat — no strangers, no distractions. These features contribute to a comfortable, private space that encourages genuine connection and celebration among friends and family.
What makes the location and views from Chicago Boat Rentals special for gatherings? The setting along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan offers an ever-changing, picturesque canvas. You’ll experience the breathtaking juxtaposition of nature and the city with views of Chicago’s architectural masterpieces as you float by. The sunsets here are famously stunning — as the sun dips behind the skyline, the buildings light up, creating a magical glow reflected on the water’s surface. Cruising from the river out into Lake Michigan also exposes guests to the vastness of the lake and the refreshing breeze, providing both a visual and sensory delight. Watching the Navy Pier fireworks or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of water under your boat makes each moment on board feel like an exclusive celebration. This unique vantage point of Chicago’s urban beauty, combined with the relaxing ambiance of being on the water, elevates meetups from ordinary to extraordinary.
Why is self-captaining your boat a great advantage for group experiences at Chicago Boat Rentals? Taking the helm yourself adds an empowering and interactive dimension to your outing. It turns a typical social meetup into an engaging group adventure where everyone can participate in directing the course or simply enjoy the ride under your guidance. This self-driving feature fosters camaraderie and teamwork as friends share responsibilities and thrills of navigation. Unlike conventional tours or cruises, you set the pace, choose your route, and decide when to anchor for swimming or sunbathing breaks. It also guarantees your privacy since there’s no external captain or crew on board, allowing your group to act freely and relax in a space all your own. The easy-to-drive, gas-powered boats are perfect for both new and experienced boaters, so even novices can feel comfortable and confident behind the wheel. This flexibility and control turn your meetup into a memorable, personalized experience.
How does Chicago Boat Rentals ensure safety and comfort for groups? The company prioritizes guest safety by maintaining each vessel to high standards and sanitizing boats thoroughly after every rental, creating a clean and welcoming environment. Their staff provides clear instructions and support before your departure to ensure you feel confident operating the boat safely. Maximum passenger limits are strictly enforced — for example, 6 people on the 18ft pontoon and 10 on the 22ft pontoon — promoting comfort and stability on board without overcrowding. This thoughtful management helps avoid any safety risks or discomfort that could detract from your day on the water. Additionally, the rental check-in process includes a welcoming picnic area for guests to gather prior to boarding, adding solace and preparation time. These details highlight Chicago Boat Rentals’ commitment to making your meetup smooth, safe, and enjoyable from start to finish.
What kinds of boats does Chicago Boat Rentals offer for various group sizes and preferences? Their selection features multiple options including electric Duffy boats, pontoons, cruisers, and luxury vessels designed to match the vibe and size of your group. For a retro and charming feel, their 1950’s and 1960’s vintage electric boats provide quiet, eco-friendly rides for up to 4 passengers — ideal for couples or smaller friend groups seeking an intimate experience. The larger pontoon boats accommodate up to 10 to 11 guests comfortably, offering expansive decks, sunbathing areas, and ample seating for group interaction. Their 40-foot cruisers combine power and luxury, complete with swim ladders to cool off mid-cruise in Lake Michigan. For those wanting a more upscale or festive environment, luxury Duffy boats provide a blend of coverage and an open back deck perfect for socializing. This variety ensures that no matter the size or style of your gathering, there is a boat that matches your occasion and enhances your overall experience.
How does Chicago Boat Rentals support special events and celebrations? This venue excels as a backdrop for milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, and even weddings. Many guests choose these boats as their preferred venue due to the exclusivity and scenic charm that a private boat provides. The setting on the water allows you to combine beautiful natural surroundings with the vibrant urban skyline, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for photos and festivities. The flexibility to bring your own drinks and snacks or arrange catering lets you tailor the event to your tastes easily. Moreover, the privacy factor ensures that your celebration is intimate and free from interruptions, perfect for creating personal memories. Whether it’s a casual party or a more formal event, Chicago Boat Rentals provides an exceptional platform that elevates these special occasions to something truly remarkable.
Why is Chicago Boat Rentals highly rated and trusted by guests? With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from more than 13,000 reviews, it’s clear that visitors consistently enjoy their experiences here. Positive feedback often highlights the ease of booking, the quality and cleanliness of the boats, and the exceptional customer service provided by the staff. Many guests appreciate the freedom to captain their own vessels and the variety of boats available to match different group needs. Customers also note the fantastic scenery and how the boat rentals help create memorable moments that bring friends and families closer together. This consistent satisfaction demonstrates Chicago Boat Rentals’ dedication to providing an enjoyable, safe, and unique experience that keeps visitors returning and recommending it as a top choice for social meetups on the water.
What makes booking your experience at Chicago Boat Rentals simple and convenient? Reservations can be completed quickly through an online booking platform that shows real-time availability, allowing you to select dates and charters within minutes. After booking, the confirmation email includes detailed instructions on how to secure a captain if you prefer or how to prepare to drive yourself. The staff also provides support to answer any questions and guide you through the process, making it stress-free. On the day of your rental, check-in is streamlined with a picnic area for waiting groups to relax before boarding. This seamless approach to booking and check-in ensures your group can focus on enjoying the outing rather than logistics, making Chicago Boat Rentals accessible even for first-time boaters looking for a hassle-free getaway on the water.