When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters

Why Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters offers a unique and intimate way to experience the iconic Chicago shoreline and skyline from the water. Unlike larger, crowded tours, Yachti focuses on small-group adventures aboard a sleek and nimble vessel originally used by Navy Seals, which comfortably seats up to six guests. This cozy setting provides a private and personalized experience, perfect for friends and families seeking an unforgettable outing in Chicago. Captains are not only expert navigators but also passionate storytellers who share rich insights into Chicago's history, landmarks, and hidden photo spots. Whether you want a thrilling adventure with fast-paced maneuvers, a serene sightseeing tour, or a special occasion charters like firework cruises, Yachti adapts to your desires. This flexibility combined with luxury and exclusivity makes it an excellent choice for people meeting friends for a remarkable time on the water in Chicago. The company’s commitment to delivering memorable moments ensures guests leave with lasting impressions of the city seen from refreshing new perspectives.
Here's what people think of Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters
As of recent, Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters holds a 5-star rating based on 64 reviews.
User reviews overwhelmingly praise Yachti Adventure Tours for the personalized and engaging experience they provide. Many guests highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of the captains, who enhance the trip with detailed historical knowledge and insider tips about Chicago. The intimate, small-boat format is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, offering a quieter, more comfortable, and exclusive alternative to typical crowded sightseeing cruises. Positive reviews describe the vessel as beautiful and well-maintained, with some guests appreciating the blend of adventure and learning — including fun high-speed turns and scenic stops ideal for photography. Several reviews also express eagerness to revisit, underscoring high customer satisfaction. On the negative side, there are few complaints, but a minority of guests note that the small group size means tours might fill quickly, requiring advance booking. Some might prefer longer tour durations or additional amenities, but these points are rare and do not overshadow the overwhelmingly favorable feedback. Overall, the reviews confirm Yachti as a premier choice in Chicago for those seeking a unique, engaging, and top-rated boating experience with friends or family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chris White
Worth every penny and every minute. Super cool tour, incredible views of the city and above all excellent story telling about the city’s history by captain Liam. This is a far superior experience for your water front sight seeing dollar. Very entertaining and interactive.
Amy Hoffmann
This is the best service!. Liam, the owner and operator, is a super nice guy, and very responsive to our requests, and then quick to follow through. The entire experience was truly 5-star. I continue to recommend them to anyone looking to meet up with boaters on the water or needing a ride back to shore. I wish it had been around years ago. THANK YOU, YACHTI ADVENTURE TOURS, TENDER, and CHARTERS!
Catherine Patterson
Just say yes to Yachti! Liam is fun and knowledgeable about the area, by the end of the tour we felt like he was a long time friend just along for the ride! We had a blast going fast and making hair pin turns as well as slowing down and taking in the sites of the city skyline and navy pier. I can't say enough about what a great time we had. Swimming off the side of the boat, sharing laughs and snacks, enjoying the majestic lake Michigan. I would highly recommend Yachti Adventure Tours to a friend. Absolutely loved our time!
Carla Alegros-Buchanan
For my bachelorette weekend one of the girls surprised us and we just ended up on a private adventure tour at Burnham Dock with Yachti. What an awesome surprise! Liam was a great tour guide and history buff, as all Chicago natives we were schooled on almost everything and he gladly answered all of our questions. We did hang on for dear life a few times but it was so worth it. Liam was of course the best part of the tour! He also recommended the mahi mahi wrap from the counter service bar and it was delicious! We had a great time and would absolutely recommend this private tour with Yachti adventure tours!
Nicole Solis
Highly recommend for anyone needing a quick water taxi on Lake Michigan! Communication arranging my ride was excellent, worked with me on short notice. Yachti is a reliable and safe way to get around by water!!
How to reach Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters
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Why Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters with your friends? Because this exceptional Chicago-based business offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the city’s breathtaking shoreline and skyline from the water. Gathering your friends here transforms a simple meetup into an extraordinary adventure filled with scenic beauty, excitement, and quality bonding time. Unlike traditional crowded boat tours, Yachti specializes in intimate, personalized excursions where small groups enjoy the luxury of privacy while still soaking in the stunning lake views. Their dedication to crafting memorable experiences shines through the professionalism of knowledgeable captains and the variety of boat types available, including sleek former Navy SEAL boats that add an adventurous twist to your outing. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a chance to create lasting memories while sharing laughter, discovery, and the thrill of the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, catching up after a long time, or just seeking a spectacular group activity in Chicago, Yachti Adventure Tours perfectly blends fun, comfort, and awe-inspiring moments ideal for friends or family alike.
What activities does Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters offer for group meetups? This business is a one-stop destination for various boating adventures tailored for groups of all sizes. Their core offerings include private adventure tours, water-taxis (tenders), large boat charters, and specialized firework cruises—activities that engage everyone through both relaxation and excitement. The private adventure tours stand out because of their small boat approach, which ensures a very personal journey along Chicago’s famed lakefront, delivering spectacular views and photo opportunities without the noise of packed crowds. Water-taxis provide practical and fun ways for your group to hop between city waterfronts with ease. Large boat charters are perfect for bigger groups who want to celebrate in style or host events like birthdays, reunions, or corporate gatherings, providing enough space and amenities to keep everyone comfortable. For a truly magical experience, the firework cruises combine the thrill of the open water with stunning nighttime light shows, making any meetup feel festive and special. Each activity is designed to showcase Chicago’s waterfront from unique angles, accompanied by expert captains who bring history and local insights into the experience. These offerings cater perfectly to groups seeking both adventure and tranquility on water.
Why is Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters the perfect place for a group meetup? Its perfect because it masterfully blends customization, comfort, and excitement to make group gatherings distinctly memorable. The smaller group sizes on many tours mean your party won’t be lost in a crowd but can genuinely enjoy time together surrounded by tranquility and beautiful scenery. The fleet includes nimble boats that enable thrilling maneuvers and close-up views of Chicago landmarks, giving your group a chance to share laughs, photos, and stories throughout the trip. For larger groups, the spacious charters provide a luxurious platform to socialize and celebrate while cruising. The knowledgeable and genuinely passionate captains act as hosts who ensure each journey is smooth, safe, and packed with engaging narration about the city’s history and hidden gems, adding educational value to the fun. Accessibility is also a plus — located near the 18th St. train station and accessible by bus, it’s easy for everyone in your group to meet there without hassle. Additionally, the flexible scheduling that extends into evenings on weekends means you can plan your meetup around when your friends are free, including sunset or firework cruises for a dramatic backdrop. This makes Yachti an outstanding choice to unite your group for an experience that is as social as it is scenic.
How does Yachti Adventure Tours ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for groups? Providing safety without sacrificing fun is a paramount mission at Yachti. All their vessels and equipment are maintained to high standards, reflecting the company’s professionalism and commitment to customer satisfaction. Captains are experienced crew members who not only skillfully navigate the waters but also prioritize passenger well-being throughout the adventure. Their small group tours allow for easy monitoring and quick responses to any needs, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and cared for during the trip. The company’s approach to personalization means that they take time to understand group preferences and prepare accordingly, whether that means adjusting the route for smoother waters or recommending the best timing to avoid crowds. Moreover, the vessels' size lets groups avoid the congestion of bigger tourist boats, reducing the risk of discomfort or environmental concerns and enhancing the overall peace of mind. This emphasis on safety combined with genuine hospitality contributes to the consistently positive experiences and high customer ratings that Yachti proudly holds.
What makes the location of Yachti Adventure Tours, Tender, and Charters ideal for meetups? Situated in Chicago along the south lakeshore at 1559 S Lake Shore Drive, Yachti leverages one of the most stunning and accessible urban waterfronts in the United States. This prime location puts your group directly on Lake Michigan, where expansive water views and the striking Chicago skyline create a naturally beautiful and dynamic setting for any social gathering. Being north of major city landmarks yet close enough to downtown, it offers a serene escape from city noise but with conveniences just minutes away. Transportation options are excellent—it's only a short six-minute walk from the 18th Street train station, and buses serve the nearby stops, making it easy for guests to convene without parking difficulties. This accessibility adds to the appeal for diverse groups, from locals to visitors eager to explore Chicago’s water scenery. The lakefront location also lets you take advantage of weather-permitting experiences that range from serene daytime sailing to lively evening cruises that showcase the city lights or special events like fireworks, ensuring your group’s time aligns perfectly with your desired vibe.
Why do reviewers give Yachti Adventure Tours a perfect 5.0 rating? Consistently outstanding feedback from guests reveals that Yachti delivers exceptional service and experiences that exceed expectations. Reviewers praise the company for its knowledgeable and personable captains who not only navigate skillfully but also bring Chicago’s history and insider stories alive, enriching each trip. Many guests highlight the personalized and intimate atmosphere as a key selling point—small groups reduce the usual chaos of tourist tours and allow deeper engagement among friends or family aboard. The quality and condition of the boats, including unique former Navy SEAL vessels, add excitement and comfort that guests truly appreciate. Commenters also value the flexibility Yachti offers in tour duration, boat choice, and special requests, making every adventure feel customized rather than generic. This attention to detail and genuine care for customer delight creates lasting memories, turning first-time visitors into repeat clients eagerly recommending Yachti. The five-star rating reflects not just a single element but the holistic approach that prioritizes fun, safety, education, and emotional connection, making it a top choice for anyone seeking an unforgettable group outing on the water.