sailboats chicago

ON A BOAT SAILING

Luxury sailing adventures along chicago's lakefront, what makes  on a boat sailing different.

If you appreciate attention to detail, hospitality, and thoughtful amenities, this is the group experience for you! Our Chicago sailboat charters & cruises have been enjoyed by thousands of guests since 2018. As we hit the waterfront for our 7th season, we pride ourselves on offering an unforgettable way to experience Lake Michigan from the City.

The Crew - Captain Greg & 1st Mate Cait

Our crew have a combined 25 years sailing experience, allowing us to curate the best possible experience for our guests. Sit back & relax as you take in the sights & sounds of Chicago's famous Lakefront.

The Yacht - 2003 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 37

S/V Dragonfly was built for day cruises & entertainment. Our 37' luxury sailboat is a fantastic venue for any special occasion. We are a fully-licensed commercial passenger vessel and operate under the highest safety standards monitored by the US Coast Guard.

Learn more about our crew and yacht   here .

Whether you're getting on the water for the first time or a seasoned boater, our focus is to curate your special outing with world-class sailing, comfortable amenities, and incredible views of Chicago's famous Lakefront.

2024 bookings are available from Memorial Day weekend to mid-October with multiple departures daily from centrally-located Monroe Harbor in Downtown Chicago . Please visit our all charters page to learn more about our one-of-a-kind sailing adventures. Chicago is the best place to combine the thrill of sailing with views of a city steeped in rich architectural history - let us show you. Cheers! Captain Greg & First Mate Cait

OVER 500 PRIVATE CHARTERS IN CHICAGO SINCE 2018

Chicago sailboat  charters & cruises, limited weekend bookings available - book now, sail & swim playpen charter.

USCG Captain

Up to 10 Guests

Chicago's famous lakefront party is back! This 4-hour private sailboat charter is designed for you & your friends to party in luxury. We will depart from Monroe Harbor, with a good mix of adventure sailing on Chicago's Lakefront along with dropping anchor at the Playpen or a private area of your choosing. Whatever you do - don't forget a bathing suit, some sunscreen & something cold to sip on!

Starting at $1,399 Price  includes  up to 10 guests!

Fri • sat • sun departing 10am & 2:30pm.

Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise

Uscg captain .

This 2.5 hour Chicago sailboat cruise will split your time us between sailing the city's famous Lakefront & eventually making our way to the famous Fireworks show at Navy Pier. These are the best seats you can possible have for a world-class fireworks show. We've all seen fireworks - you've never seen anything like this before.

Starting at $999 for 6 guests 

Wed  7pm •   sat  8pm.

“I rented [Dragonfly] to celebrate my bday with 6 close girlfriends. Greg was very communicative before the trip. He answered all my questions in a very timely manner. The boat is very spacious!

Dyna, Chicago, IL

Chicago Lakefront Cruise

This 3-hour sailboat cruise will take you & your guests on a favorable sail down the gorgeous coastline of Chicago's lakeshore, giving a unique perspective on the city's world-class architectural landscape. If you're looking for a private & intimate sailing experience- this is the cruise for you.

Starting at $899 for 6 guests

WED • FRI • SAT • SUN Departing 10am, 1:30pm & 5:00pm

Skyline Sunset Cruise

Relax and enjoy a captained sunset cruise on our sailing yacht, a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 37. We will cast off from Monroe Harbor in downtown Chicago and set sail to a favorable course on Lake Michigan. Bring your own food and drinks, listen to your favorite music, and take in the views of our city’s iconic skyline from the Lakefront.

Starting at $799 for 6 guests 

FRI • SUN Departing 6:30pm

PLAN YOUR CHICAGO SAILING ADVENTURE  TODAY!

Explore world-class sailing, Great Lakes swimming & luxury amenities all summer long.

START YOUR Chicago sailing adventure today!

The salty dog sailing co..

Since 2015, The Salty Dog Sailing Co. has been a premier provider of private Chicago sailing charters.

Whether you’re new to town, just visiting or a Chicago native, we invite you aboard “ Peony “, our acclaimed Dufour 325 Grand Large , to experience the serenity, joy and excitement of authentic Lake Michigan sailing.

Renowned for fine lines, ease of sail, and polished interiors, the premium Dufour brand is synonymous with luxury and high-quality craftsmanship.  Customized with an array of performance features, Peony offers an unparalleled sailing experience with your comfort and safety being our highest priorities.

We welcome you to click “Book Now” to start planning your private Chicago sailing adventure today!

All Charters Are Private Events

Charter rates.

2 Hour Charter w/Paid Captain

Just for Fun with a Friend

Great for a Date / Proposal

Free Harbor Parking

Best Value for Group Size

Perfect Size for Summer Fun

Spread Out and Enjoy

Big Family / Party Size

Please Contact Us!

Choose Windy City Sailing for your Chicago Sailboat Charter

View All Private Yacht Charters

LUXURY ACCOMODATIONS

Our sailing yachts accommodate 1 to 10 people. We offer charters with captain and crew for groups up to six (6) or a bareboat charter for groups up to ten (10) with a USCG Licensed Captain paid separately. With up-to-date amenities and two bathrooms onboard, we assure the comfort of all our guests.

CUSTOMIZED CHICAGO SAILING CRUISES

All private Chicago sailboat charters depart and return according to your schedule. All Chicago sailboat cruises have three-hour minimums. Charter extensions are available upon request. Yes, we encourage you to bring food and refreshments, including alcoholic beverages.

Our yachts are professionally maintained and equipped.  In addition, we certify, train and employ United States Coast Guard Captains with over 20 years of experience. Because of this, rest assured that you are in excellent hands.  Also, all of our captains are enrolled in USCG mandated drug screening programs.

CONVENIENCE

The yachts are at the North End of Belmont Harbor, just east of Wrigley Field—or 15 minutes from the Chicago Downtown area. Windy City Sailing is easily accessible via Uber, Lyft, taxis, and bicycles. Also, parking is available via the City of Chicago. Gift certificates are available for all Chicago sailboat cruises and bareboat charters. We confirm reservations with a 50% deposit, fully refundable with a seven-day notice. Gratuity is at your discretion (we recommend 20% to our outstanding crew).

SPECIAL EVENT YACHT CHARTERS

4th of July Sailing Charter

​ Each year, the Fourth of July Sailing Charter gives the citizens of Chicago the chance to witness some of the nation's most spectacular firework displays from the comfort of a boat. The tour has become increasingly popular and is one of the highest rated Independence Day activities.

Chicago Air Show Charter

​ Chicago Air and Water Show is a remarkable event that has long been captivating city dwellers. By taking a sailboat charter from us, you can experience the show from the lakefront. You won't need to fight the crowds for the best view, as you will be luxuriating on your yacht with an unparalleled outlook of the show.

Navy Pier Firework Charter

​ During summer, the Navy Pier gives us breathtaking firework shows. For an unforgettable experience, there is no better way to appreciate these amazing visuals than to charter a yacht . Our dedicated captains and crew members make sure that all your needs are taken care of, so you don’t have to worry about anything else. With our exclusive amenities, it is not even worth considering any other way to view these displays.

Book Your Chicago Sailing Trip Now

WITH WINDY CITY SAILING

We know you will have questions about sailing charters, so feel free to reach out via phone or email.

Please contact Edwina at 773.868.0096 or  [email protected]  for details and pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have you ever wanted to sail but were unsure what it would cost to charter a private yacht? If so, Windy City Sailing is here to help with all your sailing–related questions. We have made things easy to find by categorizing our questions, and if there’s anything you can’t find, feel free to reach out. Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer all your questions about sailing along the wonderful Chicago Lakeside. From planning the perfect corporate outing for out-of-town guests to helping you witness the incredible  4th of July fireworks , we have it all covered!

Review our  FAQ

Preferred Partners

Preferred Partners are the resources we depend on to deliver the highest quality service to our guests. We value them and appreciate their services.

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

Leave us a review on Google .    Leave us a review on Trip Advisor .

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Published February 20, 2024 read more

Chicago’s Sailing Standard Since 1978 Celebrating 46 Years of Service!

Serving today’s active sailor, Fairwind Sail Charters is Chicago’s oldest American Sailing Association sailing school and premier Sailing Yacht Lease Share Program where you can sail your own yacht all season long for a fraction of what it costs to rent or own. Beautiful yachts, unparalleled personal service, and the best rates anywhere have made Fairwind Sail Charters the choice of Chicagoland sailors for sailing instruction, sailing lease share, and private sailing charters for over four decades.

Haven’t you waited long enough? Getting started in sailing can be a daunting and expensive endeavor, but with Fairwind Sail Charters you get a legacy of friendly, straight-talking folks dedicated to making your sailing dreams a reality. Since 1978, Fairwind Sail Charters has set the standard for Chicagoland sailing, providing the best in quality, value, and service.

Best boats, best service, and best location equals the best value in sailing … anywhere!

Located at Burnham Park Harbor in the heart of Chicago’s famed Museum Campus, Fairwind Sail Charters’ legendary Dragon Fleet features BENETEAU YACHTS with direct walk-on access and ample parking right beside your yacht. With Fairwind Sail Charters, you park, step aboard your yacht, and sail away — that’s the Fairwind Difference .

One of Chicago’s oldest and most respected sailing schools, Fairwind Sail Charters offers award winning American Sailing Association sailing lessons leading to ASA sailing certifications from Basic Keelboat Sailing through Bareboat Charter and Advanced Coastal Navigation. Whether novice or old salt, Fairwind Sail Charters is dedicated to providing you the best sailing instruction to ensure a lifetime of safe and happy sailing.

And when you just want to kick back and enjoy one of the world’s most spectacular sailing venues, Fairwind Sail Charters offers private sailing charters for you and your guests with experienced Master Captains at the helm.

Please take a moment to cruise through what Fairwind Sail Charters has to offer. See for yourself the Fairwind Difference .

If you’re looking for Great People and Great Boats for Great Lakes sailing, join the hundreds of sailors who have made Fairwind Sail Charters their home port!

• Searay sundacer 35′ powerboat
• fireworks-sunset-cruise-wed-sat-nights
• Wheather Links

Testimonials

• Map of Chicago

Chicago's Best Boats and Yacht Charters

We have two of the best private charter party boats in chicago.

We offer two beautiful powerboats that can take a total of 25 people out together on Lake Michigan. A 51′ Searay Sundancer and a 35′ Searay Sundancer boat that can accommodate a lot of guests. We can bring both of our boats together so you and your entire group can do a “Tie-Up in the Playpen”. Summer in Chicago without spending time with all your friends in the Playpen should not be missed. Please book your group trips early before we get all booked up

Charters can range from going to the world-famous “playpen” where we can anchor and crank up the sound system and go for a swim or chill on our rafts to cruising along the lakefront and by navy pier. you can also take a trip through the “locks” and down the chicago river or some blue water cruising past the chicago lighthouse, the cribs of chicago, and into the deep blue waters of lake michigan and taking in some of the best views of chicago.

Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters provide our guests with exclusive, private charters that offer complete luxury, flexibility, and customization. Take your friends & family on a cruise and experience Chicago like you never thought was possible a priceless adventure.

On wednesday & saturday nights we offer sunset & fireworks cruises just off of navy pier., experience firsthand the relaxing beauty of a peaceful sail on our 4+ hour and all day private boat charter. boating in chicago is the perfect way to end the day with friends. maximum of 12 guests on a boat., come enjoy the beauty of chicago in the lap of luxury. our lake michigan boat charters include many points of interest around chicago such as: the playpen, navy pier, chicago river locks, chicago lighthouse, adler planetarium, shedd aquarium, soldiers field, buckingham fountain and many more., chicago yacht rentals - a unique way to explore the city, our cruises are perfect for these special occasions:.

• Bachelorette or Bachelor Parties
• Anniversary Cruises
• Special Occasions Cruises
• Chicago Scene Boat Party
• Birthday Parties
• Corporate events
• The World Famous “Playpen” we anchor, turn up the music, crack open the drinks and dive into the water
• Chicago River Cruise – Hanging out at City Winery
• Chicago Air & Water Show (Friday, Saturday & Sunday middle of August)
• Holiday Weekends (Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day- Book early they book up fast)
• Lollapalooza- Listening to the concert from Monroe Harbors

51′ Sea Ray

You can also find our website at BoatCharter.info

35′ sea ray.

Private, Luxurious, and Affordable Yacht Charters in Chicago, IL

Bring a group to party in the playpen, the playpen - chicago's popular boating place.

The luxurious amenities on our boat will amplify your experience as you feel the breeze blowing through your hair. The dazzling blue waters are ideal for swimming, and you can even climb aboard a floating island to take a break from all the action.

Whether you’re looking for some relaxation or some excitement, the Playpen is the ultimate destination for boating enthusiasts.

Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters Offer Priceless Pampered Yachting Experiences

At Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters, we pride ourselves on providing our guests with priceless, pampered yachting experiences. We go above and beyond to offer complete luxury, flexibility, and customization, tailoring each of our charters to your unique desires. From taking a cruise down the Chicago River to partying in Lake Michigan’s Playpen to watching the sun go down over the city, our yacht charters will help you do it all in style. At Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters, we believe that our guests deserve the absolute best, and we promise to deliver unforgettable, priceless yachting experiences that you’ll treasure for years to come.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US

Check out the Testimonials page to see what people are saying about our boat charters.

The views of the Chicago skyline were amazing, we can't wait to go again!

The captain made our trip really fun and educational seeing all the different sights like Navy Pier with its flags flying high was incredible and the views of the Chicago Lighthouse and water Intake cribs up close were amazing.

Our family had an incredible time sailing on Lake Michigan

The Fireworks by Navy Pier were incredible especially watching while having dinner and a good beer

(312) 587-3474

1300 s linn white dr, chicago, il 60605, contact/directions, chicago sailboat and yacht charters ©2023 all rights reserved.

773-221-9990

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A FULL SERVICE BOAT YARD

Spring 2024 service guide.

A full service boatyard with certified technicians trained in an array of services. 

25 Acres in Chicago on the Calumet River with over 200,000 sf of indoor storage. 

SHIP'S STORE

Save time and money with one of the country's best stocked ship stores - right on site.  

The online source for great deals on the very best marine apparel and accessories.  

BARGAIN BOATS

Check out these bargain boats from Crowley's

Better yet, see us in person!

We love our customers, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.

Crowley's Yacht Yard Lakeside

3434 East 95th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60617, United States

773 221-9990

Summer Yard Hours

SUMMER SERVICE OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Friday 8 - 5

Saturday  8 - 4

Sundays -Closed

SUMMER SHIP STORE HOURS

Monday - Saturday  8  - 4

Sunday - Closed

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Trip duration, multiple days (less than 1 week), weekly trip show boats that have weekly prices. most weekly boats outside of the us are available only saturday to saturday., boat length: 5ft -, manufacturer, boat build year: -, weekly trip, price: $ - $, 3 sailboat charters in chicago, il.

Chicago, IL

boating guide

In addition to the best offers we have for boat and yacht charters in Chicago, IL, see also options available for rent in these nearby locations:

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Rent a Sailboat Charter in Chicago, IL from Sailo!

Looking for a sailboat rental in Chicago, IL? Discover Chicago by a private sailboat yacht charter with Sailo. Enjoy a whole other side of Illinois on a sailboat rental in Chicago with captain, or skipper yourself if you prefer. Whatever your boating needs, you’ll find the perfect sailboat for your Chicago sailing trip, party or special event. Enjoy sunset cruises, watersports or fishing trips, or a day out with family and friends for a memorable experience on a Sailo boat.

Our premium inventory of private sailboat charters in Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL is a well-known boating destination in the US, perfect for a memorable experience on a Sailo boat. The sailboat rentals are popular for both locals and tourists and a great choice if you want to spend some quality time with your family or friends. 16 charters are currently available with or without captain, lined up in the Chicago’s marinas, waiting for their guests. Rent a private sailboat in Chicago with Sailo: it’s easy, quick, secured and the best choice for a fun experience in the waters of Illinois.

How to find the perfect Chicago sailboat charter?

How to rent a sailboat in Chicago, IL? Sailo has the most advanced filters to help you find the perfect sailboat rental in Chicago, Illinois for an amazing experience on the water. Start your search by choosing your start Chicago sailing trip date, duration and number of guests. For a great day trip with your family or friends, you have the option to select 2, 4 hours or full day rentals. Depending on your preferences and budget, you may narrow your results by boat type and price range. The 'crew' filter allows you to check the boat rentals with the captain included in the price, skipper optional (paid as extra) or bareboats that you’ll captain yourself (boating resume required). Once you have laid your eyes on a boat you like in Illinois, click on it to read the description, reviews and see more pics. We also recommend using our direct 'Message Owner' feature that allows you to start a conversation with the boat representative to ask away everything you want to know before you submit a booking request.

How does it cost to rent a sailboat in Chicago for a day?

Whether you are looking to rent a yacht for a city sightseeing tour, a romantic sunset cruise or an active day on the water with your family or friends, we're confident you’ll find the best one for you on Sailo. The average starting price to charter a sailboat in Chicago is $1100. You can however find excellent affordable rentals from $250 and also elegant Chicago sailboat yacht charters that can go up to $6500 (service fee and mandatory extras not included).

Essential safety tips for recreational boating

Whether you’re renting a boat with captain or you choose a bareboat, always keep in mind this basic safety guidelines:

• if you rent a captained charter, always pay close attention to your captain
• walk slowly and never run onboard as you can easily slip and fall overboard
• be mindful of stairs and hatches (never step on them)
• if you go swimming, floating or paddling, stay away from other boats even if they are anchored or moored
• pay attention to the other group members and make sure that everybody is accounted for at all times

Sustainable yachting tips

If you’re looking to start Chicago sailing, a sailboat charter is a great place to start! Explore coral reefs with your snorkel, discover hidden bays and islands and generally enjoy the view of nature. Remember, that sailing motto: 'Take only photos, leave only wake' (OK, so we paraphrased). To be a responsible sailor, remember:

• Don’t disturb coral or sealife
• Take your trash home (and don’t throw anything in the sea)
• Respect the locals and their customs wherever you go

Read more about responsible boating.

Popular locations to rent a boat on the Midwest USA:

• Rent a boat in Detroit
• Cleveland yacht charters
• Michigan boat charters
• Rent a boat in Ohio
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Popular boat types among renters:

• Chicago party boat rental
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• British Virgin Islands
• La Paz, Mexico
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
• Key Largo, FL
• St. Vincent and Grenadines

555-555-5555

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SPACIOUS, LUXE

When you rent a power boat from Chicago Sailboat Charters, we provide the best variety, service, and value for any charter or rental boat experience you desire.

40'  FEET

12 PASSENGERS

FLEXIBLE BOOKING

DUSABLE HARBOR

40' SPACIOUS, YACHT STYLE POWERBOATS

Our 40-foot yachts feature ample space, both on the bow (the section in front of the windshield) and on the party deck (the expansive seating area at the boat's rear that accommodates over 11 people).

 Whether your preference is to lounge on the bow or mingle in the party deck, this vessel offers more room than any other of its kind. 

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR CHARTER

HOW TO BOOK YOUR CHARTER ONLINE

Step 1: Use our online booking platform (click HERE ) to select your date and view charter availability.

Step 2: Once you select your charter, reserve and pay directly online in less than 60 seconds.

Step 3: After booking, refer to your confirmation email for instructions on how to book a captain. 

WHY CHICAGO SAILBOAT CHARTERS?

Chicago Sailboat Charters offers Chicago's largest variety of captained charters for sailboats, yachts, and spacious boats, accommodating groups of 1 to 36 people. Enjoy daytime sailing, sunset cruises, swimming and sunbathing sails, or even witness the spectacular Navy Pier fireworks from our boats.

OUR SAILBOATS & YACHTS ARE PERFECT FOR...

Swimming & playpen, navy pier fireworks, chicago river cruises, celebration events, corporate outings.

773-236-7245

[email protected]

MAILING ADDRESS

400 West Belmont Harbor Drive, Chicago, IL 60657

Belmont Harbor

Directions →

Dusable Harbor

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Luxury cruising on Lake Michigan

How to rent a boat in chicago, find the perfect boat.

Enter your desired location and date to explore our fleet of boat, Chicago, IL, United Statess.

Select a captain

Choose to drive yourself or select a USCG licensed captain.

Book with ease

Connect with your boat owner and complete your booking online.

Enjoy your day on the water with friends and family!

Rent a Boat in Chicago

What to know.

The lake is jam packed in the summer season as everyone in the city flocks to Lake Michigan. This is a consequence of the small window of opportunity to enjoy warm days on the water. 

It’s not just on the lake where people gather but along the Chicago River running through the center of the city. Downtown dockage is available but tends to fill up fast so reservations are encouraged. Just like the lake, the boat traffic in the Chicago River gets congested during the season months and does require precautious boating. 

Safety Requirements:

Boating License/Education Rules: Valid Boating Safety Certificate issued by the Department of Natural Resources or an entity or organization recognized and approved by the Department is required.

Life Jacket Requirements: 13 and under must wear a PFD.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources .

Where to dock your boat, or meet your rental:

DuSable Harbor

Belmont Harbor

Burnham Harbor

Monroe Harbor

East Chicago Marina

Downtown Docks

Weather Conditions

Ask some Chicago locals, and they’ll tell you summers in Chicago can’t be beat. Temperatures in the Windy City start to warm up around mid-May and last through the end of August into the beginning of September—making the summer season ideal for boaters and sailors.

Avg. Temperature High:  Peaks around 82°F in July

Avg. Temperature Low:  Ranging between 54-61°F during fringe months like May and September

Avg. Water Temperatures in Lake Michigan during the Summer: 

40°F in May

52°F in June

67°F in July

70°F in August

66.7°F in September

Chicago Boating Highlights

Between May and September, life in Chicago centers around Lake Michigan. When planning your next Chicago boat rental trip, be sure to add these popular activities and locations to your itinerary.

Things to Do in Chicago by Boat

Cruise the Chicago River in Style

Moorage : Docktown Docks

Wake zone : Yes

Pro Tips : Docking reservations at the Downtown Docks, while transient, are only for 2-hour durations. Plan ahead and submit reservation requests 2 weeks or less before your arrival.

Hours : Varies by location - see each location for details (Pizzeria Portofino/RPM Seafood, Rockwell on the River, City Winery)

Lat/Long : 41.8870° N, 87.6290° W

Google Maps Link

Go Sailing on Lake Michigan

Moorage : Most, if not all, of Chicago’s Harbors can support sailboat dockage.

Wake zone : Yes - in some areas

Pro Tip s: If you’re in search of a Boatsetter Sailing rental, be sure to check out boats listed near Monroe Harbor or 31st Street Harbor.

Seasonality : Sailing season is year-round, but most Chicago sailors stick to a six month period between late spring and early autumn.

Lat/Long : 41.8781° N, 87.6298° W

Party in the Playpen

Moorage : The closest marinas to the Playpen are DuSable Harbor to the south, and Belmont Harbor to the north.

Pro Tips : The Playpen is the go-to destination during Chicago’s annual Boat Scene Party, with over 10,000 attendees and 500-1000 boats tied up. Secure your boat rental early for this event!

Seasonality : Thousands of boat drop anchor in the Playpen each year, with peak season for this location ranging from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

Lat/Long : 41°53'53.2"N 87°36'43.1"W

Where to Go Boating in Chicago

Moorage : Closest dockage is at DuSable Harbor or Monroe Harbor

Pro Tips : Summer Fireworks at Navy Pier are every Wednesday and Saturday from Memorial Day through Labor Day. 

Hours : Opens daily at 10am, but closing times vary by season.

Lat/Long : 41.8919° N, 87.6051° W

Jackson Park

Moorage : Closest dockage is at Jackson Park Inner Harbor

Wake zone : Yes

Pro Tips : There are 192 slips, mooring cans, and star docks, and the harbor can accommodates boats measuring 25’ to 40’ in length.

Hours : May 1-Oct. 31 - Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm; Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Lat/Long : 41.7833° N, 87.5783° W

Lake Michigan Dive Site

Moorage : Depending on which dive site you’re interested in, there are a variety of Chicago marinas to choose to depart from. When at the dive site, you’ll want to anchor or look for local mooring balls.

Pro Tips : Four of the most popular wreck sites include the Wells Burt, the Straits of Mackinac, the Thomas Hume, and the Wings of the Wind.

Hours : While it is possible to dive year-round, Lake Michigan peak recreational dive season falls between May and ends in early November. Visibility varies, but divers can generally expect 35 to 40 feet—or on clear days up to 100 feet.

Lat/Long : Wells Burt (42° 2.748' N, 87° 37.082' W); Straits of Mackinac (45°48′51’ N 84°44′56’ W); Wings of the Wind (41°56.089’ N 87°33.391’ W)

Check Out Additional Chicago Boating Guides

• Boating Lake in Illinois
• 12 Best Chicago Restaurants on the River
• 6 Best Beaches in Chicago
• Lake Michigan Fishing Guide
• Chicago's Green River: St. Patrick's Day History & Boating Guide

Got questions?

Frequently asked questions

How much is it to rent a boat for a day in Chicago?

The cost to rent a boat in Chicago starts at $75 per hour, depending on the amount of time that you would like to use the boat.

How much does it cost to rent a boat on the Chicago River?

The cost to rent a boat on the Chicago River starts at $75 per hour, depending on the amount of time that you would like to use the boat. Rent jet skis, sailboats, yachts, and more along the Chicago River.

Do you need a boat license to rent a boat in Chicago?

Anyone born on or after January 1, 1998 who operates a powered watercraft of 10hp or more needs a Boater Safety Certificate. If your rental is captained you do not need a safety certificate.

How much does a yacht rental cost Chicago?

The cost to rent a yacht in Chicago starts at $275 per hour. The cost varies depending on the boat size and length of the trip.

How much does it cost to rent a boat at a party in Chicago?

Chicago party boat rentals stat at $135 per hour. Party boats can be rented with or without a captain.

Top boat rental reviews in Chicago, IL

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10/10 recommend! We had a girls day on the lake and the boat, captain, & staff were amazing! I really enjoyed how we...

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Divers find 5 bodies during search of superyacht wreckage after it sank off Sicily, 1 still missing

ROME -- Divers searching the wreck of a superyacht that sank off Sicily found the bodies of five passengers Wednesday and searched for one more as questions intensified about why the vessel sank so quickly when a nearby sailboat remained largely unscathed.

Rescue crews unloaded three body bags from rescue vessels that pulled into port at Porticello. Salvatore Cocina, head of the Sicily civil protection agency, said two other bodies had also been found in the wreckage for a total of five.

The discovery made clear the operation to search the hull on the seabed 50 meters (164 feet) underwater had quickly turned into a recovery one, not a rescue, given the amount of time that had passed and that no signs of life had emerged over three days of searching, maritime experts said.

The Bayesian, a 56-meter (184-foot) British-flagged yacht, went down in a storm early Monday as it was moored about a kilometer (a half-mile) offshore. Civil protection officials said they believed the ship was struck by a tornado over the water, known as a waterspout, and sank quickly.

Fifteen people escaped in a lifeboat and were rescued by a nearby sailboat. One body was recovered Monday - that of the ship's chef, Recaldo Thomas, of Antigua.

Thomas was born in Canada, according to his cousin David Isaac, but would visit his parents' homeland of Antigua as a child, moving permanently to the tiny eastern Caribbean island in his early 20s. Italian officials previously listed Antigua as the nationality of someone on board.

The fate of six missing passengers had driven the search effort, including British tech magnate Mike Lynch, his 18-year-old daughter and associates who had successfully defended him in a recent U.S. federal fraud trial.

Lynch's spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

RELATED: 2 Americans among 6 passengers still missing after superyacht sinks off coast of Sicily

Meanwhile, investigators from the Termini Imerese Public Prosecutor's Office were acquiring evidence for their criminal investigation, which they opened immediately after the tragedy even though no formal suspects have been publicly identified.

Questions abound about what caused the superyacht, built in 2008 by Italian shipyard Perini Navi, to sink so quickly, when the nearby Sir Robert Baden Powell sailboat was largely spared and managed to rescue the survivors.

Was it merely the case of a freak waterspout that knocked the ship to its side and allowed water to pour in through open hatches? What was the position of the keel, which on a large sailboat such as the Bayesian might have been retractable, to allow it to enter shallower ports?

"There's a lot of uncertainty as to whether it had a lifting keel and whether it might have been up," said Jean-Baptiste Souppez, a fellow of the Royal Institute of Naval Architects and the editor of the Journal of Sailing Technology. "But if it had, then that would reduce the amount of stability that the vessel had, and therefore made it easier for it to roll over on its side," he said in an interview.

The captain of the Sir Robert Baden Powell sailboat, which came to the Bayesian's rescue, said his craft had sustained minimal damage - the frame of a sun awning broke - even with winds that he estimated reached 12 on the Beaufort wind scale, which is the highest, hurricane-strength force on the scale.

He said he had remained anchored with his engines running to try to maintain the ship's position as the storm, which was forecast, rolled in.

"Another possibility is to heave anchor before the storm and to run downwind at open sea," Karsten Bornersaid in a text message. But he said that might not have been a viable option for the Bayesian, given its trademark 75-meter (246-foot) tall mast.

"If there was a stability problem, caused by the extremely tall mast, it would not have been better at open sea," he said.

Yachts like the Bayesian are required to have watertight, sub-compartments that are specifically designed to prevent a rapid, catastrophic sinking even when some parts fill with water.

"So for the vessel to sink, especially this fast, you are really looking at taking water on board very quickly, but also in a number of locations along the length of the vessel, which again indicates that it might have been rolled over on its side," Souppez said.

Italian coast guard and fire rescue divers continued the underwater search in dangerous and time-consuming conditions. Because of the wreck's depth, which requires special precautions, divers working in tag teams could only spend about 12 minutes at a time searching.

The limited dive time is designed in part to avoid decompression sickness, also known as the "bends," which can occur when divers stay underwater for long periods and ascend too quickly, allowing nitrogen gas dissolved in the blood to form bubbles.

"The longer you stay, the slower your ascent has to be," said Simon Rogerson, the editor of SCUBA magazine. He said the tight turnaround time suggests the operation's managers are trying to limit the risks and recovery time after each dive.

"It sounds like they're operating essentially on no decompression or very tight decompression, or they're being extremely conservative," he said.

Additionally, the divers were working in extremely tight spaces, with debris floating around them, limited visibility and oxygen tanks on their backs.

"We are trying to advance in tight spaces, but any single thing slows us down," said Luca Cari, spokesman for the fire rescue service. "An electric panel could set us back for five hours. These aren't normal conditions. We're at the limit of possibility."

"It's not a question of entering the cabin to inspect it," he added. "They've arrived at the level of the cabins, but it's not like you can open the door," he said.

The Italian coast guard said they had reinforced their dive teams and were using underwater remote-controlled robots, which can stay out for six or seven hours at a time and record the surroundings.

The lack of any signs of life and the recovery of bodies led outside experts to conclude that the search was now a recovery effort and investigation to determine how the tragedy had unfolded.

"I think the fact that there's been quite a lot of diving presence around the vessel and that they haven't been able to pick up any signs of life inside the vessel, is, is unfortunately, not a particularly good sign," said Souppez.

Winfield reported from Rome and Kirka from London. Associated Press visual journalists Trisha Thomas in Rome and Silvia Stellacci in Porticello and reporter Anika Kentish in St. John's, Antigua contributed.

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Video shows moments before superyacht went down in storm off Sicily

A celebration turned into tragedy for a british tycoon when the storm sank the vessel off sicily. six people remain missing., by henry austin and corky siemaszko | nbc news • published august 21, 2024 • updated on august 21, 2024 at 3:08 pm.

Newly released video captures a luxury superyacht being battered by a violent storm before it suddenly sank off Sicily with 22 people aboard  Monday.

The grainy images obtained by NBC News and other outlets were recorded on closed-circuit television not far from where the Bayesian was anchored,  about a half-mile from the port of Porticello, on Sicily’s northern coast .

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The yacht's 250-foot mast, illuminated with lights and lashed by the storm, appears to bend to one side before it finally disappears and is replaced by darkness.

The speed with which a yacht built to handle the roughest seas capsized stunned maritime experts.  

“I can’t remember the last time I read about a vessel going down quickly like that, you know, completely capsizing and going down that quickly, a vessel of that nature, a yacht of that size,” said Stephen Richter  of SAR Marine Consulting.

British tech tycoon Mike Lynch and five of the 22 other people who were aboard the 184-foot vessel remain unaccounted for and are believed to be trapped in the Bayesian’s hull, nearly 170 feet underwater.

Officials confirmed Monday that at least one person, the ship’s cook, had died.  

Missing revealed as divers search superyacht that sank in storm off Sicily

British tech magnate Mike Lynch, 2 US citizens among missing after luxury yacht sinks off Sicily

Superyachts like the Bayesian, which had been available for charters at a rate of $215,000 a week, are designed to stay afloat even as they are taking on water to give the people aboard a chance to escape, Richter said. 

“Boats of this size, they’re taking passengers on an excursion or a holiday,” Richter said. “They are not going to put them in situations where it may be dangerous or it may be uncomfortable, so this storm that popped up was obviously an anomaly. These vessels that carry passengers, they’re typically very well-maintained, very well-appointed.”

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Built by Italian shipbuilder Perini Navi in 2008, the U.K.-registered Bayesian could carry 12 guests and a crew of up to 10, according to online specialist yacht sites. Its nearly 250-foot mast is the tallest aluminum sailing mast in the world,  according to  CharterWorld Luxury Yacht Charters. 

On Tuesday, Italian rescue workers  resumed the search for Lynch  and the five other passengers still missing: Lynch’s 18-year-old daughter, Hannah; Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife; and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife.

“The fear is that the bodies got trapped inside the vessel,” Salvatore Cocina, the head of civil protection in Sicily, told Reuters .

The Bayesian is owned by a firm linked to Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, who was one of the 15 people rescued Monday after it capsized.

“It’s extremely rare for a boat of this size to sink,” Richter said.

What’s not rare is the kind of storm that sank it , said Simon Boxall, senior lecturer in oceanography at Britain’s University of Southampton.

“People assume the Mediterranean is this rather calm and passive place that never gets storms and always blue skies,” Boxall said. “In fact, you get some quite horrendous storms that are not uncommon at this time of year.”

The president of Italy’s meteorological society has said Monday’s violent storm may have involved a waterspout, essentially a tornado over water, or a downburst, which occurs more frequently but doesn’t involve the rotation of the air.

Luca Mercalli, president of the Italian Meteorology Society, also said recent temperatures may have been a factor. 

“The sea surface temperature around Sicily was around 30 degrees Celsius [86 Fahrenheit], which is almost 3 degrees more than normal,” Mercalli told Reuters. “This creates an enormous source of energy that contributes to these storms.”

The Mediterranean sailing vacation was designed to be a celebration for Lynch, who two months ago was  acquitted by a San Francisco jury of fraud charges  stemming from the 2011 sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard for $11 billion.

Prosecutors alleged that Lynch, dubbed “Britain’s Bill Gates,” and Autonomy’s vice president for finance, Stephen Chamberlain, had padded the firm’s finances ahead of the sale. Lynch’s lawyers argued that HP was so eager to acquire Autonomy that it failed to  adequately check the books .

Lynch had taken Morvill, who was one of his defense attorneys, on the luxury trip. 

Chamberlain was not on the Bayesian.

In what appears to be a tragic coincidence, a  car struck and killed Chamberlain on Saturday as he was jogging in a village about 68 miles north of London, local police said.

“Steve fought successfully to clear his good name at trial earlier this year, and his good name now lives on through his wonderful family,” Chamberlain’s lawyer, Gary Lincenberg, said in a statement .

Henry Austin reported from London and Corky Siemaszko from New York City.

This story first appeared on NBCNews.com . More from NBC News:

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