Famed for its hotch-potch of architectural styles, it’s possible to see another side of the Windy City by booking on to a thrilling speedboat tour.
(Photo: City Cruises / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
The great city of Chicago ends where the waters of Lake Michigan begin. One fun and unique way to experience the city is by embarking on an adrenaline-fuelled speedboat ride, offering passengers the chance to take in the distinctive architecture of Chicago’s skyline on the shore while hurtling across the water at enthralling knots per hour. Here are three great Chicago speedboat tours to help whet your appetite.
Seadog Speedboat Ride
Departing from central Chicago’s Navy Pier at regular intervals is the eye-catching yellow speedboat known as the Seadog. This twin-1,400-horsepower-engined beast will take you out on to Lake Michigan, where you’ll cruise along the shoreline, spotting architectural highlights such as Willis Tower while learning about the city’s rich history courtesy of your expert guide. You’ll get to feel the rush of air as the engines are opened up – and if you’re looking to push the adrenaline release to even higher levels, there’s an upgrade option where you’ll get up to full throttle, complete with stomach-churning 360-degree turns. From $29 per person.
Architecture Cruise by Speedboat
(Photo: City Cruises / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Combining a speedboat tour along the lake with a gentler exploration of the Chicago River, this fun-packed 75-minute trip combines rip-roaring thrills with a taste of culture. Feel the raw power of the speedboat’s engines on Lake Michigan, then lean back to admire the remarkable buildings of central Chicago – including the Tribune Tower and Lyric Opera of Chicago – in the unique way that only a trip along the river can provide. Narration is provided by your guide throughout. From $41 per person.
Seadog Fireworks Cruise
(Photo: City Cruises / Courtesy Viator)
In the summer and early autumn months in Chicago, the aforementioned Seadog speedboat is also used for a special fireworks cruise on Lake Michigan. As you soar across the water, you’ll be treated to a dazzling display of pyrotechnics launched from Navy Pier, casting pretty patterns across the night sky. Please note that this tour is not available outside of the main summer season (roughly from May-early Sept) and then only operates on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. From $60 per person.