Bareboat Experience on Lake Michigan in Chicago
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness is sufficient as most activities involve sitting, steering, and light movement on board.
Overview
Take control of a sleek jet boat and cruise Lake Michigan and the Chicago River with up to 10 friends. Enjoy sunbathing, music, and incredible city views on this private boating adventure.
Details
Discover the excitement of piloting your own 25-foot Yamaha 252SE Jet Boat with Boating Bob Chicago. This exclusive bareboat experience offers you and up to 10 friends the freedom to explore the stunning waterways of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River at your own pace. Whether you want to speed across the waves, relax while sunbathing on the floating pad, or enjoy music via the onboard Bluetooth speakers, this adventure delivers a perfect blend of thrill and leisure. The boat’s modern amenities and spacious playpen area make it ideal for socializing and soaking up the city’s waterfront views. With Chicago’s iconic skyline as your backdrop, this is a unique way to see the city from water level and create unforgettable memories with friends and family. No prior boating experience is necessary, as Boating Bob Chicago provides a thorough safety briefing and guidance to ensure a smooth day on the water. Perfect for groups seeking a private and flexible adventure, the bareboat experience combines freedom, comfort, and spectacular scenery for an exceptional outdoor outing.
Adventure Tips
Check Weather Conditions
Always review the weather forecast before heading out, as Lake Michigan can get choppy quickly with sudden winds.
Arrive Early for Briefing
Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for a thorough safety orientation and boat handling instructions.
Bring Sun Protection
Sun exposure is high on open water, so use sunscreen and consider a hat and sunglasses to stay comfortable.
Secure Loose Items
Use waterproof bags or secure personal belongings to prevent them from falling overboard during the trip.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- The small islands on the Chicago River offer peaceful spots away from the city noise.
- Montrose Beach provides an excellent quiet shoreline view of boat traffic and cityscapes.
Wildlife
- Bald eagles
- Great blue herons
History
Chicago’s waterways have been central to its growth, evolving from industrial transportation routes to vibrant recreational areas.
Conservation
Boating Bob Chicago practices eco-friendly boating by promoting no-wake zones and avoiding pollution in Lake Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Navy Pier skyline
- Chicago River bridges
- Montrose Harbor marina
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong UV rays during open water cruising.
summer specific
Sunglasses
Reduce glare from the water and improve visibility while piloting the boat.
Light Jacket
Keeps you warm during cool breezes in early spring outings.
spring specific
Waterproof Bag
Keeps your personal items dry and secure during the trip.