What is included in the boat charter?

The charter includes the boat, the licensed captain (Captain Marty), and a deckhand to assist during your trip.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Yes, guests are welcome to bring snacks and beverages, but please avoid glass containers for safety.

Are trips customizable?

Absolutely. Captain Marty designs routes based on your interests, from architectural tours to nature watching.

Is there a minimum or maximum age to participate?

There is no strict age limit, but children should be supervised at all times on deck.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation details are provided at booking; generally, cancellations should be made in advance to avoid fees.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, the boat is equipped with life jackets for all passengers, adhering to safety regulations.

Explore Chicago’s Waters with Captain Marty McConville: Scenic Boat Charters and Eco Adventures | Boat Tour | Water Activities

Set sail on the vibrant waters surrounding Chicago with Captain Marty McConville, a seasoned 100-ton licensed captain whose decades of experience promise an adventurous and safe outing. Operating from 31st Street Harbor on J Dock, Marty offers a unique gateway to explore Lake Michigan and the city’s iconic waterfront from an exceptional perspective. His boat charters combine the thrill of open water with the captivating story of the region’s architectural and natural heritage.

Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes, forms a breathtaking backdrop for this water-born adventure. The calm blue expanse is dotted with distant city skyscrapers, inviting sunset views, and occasional glimpses of local wildlife such as diving cormorants and busy seagulls. Rides can be tailored to your interests: history buffs will appreciate Marty’s experience narrating architectural tours, where towering glass and steel structures give way to stories of Chicago’s rise and resilience. Nature lovers will enjoy eco-focused cruises that highlight the lake’s ecosystem and the thriving aquatic life below.

Captain Marty’s 18 years of experience span from transoceanic deliveries to leading eco tours in the Everglades and Florida’s Mt. Dora, bringing a seasoned hand and a consciousness about environmental stewardship to every journey. Guests onboard can expect not just skilled navigation but an approachable, fun host who prioritizes safety without compromising the festive atmosphere of a day on the water.

Operating with vessels ranging up to 55 feet and beyond, the charters accommodate diverse group sizes and preferences. Rates stand at $100 per hour for boats up to 55 feet and $125 above, including a deckhand, ensuring a relaxed and supported cruise. Chicago visitors find this experience a standout because it fuses accessible urban exploration with wilderness adventure, all under the care of a captain passionate about boating culture and sustainable recreation.

Strategically located near Chicago proper, 31st Street Harbor is easily reachable by city dwellers or tourists staying downtown. It serves as a launch point not only for scenic city loops but for ventures towards less-explored stretches of the lakefront. Whether seeking a daytime jaunt or a sunset sail, Captain Marty’s boat charters are a gateway to rediscover Chicago’s water treasures.

Ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers, this experience invites anyone eager to feel the pulse of the lake with expert guidance and local knowledge. Combine a day with Captain Marty with visits to nearby parks, or plan a photo session capturing the cityscape merging with the natural horizon. The boat’s deck becomes your front-row seat to Chicago’s watery charms under a wide-open sky.