Adventure Brief
Enjoy live blues music aboard the Tall Ship Windy on a 2-hour Monday night concert sail. Discover stunning Chicago skyline views in a lively, relaxed setting.
2 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Enjoy live blues music aboard the Tall Ship Windy on a 2-hour Monday night concert sail. Discover stunning Chicago skyline views in a lively, relaxed setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; easy for most ages and abilities as the tour is seated and relaxed.
Wildlife
History
Tall Ship Windy reflects Chicago’s maritime heritage, preserving traditional sailing vessels on Lake Michigan.
Conservation
The company practices eco-friendly operations to minimize fuel use and protect lake water quality.
Tall Ship Windy
Enjoy live blues music aboard the Tall Ship Windy on a 2-hour Monday night concert sail. Discover stunning Chicago skyline views in a lively, relaxed setting.
Tall Ship Windy is a Chicago-based sailing experience operating on Lake Michigan. The vessel hosts a range of public sails, private charters, and special-event cruises that showcase Chicago’s skyline, fireworks displays, air and water shows, and competitive SailGP racing. Signature offerings include a 75-minute Chicago Skyline Sail available daily from May through October, a 90-minute Fireworks Cruise at sunset, themed concert sails such as Traditional Chicago Blues with Michael Charles, and seasonal Independence Day and Air and Water Show specials departing from Navy Pier.
Tall Ship Windy partners with other providers for select activities, including stand up paddleboarding lessons promoted through Coastline Adventures, and offers add-on options such as boxed charcuterie and cheeseboards to elevate onboard hospitality. Certain special events use a 148-foot yacht for premium viewing and access to Race Village during Sail Grand Prix weekends.
The operation emphasizes unique vantage points from the water, combining sightseeing, live entertainment, and curated food and beverage options. Guests can expect scheduled public departures for signature sails, plus options for private and semi-private bookings for lessons and charters. Event descriptions list duration and seasonal availability where applicable.
Tall Ship Windy appears in The Adventure Collective directory as a provider of maritime experiences in Chicago, presenting a reliable way to experience major city events from the water. Bookings are recommended early for high-demand dates such as Air and Water Show, SailGP, and Fourth of July cruises. Tickets often sell quickly for signature dates, so checking availability and booking in advance is advised today.
Location
Chicago, IL
Departures from Navy Pier for several events
Schedule
Daily (May–Oct)
Skyline Sail operates daily May–October
Vessel Size
148 ft (special events)
Used for premium event viewing
Featured Events
Air and Water Show, SailGP, 4th of July
Seasonal, high-demand event sails
Book skyline sails, fireworks cruises, and special-event voyages now — limited capacity on popular dates.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
Getting to the dock at least 15 minutes before departure ensures you grab a prime spot with great views and easy access to the bar.
Dress in Layers
Even summer evenings on Lake Michigan can get cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable.
Bring Cash or Card for the Bar
A full bar is available onboard with drinks and snacks; be prepared with your preferred payment method.
Check Weather Before You Go
Lake conditions impact sailings; strong winds or storms may cause cancellations, so monitor weather updates closely.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Protects against evening chills and lake breezes.
summer
Comfortable Shoes
Non-slip shoes help with safe boarding and walking on deck.
Sunscreen
Useful for early evening sun exposure on the water.
spring
Camera or Smartphone
Capture stunning views of Chicago’s skyline at sunset.