easy
3–6 hours
No strenuous activity required; suitable for all fitness levels.
Discover a fresh way to see Chicago by booking a private charter aboard The Gwen, a 38-foot Carver Mariner yacht offering customizable 3-to-6-hour cruises with up to 13 passengers. Perfect for parties and corporate events, this yacht delivers city skyline views and private luxury on Lake Michigan.
Ages 21+ to Book • 3 to 6 Hour Rentals Available • Up to 13 Passengers • Starting at $900
Experience the thrill of sailing on a private 38' Carver Mariner yacht in Chicago! Perfect for gatherings, from bachelorette parties to corporate events, enjoy stunning views and spacious amenities. With a full kitchen, sound system, and the freedom to bring your own captain, create unforgettable memories on the open water.
Enjoy exceptional views of Chicago from your own private yacht! Rates Weekdays • Mon - Thurs Three Hour Rental - $900 Four Hour Rental - $1,200 Five Hour Rental - $1,500 Six Hour Rental - $1,800 Weekends • Fri - Sun Three Hour Rental - $1,050 Four Hour Rental - $1,400 Five Hour Rental - $1,750 Six Hour Rental - $2,100 Enjoy the fantastic feeling of sailing in Chicago, Illinois! Book the 38' Carver Mariner Motor Yacht for up to 13 people. Rates are from $300 per hour with a minimum booking of 3 hours.
Our 38' Carver Mariner offers you a unique experience to escape with friends and family, or to embark on an incredible boating adventure. Its spacious layout provides ample room to move about, lounge, and entertain. Enjoy a day cruising on the open water and experience the beauty of Chicago from your own private yacht!
What You Can Expect:
2023 Season Update: COVID-19 won't stop us! We are taking reservations for this summer and are looking forward to hosting you! Before each charter, the yacht is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected including all surfaces, doorknobs, railings, handles, counters, tables, seating, sinks, toilets, etc. We've always taken safety very seriously and will continue to do so.
Rates:
Hourly Rate (Monday - Thursday): $300 per hour
Hourly Rate (Friday - Sunday): $350 per hour
Holidays and Special Events: $400 per hour
Captain Fee: $100 per hour paid directly to captain before departure
Located at 31st Street Harbor, our 38' Carver Mariner Motor Yacht is sure to please. Perfect for Bachelorette & Bachelor Parties, Birthdays, Corporate events, our yacht is perfect for any occasion. We have celebrated anniversary’s, private wedding parties, proposals, and the just all out fun times at the play pen and on the river.
Events we are perfect for:
• Bachelorette or Bachelor Parties
• Birthday Parties
• Corporate events & outings
• Cruises down the river
• Playpen fun day
• Hanging out at City Winery or other restaurants on the river
• Chicago Air & Water Show
• 4th of July & all holidays
What's included:
• Full Kitchen and 1 bathroom
• JL sound system w/Bluetooth audio
What To Expect Onboard:
Yacht Meets All Us Coast Guard Safety Requirements Yacht Also Has All Required Permits, Insurance, And Safety Equipment
Per USCG regulations we are not allowed to provide you with a captain. You are welcome to either supply your own captain that meets all of the owner and USCG regulations or you may choose a captain from a list of pre-approved captains that we have vetted and are familiar with our vessel. Captain’s fee is separate and paid directly to the captain. Their average rate is $125/hour. Gratuity is not included (20% is standard). Once you book with us we will provide you with the list of captains. If you are supplying your own captain, they must complete a practice sea trial.
What to Bring:
• Towels
• Sunscreen
• Food & Drinks (Alcohol is allowed)
• Phone/tablet (Bluetooth hookup)
Secure your preferred date and time early, especially on weekends and summer evenings when charters sell fast.
Lake Michigan’s breezes can be cool even in summer; pack layers to stay comfortable on deck.
If you don’t have sailing experience, consider hiring a professional captain to ensure safe and enjoyable navigation.
Even on inland waters, some guests may experience motion sickness; bring remedies if you’re prone.
Chicago’s Lake Michigan shoreline has been central to the city’s development since the 19th century, evolving from industrial docks to vibrant recreational waterways.
Charters like The Gwen follow strict environmental guidelines to minimize impact on lake water quality and local wildlife habitats.
Protects against lake breezes during open-water cruising.
summer specific
Shields eyes from reflected sunlight off the water.
summer specific
Ensures safe footing on wet surfaces aboard the yacht.
Capture stunning skyline and sunset views throughout the cruise.