It’s possible to see another side of The Windy City from the surface of Lake Michigan on one of these thrilling speedboat tours.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
The great city of Chicago ends where the waters of Lake Michigan begin. One fun and unique way to experience Chicago is by making the best use of those waters in a speedboat ride. Not only does the city skyline look incredible from the lake, but you can also get up close and personal via the Chicago River, which runs right through the center of Chicago then splits, branching north and south. Here are three great speedboat tours that will give you the thrill of speed and some unparalleled city views.
Half-Hour Seadog Speedboat Ride
Departing from central Chicago’s Navy Pier is the quirky long, yellow speedboat known as the Seadog. This twin-1,400-horsepower-engined beast will take you out onto Lake Michigan, where you’ll cruise along the shoreline, spotting architectural highlights such as Willis Tower, and learn about the city’s history from your 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, then there’s an upgrade where you’ll get up to full throttle, and do 360-degree turns. From $30 per person.
Chicago: 75-minute Architecture Cruise by Speedboat
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Combining a speedboat tour along the lake with a gentler exploration of the Chicago River, this fun 75-minute trip brings both thrill and awe to the itinerary. 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 $53 per person.
Seadog Speedboat Fireworks Lake Michigan Cruise
In the summer and early autumn months in Chicago, the Seadog speedboat is also used for a more romantic boat tour on Lake Michigan. Further enhancing the impressive city skyline, which is all lit up in the dusky light, is the firework show that is initiated from Navy Pier, casting pretty patterns in 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 Weds and Sat evenings. From $58 per person.