COVID-19 Statement: We are committed to taking the proper precautions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our guests and team including ensuring that our boats are cleaned and sanitized throughout the day and service. We also have restrooms on board each vessel with running water and plenty of soap. We continue to follow the recommendations of public health officials and are monitoring the evolving situation. Click here to learn more about our enhanced protocols.
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Cruising on Lady Grebe (Gree-be), our perfectly preserved 48-foot vintage yacht, is the best and most stylish way to enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Chicago River; and now for the first time, Lady Grebe will be available to reserve for 90-minute private cruises every weekend! For groups of 6 people or less, this is undoubtedly the most sophisticated fun you will have with your friends or loved ones this year. Plus, when you add on premium bar service, or opt to be joined by a Chicago Architecture Center docent for the inside scoop on Chicago and its architecture, you'll make your cruise that much more unforgettable!
If you'd like for your cruise to last longer than 90 minutes or if you'd like to add food to your experience, Lady Grebe is also available for private charters on weekdays and weekend evenings.
Your Experience Includes:
U.S. Coast Guard certified captain at the helm - sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!
90-minute cruise on the Chicago River
Incredible city views
Non-alcoholic beverage service + bartender
Indoor and outdoor areas
Sun deck
Restrooms on board
Optional Add-Ons:
$100 for premium bar service for your group
$200 to add a CAC docent aboard to provide commentary throughout your 90-minute cruise (pending availablity)
To add bar service and/or a CAC docent (tour guide), call Clare Agra at (847) 358-1330 immediately after booking.
Gather with your favorite person or people and cruise the Chicago River in style!
We recommend arriving to our dock 15 minutes prior to departure time for optimal boarding and cruising time. For directions to our dock, please click here.
This experience is for a maximum of 6 guests.
Along with our updated and enhanced safety protocols, our crew will wear masks at all times. Guests must wear face coverings during boarding or while inside the cabin
Children under 12 years of age are not permitted on this cruise.
In the event of rain, our team will work with you to reschedule.
Tour Route The cruise will travel all three branches of the Chicago River.
Parking Discounted parking available at 111 E. Wacker Drive with proper validation from ticket office. Visit our Location page for more.
Amenities
Learn More
Available for groups of 1-6
Two exterior deck spaces in the front (bow) and the back (stern)
Lounge chair seating on back deck space
Perfectly preserved mahagony deck
Well-Appointed Restrooms A well-appointed restroom is available on board
Photo Gallery
FAQ
How long is the cruise experience?
90 minutes of sophisticated fun.
Is this a 21+ experience?
Anyone consuming alcohol will have to show a valid ID, but anyone over 12 years of age may board.
Is there food and drink aboard?
Food is not allowed on this experience, but for an additional $100 your group may have access to our premium bar.
Is there commentary during the cruise?
There is no commentary during this 90-minute cruise, but if you'd like more of a tour-style experience, you may be joined by a Chicago Architecture Center docentfor an additional fee of $200. (Dependent on docent availability)
Will the boat wait for me if I am running late?
This is a private cruise for you and your guest only, so Lady Grebe will not depart without you, but this will cut into your cruise time if there are additional tours scheduled after yours. If you know you are running behind, please call in advance.
Does the cruise go on the lake?
No, this cruise will travel only on the Chicago River.
Are there restrooms aboard?
Yes, all the boats have restrooms on board.
Do I need to make my reservation in advance?
Yes, you must submit payment and reserve this experience in advance.
Do I have to print my tickets?
You do not have to print your tickets. You can show your mobile ticket to our dock attendant with your smartphone.
Can I trade my ticket for a different date or time?
No, per company policy, all tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable.
What if it rains?
In the event of rain, our team will work with you to reschedule your cruise.
How can I get to your dock without using stairs?
There are two ways to reach our dock along Chicago’s Riverwalk without using stairs:
- On foot via the ramp located on Upper Wacker Drive at State Street. Proceed east once you reach the Riverwalk. Our dock is just east of the Michigan Avenue Bridge.
- Vehicle drop-off area on Lower Lower Wacker Drive. See "Accessibility Drop-Off" information on our location page.
What safety measures are being taken in response to COVID-19?
Safety continues to be our #1 priority at Chicago's First Lady. You can read about our enhanced protocols here.
90 minutes of sophisticated fun.
Anyone consuming alcohol will have to show a valid ID, but anyone over 12 years of age may board.
Food is not allowed on this experience, but for an additional $100 your group may have access to our premium bar.
There is no commentary during this 90-minute cruise, but if you'd like more of a tour-style experience, you may be joined by a Chicago Architecture Center docentfor an additional fee of $200. (Dependent on docent availability)
This is a private cruise for you and your guest only, so Lady Grebe will not depart without you, but this will cut into your cruise time if there are additional tours scheduled after yours. If you know you are running behind, please call in advance.
No, this cruise will travel only on the Chicago River.
Yes, all the boats have restrooms on board.
Yes, you must submit payment and reserve this experience in advance.
You do not have to print your tickets. You can show your mobile ticket to our dock attendant with your smartphone.
No, per company policy, all tickets are nonrefundable and nonexchangeable.
In the event of rain, our team will work with you to reschedule your cruise.
There are two ways to reach our dock along Chicago’s Riverwalk without using stairs:
- On foot via the ramp located on Upper Wacker Drive at State Street. Proceed east once you reach the Riverwalk. Our dock is just east of the Michigan Avenue Bridge.
- Vehicle drop-off area on Lower Lower Wacker Drive. See "Accessibility Drop-Off" information on our location page.
Safety continues to be our #1 priority at Chicago's First Lady. You can read about our enhanced protocols here.