Chicago: Christmas Eve Lake Michigan Gourmet Dinner Cruise

A Christmas Eve Cruise on Lake Michigan: An Enjoyable Mix of Scenic Beauty and Fine Dining

If you’re seeking a special way to celebrate Christmas Eve in Chicago, a dinner cruise on Lake Michigan promises a memorable experience. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, a detailed look reveals it’s an excellent option for those who love combining scenic views with a festive atmosphere.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, the gourmet 3-course plated dinner offers a truly enjoyable culinary experience. Second, the panoramic views of Chicago’s skyline from the water create a striking holiday backdrop. Third, the inclusion of DJ entertainment and the lively ambiance make it more than just a meal — it’s a celebration.

That said, one consideration is the price point of $199 per person, which may seem steep for some, especially when alcoholic drinks are extra. Also, the experience is focused on the evening of Christmas Eve, so it’s best suited for those who want a festive, sit-down celebration rather than a casual gathering. If you’re looking for a unique, scenic, and lively way to spend Christmas Eve, this cruise could be perfect.

This tour appeals most to travelers who appreciate beautiful city views, enjoy fine dining, and want an entertaining holiday atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples, families, or groups seeking a special way to mark the holiday with a mix of elegance and fun.

Good To Know

• Stunning views of Chicago’s skyline from Lake Michigan, including landmarks like Navy Pier and Willis Tower.
• Gourmet 3-course dinner featuring options like turkey, salmon, flat iron steak, and seasonal vegetarian dishes.
• Festive atmosphere with onboard DJ and holiday tunes, perfect for a Christmas Eve celebration.
• Comfortable indoor and outdoor spaces for viewing the city and enjoying the cool winter air.
• Convenient departure point at Navy Pier, with easy check-in and friendly staff.
• All-included with scenic cruise, dinner, drinks (hot, iced, coffee), and taxes/fees. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase separately.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Departure and Check-in at Navy Pier

The cruise departs from Navy Pier, a central and iconic Chicago location. Check-in is straightforward at the Odyssey Lake Michigan, where friendly staff assist with boarding passes. You’ll find the boat clearly marked, making it easy to locate. Arriving early ensures you can settle in comfortably before departure, which is usually scheduled for the evening.

The Yacht and Setting

Once aboard the Odyssey Lake Michigan, you’ll notice the spacious, well-maintained interior designed for comfort. The yacht offers both climate-controlled indoor spaces and open-air decks. The indoor areas are cozy, ideal for enjoying the meal without the chill, while the decks provide spectacular, unobstructed views of Chicago’s skyline illuminated at night.

Dining Experience

The highlight of the cruise is, of course, the 3-course plated dinner. The menu includes a variety of options, accommodating different tastes and dietary needs. For starters, you might choose a Honeycrisp Apple Salad or Corn and Potato Chowder. Main courses range from a traditional turkey dinner with all the fixings, smoked salmon with vegetable succotash, to a Za’atar flat iron steak, or seasonal potato gnocchi for vegetarians.

Dessert features an assortment of cakes, pastries, and seasonal fruit from the dessert station, providing a sweet ending to your meal. Reviewers note the food is “hot” and “delicious,” contributing to a warm, festive feeling.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Views and Atmosphere

From the outer decks, you’ll enjoy 360-degree vistas of the city’s famous skyline, including highlights like Navy Pier and Willis Tower. This is especially magical during winter, with the city lights reflecting on the water and the crisp, cool air adding to the holiday spirit. The live DJ keeps the mood lively with Christmas tunes and popular hits, making it suitable for dancing or simply relaxing with a drink.

Sightseeing and Landmarks

As the boat cruises along Lake Michigan, you’ll see the city’s landmarks from a unique perspective. The combination of the skyline, the shimmering water, and the holiday atmosphere creates a picture-perfect scene. While the focus is on the festive setting, the views alone justify the experience for many travelers.

Service and Atmosphere

Guests report that the staff is “super friendly,” and the service is generally impeccable. Impeccable service, creative cocktails, and the lively DJ help maintain a joyful atmosphere, perfect for celebrating Christmas Eve with family or friends.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

What Travelers Love

Julieta from Mexico called it “Super fun,” praising the “yummy” dinner and “awesome” DJ. She appreciated the “amazing” city views and recommended the experience wholeheartedly. Gabriela from the U.S. described it as “really beautiful and really good,” highlighting the “great atmosphere” and “great food.”

What Could Be Improved

A traveler from Australia mentioned that some of the sodas were “flat and syruppy,” and the experience might involve some cold spots since many guests kept opening and closing the door during the meal. Another tip from reviews is to avoid sitting near the door if you’re sensitive to cold.

Overall Impression

Despite minor critiques, most reviews are highly positive, emphasizing the stunning views, delicious food, and friendly staff. The presence of a live DJ and a festive vibe seem to make the cruise a memorable Christmas Eve outing for many.

The Value for Your Money

At $199 per person, this experience offers a lot: scenic views, a gourmet meal, live entertainment, and the holiday ambiance — all in one package. For those who value making holiday memories with a beautiful backdrop and comfortable surroundings, the cost feels justified. Guests seem to agree that the combination of good food and an enjoyable atmosphere makes it a worthwhile splurge.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the ticket are the scenic 2.5-hour cruise, the 3-course dinner, DJ entertainment, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. Taxes and fees are also covered. However, alcoholic drinks are not included, available for purchase separately, so if you’re planning on cocktails, prepare to spend a bit more. Also, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This cruise is perfect for romantic couples seeking a special holiday date night, families wanting to celebrate together, or friends looking for a lively, festive experience. It suits travelers who enjoy spectacular city views, delicious food, and a lively, holiday atmosphere.

It’s a great choice if you want to combine sightseeing with some relaxing dining and dancing, all wrapped up in a festive Christmas package. Keep in mind, semi-formal attire is encouraged, so it’s a good opportunity to dress up a little for a memorable night on the water.

FAQs

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
Yes, semi-formal attire is encouraged. Think dressy separates like slacks, button-ups, or nice dresses.

Are there any age restrictions?
Infants (0-2 years) are allowed and free with a reservation, but always check if your group has specific needs.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Alcoholic drinks are not included and must be purchased separately. The cruise offers unlimited coffee, tea, and iced tea at no extra cost.

Where exactly do I check in?
Check-in takes place at the Odyssey Lake Michigan, located on the south side of Navy Pier, near the Shakespeare Theatre sign.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider states the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, usually in the evening.

Can I make a group reservation?
Yes, but make sure to reserve all seats under one booking to keep your party seated together. Separate reservations cannot be combined.

To sum it up, this Christmas Eve dinner cruise on Lake Michigan offers a delightful blend of scenic Chicago views, a gourmet meal, and festive entertainment. It’s perfect for those wanting a memorable and lively holiday celebration with family, friends, or a loved one. While the price may seem high, the combination of beautiful scenery, quality food, and holiday cheer makes it a worthwhile splurge for a special occasion. Whether you’re visiting Chicago during the holidays or a local looking to indulge in a unique experience, this cruise delivers a charming take on Christmas that you’ll remember long after the snow melts.

You can check if your dates are available here: