Chicago: Lake and River Tour on a RIB Boat

Exploring Chicago from the water is a fantastic way to see this bustling city’s impressive architecture and scenic skyline. This 2-hour RIB boat tour offers a lively, engaging experience aboard a decommissioned U.S. Navy vessel, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and fascinating stories. While it’s not a traditional sightseeing cruise, it’s perfect for those looking for a mix of adventure and insight.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances thrilling action with informative commentary. The boat’s design makes it seaworthy and dynamic, ensuring you get a real sense of excitement on Lake Michigan. The captain’s knowledgeable narration adds depth, making each sight meaningful. Plus, the chance to see the Chicago skyline from the water gives you a fresh perspective unlike typical land-based tours. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a shorter experience, so those wanting a leisurely, extensive tour might look elsewhere.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of fun and learning, especially those eager to capture stunning photos. It’s also suited for visitors with limited time in Chicago who want a compact but impactful experience. However, if you’re sensitive to seasickness or pregnant, this might not be the best fit due to the boat’s lively ride.

Good To Know

• Unique vessel: The tour takes place on a decommissioned U.S. Navy tactical RIB, offering a more adventurous experience.
• Breathtaking views: The boat provides perfect angles for capturing Chicago’s skyline and river scenes.
• Expert narration: A Coast Guard licensed guide shares engaging stories about the city’s architecture and history.
• Flexible timing: Tours are available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, making it easy to fit into your schedule.
• Small group experience: Limited to 7 participants for a more personalized journey.
• Cost-effective: At $85 per person, the experience offers a good balance of value, thrill, and knowledge.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Chicago Lake and River RIB Experience

Starting Point and How It All Begins

Your adventure kicks off at Diversey Harbor, specifically Dock A at Station Blackhawk, easily accessible with Chicago’s public transport or by car. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to settle in and get comfortable. The meeting point offers a relaxed environment, and the crew is friendly and professional, setting the tone for a safe, enjoyable ride.

The Vessel and Its Features

The decommissioned U.S. Navy tactical RIB is designed for seaworthiness and agility. Its reputation as a “seaworthy” vessel means you’ll feel secure even when the boat picks up speed. The boat’s compact size—limited to 7 participants—ensures everyone has ample space to enjoy the ride and take photos without feeling crowded.

The Itinerary: From Chicago River to Lake Michigan

The tour begins with a cruise through the Chicago River, where the boat’s maneuverability allows for close-up views of iconic buildings, bridges, and bustling waterfront activity. The leisurely pace ensures you can snap photos and listen to the narration without feeling rushed. The guide, a Coast Guard licensed operator, points out landmarks like the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and the historic bridges—each with a story that adds context beyond just their appearance.

After exploring the river, the boat heads out towards Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Chicago skyline. This transition from city waterways to open lake water is where the thrill kicks in. As the boat speeds across the lake, you’ll appreciate the strength and seaworthiness of the vessel, making the ride both exciting and safe.

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What Makes the Tour Stand Out

• In-depth narration: The guide, with their extensive knowledge, shares insights into Chicago’s architecture and history. Reviewers like Adrian from Germany praise the “complete experience,” noting the perfect blend of action and sightseeing.
• Photo opportunities: From within the river’s confines to the expansive lake views, you’ll find countless angles to capture the skyline, bridges, and even wildlife if you’re lucky.
• Leisurely river pace: Unlike high-speed thrills, this tour allows ample time on the river for sightseeing, which is appreciated by those who want to soak in the scenery.
• Thrilling ride on Lake Michigan: The boat’s speed and agility provide a fun, adrenaline-pumping experience, especially when crossing the open water.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

One reviewer, Bregt from Belgium, emphasizes the knowledgeable guide and the “awesome trip,” calling it a “must-do.” Their enthusiasm highlights the value of the guide’s storytelling and the overall excitement of the boat ride. Adrian’s review echoes this sentiment, mentioning how the tour offers “action on the lake” and sightseeing “into the city,” making it a well-rounded experience.

Practical Details and Value

At $85 per person, the tour is reasonably priced considering the unique vessel, small group size, and expert narration. The tour’s two-hour duration fits well into a busy sightseeing day, and the option to choose different times of day helps tailor the experience to your preferences—whether you want sunrise, afternoon, or evening light.

The experience does not include food or beverages, so bringing water, snacks, or a camera is recommended. Weather conditions can significantly impact your experience, so dressing appropriately and checking forecasts beforehand will ensure comfort and safety.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers wanting a high-energy, fun-filled water tour of Chicago. It’s equally suitable for photographers eager to capture unique cityscape shots. Because of the smaller group size and engaging narration, it also appeals to those looking for a more intimate, personalized experience.

However, it’s worth noting that pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those prone to seasickness should weigh the ride’s lively nature. The tour’s speed and motion might not suit everyone, especially on open water.

Final Thoughts

This Chicago RIB boat tour offers a fantastic blend of excitement, education, and stunning visuals. The vessel’s seaworthiness and the knowledgeable guide ensure a safe yet exhilarating experience. For travelers wanting to see Chicago from a truly different perspective—both in terms of scenery and adventure—this tour delivers.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it excels at providing a snapshot of the Chicago skyline, its iconic architecture, and the lively river life with a dash of adrenaline. The small group size enhances the personalized feel, making it a memorable addition to your Chicago itinerary.

If you value authentic experiences, great value, and a bit of thrill, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and adventure, or anyone wanting to add some excitement to their Chicago visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally safe, it is designed for adults and older children comfortable in a small, fast-moving boat. Check with the provider if you’re unsure about younger kids.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 110 minutes, or just over an hour and a half, making it perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is Diversey Harbor at Station Blackhawk, Dock A, which is accessible by public transit or car.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in your planning.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera for photos, sunscreen for protection, and comfortable clothes suitable for the weather. No smoking is allowed onboard.

Is the tour available in different times of day?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, allowing you to choose the best time for your schedule and desired lighting.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can impact the experience, so it’s best to check the forecast before your trip. Tours may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are unsafe, with options for full refunds if needed.

This Chicago RIB boat tour combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and expert storytelling, making it a memorable way to see the city from a different angle. Whether you’re seeking thrill or photo ops, this experience is worth considering for your Chicago adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: