Skyline Lake Cruise Tours of Chicago

Great views from a Great Lake

Cruise along Lake Michigan

Take in the stunning sights of Chicago’s skyline during a scenic boat tour on Lake Michigan. It’s a view of the city like you’ve never seen it before! Our Skyline Lake Tour is a popular Chicago skyline boat tour that departs daily from Navy Pier spring through autumn, weather permitting.

Enjoy 30 minutes of skyline views from the open water. This relaxed Lake Michigan boat tour is a great option for Chicago locals and visitors looking for an easy, memorable way to experience the city and one of the most accessible things to do in Chicago.

Cruises departing prior to 5:00 PM feature recorded narration highlighting the city’s skyline. In the month of December, our 5:00, 6:00, and 7:00 PM tours feature holiday music and a complimentary hot chocolate.

Tickets

Skyline Lake Cruise

Adults starting at

$32⁵⁰

Shoreline Sightseeing booth at Grand Avenue Navy Pier dock

All aboard

Casting off

Our Skyline Lake Tour departs from our Navy Pier dock at 600 E. Grand Ave.

Once onboard, you’ll head out onto Lake Michigan for a smooth, scenic cruise with wide open views of Chicago’s skyline, famous skyscrapers, and waterfront landmarks. This Chicago skyline boat tour offers a relaxing way to see the city from the water.

Route

Our Skyline Lake Cruise travels both north and south along Lake Michigan, offering classic skyline views from multiple angles. From the water, you’ll see many of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks and enjoy a memorable Lake Michigan boat tour experience.

Price:

Adults: $32.50

Children (3-12): $11.50

Children 2 and under: Free

Tour highlights:

30-minute boat cruise with recorded narration presented in two sections
View iconic landmarks including the Willis Tower, 875 N. Michigan (the former John Hancock Building), Aqua Tower, and The St. Regis Chicago (Vista Tower)
Unique skyline views only visible from Lake Michigan
Learn about Chicago’s buildings and how the city developed its famous skyline
Cruises departing prior to 5:00 PM feature recorded narration of the city’s skyline. In the month of December, our 5:00, 6:00, and 7:00 PM tours will feature holiday music and a complimentary hot chocolate.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Our Chicago Skyline Boat Tour

What is a Chicago skyline boat tour?

A Chicago skyline boat tour is a sightseeing cruise on Lake Michigan that offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline from the water. Our Skyline Lake Cruise provides a relaxed way to enjoy Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks.

How long is the Lake Michigan boat tour?

The Skyline Lake Cruise lasts approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy Lake Michigan boat tour option for visitors who want to fit a scenic cruise into their day.

Is the skyline boat tour narrated?

Yes. Cruises departing before 5:00 PM feature recorded narration that highlights Chicago’s skyline, landmarks, and architectural history. Select evening cruises in December feature holiday music and complimentary hot chocolate.

Where does the skyline cruise depart from?

The Chicago skyline boat tour departs from Navy Pier at 600 E. Grand Ave, a central and convenient location for both visitors and locals.

How much does the Chicago skyline boat tour cost?

Adult tickets are $32.50, children ages 3-12 are $11.50, and children 2 and under ride free. Pricing reflects a 30-minute sightseeing cruise on Lake Michigan with skyline views.

Is this a good thing to do in Chicago for first-time visitors?

Yes. A Chicago skyline boat tour is one of the most popular things to do in Chicago, especially for first-time visitors looking for iconic views and a relaxing experience on the water.