Cruise the Chicago River for 2 hours on a private, self-drive pontoon
2 Hours
Up to 6 people
2-hour cruise, life vests
Take the helm of an 18 ft pontoon and cruise the Chicago River for 2 hours with your private group. Get dockside training before you head out, then relax with your own drinks and snacks onboard.
An additional fuel charge, dock fee, booking fee, and Chicago tax are added at checkout. Driver must have a standard driver’s license. Children under 13 must wear a life vest at all times.
No refunds for any reason. Reschedules for pontoons must be made 48 hours prior to avoid reschedule charges.
Product ID: 335JWZ
Yes. The driver must have a standard driver’s license.
Yes. Dock crew will train you or someone in your group when you arrive.
Life vests are provided. Children under 13 must wear a life vest at all times.
1177 North Elston Ave., Chicago, IL 60642
Pontoon rentals on the Chicago River with genuinely friendly staff and clean, well-maintained boats seem to be the consistent experience here. Reviewers regularly highlight how smooth and beginner-friendly the whole process is, with easy instructions and a crew that keeps things stress-free from start to finish. The location is accessible by metro and has on-site parking, which is a nice bonus for city outings. A few customers have raised concerns about communication when trying to reschedule or handle weather cancellations, which is worth keeping in mind if your plans might need flexibility. That said, the large majority of guests come away raving, many saying they've booked multiple times and keep coming back. For a few hours on the water with sweeping views of the city skyline, this seems like a genuinely fun summer activity for families, friend groups, or anyone looking to see Chicago from a different angle. Just make sure to do a quick equipment check with staff before you head out, and if flexibility matters to your group, it may be worth confirming their change and cancellation policies upfront.
Loved being able to drive the boat without a captain! We left at 8 on a Wednesday and had the perfect amount of time to see the fireworks and get back
Payton Turner
September 2, 2026
Loved being able to drive the boat without a captain! We left at 8 on a Wednesday and had the perfect amount of time to see the fireworks and get back
Payton Turner
September 2, 2026
Meet Farm Animals and Native Wildlife Across Five Acres
Paddle the Chicago River and learn downtown architecture in 3 hours
Cruise Chicago by private 47 ft yacht with space for up to 12 guests
Paddle Chicago's lakefront with skyline views and basic instruction
Taste international dough-based treats while exploring Wynwood’s art district
See Art Institute Masterpieces With an Art Historian