Navy Pier Marina is Chicago, Illinois's premier lakefront marina, offering protected slips, stunning skyline views, and easy access to open water.
Navy Pier Marina has long served as the gateway to Lake Michigan for Chicago boaters. The pier itself dates to 1916, and the marina has evolved alongside it into a full-service facility capable of accommodating vessels of varying sizes. Its position on the northern shore of the pier places it within easy reach of the open lake while keeping boats shielded from the worst of the chop.
From the slips, the views are remarkable. The downtown skyline, including the silhouette of Willis Tower, frames every sunset cruise departure, and the panorama of the lakefront stretches south past Monroe Harbor toward the Museum Campus. Sailors and powerboaters alike find the location ideal for day trips up the North Shore or longer passages across the lake.
Ashore, the surrounding area rewards exploration. The energy of Navy Pier is steps away, with dining, entertainment, and the famous Centennial Wheel. The marina also connects boaters to some of the best boat tours on the water, making it a natural hub for anyone who wants to experience Chicago from the lake.
Navy Pier Marina earns its reputation as a landmark berth through a combination of prime location, solid amenities, and the unmatched backdrop of one of America's great lakefront cities.
Visit on a weekday morning to find the docks quieter and lake traffic lighter, making departure and return far more relaxed.
Arrive early on summer weekends if you plan to watch the Friday or Saturday night fireworks from the water, as anchorage spots fill quickly.
Bring sunscreen and polarized sunglasses year-round, since the open lakefront amplifies both glare and wind regardless of season.
Try heading north along the shoreline toward Belmont Harbor for a scenic and relatively uncrowded stretch of Lake Michigan.
Check the National Weather Service marine forecast before casting off, as conditions on Lake Michigan can shift rapidly even on clear days.
Private 3-hour sail to view Navy Pier fireworks with a USCG-certified captain included
Sail Chicago’s lakefront on a private yacht with a captain, swimming and music on board
Private Lake Michigan sailing with swimming, snacks, and a certified captain
Sail Chicago’s lakefront at sunset aboard a private 37-foot yacht
A private sail for proposals, photos, and a champagne toast
Celebrate on a crewed yacht with Chicago skyline views
Celebrate on the water with skyline views, flexible gathering spaces, and a professional crew