Chicago River & Lakefront Boat Tours
On a Vintage 1937 Fireboat
Chicago’s Award-Winning Experience Designed for Your Next Team Outing
Treat your team to a unique experience unlike anything they’ve done before. Step aboard a restored 1937 fireboat for a private ride on Lake Michigan, then through the Chicago River. Every detail is covered, including food, drinks, and onboard entertainment for groups of 20 to 125.
As Seen On
Every Option Feels Overdone or Overpriced
You’ve already looked at private yachts. They’re massive, expensive, and built more for flashy parties than team connection. You’ve checked restaurants and rooftops too but nothing feels fresh or easy to pull off.
Your team doesn’t want to:
- Sit through another overpriced dinner with office small talk and no energy
- Squeeze into a packed bar that feels like every other Thursday
- Be told a Cubs game is a “team building” activity
Over 400 Five Star Google Reviews
moonie 8/08/2026
Beautiful Informative Cruise This was a great 2-hour cruise which included the Chicago River, the river locks and Lake Michigan. Staff was friendly, organized and helpful. They explained the boat layout and assisted people with boarding as needed. We left the pier on time. Boat was full but did not seem overly crowded. Seating was open or covered - your choice. Cliff, our narrator, was outstanding. His presentation combined in-depth knowledge with genuineness of delivery. Not boring or rote. The cruise covered history, maritime info and architecture. As a lifelong Chicagoan, I thought I knew a bit about landmarks and past events along the route, but I learned a lot! read moreread less
M J. 8/07/2026
Fun, different Chicago boat tour! Had a great tour with the fireboat crew. We've been on the Wendella Architecture Tours, which are excellent. This one is fun because we actually went through the locks, twice. We heard different stories about different buildings and learned new historical facts about Chicago. Nice bar on the boat, too. Definitely recommend!!! read moreread less
Ashley N. 8/06/2026
Best Tour of Chicago Absolutely wonderful tour all around. The boat is amazing and the crew was fantastic. We learned so much about the area and history, with lots of laughs from the amazing Cliff. Magic Manny the bartender quenched our thirst the entire time. Great seating options with sun and shade, and plenty of space to walk around the boat. It was our first time to Chicago so we highly recommend this tour to get a great view of the city and learn about the architecture of the amazing city. We loved going thru the lock and river, as well as getting the skyline view from Lake Michigan. 10/10!! Read more about - Historical and Architectural Chicago Fireboat River & Lake Cruise - https://www.viator.com/tours/Chicago/Historical-and-Architectural-Chicago-Fireboat-River-Cruise-F-Sun/d673-447367P1?m=65553&nid=VR.64886b75-af2c-4a61-a47c-82bcdb6c64f9.VT_EMAIL_TRV?mcid=56757 read moreread less
Matt K. 8/05/2026How can this be anything OTHER than 5 stars???Wonderful tour of the harbor and Chicago river, replete with anecdotes told by an engaging and funny host/tour guide. Plenty of seating on board, it never felt crowded.We enjoyed every minute and this is a MUST DO in Chicago!read moreread less
Ryan M. 8/05/2026
A must ! If you’re into history, water, and architecture, this tour is for you! Pro tip: arrive early to get a spot at the front of the line so you get prime seating instead of being squished. The guide was knowledgeable, the views were gorgeous, and the whole experience was an absolute 10/10! read moreread less
Colleen K. 8/03/2026
Amazing way to see the city This was an amazing tour and the perfect way for us to end our trip to Chicago! The guide was a great storyteller and we learned a lot about the history of Chicago. It was so cool to see the city from the river. Highly recommend! 10/10 read moreread less
Jean041468 8/03/2026
Great way to see Chicago! Excellent way to spend an afternoon in Chicago. We thoroughly enjoyed our guide, Cliff. He was very knowledgeable but made the tour interesting with his delivery and the stories he told. The boat was also perfect. It was relatively small compared to some of the boat tours in the city. We only had about 15-20 people on the boat. We all had seats but could stand up to get a better view or walk around very easily. We would definitely recommend this activity for anyone coming to the windy city. read moreread less
Elk B. 8/01/2026
Personalized experience on a historical vessel Uncrowded vs the “cattle boat” tour experience and so cool to be on a historical vessel that is part of Chicago history. Highly recommend. Great bar service and conversations with the crew. Support our veterans and choose this tour! read moreread less
Host Your Team’s Outing on the Chicago River
Everything is handled in advance, from the food menu and bar, to onboard setup that supports team presentations. You’ll have one point of contact, a smooth planning process, and an experience your group will actually be excited about. It’s easy to book, easy to get to, and makes you look like a pro.
Meet at the Dock
Board directly from our conveniently located dock in DuSable Harbor, your team can arrive easily and skip usual marina logistics.
Cruise on a piece of Chicago history
Enjoy skyline views, cold drinks from the onboard bar, and a boat that’s entirely yours.
Be the Office Hero
Walk away knowing you nailed it. It’s not easy to surprise people in this city, but you just did.
A Standout Experience That’s Easy to Book
We’ve hosted hundreds of corporate groups right here on the fireboat. You get one clear price, a central location, and a setup that takes the pressure off your plate.
- Outings range from 2 to 3 hours dock to dock
- Menu, drinks, and onboard setup included
- Flexible space for socializing, presentations, or just enjoying the ride
- Fully covered in case of rain, open-air when the weather’s right
- Convenient location on Chicago’s Lakefront
Starting at $3,600 for your group of 60
Frequently Asked Questions
What if it rains?
The boat is fully covered and enclosed, so your group stays dry and comfortable no matter the weather.
Do we have to meet somewhere far out of the way?
Centrally located between the Museum Campus and Navy Pier, it’s easy to find and a short walk off the Riverwalk. Plenty of parking available and convenient bus drop offs.
Is it going to feel too stuffy or too casual?
Neither. The setup strikes the perfect balance—laid back enough to enjoy, elevated enough to impress.
Is the boat shared with other groups?
No. When you book, the entire vessel is reserved exclusively for your team.
Can we have a custom drink or menu request?
Yes. We regularly accommodate special requests and work with you to get the details right.
Can someone speak or give a short presentation on board?
Absolutely. We’ll have space and onboard setup ready if you want to share a few words with your team.
I Didn’t Set Out to Do This, But I’m Glad I Did
I started my career in insurance, but I’ve always felt drawn to the water. After getting my captain’s license, I came back to Chicago and met Ray (also a Navy vet) on the dock.
And it was just, one of those moments. Everything seemed to click and we’ve been running this fireboat together ever since.
What makes this special for us isn’t just the boat or the views. It really is the people.
We get to host teams, hear their stories, give them a break from the usual and share this gorgeous city with them.
And this year, I’d love the chance to welcome yours aboard.
Erich Totsch
Co-Founder, Team Outings Coordinator
Chicago Fireboat Tours
Don’t Wait Until Dates Fill Up
Prime time for team outings (especially Thursdays and Fridays) books fast. Even if you’re still finalizing numbers, starting the conversation now gives you options later. We’ll hold space, answer questions, and make it easy to lock in something great.