About CHICAGO FIREBOAT TOURS

FOUNDED IN 2019, Chicago Fireboat Tours is a Veteran owned AND OPERATED BUSINESS. We conduct historical & ARCHITECTURAL tours, cruises AND private CHARTERS ON Lake Michigan AND THE CHICAGO RIVER. our flagship vessel is the fred A. busse, A retired fireboat THAT SERVED THE CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT FOR 44 YEARS, FROM 1937 UNTIL 1981.

Although there are other tour boats in Chicago, ours stands out because you’re riding on an actual piece of Chicago History. Read more about the boat’s 44 years in service on our History page.

Throughout her tenure with the Fire Department, Engine 41 was involved in many emergency response situations, assisting with some major fires in Chicago’s history. Upon retirement, the Busse did tours in Chicago for a while, then found it’s way up to Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin until 2018. Now Engine 41 is back and better than ever, in her original homeport of Chicago.

CRUISE ON AN ACTUAL PIECE OF CHICAGO HISTORY

Our historical & architectural tours take guests from our dock in DuSable Harbor, through the Chicago locks onto the Chicago river, navigating the same waterways where our vessel once fought fires and provided emergency assistance. Expert tour guides highlight Chicago’s world famous architecture, the maritime history that helped shape the city into what it has become today, plus unique historical facts about fires our boat fought decades ago.

In addition to our guided architectural and historical river tours, we offer one of the most unique venues in Chicago for a private charter or special event. Whether it’s a gathering for a special occasion with family or friends or a corporate event, our boat can accommodate up to 110 people and provide your guests with an unforgettable experience in Chicago.

For more info on booking a private charter, you can contact us at events@fireboattours.com, call us at (312) 919-3367 or fill out our online contact form.