About this Experience
What you'll do:
Step aboard Just Be, a 40’ Gemini Freestyle sailing catamaran, and enjoy one of Chicago’s most unique private boat experiences on Lake Michigan. Departing from either Monroe Harbor or 31st Street Harbor, your group will sail along the iconic Chicago skyline with wide-open views you simply can’t get from land.
From there, your experience is yours to create. Cruise past the city skyline, relax on open water, or drop anchor in the Playpen and soak in the summer energy. Whether you're celebrating a bachelor or bachelorette party, hosting a family outing, or just enjoying a day on the lake, this private sailing charter delivers a laid-back, elevated vibe.
Just Be is designed for comfort and connection—featuring a spacious layout, hardtop with shaded skylight (bimini), cushioned foredeck for lounging, and a unique rear hanging chair right over the water. With our Bluetooth sound system, onboard bathroom, and Yeti cooler, just BYOB, and you have everything you need for a perfect day on the lake.
Why we love it for your party:
Just Be gives your group the perfect mix of comfort and fun without ever feeling crowded.
With a Bluetooth sound system for your playlist, a large Yeti cooler for your drinks, and an onboard restroom for convenience, everything you need for a smooth, stress-free day on the water is already built in.
About this experience partner:
BYOB — bring your own food and beverages (Catering options available)
Onboard Yeti cooler available
Amenities:
Bluetooth sound system
Onboard bathroom
Shaded seating area (hardtop)
Cushioned lounging areas
Over-the-water hanging chair
Additional information:
Up to 7 passengers (private charter with captain included)
8–13 passengers (bareboat charter arranged separately)
Pricing:
Private charters (up to 7 guests): $450/hour (2-hour minimum, captain included)
Bareboat charters (8–13 guests): $550/hour
Discount packages available for frequent bookings
Captain:
Included for private charters (up to 7 guests)
Required for bareboat charters (arranged separately) Chicago captains charge between $125 and $150 per hour.
Weather Policy:
Safety is the top priority. Charters may be rescheduled in the event of unsafe conditions such as strong winds, high waves, or storms. Plus, we can always party at the dock!
Book This Experience
Visit the experience booking site to check availability and book your experience.
LocationChicago, IL
111 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, USAChicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do we depart from??
We have two locations during the summer 31st Street Marina F Dock and Monroe Harbor just south from the Columbia Yacht Club. We can recommend parking lots and Rideshare drop off points.
Where do we sail?
Your captain will set a course based on your preferences and the conditions of the day. Sometimes the wind and waves will be ideal for cruising up and down the shoreline, and other times straight away from shore. Whatever the conditions of the day, our experienced captains know our vessels and the behavior of the lake, and will take the proper course to provide you with the best sail for the conditions.
Is there a Captain onboard?
Yes, there is always a Captain onboard to sail the boat. Recreational/Bareboat charters are a situation where a Captain is hired by the charterer from a list of pre-vetted captains.
When should we arrive for our sail?
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before your sail time. Your Captain will meet you there about 5-10 minutes before your sail to do a boat inspection and to go over Safety Equipment with the Charterer. If you can, we strongly suggest arriving earlier in case you hit any delays along the way. If you arrive early, please let your Captain know you are there, and if possible, you can begin your sail early after the Safety Briefing.
Can we smoke onboard?
Under maritime law, it's illegal to possess and use marijuana on boats. This includes cannabis for recreational and medical use whether in vapes, edibles or drinks. USCG and CPD patrol the water and fines are steep.
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What about sea-sickness?
We find it uncommon except in people who are prone to motion sickness. If you are worried about it, you may want to take one of the over-the-counter medications (please read the directions) WELL BEFORE sailing. You must take it well before your sail to be effective. Staying hydrated and looking at the horizon are ways to minimize seasickness. If prone, you might want to bring along ginger chews or ginger ale to ease your stomach.
What should we bring with us, and what should we avoid bringing?
The Sun can be powerful, so a hat, sunscreen and a light covering is suggested. The temperature can drop 10 degrees on the lake and it's always easier to remove a jacket than not to have one at all. We advise against bringing balloons as they usually end up in the water. Offenders can face minimum fines of $1,500 for a first offense, jail time up to 6 months, and community service up to 200 hours. See Rules here: https://www.boatus.org/study-guide/environment/laws) We also advise against glitter or self-tanners which can leave permanent stains on vinyl, fabrics and fiberglass. We also advise against carrying firearms. See Illinois Rules here: https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/resources/ccw_reciprocity_map/il-gun-laws/
What is your cancellation policy?
Full refund is available up to 2 weeks prior to the cruise date. Rescheduling is available, due to weather, after the refund period ends, up to 3 hours prior to cruise time.
What if the forecast is for rain or storms?
Cruises are not canceled for rain. Due to the nature of our concrete and steel city, most storms pass thru quickly and at other times it may rain onshore but not on the Lake and vice versa. If poor weather or conditions are forecasted, you have up to 3 hours in advance of your cruise time to reschedule. We will do our best to accommodate your group if poor conditions exist after you arrive at the harbor or during your cruise. The Captain or Charter company reserves the right to reschedule, modify the sail plan or end the cruise portion early for safety reasons including severe weather or heavy seas. Please refer to the cancellation policy if you decide to reschedule.
