What you'll do:

Board a private 62-foot yacht at Burnham Harbor and spend three hours cruising Chicago's river and Lake Michigan with your group, no strangers, no shared decks, just your people and open water.

• Chicago River cruise: Glide past the city's most iconic bridges and architecture on one of Chicago's most photographed waterways, with the skyline rising on both sides of the boat.

• Lake Michigan swimming stop: The captain drops anchor on the lake so your group can swim, float on included water toys, or stretch out on the sun pads while the city stays on the horizon.

• Onboard entertainment: Connect your playlist to the Bluetooth sound system, pull up whatever you want on three flat-screen TVs, and use the onboard grill to cook while you cruise.

• Private cabin and galley space: Two cabins, two bathrooms, and a full galley kitchen give everyone room to change, cool off, store food and drinks, or take a break from the sun.

• Fireworks season evening charters: On select Wednesday and Saturday nights, you can plan your route around Chicago's waterfront fireworks display for a completely different kind of cruise.

Talk through your route with the captain before you depart, and build the day around what your group actually wants. Birthday, bachelorette, corporate outing, or no occasion at all, this charter works for any of it.

Why we love it for your group:

1. Fully private charter: The boat is reserved exclusively for your party, so you're not splitting the deck with anyone else or working around a tour schedule.

2. BYOB and outside food welcome: Bring your own drinks and food at no extra charge, or arrange optional catering in advance if you want to hand off the planning.

3. Water fun included: Floating mats, water toys, and a diving board come with the charter, so there's plenty to do once the anchor goes down.

4. Comfort for hours on the water: Spacious indoor seating, a full kitchen, and two private bathrooms make it easy to spend three hours on the boat without feeling cramped or rushed.

5. Chicago skyline at every angle: Between the river architecture, the open lake, and the city skyline behind you, the backdrop changes constantly and photographs well from anywhere on the deck.

About this experience partner:

Pearl Party Boat runs private yacht charters out of Burnham Harbor in Chicago aboard a 62-foot vessel built for groups of up to 12. The company specializes in private celebrations including birthdays, bachelorette weekends, corporate outings, and family gatherings, with a professional captain and flexible routing on every charter. Each booking is fully private, with premium onboard amenities and itinerary options that include both river and lake time.

Additional information:

- Private charters accommodate up to 12 guests and run approximately three hours.

- Guests may bring their own food and beverages; optional catering packages are available if arranged in advance.

- All departures leave from Burnham Harbor in Chicago.

- Evening fireworks charters are available on select Wednesdays and Saturdays during fireworks season.