Frequently Asked Questions for Chicago’s Premier Boat Rentals - Private Lake Michigan Yacht Charters for Groups Up to 12

Question 1

How many guests are allowed onboard?

Accepted Answer

To ensure compliance with United States Coast Guard (USCG) regulations and bareboat charter laws, our yachts can accommodate a maximum of 12 passengers. Please note that the Captain and Crew hired by the charterer are not considered passengers under these regulations.

Question 2

Is a captain included in the rental price?

Accepted Answer

No, a captain is not included. Per U.S. Coast Guard regulations, our rentals operate as bareboat charters, meaning the charterer (renter) assumes full responsibility for the vessel during the rental period. This includes selecting and hiring a qualified captain from our provided list. The captain must be paid separately, as federal law prohibits us from including a captain in the rental price.

Question 3

How do I hire a captain?

Accepted Answer

After confirming your reservation, you will receive an email with a list of approved USCG-licensed captains familiar with our fleet. Guests must directly contact captains to confirm their availability and hourly rates. You may also provide your own captain, provided they hold the necessary credentials. Per bareboat charter requirements, the charterer retains full authority to hire and dismiss the Captain and Crew.

Question 4

How much do captains charge?

Accepted Answer

Chicago Licensed captains typically charge between $100-$150 per hour, depending on their experience and availability. Gratuity is not included in their rates but is highly recommended at 15%-20% of the captain's total fee. Payments can be made directly to your captain via cash, Venmo, or Zelle.

Question 5

What is a Bareboat Charter?

Accepted Answer

A bareboat charter, as defined by the USCG, is a rental agreement in which the charterer(renter) assumes temporary ownership of the yacht. The charterer is responsible for the vessel, passengers, hiring a captain, and providing any necessary supplies, including food and beverages. The charterer may either operate the vessel themselves(if qualified) or hire a licensed captain.

Question 6

What are the available cruising options?

Accepted Answer

Guests typically choose from three popular options: The Chicago Playpen: Anchor and swim in Chicago's most famous boating spot. Skyline Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing cruise along Lake Michigan, taking in Chicago's breathtaking skyline. Chicago River: Experience the beauty of the Chicago River's iconic architecture.

Question 7

Are boat tie-ups allowed?

Accepted Answer

For safety and compliance reasons, we do not permit tie-ups during charters. Connecting multiple boats can unintentionally violate bareboat charter regulations by exceeding the 12 passenger limit, potentially leading to legal and safety issues.

Question 8

Can we bring our own food and beverages?

Accepted Answer

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and alcoholic beverages. However, we do not permit red wine, colored juices, or staining foods to prevent damage to the yacht's interior.

Question 9

Are there coolers or refrigerators on board?

Accepted Answer

All of our yachts are equipped with either a cooler or refrigerator for guest use.

Question 10

Can we play our own music?

Accepted Answer

Our yachts are equipped with built -in Bluetooth speakers, allowing you to play your preferred playlist for an enhanced experience.

Question 11

Are guests allowed to swim?

Accepted Answer

Once the yacht is anchored, guests are permitted to swim in designated areas. Each yacht is equipped with a minimum of 14 U.S. Coast Guard - approved life jackets for safety.

Question 12

Do you provide floating devices?

Accepted Answer

We offer lily pads as an add - on option for guests who want to relax on the water.

Question 13

Can we cruise down the Chicago River?

Accepted Answer

Guests may cruise the Chicago River, but all vessels must pass through the Chicago Locks, which may take up to an hour each way. This can significantly reduce your charter time if you go on a high - traffic day. To ensure a smooth experience, please notify us and your hired captain in advance. Please note, we do not offer Chicago River cruises on Saturdays due to high boat traffic.

Question 14

Are infants and children allowed on board?

Accepted Answer

We allow children on board. Please note that they do count toward the total capacity, and children 13 years old or younger must wear a life jacket at all times. We encourage parents to bring infant - sized or appropriately fitted life jackets; if you would like to use ours, please let us know beforehand so we can have them ready.

Question 15

Where are your yachts docked?

Accepted Answer

All of our vessels are docked at Diversey Harbor, with both pickup and drop off at the same location. The harbor's address is: 2601 N Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614.

Question 16

Is parking available at Diversey Harbor?

Accepted Answer

Street parking is available along Cannon Drive; however, it can be limited on weekends, holidays, and during major events. We highly recommend utilizing rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft to avoid parking challenges. For the most accurate drop-off location, set your destination to "Diversey Harbor" or "2601 N Cannon Drive." A designated rideshare drop-off area is conveniently located near the harbor entrance.

Question 17

When should guests arrive?

Accepted Answer

We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for parking, walking to the dock, checking in, and getting settled. On holidays or peak summer weekends, guests should plan to arrive at least 45 minutes in advance to accommodate potential traffic or parking delays.

Question 18

What is your weather policy?

Accepted Answer

Safety is our top priority. On the day of your charter, our team will assess weather conditions. Uncharterable weather conditions are typically the result of(but are not limited to) heavy storms, waves forecasted over 4 + feet, small craft advisory warnings, gale storms, and strong winds. Light rain and passing storms are typically considered safe. In the case of unsafe weather, we will work with you to reschedule your charter to a future date.

Question 19

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Full Refund: Cancellations made 5 days before the booking date. 50% Refund: Cancellations made 2 - 5 days before the booking date. No Refunds: Cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled charter.

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