Summer Breeze. Cold Beer. Dusk and the lights of the city on the Chicago River.
It doesn’t get any better.
Chicago is a beautiful city no matter how you slice it: strolling along Michigan Avenue, playing at the beach on Lake Michigan, gazing at the architectural marvels in the Loop, or taking a boat ride on the Chicago River through the heart of it all. Last summer, you may recall, I had the opportunity to really get to know the Chicago River when I won a night at the Michigan Avenue Bridgehouse Museum. I’m back for more this summer and enjoying a peaceful ride along the river in an electric boat – not only fun, but great for the environment too.
Video
If you have any trouble seeing the video above, please click here.
Electric Boats Chicago
The Chicago Electric Boat Company was founded by two avid mariners, Ron Silvia and Greg Krueger, who were looking to make a social and environmental impact on Chicago’s waterways. Their goal is to encourage boating in a recreational and green way so customers can enjoy the amazing ‘backyard’ of the city. The cool part? You and your friends can rent the boat yourselves and you can be your own captain – no experience necessary. Driving one of these boats is as easy as driving a golf cart. They max out at speeds of 7mph, but it still feels like you are cruising along. While you can bring your own food and drink onboard, they also provide a catering service from local restaurants.
Cost
- Boats start at $150/hour – not bad if you bring a group along and everyone chips in. There is a 2-hour minimum after 5pm on weekends.
- If you don’t want to pilot yourself, you can hire a captain to come along for $60/hour
- And if you want your own private tour guide, they’ve got that too: $55/hour
Overall, a great idea for a fun night with friends, visitors, or a super romantic date!
For more info:
Chicago Electric Boat Company
300 N State Street (right under the House of Blues!) Marina Level – Unit EE
Chicago, IL 60654 312.644.6411
rentme@chicagoelectricboats.com
Disclosure: I was invited as a guest of CEBC, but as always all opinions are my own.
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Lisa, you really know how to highlight Chicago! I’ve lived here almost all my life and you almost convince a person to stay. ;0)
Thanks for watching Sharon! I also will convince you to travel…as long as you come back! Well, eventually. Chicago is a great city to come back to.
Really great video. You really captured the beauty of sailing through Chicago at night. I haven’t been to the Windy City since I was a young girl so I’m long overdue for a trip!
Happy travels 🙂
Thanks Lauren! IT’s such a gorgeous city. I never tire of it.
So sad I didn’t do this when I was in Chicago, but it was too cold!
Next time Andi! And let me know…so we can hang out!
Being on the water is really one of the best ways to experience all of Chicago’s stunning architecture. Loved the video!
Thanks Reena!
What a wonderful way to see Chicago from a different perspective! I am curious to learn more about the boats themselves and of course am thrilled to hear that they are a “green”-er alternative.
Oh Chicago. I do hope I can visit the place soon and also try the boat ride.
Thanks Kristy! It’s a great city!! Come visit.