Chicago: Lake and River Tour on a RIB Boat

If you’re looking for a way to see the Chicago skyline from a fresh perspective, this Lake and River Tour on a RIB boat offers an adrenaline-infused yet informative experience. Hosted by Blackhawk Boat Tours, this 2-hour adventure combines the thrill of riding on a decommissioned U.S. Navy tactical RIB with the chance to learn about Chicago’s architecture and history from a knowledgeable guide.

What we really love about this tour is how it provides a balanced mix of excitement and education—you get to feel the rush of the water while listening to stories about Chicago’s iconic buildings and past. Plus, the stunning photo opportunities both on the river and on Lake Michigan make it a trip worth considering. That said, because it’s a boat tour with some speed involved, those prone to seasickness or expecting a very relaxed cruise may want to consider other options.

This adventure is best suited for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing, want a small-group experience, and love capturing memorable views. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see Chicago from a different angle — especially if you’re looking to mix a bit of thrill into your sightseeing.

Key Points

• Unique vessel: A decommissioned U.S. Navy tactical RIB adds an element of excitement.
• Stunning visuals: See the Chicago skyline from Lake Michigan and the river, ideal for photos.
• Expert guide: A Coast Guard licensed captain shares fascinating insights into Chicago’s architecture and history.
• Short & sweet: 2-hour duration fits well into a busy sightseeing day.
• Small group: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexibility: Multiple departure times in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chicago Lake and River Tour

The Vessel and Its Appeal

RIB stands for Rigid Inflatable Boat, a sturdy and seaworthy craft used by the Navy, which adds a layer of excitement for most travelers. It’s not your typical sightseeing boat. Instead, we found that cruising on this military-grade craft offers a fast-paced and aligned-for-adventure experience. The boat is fully seaworthy, and being a decommissioned Navy vessel, it looks the part—sleek, powerful, and ready to hit the water.

The Itinerary and Sights

The tour begins at Diversey Harbor, a well-located starting point that’s easy to reach and provides a scenic backdrop for boarding. Once aboard, your captain, who is licensed by the Coast Guard, will take you out into Lake Michigan for a scenic view of Chicago’s famous skyline. You’ll cruise along the waterfront, getting to see the city’s towering skyscrapers from the water — an experience vastly different from walking along the shore.

After Lake Michigan, the boat navigates into the Chicago River, passing through its Locks. These locks are engineering marvels that allow boats to move between different water levels, and watching or learning about them adds a bit of practical interest. As you cruise the river, your guide will share stories about Chicago’s history, architecture, and development.

What Makes This Tour Special

What sets this tour apart is the combination of speed and storytelling. The boat moves at a leisurely pace on the river to give ample time for sightseeing and photography, yet the overall experience has a thrill factor that many traditional city cruises lack. The views of the Chicago skyline from Lake Michigan are unparalleled, especially at sunset or evening tours, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

Throughout the trip, the guide points out key architectural landmarks and shares interesting tidbits that make the city’s history come alive. We loved the way the guide’s commentary made us appreciate the buildings and the river’s role in Chicago’s growth. The reviews echo this sentiment; Adrian from Germany mentioned, “You get the complete experience – action on the lake and sightseeing on the river.”

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Photo Opportunities Galore

Photographers or social media lovers will find this tour a treasure trove. From the boat’s vantage point, you can capture the iconic Chicago skyline with its famous skyscrapers, and within the river, you’ll find great angles of bridges, historic buildings, and even the Locks’ machinery. Many guests have told us that the photos they took on this tour are among their favorites from their trip.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at $85 per person, this tour offers good value considering the unique vessel, guided commentary, and the opportunity to see some of Chicago’s best sights from the water. It’s a cost-effective way to combine a sightseeing cruise with a bit of adventure. Remember, it’s a small-group experience, limited to 7 guests, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

The tour lasts 110 minutes—a manageable length that fits well between other sightseeing plans or as a standalone activity. The flexibility of multiple departure times allows you to choose when to fit this into your day, whether morning, afternoon, or evening.

What to Bring and What to Expect

To make the most of your trip, bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suited for the weather. Since the boat is open, be prepared for sun or wind, especially on Lake Michigan. It’s important to arrive 15 minutes early at Diversy Harbor Dock A, so you’re ready to go on time.

The experience is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those prone to seasickness, given the boat’s speed and open water elements. Smoking isn’t allowed onboard, which keeps the environment comfortable for everyone.

Weather and Safety

Weather plays a key role in the comfort and safety of the trip. We recommend checking the forecast and dressing accordingly. If it’s a warm day, lightweight clothing and sun protection will make the experience more enjoyable. For cooler days, layers are advisable, especially if the wind picks up on Lake Michigan.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a standard boat cruise. If you find the idea of riding on a vessel with a military past exciting, or if you’re eager to capture dramatic photos of Chicago’s skyline and river architecture, this is a strong choice. The small group size makes it perfect for those who prefer more intimate experiences, and the guided commentary guarantees you’ll learn something along the way.

It’s especially attractive to those who enjoy a mix of thrill and culture—a quick-paced ride that still offers plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and education. Families with older children, couples, or solo explorers looking for a memorable adventure will find this tour engaging.

Who Should Skip This Tour

If you’re pregnant, have back issues, or are sensitive to motion sickness, this high-speed vessel might not be ideal. Also, those seeking a slow, relaxed cruise with extensive lounging might prefer traditional boat tours.

Final Thoughts

This Chicago Lake and River tour on a RIB boat offers a unique blend of adventure, sightseeing, and education. The vessel’s military origins add an element of novelty, while the guided storytelling makes it informative without feeling like a lecture. The views of Chicago’s skyline from both the lake and river provide excellent photo opportunities, making this a worthwhile addition to any itinerary.

The value for money is clear, given the vessel’s exclusivity and the personalized attention in a small group. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager for speed or a curious traveler wanting to understand Chicago’s architecture better, this tour hits the mark.

While not suitable for everyone, especially those sensitive to water or motion, it’s a fantastic choice for most visitors wanting a fun, memorable, and visually stunning experience on their Chicago trip.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 110 minutes, giving enough time to see the sights and enjoy the ride without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Diversy Harbor, 2601 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614, at Dock A.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price covers the 2-hour narrated tour by a Coast Guard licensed operator and photo opportunities with the skyline and river sights.

Are drinks or food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring your own water or snacks if needed.

Is there a specific dress code?
Comfortable clothes suitable for weather conditions; don’t forget sunscreen and possibly a hat or sunglasses.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later — flexibility offered to fit your travel plans.

How many people are on each tour?
Small groups are limited to 7 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly stated, the tour is generally suitable for older children who can handle the boat’s speed and open water.

What if the weather is bad?
Check the forecast before your trip. Tours may be canceled or rescheduled in case of severe weather for safety reasons.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The provided information doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s best to contact the provider directly for specific needs.

To sum it up, the Chicago Lake and River Tour on a RIB boat offers a distinctive way to see this vibrant city’s skyline and architecture from the water. With a knowledgeable guide, a fast-paced vessel, and ample photo moments, it’s a memorable experience that balances excitement with insightful commentary. Perfect for those craving a bit of adventure alongside their sightseeing, it’s a solid choice for a unique Chicago adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: