The Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the holiday season. Featuring a 3-course plated gourmet lunch and stunning city views, this 2-hour cruise promises an unforgettable experience. With onboard DJ entertainment, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and a menu highlighting traditional Thanksgiving dishes as well as alternative options, the cruise caters to a variety of tastes. But that’s not all – the outdoor decks provide a comfortable setting for those who wish to indulge in a quick smoke. So, if you’re looking to spice up your Thanksgiving plans, this cruise might just be the perfect solution.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Chicago.
Key Points

• A 2-hour Thanksgiving gourmet lunch cruise on the Chicago River, offering stunning views of the city’s renowned architecture.
• The cruise includes a 3-course plated lunch, onboard DJ entertainment for dancing, and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages.
• Cocktail attire is required, and the staff will cater to specific dietary requirements with advance notice.
• Smoking is permitted only on the outdoor decks, with comfortable seating and complimentary matches and ashtrays available.
• Reservations must be made for the entire party, and the cruise is priced from £107.95 per person.
Overview of Thanksgiving Lunch Cruise

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River is a 2-hour experience that offers an elegant 3-course plated lunch while providing stunning views of the city’s renowned architecture.
Priced from £107.95 per person, the cruise includes onboard DJ entertainment, allowing guests to dance and enjoy the festive ambiance.
The menu features a selection of starters, mains, and a seasonal dessert station, catering to various tastes. While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, the cruise also provides unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
With cocktail attire encouraged, the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise promises an unforgettable celebration on the Chicago River.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Chicago
Cruise Duration and Pricing

Lasting a total of 2 hours, the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River comes priced from £107.95 per person.
This elegant cruise offers a remarkable value, providing guests with a 3-course plated lunch, onboard DJ entertainment, and unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, the cruise’s inclusions make it an affordable and practical option for those seeking a unique Thanksgiving experience.
With its focus on delivering a high-quality meal and entertainment in a picturesque setting, the cruise is an excellent choice for those looking to celebrate the holiday in style without breaking the bank.
Included and Excluded Amenities

The cruise includes a 3-course plated lunch, onboard DJ entertainment, and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages.
However, it excludes alcoholic drinks, which are available for purchase. Gratuities are also not included, so passengers should plan to tip the staff accordingly.
Transportation to and from the departure point isn’t provided, so guests will need to make their own arrangements to get to the cruise location.
The menu features a variety of options, including a traditional turkey dinner, seafood dishes, and vegetarian options. Passengers with dietary restrictions should inform their server.
Highlight of the Lunch Menu

A standout on the lunch menu is the traditional turkey dinner, featuring juicy, roasted turkey breast served with savory stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, and a selection of seasonal vegetables. For those looking for something more adventurous, the pan-roasted cod and braised beef short ribs are also excellent choices. To cap off the meal, guests can indulge in the tempting seasonal dessert station, offering a variety of sweet treats.
| Starter | Main | Dessert |
|---|---|---|
| Beet & baby arugula salad | Turkey dinner | Seasonal dessert station |
| Signature seafood chowder | Pan-roasted cod | – |
| – | Braised beef short ribs | – |
The diverse menu caters to a range of tastes, ensuring there’s something to delight every palate on this Thanksgiving gourmet cruise.
More Great Tours NearbyReservation and Attire Requirements
Reservations must be made for the entire party, as individual bookings aren’t accepted.
Cocktail attire is appropriate for this elegant Thanksgiving lunch cruise. The cruise organizers require all guests to dress up in smart, formal wear. No casual clothing like jeans or t-shirts is allowed. This is a special occasion, so guests should make an effort to look their best.
The staff will welcome you aboard in your finest holiday outfits.
Please inform the server of any food allergies or dietary requirements in advance, as the menu may change.
With these simple guidelines, you can enjoy a worry-free Thanksgiving celebration on the Chicago River.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chicago
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Dietary Restrictions and Substitutions
Guests with any food allergies or dietary requirements should inform the server in advance, as the menu may change. The cruise organizers are happy to accommodate special dietary needs, but need to be notified ahead of time. Guests can expect the kitchen to prepare suitable substitutions if they’ve any restrictions.
For instance, guests who are vegetarian or vegan can request meatless options for the main course, such as the fall vegetable ragu. Those with gluten sensitivities can ask for gluten-free bread or pasta.
The staff will do their best to cater to any specific dietary needs to ensure all guests have an enjoyable dining experience on the Thanksgiving lunch cruise.
Outdoor Deck Smoking Policy

Smoking is permitted only on the outdoor decks of the Thanksgiving lunch cruise, providing guests with designated areas to enjoy a cigarette or cigar during the event. This policy ensures the comfort and enjoyment of all passengers, maintaining a pleasant atmosphere within the indoor dining areas.
To further enhance the outdoor smoking experience, the cruise offers:
- Comfortable seating and tables on the spacious decks, allowing guests to relax and savor the spectacular views of Chicago’s architecture.
- Complimentary matches and ashtrays, ensuring a tidy and responsible smoking environment.
- Attentive staff on hand to address any needs or requests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable cruise experience.
Cruise Details and Highlights

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River typically lasts for 2 hours, allowing guests ample time to savor the elegant 3-course plated lunch and take in the stunning views of the city’s renowned architecture.
The menu offers a delightful selection, from the beet and baby arugula salad to the signature seafood chowder as starters, followed by mains like turkey dinner, pan-roasted cod, and braised beef short ribs. Guests can also indulge in a seasonal dessert station.
Throughout the cruise, a live DJ provides entertainment, giving passengers the opportunity to dance and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, while alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
Recap

The Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise offers a delightful 2-hour experience on the Chicago River.
With a 3-course gourmet lunch, DJ entertainment, and stunning city views, it’s a practical and affordable way to celebrate the holiday.
Reservations are required, and dietary needs are accommodated. Guests can enjoy the outdoor decks, though smoking is permitted.
Overall, it’s a unique and enjoyable Thanksgiving outing.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Chicago
- City Cruises Chicago: Premier Lunch or Dinner Cruise
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- Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
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