Spending Thanksgiving overlooking the stunning Chicago skyline while indulging in a gourmet 3-course lunch may sound like a dream scenario. The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan promises just that – an unforgettable holiday celebration with breathtaking views, a delectable menu, and lively onboard entertainment. From the roasted turkey to the pumpkin pie, this 2-hour cruise caters to various dietary needs, ensuring a stress-free and elevated Thanksgiving experience for all. With limited availability, those seeking an unconventional yet memorable way to celebrate the holiday won’t want to miss out on this unique opportunity.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Chicago.
Key Points

- A 2-hour Thanksgiving lunch cruise on Lake Michigan offering a 3-course plated menu and showcasing stunning views of the Chicago skyline and architecture.
- Includes onboard DJ entertainment, unlimited coffee and tea, and the option to purchase alcoholic beverages, with cocktail attire required.
- Thanksgiving menu features an autumn salad, roasted turkey dinner with traditional sides, and pumpkin pie for dessert.
- Cruise departs from Navy Pier and accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dietary requests, with 0-2 year olds cruising for free.
- Non-refundable cancellation policy in place, with smoking allowed only on outdoor decks for a stress-free holiday experience.
Thanksgiving Lunch Cruise Details

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan offers a celebratory 3-course plated lunch with all the trimmings during a 2-hour cruise showcasing views of Chicago’s skyline and architecture.
Guests will enjoy onboard DJ entertainment as they indulge in unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea. The cruise includes a service fee, but alcoholic drinks are available for purchase separately.
Guests are required to wear cocktail attire, and the menu is subject to change. While all interior areas are non-smoking, smoking is permitted on the outdoor decks.
Infants aged 0-2 can attend the cruise for free.
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Chicago
Three-Course Plated Menu

On the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise, guests can look forward to a celebratory three-course plated menu featuring all the traditional holiday trimmings. To start, diners will enjoy a hearty Autumn Salad with mixed greens, roasted pumpkin, cranberries, and a maple vinaigrette. The main course is a classic Roasted Turkey Dinner, complete with sage stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and homemade cranberry sauce. For dessert, guests can indulge in a rich Pumpkin Pie with a dollop of whipped cream.
| Appetizer | Entree | Dessert |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn Salad | Roasted Turkey Dinner | Pumpkin Pie |
| mixed greens, roasted pumpkin, cranberries, maple vinaigrette | turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce | with whipped cream |
Onboard Entertainment and Amenities

Guests on the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise can enjoy onboard entertainment provided by a DJ, who keeps the mood festive with a curated playlist.
Complimentary coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are served throughout the 2-hour cruise, while alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
The cruise offers breathtaking views of Chicago’s iconic skyline and architecture, providing a picturesque backdrop for the celebratory event.
The service fee is included in the price, ensuring a stress-free experience for attendees.
With the combination of delicious cuisine, live entertainment, and stunning scenery, the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan promises an unforgettable holiday celebration on the waters of Chicago.
Breathtaking City Skyline Views
As guests step aboard the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise, they’re treated to breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago’s iconic skyline and striking architecture. The cruise offers an unparalleled vantage point to admire:
- The majestic Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, towering over the city skyline.
- The sleek, modern lines of the Aon Center and Prudential Plaza.
The historic Chicago Board of Trade Building with its distinctive art deco design.
The shimmering waters of Lake Michigan, providing a serene backdrop to the urban landscape.
This unique perspective allows guests to fully appreciate the grandeur and beauty of the Windy City during their Thanksgiving gourmet lunch cruise experience.
More Great Tours NearbyPricing and Availability Information

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan is priced at $116.04 per person and requires checking availability for start times. This celebratory 3-course plated lunch with all the trimmings takes place during a 2-hour cruise offering views of Chicago’s iconic skyline and architecture.
| Pricing | Availability | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| From $116.04 per person | Check schedules | 3-course plated lunch Onboard DJ entertainment Unlimited coffee, hot/iced tea Service fee |
While alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Guests are advised to dress in cocktail attire, as the interior areas are non-smoking (smoking allowed on outdoor decks).
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chicago
- Chicago: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise
- Chicago: Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Cruise
- Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Chicago: Lake Michigan Gourmet Brunch/Lunch/Dinner Cruise
- Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Learn To Make Mole The Real Mexican Way Before Lunch
Cancellation and Dress Code

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan has a non-refundable cancellation policy, and the required dress code is cocktail attire. This means that once you’ve booked your spot, there are no refunds available, even if your plans change.
As for the dress code, guests are expected to come dressed in their finest cocktail wear, which could include:
- Suit and tie for gentlemen
- Dresses or dressy separates for ladies
- Stylish shoes
- Accessories that add a touch of elegance
This upscale event calls for an elevated look, so guests should plan their outfits accordingly to make the most of the celebratory atmosphere and stunning views of Chicago’s skyline.
Dietary Considerations and Restrictions
Accommodating various dietary needs, the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan provides options for guests with special dietary requirements.
The 3-course plated lunch can be customized to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requests. Guests should inform the cruise line of any dietary restrictions when making their reservation to ensure the proper meal is prepared.
The cruise line’s culinary team takes pride in creating delicious and visually appealing alternative dishes that don’t compromise on flavor. This attention to detail ensures that all guests can fully enjoy the Thanksgiving feast while taking in the stunning views of Chicago’s skyline and architecture.
Additional Cruise Particulars

Departing from Navy Pier, the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan offers guests a leisurely 2-hour tour highlighting the city’s stunning architecture and skyline.
Onboard, a DJ provides entertainment as patrons indulge in the 3-course plated lunch, complemented by unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea.
The cruise features a non-smoking interior, with smoking allowed on the outdoor decks. Guests are advised to dress in cocktail attire, as the menu is subject to change.
While alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, infants aged 0-2 are free of charge, making this an enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Recap

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan offers an unforgettable holiday experience.
With a delectable three-course plated menu, DJ entertainment, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline, this cruise provides an elevated and stress-free celebration.
Catering to various dietary needs, the cruise promises an exceptional Thanksgiving experience on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Chicago
- City Cruises Chicago: Premier Lunch or Dinner Cruise
- City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Lunch or Dinner Cruise
- City Cruises Chicago: Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner River Cruise
- Chicago River Architectural Lunch Cruise
- Learn To Make Mole The Real Mexican Way Before Lunch
- Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Chicago
- Private Sailing on Beautiful Lake Michigan – Navy Pier, Chicago
- Private Chicago Boat Rental – Explore Chicago’s Skyline
- Chicago: Shoreline Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise
- Sail on Tall Ship Windy, join us for our “Chicago Skyline Sail”
- Chicago Night Driving Tour with Skydeck and River Cruise
- Chicago Private Rental Yacht Charter
More Tour Reviews in Chicago
- Chicago History and Architecture Walking Tour
- Exclusive Sushi-Making Class in Chicago (Includes 3-Course Meal)
- Vito’s Vault Chicago finest dinner theatre speakeasy
- Chicago: Architecture and Engineering Marvels Walking Tour
- Private Sailing on Beautiful Lake Michigan – Navy Pier, Chicago
- Bike Tour in Chicago
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Chicago we have reviewed
- Chicago History and Architecture Walking Tour
- Exclusive Sushi-Making Class in Chicago (Includes 3-Course Meal)
- Vito’s Vault Chicago finest dinner theatre speakeasy
- Chicago: Architecture and Engineering Marvels Walking Tour
- Private Sailing on Beautiful Lake Michigan – Navy Pier, Chicago
- Bike Tour in Chicago
- Chicago’s Original Gangster Tour by Bus
- Chicago: Field Museum of Natural History Ticket or VIP Tour
- Love is in the Windy City – Chicago Private Walking Tour
- Self Guided Scavenger Hunt Lincoln Park Zoo per Scavenger Hunt
- Private Chicago Scavenger Hunts City Adventure
- Chicago: Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery
