History

Since 1935, generations of visitors and Chicagoans alike have made a Wendella Boat Tour a family tradition. Wendella boats, the original boat tour company in Chicago, has provided millions of visitors and commuters with an opportunity to experience the city in a unique way utilizing one of its greatest natural resources – the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

Why Choose Wendella?

We are committed to providing memorable, safe experiences on the waterways. We have recruited and trained a staff of professionals who maintain and operate Wendella's vessels, as well as a dock crew that assist our guests both before and after the tour. It is these people that enable Wendella to provide you with the highest degree of hospitality, safety and professionalism. In Addition, all Wendella vessels are certified annually by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) for passenger safety and all our Captains are USCG Licensed Merchant Marine Officers.

Tours

Combined Lake and River Tour is a comprehensive overview of Chicago, offering breathtaking views of our magnificent skyline and an up-close perspective from the Chicago River. The 90-minute tour features a live narration highlighting Chicago’s rich history and architecture. This tour also passes through the Chicago Lock.

Chicago River Architecture Tour takes you on a 75-minute journey through the heart of the city. Led by an architectural expert, this in-depth tour traces the history, innovations and visionaries that created the finest examples of urban architecture in the world.

Chicago At Sunset Tour is offered at 7:45pm on summer evenings. For two hours, you’ll be treated to what’s been called the world’s most beautiful skyline. The Setting sun gives way to the city’s nightly light show as each building begins to shine. The finale takes place at Buckingham Fountain for the start of the Water and Light Show.

Fireworks Cruise We take you out on the lake for a 90-minute fireworks cruise every Wednesday and Saturday . This tour features the Navy Pier Fireworks with a live narration and views of the Chicago skyline from Lake Michigan.

Location

400 North Michigan Avenue at the Wrigley Building
Our Michigan Avenue Dock is easily reached by car, public transportation and Chicago Water Taxi. The Chicago Water Taxi stops at Michigan Avenue, Clark/LaSalle Street, Madison Street and Chicago Chinatown. Visit www.chicagowatertaxi.com for schedule and ticket information.