Highly recommend! I booked 1st class charters for my sister's bachelorette party and they were incredible! The boat was extremely nice, clean, and fit all 13 of us very comfortably. The instructions for getting to the boat dock were also very clear, and the staff was very kind and made sure we all had a good & safe time. We had to book a captain separately, but 1st class gave us plenty of options and contact info. We booked Captain Brian and he was a perfect fit for our bachelorette party group; friendly and fun, but also took his job seriously so we all felt safe. There was also a first mate who served us drinks and set up all of the food and decorations we brought, which was so unexpected but greatly appreciated! First class was easy to contact and made the booking process very easy. The entire experience was very special and worth every penny. I would definitely book them again and recommend them to all my friends. They live up to their name! read more

First of all, I'd like to comment on how EASY it was to get to this area of the city from the burbs. The lot we parked in was super close and the walk to the marina was short. We were greeted by both Captain Russell and Captain Brian. Both guys are super friendly and really know a lot about the vessels they navigate. We went out for a three hour trip with Captain Brian- and had the kids with us (13 and 4). He drove us out to a spot where we dropped anchor to swim- they had giant pool noodles (foam- great quality) to use. The boat itself is super clean and really nice- the furniture is comfy- I love that there is a roofed/shaded area if you need to get out of the sun. There are plenty of places to sit, and a nice clean bathroom to use that is well-stocked. We all had such a great time we didn't want to go home! Thank you for helping us create a super fun family memory! We can't wait to come back (maybe just the adults next time! Lol) read more

CTC Destination Management set sail last Thursday, July 6th, 2023, and without a doubt, we had a fantastic experience. No matter the occasion, this boat is built for anything. When first arriving, our team quickly found Captain Russell due to the docking location being super accessible. Additionally, the boat had Bluetooth so we could play our jams, a Yeti Cooler to keep our drinks cold, and an on-site bathroom! The boat's layout is perfect for any networking event, and the cleanliness made the experience much more relaxing and effortless. Captain Russell is one of a kind, and we'll recommend him a million times over again. His charming attitude and comfortability to make conversation allowed the team and I to feel at ease knowing we were in a safe environment! read more

I have just experienced the time of my life with 1st Class Charters. Their boat "Just Be" is just fabulous. Captain Russell is extremely knowledgeable about all things Lake Michigan and the perfect host. The boat features comfortable seating with plenty of space to catch some rays, set up a food buffet, a bar area or whatever you choose to do. If you have never experienced the view of Chicago from the lake it is a must and you will come away with beautiful photos. The sound system is also superb. This boat outing was the highlight of my summer and I cannot rave about 1st Class Charters enough! You will love it! read more

This little excursion was just what the doctor ordered! Captain Brian and Captain Russel we're both extremely accommodating before, during and after the trip. Very down to earth guys, who are not afraid to have fun (especially if your idea of fun are bad puns and sad jokes jk) PSA: This Catamaran might just ruin the rest of your boating experiences! It was extremely clean, spacious and well stocked with supplies. I would highly recommend for any business outing or weekend outing with friends! read more

Captain Brian and Russell of 1st Class Charters of Chicago are legit! The fleet they have are second to none. My Family/Friends had fun filled day in the sun aboard "Just Be". The boat was easily assessable @ 31st Harbor. No complaints all compliments for both the boat and crew. We definitely can't wait to book our next cruise along the gorgeous Lake Michigan coastline with this wonderful crew. Thanks again Captain Brian. read more

Spent Saturday afternoon on just be with five of my friends... we had an amazing time! The boat was beautiful with really nice furniture to relax on. It was also fully equipped with cool box, cups, plates etc. Russell and Brian were super professional but also fun and wanted to make sure we were always having a good time. If you want to experience a unique experience in I couldn't recommend 1st Class Charters more :) read more

Last summer I took 8 students from France on a sail with 1st Class Charters. We had the Best time. We went out for 3 hours, 2 hours of sailing and one hour of swimming. My students loved the experience and didn't want to go home. It was amazing with one of Chicago's top Captains. You got to try it!! My new students will also be going this summer. Robell McMiller read more

What an amazing night on the lake with 1st Class Charters! We were able to hear live music coming from Northerly Island. The boat has the perfect layout to sit and socialize with your friends. I would recommend this charter to everyone! Captain Russell was amazing. He knows all the right spots to hit on the lake. I can't wait to go back out!!!! read more

My company had a team building day out on the water with Captain Brian and Captain Russell. What a great day! The captains were professional, knowledgeable and charming. The boat was clean, comfortable and I for one was very grateful for the covered areas as an escape from the sun. Thank you 1st Class Charters for a perfect day on the water! read more

This is the best experience on Lake Michigan I have ever had! It is an absolutely beautiful Catamaran, super clean, and charming Capitan Russel catered to us with great food and drinks, with great knowledge Capitan Russel also brought the sailing experience to the highest level making it the most fun and learning time ever! Just wonderful! read more

Captain Russell knocked it out of the park again! He took us out for the hydrofoil boat races and not only did he navigate the closed waterways with ease but also placed us in a prime viewing location. Extremely memorable. The boat was impeccable and perfectly suited our needs. Will definitely book again. read more

Such a nice set up! The furniture is well thought out and comfortable, there are multiple spots for people to lounge, you can connect your own music, and the large Yeti cooler is super convenient. Russel and Brian went above and beyond and made sure we had everything we needed and more! read more

From the moment my friends and I stepped on to this lovely, airy, stylish catamaran our day was made! Highly recommend this boating experience to anyone looking for a pleasant beautiful day on the lake. Captain Russell made for an enjoyable time. I must before summer ends. read more

I came prepared for all scenarios and my anxiety dissipated when I realized they were prepared for everything. The kids had a great time and we were able to relax and have a blast! If you have never been in a boat this would be a great first experience. Sunday Funday! read more

Captain Russell and Captain Brian are the fun safe thoughtful sailboat captains... This boat is very unusual your family would feel very safe and have a blast on this boat I can't say enough about the security I felt on this boat and I've been on a lot of boats read more

Spent the day on "Just Be". What a great experience. Great boat and crew. Boat is roomy and has everything needed for a comfortable day on the lake. I highly recommend this boat if your looking for a day of sailing or just hanging out and swimming. read more

The day spent on the water with captain Russell and captain Bryan was outstanding. They were knowledgeable and friendly. The boat was big and comfortable. It was a great time and can't wait to get back out there with them. Highly recommend read more

Wow, what a great experience on the lake: Beautiful, very clean, and comfortable cat! Combined with Capt. Russ' experience & hospitality, this charter can't be beat. Even our small dog had a blast... Will do it again very soon! read more