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Chicago Boat Rentals

4.4 (113 reviews)
Closed 5:00 pm - 8:00 PM
Updated 2 months ago

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Joanne D.

Hands down one of the best boat rental companies out there!! My family and I rented one of the pontoons on July 4th,from the start to finish the process was easy. We arrived and Angela was there to great us. The crew was helpful and went over the boat and process which was easy. The boat was clean no issues our family enjoyed the view. We were able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the city, the landscaping and landmarks. It was breathtaking. I packed snacks brought a cooler with drinks. It was a great time !! I will definitely be returning for more amazing memories. Highly recommended!!

Andre W.

A great time was had with the Chicago Boat Rental this past weekend. Me and some friends booked this adventure a little over a month in advance as we figured this popular activity would be booked up with the summer months coming. Made it over 30 minutes prior to get rules on how to operate which was very simple and what parts of the Chicago River we could travel to which was towards the lake (but not on), south near china town and north (noting to see lol). You get to ride by the main spot on the Riverwalk in which everyone smiles, points and waves at you. Boats were in good shape and operated properly. We had the music going, let the wind hit our backs and took turns operating. Its really fun when a big boat gets behind you and start blowing for you to get outta the way. If you're nervous about operating, the staff will give you their info to call....we didn't need it though. Staff did a great job explaining everything so we were all good. You can bring food and drinks to get you through the 2 hours of fun. Highly recommend before the summer is over!

Your view of Wacker & Adams.

We've been using these guys for the last five years. Everyone who works here (including the owners) will go above & beyond to ensure that you have a good time. The boats are clean, and will provide all you need for two hours of fun down the river-- including Bluetooth speakers for that banger of a river playlist you made! Lastly, If you have a kid, don't worry they have you covered with a kid size life jacket. That said, don't sleep on these guys.

Rachelle W.

There are so many boat rental places in Chicago, but you really get the most for your money with Chicago Boat Rentals, especially time! The staff is great. The boat was clean, everything was in working order. So glad we bought the membership. Can't wait to return!! We will definitely be letting everyone know about this amazing experience!

Joseph L.

My review is 4 stars. Joe was absolutely knowledge and helpful. My kids brought me and my wife for mother's day. I am handicapped in wheelchair and weigh 260 Joe and one from my party got me down about 10 steps to ramp. I would have given 5 stars if they had a ramp I or elevator from ground level to water level. The trip was flawless without a hitch or bump. Highly recommend for families on budgets brought some food ate abs saw sights. Beautiful day. Thank you Joe

We had such a blast on this boat! We went during COVID restrictions and it was a great time even with 4 people. For the price of going out to dinner in Chicago we just took a group of gal pals and blasted music up and down the river dancing and having the best time. We've already booked a few more trips for the summer!

Jessica L.

This was our second time renting from Chicago Boat Rentals. We have a great time every year, and their Groupon deal is unbelievable. We get a 2 hour 12 person rental and bring drinks and snacks and make it all the way to the locks leading up to the lake and up the south branch a bit in that time frame. Highly recommend. Only thing making me give them one less star is their port-a-potty/parking situation. But my review of that can be seen on the Estate page, since they share a lot with estate!

Carlton J.

I definitely will be doing this more often. It felt good riding the boat down the Riverwalk. Price was fair also. The people that were helping (workers) were great as well.

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3 years ago

Had a blast exploring this beautiful city and going up and down the river. Would definitely recommend to anyone!

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3 years ago

Great customer service . Very helpful. And the riddle was nice . This was my second time . Cant wait to do it again

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7 years ago

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3 years ago

Outstanding experience. The boat was clean, the staff was great, and the Chicago river is priceless. We will be back.

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Review Highlights - Chicago Boat Rentals

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Chicago - cruising on the Chicago River on a self driven pontoon!

Mentioned in 18 reviews

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Chicago Boat Rentals - boating - Updated June 2026

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