Spending Christmas Eve on the waters of Lake Michigan might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning holiday festivities, but the Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise provides an enchanting alternative to the typical Christmas celebrations. Setting sail from the iconic Navy Pier, this 2.5-hour journey offers guests a delectable 3-course meal, stunning skyline views, and lively holiday entertainment – all while enjoying the serene surroundings of the lake. Whether it’s the mouthwatering dinner options, the cozy ambiance, or the chance to experience Chicago’s iconic landmarks from a unique perspective, this cruise promises an unforgettable way to kick off the holiday season.
Key Points
- A 2.5-hour gourmet dinner cruise on Lake Michigan, departing from Navy Pier, featuring a 3-course plated meal with starter, main, and dessert options.
- Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea included, with a full bar available for additional drink purchases, such as signature holiday cocktails.
- Wheelchair-accessible and semi-formal attire encouraged, creating a memorable holiday atmosphere with festive decor and live music.
- Panoramic 360-degree views of Chicago’s iconic skyline, including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium, set against the backdrop of the lake.
- Non-refundable cancellation policy in place, with booking available directly through the cruise operator’s website and group reservations recommended.
Event Details
Hosting a festive Christmas Eve celebration on the waters of Lake Michigan, this gourmet dinner cruise offers guests a unique and memorable holiday experience.
Lasting 2.5 hours, the cruise departs from Navy Pier and features a 3-course plated dinner with a variety of starter, main, and dessert options. Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, while a full bar service is available for purchase.
Guests can enjoy 360-degree views of Chicago’s iconic skyline and landmarks as they dine to the sounds of live DJ entertainment.
With a wheelchair-accessible design and a semi-formal dress code, the cruise caters to diverse preferences while fostering the holiday spirit.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Chicago
Dining Menu
The dinner cruise features a carefully curated 3-course plated menu, offering guests a delectable culinary experience.
For starters, diners can choose between a refreshing Beet & Baby Arugula Salad or the signature Seafood Chowder.
The main course options include the hearty Root Vegetable Fricassee, the flavorful Broiled Salmon, the classic Oven-Roasted Chicken, and the tender Braised Beef Short Ribs.
To end the meal on a sweet note, guests can indulge in the Signature Chocolate Cake, the refreshing Mixed Fruit, or the creamy New York Style Cheesecake.
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea are included, while a full bar service is available for additional purchases, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.
Beverage Options
Along With the delectable 3-course dinner, the Christmas Eve cruise offers a full bar service for guests to enhance their dining experience.
Passengers can indulge in a selection of premium cocktails, wines, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages. The bar menu features:
- Signature holiday-themed cocktails, like the festive Cranberry Mimosa or Gingerbread Martini, to get guests into the Christmas spirit.
- An extensive wine list with both red and white varietals to perfectly complement the meal.
- A variety of craft beers and non-alcoholic options, such as hot cocoa, mulled cider, and premium coffee and tea selections.
The full bar service, coupled with the live music and stunning lakefront views, creates a truly memorable dining experience on the Christmas Eve cruise.
Onboard Entertainment
A lively DJ energizes the festive atmosphere aboard the Christmas Eve dinner cruise, providing an array of holiday tunes and classic hits that have guests tapping their feet and singing along throughout the evening.
The music seamlessly accompanies the breathtaking 360-degree views of Chicago’s iconic skyline, including landmarks like Navy Pier, Adler Planetarium, and the Willis Tower.
The festive decor further enhances the holiday spirit, creating a truly magical and immersive experience for all who set sail on this gourmet adventure.
Whether it’s swaying to the beat or simply taking in the stunning scenery, the onboard entertainment ensures a memorable evening for all.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyScenic Views
From the decks of the Christmas Eve dinner cruise, guests are treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Chicago’s iconic skyline.
The sights include:
- The towering Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, standing tall as the city’s most famous landmark.
- The distinctive Adler Planetarium, perched on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering a glimpse into the wonders of the cosmos.
- The lively Navy Pier, with its ferris wheel and various entertainment venues, creating a festive atmosphere against the backdrop of the city.
These sweeping vistas provide the perfect setting for a memorable holiday celebration, allowing guests to fully enjoy the beauty and grandeur of the Chicago skyline.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Chicago
Accessibility and Policies
The Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.
Non-refundable cancellation policies apply, so travelers should plan their trip carefully.
Semi-formal attire is encouraged, adding to the festive atmosphere.
While smoking is prohibited indoors, guests can enjoy the outdoor decks.
Infants aged 0-2 can attend for free with the selection of a complimentary ticket.
Customer Feedback
Glowing reviews from previous attendees underscore the Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise‘s popularity, with an overall 5/5 rating based on 4 customer reviews.
Positive comments praise the cruise’s exceptional service, breathtaking sightseeing opportunities, lively music, and delectable food quality.
Customers were particularly impressed by:
- The attentive staff who ensured a memorable dining experience.
- The panoramic views of Chicago’s iconic skyline and landmarks.
- The festive atmosphere created by the live DJ and holiday-themed decor.
The cruise’s high ratings and enthusiastic feedback suggest it’s an ideal choice for groups seeking a unique and celebratory Christmas Eve celebration on Lake Michigan.
Booking Information
Booking the Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan can be done directly through the cruise operator’s website or by contacting their reservation team.
Interested guests can select their preferred date, choose their menu options, and complete the booking process online. Parties seeking to sit together should make group reservations, as seating is assigned based on party size.
The cruise has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so guests are advised to finalize their plans in advance.
Tickets start at CZK 4,157 per person and include the 3-course plated dinner, live music entertainment, and stunning 360-degree views of Chicago’s iconic skyline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Bring Our Own Alcoholic Beverages Onboard?
No, you cannot bring your own alcoholic beverages on the cruise. The package includes a full bar service, and passengers are not permitted to bring outside alcohol on board.
Is There a Dress Code for the Event?
The event has a semi-formal dress code, though the organizers encourage guests to wear festive attire that matches the holiday spirit of the cruise. Casual wear is permitted, but the semi-formal suggestion aims to enhance the overall gourmet dining experience.
Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?
The event does not allow pets on the cruise. Pets are not permitted due to the indoor dining setting and the restricted spaces on the boat. Only service animals are allowed.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Guests?
There doesn’t appear to be a minimum age requirement specified for this event. The information indicates that infants aged 0-2 can attend for free with a selected free ticket option.
Can I Receive a Refund if I Need to Cancel My Reservation?
Unfortunately, there is a non-refundable cancellation policy for this event. Guests won’t receive a refund if they need to cancel their reservation, though they may be able to transfer their tickets to another person.
Recap
The Chicago Gourmet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan offers a magical Christmas Eve experience. With a delectable 3-course dinner, unlimited coffee and tea, a full bar, live music, and stunning 360-degree views of the city skyline, this festive cruise promises an unforgettable celebration. Guests can enjoy the holiday spirit while enjoying the scenic beauty of the lakefront. The cruise’s accessibility and positive customer feedback make it an enticing option for those seeking a unique and memorable Christmas Eve celebration.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Dining Experiences in Chicago
- Lake Michigan 4th Of July Plated 21+ Dinner Cruise
- Christmas Eve Plated Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Mothers Day Plated Dinner on the Chicago River
- Chicago New Years Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Skydeck Chicago Pie in the Sky Dining Experience
- Lake Michigan 21+ July Fireworks Buffet Dinner Cruise
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Chicago
- Chicago Buffet Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Chicago River Architectural Lunch Cruise
- Chicago Signature Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Chicago Luxury Minibus City Tour and Architecture River Cruise
- Chicago River Architecture Boat Cruise & Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
- Chicago River 4th of July Plated Dinner Cruise
More Tour Reviews in Chicago
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Chicago we have recnetly reviewed
- 4 Best Shopping Tours In Chicago
- 14 Best Dining Experiences In Chicago
- 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Chicago
- 2 Best 4 Day Tours In Chicago
- 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Chicago
- 14 Best Dinner Tours In Chicago
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Chicago
- 25 Best Food Tours In Chicago
- Chicago Blackhawks Ice Hockey Game Ticket at United Center
- Chicago: The Pink Panther and the Case of the Missing Diamond
- Scavenger Hunt in Chicago by Wacky Walks
- Ride To/From Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)