Chart Your Own Course
Bayside Voyage offers private, captain-led up to 6‑guest charters departing directly from iconic Navy Pier Marina, Chicago’s lakefront playground. Experience the best of Chicago from the deck of our 37' Sea Ray Sundancer. Whether you’re looking to cruise past the iconic Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium or drop anchor in the Playpen for a summer swim, Bayside Voyage offers an unmatched perspective of the city. Join us for a front-row seat to the Navy Pier Fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday—the ultimate way to enjoy a Chicago summer evening.
Take Comfort in Knowing
Focus on the view, not the bill. Unlike many charters that add surcharges on the backend, Bayside Voyage is adamant in providing fully transparent pricing from the moment you book.
No Hidden Fees: Your rate includes USCG Licensed Captain & Fuel.
***Sales Tax Not Included***
Book your own:
Navy Pier Firework Cruise
Sunset Skyline Cruise
Playpen Experience
Special Event
Small Corporate/Team Outing
Give Us Your Perfect Day On The Water
Amenities:
Elite Boarding Location: Depart directly from iconic Navy Pier Marina, Chicago’s prestigious and convenient lakefront departure point.
Intimate Setting: Exclusively designed for private groups of up to 6 guests, ensuring a personalized and uncrowded experience.
Premium Sound & Connectivity: Integrated Bluetooth audio system to set the mood with your own playlists.
Refreshments & Comfort: Complimentary bottled water and ice provided; guests are welcome to BYOB and bring snacks.
Private Facilities: Access to a clean, well-maintained onboard head (restroom) for your comfort throughout the trip.
Safety First: Fully equipped with professional-grade safety gear and commercial insurance for total peace of mind.
Swimming Access: Integrated swim platform and boarding ladder for those mid-lake dips.
A Front-Row Seat
Your voyage offers an unmatched perspective of the city's most legendary landmarks. Because we depart from Navy Pier Marina, we are minutes away from the most scenic spots on Lake Michigan.
Iconic Sights:
The Skyline: Sweeping, panoramic views of the entire Chicago lakefront.
The Museum Campus: Get up close to the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and the majestic Buckingham Fountain.
Stadiums & Stages: Cruise past Soldier Field and the Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island.
Navy Pier Fireworks: Enjoy the best seat in the city for the fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday night through Labor Day.
Anchoring:
Choose your vibe for:
The Playpen / Ohio Street Beach: Join the energy of Chicago’s premier lakefront social scene.
Tell us where you might want to anchor to enjoy views, have lunch, or you happen to love a specific spot.
Who we are…
Meet Captain Ben, a U.S. Coast Guard certified USCG Master Captain and your dedicated “Experience Director” on the water.
For Captain Ben, boating isn’t just a job—it’s a lifelong passion. Spending his summers on the water up in Door County, WI, he spent countless hours exploring Lake Michigan throughout his childhood and now with his two young sons and wife. His love for boating ignited during summers in Sturgeon Bay, where he first took the helm of his grandfather’s boat at a very young age.
This passion has only deepened over the years. Today, Ben is an experienced captain who has owned and operated his own vessels, sharing the same joy and traditions with his own children. Bayside Voyage has three boats ranging from 19’ to 37’ and are located in Chicago, Milwaukee, & Door County, WI. He truly believes that the best memories are made out on the water.
With decades of boating experience on Lake Michigan, Captain Ben is committed to creating a safe, unforgettable, and exceptional experience for every guest. He warmly welcomes dogs aboard, knowing they’re part of the family too.
In addition to his USCG Master Captain’s license, Ben is CPR certified, and a TWIC card holder.
Although Ben insists on making sure every guest has a great time, safety is the most important aspect of any boating experience.