Chicago is known as the Windy City and Chi-Town. Frank Sinatra sang about it in the song “My Kind of Town,” and people the world over love this great city for its amazing architecture, its deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, the Chicago Loop business district, and just so much more. 

The Windy City is on Lake Michigan and is one of the largest US cities touting museums, beaches, amusement parks, a lively music scene that is the birthplace of gospel, house, and electric blues, and a variety of diverse neighborhoods to discover. You’ll find passionate sports lovers who love football and baseball as well as other sports. And let’s not forget the city’s beloved Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs! 

From a host of annual parades and film festivals, 600 parks, 500 playgrounds, miles of open lakefront, hundreds of miles of bike lanes, there’s so much to do in this great city. And there’s also Lake Michigan, a great place to head to during the hot summer months. 

Head to the Lakefront for a Grand Speedboat Tour 

There’s nothing like Chicago and it’s iconic skyline. And if you want a great view, why not take an exciting speedboat tour on Lake Michigan? The City Cruises Chicago Seadog Lakefront Speedboat Tour is a fantastic way to see this city’s sites from the water. 

The entire family will enjoy the cruise, including your dog! It’s a full 30-minute cruise along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. The cruise departs every hour from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Navy Pier. Informative and amusing descriptions of Chicago’s skyline are included. You can also bring your own drinks (no glass containers, though).  

Enjoy Chicago’s Architecture from a Cruise on the Chicago River

Chicago is a town known for its bold architecture and a host of skyscrapers. “From developing the modest balloon-frame home to creating the skyscraper, Chicago is the birthplace of some of the most iconic and groundbreaking buildings the country has ever seen.” In fact, the country’s first skyscraper was built in 1884 at LaSalle and Adams Streets in the Windy City. It was all of 10 stories high. 

You can view the spectacular skyscrapers of Chicago by taking the Chicago Seadog River & Lake Architectural Tour. There’s no better way to view the city’s iconic, tall buildings than by way of an architecture cruise on the Chicago River. 

The 75-minute narrated cruise departs from Navy Pier. It’s the best way to get up-close to Chicago’s unique architecture as well as famous landmarks. This dog friendly cruise is fun for the entire family. It features live narration along the city’s shore.  

This tour is the only one that will take you from the lakefront, through the locks, and then along the Chicago River all the way to famous Willis Tower. 

Afterward you can really enjoy the speed of Seadog during a short speedboat ride on Lake Michigan. 

Dress comfortably and bring your own beverages, but no glass containers, please. 

Chicago’s Skyline by Way of Seadog’s Extreme Thrill Ride  

 You won’t need to get on a roller-coaster when you can hop on Chicago Seadog Extreme Thrill Ride. It’s a 30-minute cruise that will take your breath away. You’ll view the city’s “ iconic skyline at the speed of Seadog with an exciting thrill ride on Lake Michigan.” 

Board and depart from Navy Pier for the exhilarating ride at high speeds and full 360-degree spins on a “jet-propelled ride that blasts off to start and splashes down to stop.” 

Not only will you get to experience full-throttle slalom runs, but add in sharp twists and turns as well while you feel the raw power and excitement of Seadog Extreme’s two 1,400 HP engines. 

Throughout the cruise you’ll enjoy music and a fun narration about Chicago’s history and its architecture. 

Please note you must be 48-inches tall to ride on the Seadog Extreme. And on the cruise you may get wet, so dress accordingly. 

You can bring your own beverages to enjoy. Please no glass containers on board. 

There’s so much to see in Chicago that you may wonder how you’ll get to see it all. It’s the great city with the Midwest, hometown feel but at the same time has that big-city flare that you don’t want to miss. By taking one or all of the Seadog cruises on the water, you’ll not only have the time of your life, you’ll see Chicago like it’s never been seen before. 

Chicago Seadog Tours – FAQs

What is Seadog?

Seadog is a high-speed sightseeing boat tour on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. It combines skyline views, guided narration, and a fun, fast-paced ride.

Where do Seadog tours depart?

Most tours depart from Navy Pier, with select tours operating from the Chicago Riverwalk.

How long are Seadog tours?

• Lakefront Speedboat Tour: 30 minutes
• River & Lake Architectural Tour: 75 minutes

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season. Walk-up tickets may be available but are not guaranteed.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.

What if I arrive late?

Tours depart on time and cannot be delayed. Late arrivals may need to reschedule based on availability.

Are Seadog tours family-friendly?

Yes! Seadog tours welcomes families. Children must be able to sit safely in their seats throughout the ride.

Will I get wet on the tour?

Guests seated toward the front of the boat may experience splashing. Seating toward the back offers a drier ride.

Is the ride smooth or rough?

Seadog tours are designed to be fast and exciting. Conditions may be slightly bumpy depending on weather and water conditions.

Tips for the best experience:

• Sit in the front for a faster, splash-filled ride
• Sit in the back for a smoother, drier experience
• Book a sunset tour for the best views of the Chicago skyline

Do tours operate in bad weather?

Tours run rain or shine. In cases of severe or unsafe weather, tours may be canceled or rescheduled.

What should I bring?

We recommend bringing:

• Camera or smartphone
• Sunglasses
• Light jacket
• Optional: poncho or change of clothes

Is parking available?

Paid parking is available at Navy Pier. Public transportation and rideshare options are also convenient.

Can I bring alcohol on the Seadog?

Yes!  We welcome you to bring your own drinks (BYOB). However, please note not glass containers are allowed Please use cans or plastic bottles only. Some tours may also have drinks available for purchase onboard.

Can I bring pets on the Seadog?

Yes!  With a name like Seadog, we are definitely pet-friendly. Please be respectful of the following guidelines:

• Dogs must be leashed and well-behaved
• Typically allowed on:
  • Lakefront Speedboat tours
  • Architecture tours
• Not all special cruises (like fireworks) allow pets

Original Post Date: July 20, 2022