Chicago Skyline Sunday Funday Mimosa/Bloody Mary Party Cruise

Chicago Skyline Sunday Funday Mimosa/Bloody Mary Party Cruise offers a lively and colorful way to see Chicago from the water, priced at around $50 per person. This tiki-themed boat tour takes you along the iconic Chicago River and out onto Lake Michigan, giving you a fresh perspective on the city’s towering skyline. The cruise lasts from as little as a minute (if you’re just arriving) to about 1 hour 30 minutes, and it’s perfect for those looking to combine sightseeing with a party vibe—especially if you enjoy mimosas or Bloody Marys.

Two things we love about this experience: first, the festive tiki theme really sets a relaxed, party mood that’s different from the typical sightseeing cruise. Second, the opportunity to enjoy drinks on the water—with mimosas for just $3 and Bloody Marys for $5—adds a fun, social element that makes the cruise feel more like a celebration than a tour.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the number of open bars can be limited, as one review pointed out, especially if passenger numbers are low. This can sometimes mean less variety or fewer staff at the bar, so if you’re craving a wide selection or a lively bar scene, your experience might vary.

This cruise tends to attract groups celebrating special occasions or those looking for a relaxed, social outing. If you enjoy casual vibes, scenic views, and a little alcohol-fueled fun, you’ll likely find this tour a good fit. However, if you’re after a more in-depth commentary on Chicago’s architecture, this cruise might feel a bit light on details.

Key Points

• Festive atmosphere with a tiki theme adds a fun, relaxed vibe.
• Affordable drinks make it easy to enjoy a casual party on the water.
• Unique perspective on Chicago’s skyscrapers and landmarks from the river and lake.
• Limited bar service during low passenger volume can affect drink availability.
• Ideal for celebrations or laid-back outings, not detailed architecture tours.
• Family-friendly with dogs and service animals allowed, making it accessible.

In-Depth Review of the Chicago Skyline Sunday Funday Mimosa/Bloody Mary Party Cruise

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

This cruise begins at the Island Party Hut on the Chicago Riverwalk, a lively spot right downtown, close to public transportation. With a starting time of 12:30 pm, it fits nicely into a daytime exploration of Chicago’s waterfront. The boat itself is air-conditioned for comfort, with a restroom onboard—a thoughtful touch for a leisurely cruise. The vessel is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate atmosphere, especially on less busy days.

The tiki boat is decorated to evoke a tropical, party-ready vibe, instantly signaling that fun is the main goal. You’ll meet your crew here and hop aboard to begin the adventure. Since confirmation is immediate, booking in advance—about 8 days on average—gives you some peace of mind during the busy summer months.

The Itinerary: What Makes It Special

The main activity kicks off on the Chicago River, where you can enjoy a beverage and listen to island tunes, which adds a musical, relaxed feel. The cruise then takes you through the locks, offering up-close views of Chicago’s skyscrapers, bridges, and iconic architecture. After navigating the river, the boat ventures out onto Lake Michigan, providing panoramic views of the city skyline against the water.

One reviewer mentioned that the ride outside the locks was shorter than expected—around 30 minutes—but this doesn’t seem to detract from the overall experience. The focus here is more on the casual social vibe and sightseeing rather than detailed narration or historical commentary.

Drinks and Atmosphere

The cash bar is a highlight, especially for those wanting to toast the occasion. Mimosas are just $3, and Bloody Marys are $5, making it a very accessible way to add drinks to your cruise. The bar service can be limited if only a few passengers are aboard, as one reviewer noted, but that doesn’t take away from the enjoyment of sipping a drink while soaking in Chicago’s spectacular skyline.

The music, described as “island tunes,” enhances the festive mood, making it feel more like a party on the water than a traditional sightseeing tour. This approach appeals to groups celebrating birthdays or just wanting a relaxed, fun day out.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

A happy guest shared that their 35th birthday was made extra special with mimosas and an open bar, marking it as an ideal option for celebrating special days. Conversely, a reviewer pointed out that the limited bar service and shorter ride outside the locks could be disappointing if you’re expecting a more extensive journey or a bustling bar scene.

The feedback suggests that the experience’s value hinges on your expectations—great for a laid-back, social outing, less so if you’re craving detailed architecture narration or a long cruise.

Is It Worth It?

At $50 per person, this tour provides a fun and affordable way to enjoy Chicago’s waterfront. The ability to purchase drinks onboard for a reasonable price, combined with the tiki theme and scenic views, makes it a solid choice for casual groups or those celebrating. Keep in mind the non-refundable policy, and consider weather conditions—poor weather might lead to cancellations, with full refunds or rescheduling offered.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for groups looking for a relaxed, party-like experience on the water—ideal for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just friends wanting to enjoy a lighthearted outing. It’s also suitable for families and dogs, thanks to the friendly, inclusive approach. If your priority is a quick scenic tour combined with drinks and entertainment, this fits well. However, if you’re seeking a more comprehensive architectural commentary or a longer sightseeing experience, you might want to explore other Chicago boat tours.

Final Thoughts

The Chicago Skyline Sunday Funday Mimosa/Bloody Mary Party Cruise offers a unique blend of sightseeing and celebration. The festive tiki theme and affordable drinks create an atmosphere that’s both fun and laid-back. Though it’s not the most in-depth architectural tour, it excels at providing a lighthearted, social experience on Chicago’s waters.

If you’re visiting during warm weather and want a simple, enjoyable way to see the city’s skyline while sipping drinks, this cruise is worth your time. It’s especially suited for those celebrating a special day or just looking to add a bit of fun to their Chicago visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or dogs?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and dogs are welcome. It’s a relaxed environment that accommodates service animals and pets.

How long does the cruise last?
The duration varies, but it generally lasts from about 1 minute (if just arriving) to approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. The main focus is on the river and lake views, rather than a lengthy cruise.

Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Absolutely. Mimosas are $3, and Bloody Marys are $5. Keep in mind that during low passenger days, only one bar may be open, which could limit drink options.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, this activity requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I expect at the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Island Party Hut on Chicago Riverwalk, a lively, accessible location close to public transit, where you’ll meet your crew and board the tiki boat.

Is it worth the price?
Given the affordable cost, scenic views, and fun atmosphere, many travelers find this cruise a good value—especially if you’re after a relaxed day on the water with drinks and a festive vibe.

To sum it up, if you’re after an easygoing, lively cruise with great photo opportunities and a casual party atmosphere, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for celebrations, friends, and those wanting a taste of Chicago’s skyline without the formality. For travelers seeking a more detailed or longer architecture-focused tour, other options might suit better. But for a good time with friends or family, this Sunday Funday cruise hits the mark.