Who We Are
Chicago-based private boat rentals on Lake Michigan, departing from Diversey Harbor in Lincoln Park.
About Lakefront Boating
Lakefront Boating is a Chicago boat charter company offering private experiences on Lake Michigan. Founded by Chicago captain Kevin Dalton, the company was created to give guests a simple and comfortable way to enjoy the city from the water.
With years of experience working on Lake Michigan as both a deckhand and captain, Kevin built Lakefront Boating around professionalism, safety, and a high-quality guest experience.
Built by a Chicago Captain
Kevin's passion for boating started during summers in Door County, Wisconsin and eventually led him to a career on the Chicago lakefront. After working throughout the charter industry, he started Lakefront Boating to create a more personal and reliable charter experience for guests.
Experience Chicago From the Water
Operating from Diversey Harbor in Lincoln Park, Lakefront Boating offers private charters with easy access to the Chicago Playpen, skyline views, and Lake Michigan cruising. Whether you're celebrating with friends or enjoying a relaxing afternoon on the water, our goal is to make every charter smooth, comfortable, and memorable.
Chicago's Premier Waterways
All of our private boat rentals depart from Diversey Harbor in Lincoln Park, providing convenient access to Lake Michigan, the Chicago Playpen, and the Chicago River.
Diversey Harbor
Departure Point
All charters depart from Dock "i" at Diversey Harbor in Lincoln Park, providing convenient access to Chicago's best waterways.
Chicago Playpen
Popular Destination
The most popular boating area in Chicago — enjoy the skyline views, anchor with other boaters, and take in fireworks at Navy Pier.
Chicago River
Architecture & Skyline
Cruise through the Chicago River and take in the iconic architecture from a perspective most people never see.
Our location allows guests to enjoy skyline views, fireworks at Navy Pier, and some of the most popular boating destinations in Chicago.
Our Charter Experience
Our fleet is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for groups spending time on Lake Michigan. Each of our vessels can accommodate up to 13 guests and includes onboard restrooms, refrigerators, Bluetooth sound systems, and all safety equipment required by the United States Coast Guard.
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a day on the water with friends and family, our charters offer a convenient way to experience the Chicago lakefront.
Bareboat Charter Model
As a bareboat charter company offering private boat rentals in Chicago, the charterer temporarily assumes control and responsibility of the vessel for the duration of the charter.
Guests may operate the vessel themselves if qualified or hire a licensed captain separately for their charter. If a captain is hired, they are contracted and paid directly by the charterer in accordance with United States Coast Guard regulations.
Self-operate
If qualified
Hire a Captain
USCG licensed
What Makes Lakefront Boating Different
Lakefront Boating offers a flexible and convenient way to enjoy private boat rentals in Chicago without many of the restrictions associated with traditional charter companies.
-
No required security deposit
-
Bring your own food and beverages onboard
-
Private charters for up to 13 guests
-
Convenient departure from Diversey Harbor
-
Access to Lake Michigan, the Chicago Playpen, and Chicago River
Safety & Professional Standards
All of our vessels are equipped with safety equipment required by the United States Coast Guard, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits.
Guests are required to complete a liability waiver prior to departure to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone onboard.
Life Jackets
Fire Safety
First Aid
Ideal For
Our private boat rentals in Chicago are ideal for a wide variety of groups and occasions.
Birthday Celebrations
Bachelor & Bachelorette
Corporate Outings
Family Gatherings
Sightseeing Cruises
Holiday Celebrations
Rent a Boat in Chicago with Lakefront Boating
Lakefront Boating makes it easy to rent a boat in Chicago for a day on the water with friends, family, or coworkers. Book your private boat rental today and enjoy everything Lake Michigan has to offer from our convenient Lincoln Park departure location at Diversey Harbor.