Rent a Boat in Chicago

Chicago boating is unique to any other larger-scale city. The cityscape is hugged by the freshwater of the great Lake Michigan connecting it to three other US states. Even reachable by ocean-going vessels, Chicago’s boating scene is well-loved. Boaters enjoy a variety of boating activities on Lake Michigan, including yachting, kayaking, diving, kite surfing, and jet skiing.

What To Know

The lake is jam packed in the summer season as everyone in the city flocks to Lake Michigan. This is a consequence of the small window of opportunity to enjoy warm days on the water. 

It’s not just on the lake where people gather but along the Chicago River running through the center of the city. Downtown dockage is available but tends to fill up fast so reservations are encouraged. Just like the lake, the boat traffic in the Chicago River gets congested during the season months and does require precautious boating. 

Safety Requirements:

• Boating License/Education Rules: Valid Boating Safety Certificate issued by the Department of Natural Resources or an entity or organization recognized and approved by the Department is required.

• Life Jacket Requirements: 13 and under must wear a PFD.

For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Where to dock your boat, or meet your rental:

• DuSable Harbor

• Belmont Harbor

• Burnham Harbor

• Monroe Harbor

• East Chicago Marina

• Downtown Docks

Weather Conditions

Ask some Chicago locals, and they’ll tell you summers in Chicago can’t be beat. Temperatures in the Windy City start to warm up around mid-May and last through the end of August into the beginning of September—making the summer season ideal for boaters and sailors.

Avg. Temperature High: Peaks around 82°F in July

Avg. Temperature Low: Ranging between 54-61°F during fringe months like May and September

Avg. Water Temperatures in Lake Michigan during the Summer: 

• 40°F in May

• 52°F in June

• 67°F in July

• 70°F in August

• 66.7°F in September

Chicago Boating Highlights

Between May and September, life in Chicago centers around Lake Michigan. When planning your next Chicago boat rental trip, be sure to add these popular activities and locations to your itinerary.