How much does it cost to rent a boat in Chicago?
At Knot My Boat Charters, our private yacht rentals start at $250 per hour. From private yacht charters for 13 guests to event vessels accommodating up to 125 passengers, our fleet offers 22 unique ways to experience Chicago from the water.
Chicago boat rental pricing.
From intimate yacht charters to large event vessels on Lake Michigan, boat rental pricing varies based on vessel size, duration, location, and amenities. Explore our fleet of luxury vessels, ranging from private yachts for 13 guests to event charters accommodating up to 125 passengers.
Boat rental costs by group size.
Whether you're planning a private cruise, Playpen party, corporate event, or luxury yacht experience, Chicago offers charter options for nearly every group size and budget. The best way to receive accurate pricing is to request a custom quote based on your preferred date, vessel, and guest count. Choosing the right vessel usually starts with guest count.
Chicago party boat & event yacht rental pricing.
Chicago's Playpen is one of the city's most popular summer destinations and a major reason visitors search for party boat rentals. Whether you're planning a bachelor party, bachelorette celebration, birthday, or summer gathering with friends, Chicago offers some of the most unique party boat experiences in the country.
Most private charters are booked for 3 to 4 hours, making a typical reservation anywhere from $1,000 to $6,000+ depending on vessel size and occasion.
Can you rent a boat with a captain?
Yes — but how a captain is added depends on the vessel. Renting a boat with a captain lets your group enjoy Lake Michigan, the Chicago Playpen, the Chicago River, and Chicago's skyline without needing boating experience or operating the vessel yourself.
Add a captain at checkout.
On our 13-passenger vessels — the 37' through 56' Sea Ray fleet — a captain is optional and booked online. Rent a captain in the same checkout flow as the boat itself; no separate email or phone call required.
Captain included.
On our larger, COI-inspected vessels — the 57' Power Catamaran, 72' Classic Chris Craft, and 78' Power Catamaran, accommodating 49 to 125 guests — a licensed captain is included in the charter price. Commercial-inspected vessels come standard with a captain, not as an add-on.
Boat rental membership costs.
For those planning multiple outings throughout the boating season, yacht membership can provide significantly more value than booking individual charters. With Knot My Boat Charters, membership starts at just $350 per month per person and provides access to a premium fleet without the expenses associated with yacht ownership.
Membership benefits may include:
- Access to multiple vessels
- Priority scheduling
- Reduced booking costs
- No maintenance responsibilities
- No dock fees
- No insurance or storage costs
For frequent boaters, membership often costs less than a single monthly charter.