How many people are allowed on a boat rental in Chicago?

Per USCG law, a bareboat charter may have 1 Charterer (the renter) + 12 Passengers (13 total) before a hired crew. Hired Captains and Crew do not count toward the passenger limit. For our 49 passenger vessels (Sophisticated Lady and Montauk), the maximum capacity is 49 passengers plus crew.

What ammenities are included?

Each yacht is equipped with a bluetooth sound system, kitchen, restroom, and cooler on board for guests to use. Additional addons (like lily pads) are available for purchase at charter checkout.

Can we host corporate events or team-building outings on your yachts?

Yes! We specialize in corporate yacht rentals ideal for client entertainment, networking events, and team-building outings. Our yachts feature flexible spaces and catering options tailored for business needs.

How do I hire a Captain for a boat rental in Chicago?

For bareboat (13 passenger vessels) charters, after booking, we provide the Charterer with a confirmation email listing vetted Operators/Captains familiar with our vessels. You may also choose your own qualified Operator/Captain, provided their credentials are approved by us prior to your charter. Please email contact@knotmyboatcharters.com with any Operator/Captain credentials for approval. For our commercial charters (49 passenger vessels), captain and crew are provided by Knot My Boat Charters.

How much does a Captain cost for a boat rental in Chicago?

Operators/Captains typically command $80-120 per hour before gratuity. It is customary to leave a gratuity of 15-20% of the total charter price (not to be confused with the Operator/Captain hourly rate). Payment and gratuity can be handled directly with your Captain.

? Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about our yacht charters, memberships, and boating experiences in Chicago. Can't find what you're looking for?

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Inquiries

How much does it cost?

Do I need a boating license or permit?

Does a captain come with the boat?

How much does a captain cost?

What is your address?

What time do I need to arrive for check in?

Do you have vehicle parking?

Do you offer catering services?

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

What's the difference between COI Certified Passenger Charters and Bareboat Charters?

Getting Started & Booking

How do I book?

Do I need to book in advance?

I'm having problems booking online?

When will I receive a confirmation email?

How do I reconfirm my booking?

What are the booking cut-off times?

Do you have a waitlist?

Can I book through a third-party website?

How long can we rent boats for?

Do you offer overnight rentals?

What are your operating months and hours?

Fleet & Charter Types

What is a bareboat charter?

What is a COI certified passenger charter?

What's the difference between COI Certified Passenger Charters and Bareboat Charters?

What are the different boat tiers?

What yachts do you have?

What is the maximum capacity of your vessels?

Do your boats comfortably fit the allowed number of people?

Are we able to view the boats before renting?

Pricing, Payment & Discounts

How much does it cost?

Are prices per person or per boat?

What payment methods do you accept?

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Can we pay our group booking individually?

What currency do you use?

Is fuel included?

Do you have any special offers?

Do you offer gift vouchers?

How do I redeem a promo code or voucher?

Do you have local discounts?

Do you have a military discount?

Cancellations & Weather

What is your cancellation and refund policy?

I need to cancel or change my booking?

Do you operate in bad weather conditions?

What is the weather forecast in Chicago?

Captain & Crew

Does a captain come with the boat?

How do I hire a captain for boat rental in Chicago?

How much does a captain cost?

Is the Captain included on my Sophisticated Lady or Montauk Charter?

Is the captain included in the capacity?

Do I need a boating license or permit?

Food & Beverages

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Are food and drinks included?

Do you offer catering services?

Do you provide event catering?

Do you cater to dietary requirements?

For the 49-passenger boats, can we bring our own catering?

What are your drinks package prices?

What's Included & What to Bring

What amenities are included?

Are there bathrooms?

Do you provide coolers?

Do boats include a kitchen?

Can we play our own music through speakers?

Do boats have chargers or USB ports?

Do you have luggage lockers or storage?

Do you have a microphone for your boats?

What should I bring?

What can we not bring onboard?

What should I wear?

Can we bring our own decorations?

Can I bring a pram or stroller?