Cruising Season 2025 March 16–November 23

First Lady

Private Events

Private Events Hero
Good Vibes. Better Views.
Private Events Corporate Outings Chicago’s Finest Fleet

Whether you’re planning a private corporate event or dinner cruise, celebrating a milestone, or seeking the ultimate venue to take in epic views of Chicago’s glittering skyline with your guests, an event aboard First Lady is sure to make waves.

Contact us today to get started planning your event! Our office is open year-round - For information and availability call 847.358.1330 Mon–Fri 9am–5pm or email chartersales@firstlady.com any time!

  • Seven vessels to suit your group size
  • Exclusive-use; you are the only party on board
  • Seven diverse caterers to suit your taste
  • Variety of bar packages and upgrade options
  • Daytime and evening departures available
  • Summer fireworks on Wednesdays and Saturdays
  • Cruise the river or lake (or both!)
  • Tour guides available to add informative commentary to your cruise

Unique & Memorable

Cruise Chicago Private Events 6 Cruise Chicago Private Events 4 Cruise Chicago Private Events 5 Cruise Chicago Private Events 7 First Lady Fleet Classic Leading Lady 7 First Lady Fleet Classic Leading Lady 2 Cruise Chicago Private Events 3

Whether entertaining two or 250 guests, choose your perfectly sized ship for a private and luxurious event.

Cruise Chicago Private Events 2

FIVE-STAR SERVICE

As a local, family-owned and operated business with decades of experience, take confidence knowing you are in the best hands.

Our experienced charter team will guide you in planning an event that is uniquely you. From selecting the perfect beverage package, to recommending tried-and-true vendors, we know the ropes when it comes to fabulous events on the water.

Our best in class, U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains and crew are at your service to help create a welcoming, safe and memorable voyage.

Our Fleet

Choose your private yacht

  • Beautifully maintained vessels with luxurious finishes
  • Open-air top deck offering incredible views
  • Climate-controlled interior salon
  • Enticing catering and bar options
  • Dining tables and chairs
  • Modern luxurious restrooms
  • Satellite radio, Bluetooth connection and PA system
  • Flat screen televisions with AV capabilities (excludes First Lady)
Cruise Chicago Private Events 1

Allow us to help bring your vision to life by customizing beverage choices for your private boat tour or other event. Our bar manager will be happy to help you plan out the perfect bar package that is ideally suited to your needs.

Select a Bar Package

Our bar packages and upgrade options are designed to fit the unique needs of your event. 
Prices are subject to change and do not include service fee or sales tax.

First Mate

$36 per person
Soft drinks, iced tea, juices, summer wines and draft beer

Commodore

$43 per person
Soft drinks, iced tea, juices, summer wines, draft beer, canned beer & seltzer, and cocktails

Admiral

$48 per person
Soft drinks, iced tea, juices, summer wines, draft beer, canned beer & seltzer, premium cocktails, and champagne

Upgrade Options

Brunch Bar
$46 per person
Brunch on a boat? Yes please! Includes soft drinks, juices, iced tea, hot tea, coffee, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Rosé, canned seltzers, mimosas and Bloody Marys
Toast Your Event
$5 per person
Looking to raise a glass to honor your special occasion? Add a champagne toast to your Brunch, First Mate, Commodore or Admiral Package.
Specialty Cocktails
$12-$14 per person
Make your event one of a kind by adding a specialty signature cocktail. Choose from our specialty list and create your own name to fit your event! Available with Commodore & Admiral packages.
Canned Beer
$7 per person
Add a variety of canned popular and local craft beers and ciders to your cruise! Available for the First Mate package. Inquire for current offerings.
Canned Cocktail
$10 per person
Add variety of canned cocktails and seltzers to your cruise! Inquire for current offerings.
Non-Alcoholic
$9 per person
For those who choose not to drink or would like to moderate, we’ve got you covered! Inquire to see our current list, including non-alcoholic beers and seltzers, as well as spiritless canned and craft cocktails.

Bar Basics

  • All packages provide open bar service
  • Upgrade options and reserve wine list available upon request
  • One bartender included for up to 70 guests at salon bar
  • Additional bartender fees apply based on guest count
  • Prices based on a 2-hr cruise
  • Specialty cocktails and non-alcoholic options available
  • Coffee and tea service included with all bar packages
  • Brands subject to change based on availability, contact us for details
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Offer your guests creative and fresh menus designed just for you by any one of our professional caterers, all offering delectable options. Your guests will rave for years to come!

Select a Premier Caterer

Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! is Chicago's original Spanish restaurant, featuring authentic Spanish cuisine including tapas, pintxos (bite-sized appetizers) and the classic rice dish, paella. The menu is designed for guests to share, and experience a variety of tastes and flavors.

Cafe Ba Ba Reeba Logo

Emily McCauley

cbbrchgoparties@lettuce.com

cafebabareeba.com
847.358.1330 

Sample Menu

With their artistic presentation, seamless execution and unwavering attention to detail, Entertaining Company appeals to people who appreciate an artful approach to cuisine.

Entertaining Company Logo

Denise Robinette 
(312) 406-9757
denise@entertainingcompany.com 
entertainingcompany.com

Sample Menu

Gem Catering & Events focuses on creating innovative, personalized menus across all types of cuisines and price points to fully customize your dining experience. From a casual, backyard barbecue to a formal, white tablecloth dinner, Gem Catering & Events can do it all.

Gem Catering Logo

Abby Carson
(312) 645-7760
gemevents@leye.com 
gemcateringandevents.com

Sample Menu

Gino's East is famous for our Chicago Style Deep Dish pizza. With our rich, chunky tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese, these pizzas will make memories! We also offer other salad, classic sandwiches, and pasta options. Our catering representative will be happy to help you create a custom menu for your group.

Ginos logo

Carol Guerra
(312) 266-3337
carol@ginoseast.com 
ginoseast.com

Sample Menu

Named for the late renowned baseball announcer, Harry Caray’s offers unparalleled service, whether you choose Italian, Southwestern, Backyard BBQ or Steakhouse classics.

HCCE Logo

Sebastian Osuch 
(312) 595-8063
sebastian@harrycarays.com 
harrycarays.com

Sample Menu

Shaw's Crab House is a Chicago institution boasting a selection of seafood with a longstanding commitment to offering top quality ingredients since 1984. Shaw's menu features simple preparations executed to perfection to allow quality to take center stage.

Shaws Crab House

Erin Juache 
(312) 527-2722
shawsparties20@lettuce.com 
shawscrabhouse.com

Sample Menu

Summer House Santa Monica presents an escape to the warmth and laid-back vibes of the West Coast. The menus are California inspired and focus on locally sourced ingredients, market-driven dishes, and seasonal specialties.

Summerhouse logo

Niki Beringer
(312) 835-3489
shsbparties@lettuce.com
summerhousesm.com

Sample Menu

Catering Basics

  • Cocktail reception with passed hors d’oeuvres
  • Hearty buffet stations
  • Diverse, cultural menu options
  • Breakfast and lunchtime options
First Lady Private Events Catering

Chicago's First Lady has long-term relationships with an exceptional list of vendors. They provide additional options and amenities for any private party aboard our fleet.

Our Recommendations

Becky Brown Photography

773-609-2778
becky@beckybrownphotography.com 
beckybrownphotography.com

A Chicago based wedding photographer who specializes in modern weddings.

Couple of Dudes Photography

Contact: Joe Tighe
312-480-6956
info@coupleofdudes.com 
coupleofdudes.com

A collective of like-minded creatives offering excellent photography and affable personalities at your event. It's like adding a friend to your guest list!

Dennis Lee Photography

312-505-6901
info@dennisleephoto.com 
dennisleephoto.com

A native Chicagoan with an eye for catching the moment that tells the story.

Fotio

Contact: Nick Harvey
309-657-3674
info@fotio.co 
fotio.co

Fotio looks like a vintage camera and has a real-time slideshow instead of print-outs.

George Street Photo & Video

866-831-4103
info@georgestreetphoto.com 
georgestreetphoto.com

Receive a photo and video package that will capture your memories forever. Contact for an exclusive George Street Photo & Video offer.

Jana Blue Photography

224-489-2815
janabluephotography@gmail.com 
janabluephotography.com

Intimate and minimalist style focusing on those subtle and mysterious elements that invoke feelings of magic and awe.

Merlo Media

773-859-9999
dan@merlomedia.com 
merlomedia.com

Arrange a photobooth to let your guests take home a fun memento of your event.

Nick Robins Photography

Contact: Nick Robins
robinsfoto.com

Event, product, food and commercial photography. 

Prudence Photography

Contact: Ty Acierto
773-562-9476
tyroneacierto@gmail.com 
prudencephotography.com

Our vibrant work is a testament to our years of experience in capturing priceless moments that won't cost you an arm and a leg. We are very flexible with pricing and can offer a great discount when you book photo and video!

Rachel Kaye Photography

hello@rachelkayephoto.com 
rachelkayephoto.com

I’m here to take rad pictures of you getting married no matter who/where/when/why or how. If you're all about candid moments, fun ‘posing’ that doesn’t feel that way & animated GIFs then you're in the right place!

Step & Repeat By Chicago Printworks

Chicago Printworks
312-943-2202
chicagoprintworks.com/products/step-and-repeat-backdrop-printing

Nothing says ritz and glamor more than the iconic backdrop seen behind famous actors at the Oscars, while they have their photos taken. Why not recreate that classy moment for your own event?

Tamar Productions

Contact: Mary Ann Rose
773-880-1000
maryann@tamarproductionsinc.com 
tamarproductionsinc.com

For over 35 years, Tamar Productions, Inc. has been producing sophisticated and cutting-edge events. A small selection of our services include: decor, corporate branding, portable photo booths, casino or lawn games, DJs/musicians, actors/greeters, Cirque performers, and more!

Ueda Photography

Contact name: Romulo Ueda
608-228-7770
click@uedaphotography.com 
uedaphotography.com

Fresh, discreet, photojournalistic coverage for your event.

 

99 Haus Balloons

Aubrey Jacknow

99hausballoons.com

708.665.5696 

99 Haus offers unparalleled balloon and event decor services. There's a reason why so many corporate and private clients keep coming back to us: we go above and beyond for our clients! Our unique approach to custom balloon and event decorations not only tells your story, but it also captures the hearts of everyone who sees it.

Tamar Productions

Mary Ann Rose

maryann@tamarproductionsinc.com

tamarproductionsinc.com

773.880.1000

For over 35 years, Tamar Productions, Inc. has been producing sophisticated and cutting-edge events. A small selection of our services include: decor, corporate branding, portable photo booths, casino or lawn games, DJs/musicians, actors/greeters, Cirque performers, and more!

The Festive Frog

Kendell DeBoom

kendell@thefestivefrog.com

847.987.1711

or: Jane McCleanahan

jane@thefestivefrog.com

thefestivefrog.com

The Festive Frog provides unique tabletop rental solutions, for an elevated aesthetic. Offerings including a vast array of fine china, flatware & gorgeous vintage barware. We like to think of our tabletop rentals not only as functional but also as exciting & memorable decor for your event.

Flowers for Dreams

Michael Zucker

michael@flowersfordreams.com

flowersfordreams.com
708.665.5696 

Wedding and event company that hand curates flowers at local markets each day to create fresh, unique bouquets and arrangements. Every purchase benefits a local charity.

 

Airbooth Social

773-360-2333
info@airboothsocial.com 
airboothsocial.com

An open-air, photo booth perfect for private events.

Aloha Chicago

847-910-2254
alohachicagoe@yahoo.com 
alohachicago.com

Greet your guests with leis, hula dancers, Polynesian fire dancers and more with Aloha Chicago.

Arlen Music Production

847-869-8826
info@arlenmusic.com 
app.arlenmusic.com/arlen-music-productions

Arlen Music is a Chicago-based entertainment company that specializes in providing live customized music for special events. Winner of the 2015-2018 Best Band by Make It Better Magazine, Arlen Music is recognized as the leader and trendsetter within the Chicago special event industry.

Corey Bless Production

Contact: Corey Bless
847-366-6584
coreyblessproduction@gmail.com 
www.coreyblessproduction.com

Corey Bless Production will provide great DJ services for any event. Corporate, Private, Wedding, Sweet 16, Birthdays and Anniversary Celebrations. We can Customize Your Playlist for any event making it most festive and memorable!

DJ-Chicago Mobile DJ Productions

Contact: Nick McMann
773-472-5100
DJ@DJ-Chicago.com 
DJ-Chicago.com

Our number one priority is to exceed our client’s expectations. Our success in doing this is reflected in our reviews and the fact that a majority of our clients are repeat or referral customers. You can rest assured we'll meet your highest expectations!

DJ Dustin Harris

Contact: DJ Dustin Harris
312-405-0323
dustinharris312@gmail.com 
dustinharris.biz

DJ for weddings, private parties, and clubs.

DJ Greg Corner

Contact: DJ Greg Corner
djgregcorner@gmail.com 

The Chicago-based DJ who played President Barack Obama’s 50th birthday party at the Aragon Ballroom.

DJ Tess

djtess.com

DJ for private events.

Felix and Fingers

(815) 245-3623
info@felixandfingers.com 
felixandfingers.com

Dueling pianos bring the fun!

Green Line Talent

312-248-3505
info@greenlinetalent.com 
greenlinetalent.com

Green Line Talent is female-owned boutique DJ and Musician Agency. We are super hands-on, and hire our DJs and solo musicians, not only because they're talented, but because they are actually the kind of people we wouldn't mind having at our own parties! And since Sounding Good is just as important as Doing Good, we donate a portion of our profits each year to animal rescue. Planning a wedding and not sure where to start? If you haven't yet, take our Quiz, and we'll send over some suggestions.

Hye Demand Entertainment

847-915-2372
hdechicago.com 
bookings@hdechicago.com   

We are Chicagoland's premier entertainment company specializing in providing a unique, memorable and individual experience to take your event to the next level with our DJ's, Radiant Photobooths, Photographers and more. From preparation, inception to execution, we will be on point to help and guide you to your perfect event or project. 

JJ Entertainment

Contact: Jay F. Cabrera IV
847-650-9933
jjentertainmentchicago@gmail.com 

JR III Productions

Contact: James Render
312-608-4339
jamesrender3@yahoo.com 

Saxophonist/Band Director providing entertainment for private events.

Luxe Productions

Contact: Jamie Grossman
312-898-1752
jamie@luxeproductions.com 
luxeproductions.com

Premier event lighting, projection, photobooth & DJ services.

Magician Johnathan Koller

Contact: Johnathan Koller
414-861-7223
johnathanck@gmail.com 
johnathankoller.com

The world is an enigma of wonder and amazement just waiting to be discovered. Through his fun, interactive, and engaging performance style, your guests will embark on a journey with Johnathan where the lines of the imagination and reality are blurred, and everyday objects become the keys and gateways into the impossible. Johnathan specializes in walk-around and close-up magic.

Master Magician

Contact: Mike O'Donnell
773-234-1301
mike@magicofmike.com 
magicofmike.com

Paris Swing

Contact: Eddie Harrison
708-218-4208
eddie@jumpstars.com 
parisswing.net

Lively, elegant and fun swing band using 3 to 7 pieces for cocktails, dinner, and dancing.

Tamar Productions

Contact: Mary Ann Rose
773-880-1000
maryann@tamarproductionsinc.com 
tamarproductionsinc.com

For over 35 years, Tamar Productions, Inc. has been producing sophisticated and cutting-edge events. A small selection of our services include: decor, corporate branding, portable photo booths, casino or lawn games, DJs/musicians, actors/greeters, Cirque performers, and more!

U.S. Poker & Casino

Contact: Jeff Durocher
888-525-7183
jdurocher@uspokerseries.com 
uspokercasinoparties.com

Casino night parties are a great way to entertain your employees, attendees, and guests for a fun night out they'll be sure to remember.

A Couple of Clowns

Contact: Suzy
630-993-9545
wsuzanne2@gmail.com 
acoupleofclowns.us

Clowns, balloon art & face painting. All you need for a fun kids party!

 

Mid-America Charters

Contact: Rob & Kara Bingham
800-323-0312
bus-charter.com

Charter buses to transport your group safely and comfortably.

 

First Lady Private Events Vendors
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The City of Chicago puts on a firework display over Lake Michigan on Wednesdays (9:00pm) and Saturdays (10:00pm) from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The fireworks last about 15-20 minutes and are a fabulous bonus for those cruising with us on Wednesday and Saturday evenings! If you'd like to catch the entire show from the lake (which is the best spot for viewing the fireworks), you need to cruise until at least 10:15pm on Wednesday evenings and at least 11pm on Saturday evenings.

Yes. A narrated tour lasts one hour (the first hour of the cruise) and can be given by a Chicago Architecture Center docent ($500 docent fee to CAC) or by one of our trained Skyline Commentators ($200 fee). If you'd like a tour less than an hour, our Skyline Commentator can give a truncated tour.

You can cruise as late as midnight on any night of the week. If you are interested in an event ending after midnight, please give us a call at (847)-358-1330 to discuss.

All of our boats have two levels - the upper deck is an open-air deck, and the lower deck is an enclosed, climate-controlled salon. Each salon is surrounded by large windows so you can stay dry and still take in the spectacular views. Vessels cruise rain or shine safely guided by our U.S. Coast Guard-trained captains and crew.

We offer complimentary use of the boat sound system with Sirius XM Radio or Bluetooth connection for phone/mp3 player; or, you are welcome to hire a band or DJ. Other entertainment ideas include renting a photobooth or casino games or hiring a CAC docent or Skyline Commentator tour guide for a portion of your cruise time. Additionally, the City of Chicago puts on a firework display over Lake Michigan on summer Wednesdays and Saturdays.

All of our boats are available to be rented for private events in the evenings (start times vary based on the boat and the day of the week). Additionally, Chicago's First Lady is available during the daytime Monday through Friday for events concluding by 3 p.m. Chicago's Fair Lady is available Monday - Thursday mornings for breakfast events ending by 11a.

Yes, catering is required and does have to come from one of our catering partners. Catering is a separate contract, so you would reach out to our catering partners directly for pricing and to book your catering package.

Yes, all of our boats are exclusive-use. You will be the only party onboard, and you won't share the boat with any other parties or events.