Private Events
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
Whether entertaining two or 250 guests, choose your perfectly sized ship for a private and luxurious event.
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
Emerald Lady
Holds up to 250 guests
$1700–2000 hr
Extra-large upper deck
Two full-service bars available
Leading Lady & Classic Lady
Holds up to 250 guests
$1700–2000 hr
Extra-large upper deck
Two full-service bars available
First Lady
Holds up to 150 guests
$1600–1900 hr
Formal salon sitting area
Two full-service bars available
Fair Lady
Holds up to 125 guests
$1500–1800 hr
Upper deck perfect for dancing
Two full-service bars available
Little Lady
Holds up to 80 guests
$1400–1700 hr
Popular for intimate gatherings
Open-air upper deck
Lady Grebe
Holds up to 6 guests
$2000 for 2 hours, additional hours $650 hr
Premium beverages included
Perfect for VIP location
Amenities
- 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)
- 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)
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
Commodore
Admiral
Upgrade Options
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
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.
Emily McCauley
cbbrchgoparties@lettuce.com
cafebabareeba.com
847.358.1330
With their artistic presentation, seamless execution and unwavering attention to detail, Entertaining Company appeals to people who appreciate an artful approach to cuisine.
Denise Robinette
(312) 406-9757
denise@entertainingcompany.com
entertainingcompany.com
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.
Abby Carson
(312) 645-7760
gemevents@leye.com
gemcateringandevents.com
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.
Carol Guerra
(312) 266-3337
carol@ginoseast.com
ginoseast.com
Named for the late renowned baseball announcer, Harry Caray’s offers unparalleled service, whether you choose Italian, Southwestern, Backyard BBQ or Steakhouse classics.
Sebastian Osuch
(312) 595-8063
sebastian@harrycarays.com
harrycarays.com
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.
Erin Juache
(312) 527-2722
shawsparties20@lettuce.com
shawscrabhouse.com
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.
Niki Beringer
(312) 835-3489
shsbparties@lettuce.com
summerhousesm.com
Catering Basics
- Cocktail reception with passed hors d’oeuvres
- Hearty buffet stations
- Diverse, cultural menu options
- Breakfast and lunchtime options
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.