Odyssey Chicago River Cruises in Chicago, IL

What should I wear?
Odyssey can be your opportunity to dress up! For women, cocktail wear, a dress or dressy-casual attire is appropriate. For men, collared shirts and dress pants are recommended. Dressy jeans are acceptable. Casual jeans, t-shirts, athletic shoes or flip flops are discouraged. For your safety, we suggest wearing flat, closed-toed shoes (recommended, but not required or enforced).

Where is it located? 
Odyssey Chicago River is located on the north side of the River Esplanade between Columbus Drive and Michigan Avenue. Docked near NBC Tower:

Cityfront Plaza Dr
Chicago, IL, 60611

How soon will my party begin eating on our cruise? 
Once on your deck, our hostess will greet you and escort you to your private table where your wait staff will introduce themselves and give you the opportunity to decide for yourself how to pace your service. Serving may begin immediately.

Is the cruise appropriate for children? 
Yes, children are allowed on all cruises!

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible? 
There is an accessible outdoor elevator that allows easy access to the lower Riverwalk level where our ship is docked. The elevator is located between the ship and the new Apple store, just south of the Gleacher Center. The restrooms aboard Odyssey Chicago River are located on the interior, lower level of the vessel. The vessel is not equipped with a wheelchair elevator, however, it does have a portable wheelchair stair master that accommodates manual, standard wheelchairs only. Please note, we do have a manual, standard wheelchair onsite to be used with the lift should it be needed.

Can I bring my camera?
Guests are more than welcome to bring their own camera for personal pictures aboard the ship. In addition, as you are boarding, the ship's photographer records the moment for your entire party. As you depart, you'll find your boarding photo ready for purchase.

How long is the cruise?
Cruise duration is between 2.5 and 3 hours.

Is there entertainment onboard?
Yes! While boarding and dining, you'll enjoy some light music that will whisk you away to a more relaxed state and help you unwind. After dining, our DJ will turn up the tunes, spin some recognizable favorites, and encourage guests to make their way to do the dance floor. If you're not in the mood for dancing, our outdoor decks are a perfect place to relax with some light music and take in Chicago's world-famous skyline.

What is the difference between "Boarding Time" and "Cruising Time"? 
"Boarding Time" is the earliest you and your guests may board the ship. You are free to board any time after that up until then. The ship will leave the port at the "Cruise Time."

Please note: allow plenty of time for parking and getting to the ship. The ship leaves promptly at the listed “Cruise Time” and passengers will not be able to board once the ship sets sail.

How far offshore does the ship travel?
Our all-glass vessel goes as far north as Goose Island and as far south as the Canal Street Railroad Bridge. We then loop back to our docking location at NBC Tower.

What beverages are served on your cruise? 
Coffee, tea and iced tea are included in the ticket price. We have fully-stocked bars, and any additional beverages may be purchased onboard at our cash bar.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Please check our menu for our vegetarian options. While we offer gluten and allergy-free products and gluten-sensitive menu items, we openly handle several allergens throughout our galleys. While we take precautions to keep ingredients separate, we cannot guarantee a gluten-free environment. We do not have separate prep surfaces, cooktops or equipment. Our chef prepares and cooks in common areas with shared equipment, therefore the items may come in contact with other food products.

Are there restrooms onboard? 
Yes, restrooms are located in every enclosed dining room on the ship.

Is there pre-assigned seating? 
As you board, our captain and marine crew will direct you to your deck. From there, our hostess will show you to your assigned table(s).

How many people may be seated at one table? 
Anywhere from 2-8 people may be seated at one table, depending on the total number of individuals on the ship during a given cruise. If your party requires more than one table, we will ensure that they are located next to each other.

Is smoking allowed on the cruise?
Smoking is allowed on our observation deck.

Where do I pick up my tickets? 
Your tickets will be at the Odyssey Ticket Booth, located next to the ship. For your convenience, you can pick up your tickets 30 minutes prior to boarding.

What kind of security check is required when I pick up my tickets and board the ship? 
Your photo identification and reservation number are required at our Ticket Booth when picking up your tickets. In accordance with the US Coast Guard Regulation, all passengers and their belongings being brought on to our vessels are subject to search and screening. In order to expedite the boarding process, we ask that you please do not bring any unnecessary bags on board and please make sure that all gifts are in gift bags or unwrapped for easy screening.

How soon will my party begin eating on our cruise?
Once on your deck, our hostess will greet you and escort you to your private table where your wait staff will introduce themselves and give you the opportunity to decide for yourself how to pace your service. Serving may begin immediately.