Chicago Odyssey Cruises in Chicago, IL

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 the Cruise Time. The ship will leave port at the Cruise Time. We recommend allowing 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.

What is the dress attire for the lunch or brunch cruise?
For women, dressy-casual attire such as pants, sundresses, nice shorts or a nice outfit are recommended. For men, we suggest dressy casual attire such as nice pants or shorts and a collared shirt. Nice, designer jeans are acceptable. However, casual jeans, t-shirts, athletic shoes or flip flops are discouraged

What is the dress attire for the dinner cruise?
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. Dressier jeans are acceptable. However, casual jeans, t-shirts, athletic shoes or flip flops are discouraged.

What beverages are served on your cruise?
Coffee, tea and iced tea are included in the ticket price. Any additional beverages may be purchased onboard at our cash bar.

Is there any parking fees?
Yes, you can pay the parking fees to park in the Navy Pier Garages located at 600 E. Grand Ave and walk to the south side of Navy Pier. We recommend you park in the West Garage, using doors 5/6 to most easily access the Odyssey. As traffic in and around Navy Pier can be unpredictable, we recommend you allow ample time for parking. The ship leaves promptly at the scheduled cruise time. Come early. Enjoy the pier.

May I bring my own camera on board?
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.

What are some views we will see?
Spot iconic Chicago buildings all along the lakefront and see Museum Campus and Soldier Field while sailing the southern portion of the cruise route. Take in views of our world famous skyline, from the Willis Tower, the John Hancock, to the Shedd Aquarium, Aon Center and more.

Is the Odyssey Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes. The Odyssey has a deck and restrooms that can accommodate most standard-sized wheelchairs. Our crew is happy to aid passengers that need assistance.

Are children allowed?
Children are allowed on all cruises. Children 2 and under are free.

Do you offer any children discounts?
Children 2 and under are complimentary. A discount is offered for children between the ages of 3 and 12 on select Brunch and Lunch Cruises. There are no children discounts for dinner cruises. On all cruises, children 2 and under are complimentary but require a boarding ticket so please mention when making a reservation.

How far off shore does the ship travel?
The ship is licensed to travel as far as 3 miles off shore, however, our cruise route typically remains only one mile off shore.

Do you offer Kosher meals?
Yes, we do offer a Kosher Meal option for an additional charge on our lunch and dinner cruises. We order from an outside establishment who delivers the meal to us fresh that day/evening. The meal typically consists of a plated chicken dish with vegetables. We can do fresh fruit for your dessert option. You will be served your Kosher Meal in place our standard 4-course meal at your private table. Please notify an Odyssey Reservation Agent of any kosher requirements at least 48 hours in advance of your event.

Are there restrooms on board?
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).

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 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.

What if it rains or snows?
Odyssey will cruise in most weather conditions all year round. Each enclosed deck is climate-controlled and the weather will not affect your cruise. In the case of severe weather conditions or upon the direction of the U.S. Coast Guard, the ship will remain dockside for the length of the event.

What is the ships cruise route? What views will we see?
Weather permitting – we will exit out the break wall and head North to North Avenue Beach and then back south to the Planetarium and Burnham Harbor. All the while, offering unmatched views of our world-famous skyline, from the Willis Tower, the John Hancock, to the Shedd Aquarium, Aon Center and more.