This is a review of the Shoreline Architectural Cruise that launches out of Chicago's Navy Pier. The Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises has several other places it launches out of.
Shoreline Cruises offers 3 types of boat cruises from Navy Pier. There is a water taxi to Sears Tower for $7. There is a Lake Michigan Chicago skyline tour for $12. I took the hour long architectural tour down the Chicago River for $22. There is also a 90 minute tour combining the architectural and Lake Michigan tour for $28.
I boarded the 11:30 AM architectural tour. It's on an open decked boat with rafters suspended above the deck. We were cautioned not to stick our hands above the rafters as the boat clears the bridges by only a few inches.
Upon boarding, we were given a pamphlet with a brief overview of the buildings we would see. Our tour guide, Kevin, was quite entertaining, as he narrated the tour with emotion and finesse. The boat ride started up the Chicago River and Kevin gave a rather detailed overview of the different buildings, including their history, architectural style, and any oddities the buildings have. A history of the rivers, city, and railroads were also part of the narration.
The boat ride was very smooth. There was only slight buffeting as we reversed course in the river. There is a bar on board where you can purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The boat's rafters really do clear some of Chicago's bridges by a few inches.
I really liked the tour as it gave Chicago meaning for me. Before the tour, I didn't know about most of the buildings, so they had no significance to me. After the tour, I had a new appreciation for Chicago and it's history. I'd definitely recommend this for any new visitors of Chicago!