Chicago, Illinois: A Stunning Skyline Perspective with Odyssey Cruises

A custom-built, glass-enclosed ship is primed to take visitors on an elegant journey down the Chicago River. Brand new to the city, the Odyssey Chicago River offers an elevated experience on a one-of-a-kind vessel with a special route (tour all the way south to China Town and as far north as Goose Island). Open-air observation spaces on the bow and stern deliver exceptional views, while the all-glass ceiling and walls offer unobstructed indoor views too. Launching from the Chicago River Esplanade, it’s conveniently located next to the Magnificent Mile so you can spend time shopping then hop aboard for the best way to see the city – by water.

You could be anywhere on the sleek Odyssey Lake Michigan and still have access to the views. Whether you’re having cocktails on an upper deck or feasting in one of three well-appointed indoor dining rooms, the focus is always on the lakeshore vistas. While aboard, gaze at the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier and the John Hancock Center skyscraper as you head north towards Oak Street Beach. Make your way to the rooftop deck, feel the breeze on your face and spot Willis Tower and the Shedd Aquarium. Head back downstairs for lakefront dining at its finest with brunch, lunch and dinner options. A dinner cruise includes access to the dance floor and a lively DJ. But be sure not to miss a sunset, or that moment when the city lights flick on, illuminating the skyline.

You can cruise aboard Odyssey any time of year, including winter, as the dining decks are climate-controlled. In addition to dinner options, you can book a brunch or lunch voyage for a midday escape. Odyssey’s holiday cruises help celebrate the occasion in a unique and memorable way, from Fourth of July to New Year’s and Valentine’s Day. Themed-cruises happen all year, too (and are a great way to spice up personal milestones and birthdays). Select from either the Prix Fixe Dinner cruise or the Fireworks cruise, both offer dynamic skyline views.

The Executive Chef-driven menu always brings something new to the table. Enjoy a plated, multi-course meal complemented by wine or a microbrew and followed by an impressive dessert. Essentially everything you’d expect in an upscale restaurant is offered aboard Odyssey, from attentive service to chic, modern décor. When the ship pulls away from Navy Pier on the riverbank and the DJ starts the music, that’s your cue to relax. The atmosphere is spirited and social, but you can also have a romantic night for two and feel as though you’re the only people on board. Regardless of the occasion, it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Chicago is easily reached from international destinations via O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Odyssey Cruises dock right at Navy Pier and the Chicago River Esplanade, both located downtown in the Streeterville/Magnificent Mile neighborhood.