New Year’s Eve Plated Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan

Spending New Year’s Eve on a boat might sound like a classic film scene, but this particular cruise in Chicago truly makes that dream a reality. Organized by City Cruises, this 4-hour evening excursion promises a blend of spectacular city views, delicious food, and lively party vibes—all wrapped up in a single package. We’re here to give you a detailed look at what you can expect, based on real reviews and the experience’s features, so you can decide if this is the right way to welcome 2025.

One of the standout features is the gourmet three-course plated dinner paired with an open bar (for the Silver Package), which turns what could be a simple cruise into a full-blown celebration. Plus, the chance to see Chicago’s iconic skyline illuminated at night, with fireworks lighting up the sky—what’s not to love? But, a word to the wise: the event starts promptly at 9:30 pm with no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your transportation accordingly. This experience suits those looking for a lively, all-inclusive way to ring in the New Year while enjoying the city’s best views and a festive atmosphere.

Key Points

• Scenic Chicago Views: Enjoy stunning vistas of the city skyline and landmarks like Navy Pier, especially illuminated for the holiday.
• Gourmet Dining: Indulge in a carefully prepared three-course meal served tableside, with attentive service.
• Festive Atmosphere: An onboard DJ and dance floor create a lively setting to celebrate the New Year.
• Open Bar Options: The Silver Package includes an open bar, making the evening more relaxed and fun.
• Prime Timing & Location: Starts at 9:30 pm from Navy Pier, perfect for late-night festivities.
• Authentic Experience: Guests highlight the excellent food, friendly service, and spectacular fireworks view as key highlights.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Timing

Your adventure kicks off at Navy Pier, one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks. Arriving by 9:30 pm, you’ll find yourself ready to board just as the city begins winding down for the evening. No hotel pickup is included, so plan to arrive here via taxi, rideshare, or public transit—a small inconvenience but worth it for the experience.

The Cruise Itinerary

Once aboard, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and shown to your table. The cruise itself doesn’t follow a complex route but rather focuses on providing a stationary yet ever-changing view of Chicago’s skyline as the boat slowly circles the harbor. The highlight? Watching Navy Pier and other iconic spots lit up against the night sky, with the fireworks display lighting up the scene—something you can’t quite replicate from land.

The Dinner

The 3-course plated meal is a major part of this experience. Guests report the food as being quite good, with attentive service that makes the meal feel special. The menu likely includes a mix of savory options, carefully prepared by onboard chefs, providing a satisfying festive meal without feeling overly heavy.

Entertainment and Celebration

After dinner, the focus shifts to celebration—an onboard DJ starts spinning tunes, and the dance floor heats up. Reviews mention the atmosphere as “pleasing” and the music as lively, encouraging guests to take a turn on the floor and dance the night away. Unlimited hot tea, coffee, iced tea, and water keep everyone comfortable, while the Silver Package’s open bar allows for unlimited drinks for those of legal drinking age, enhancing the party mood.

Fireworks and Views

The real showstopper is the fireworks display over Lake Michigan, which guests describe as breathtaking from the boat’s open-air rooftop and climate-controlled interior. One review noted how “the city looked great from out on Lake Michigan,” emphasizing how the boat’s vantage point offers a unique perspective of Chicago’s sky lit up to mark the New Year.

End of the Night

The cruise concludes back at Navy Pier, around 1 am, leaving you with memories of a lively night, spectacular scenery, and a sense of celebration. Keep in mind, this experience is non-refundable and requires booking in advance—on average, about 22 days ahead—so plan accordingly.

What Travelers Loved and Noted

Many reviews highlight the delicious food and attentive service as standout aspects. Charles_C called it a “special way to spend New Year’s Eve,” praising the “quite good” food and “excellent” service. Fernando_S added that the experience had “a pleasing ambiance” and that the fireworks view was fantastic, making it a perfect way to ring in the new year.

Some travelers pointed out the cruise’s authenticity—this isn’t just a party cruise; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances celebration with sightseeing. The lively music and dance opportunities kept guests engaged, and the overall vibe was described as “lovely” and “memorable.”

Analyzing the Value

At $341.59 per person, the cost might seem steep but aligns with what you get: a premium vantage point, gourmet meal, and unlimited drinks (on the Silver Package). For those seeking an all-inclusive, memorable celebration that combines sightseeing, good food, and a festive atmosphere, it offers significant value. The exclusive fireworks view and access to Chicago’s night-time beauty are what truly set this cruise apart from standard dinner options.

Who Is This Best For?

This cruise is ideal for adults aged 21 and over looking for a lively, special way to celebrate New Year’s Eve. It suits those who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a festive dance environment. If you’re a couple, a group of friends, or even a family with older teens, the experience offers a unique blend of relaxation and celebration. Those wanting a more subdued or land-based event might prefer other options, but for a true party with spectacular sights, this cruise hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This New Year’s Eve Plated Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan combines spectacular city views, gourmet dining, and lively entertainment in one well-organized package. Its attention to detail—like quality food, friendly staff, and prime fireworks vantage—makes it stand out. The experience feels both elegant and fun, perfect for travelers who want a memorable way to start the year.

While it demands some planning and a bit of money, the payoff is a unique, scenic celebration that few other options offer. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or a partner, this cruise provides an authentic Chicago experience wrapped up in a festive, all-inclusive evening.

If you’re after a high-quality, lively, and scenic way to ring in 2025, this cruise is worth considering. Just remember to book early, arrive on time, and bring your party spirit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this cruise begins at Navy Pier, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

What time does the cruise start?
Boarding begins at 9:30 pm, so plan to arrive slightly earlier to settle in and avoid missing the start.

What does the dinner include?
Guests enjoy a carefully prepared 3-course plated meal served with attentive tableside service. The menu is designed to be satisfying yet elegant.

Is there an open bar?
The Silver Package includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, making it easy to toast and celebrate without worry.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable, and changes are not permitted, so be sure of your plans before booking.

What is the age limit?
The minimum drinking age is 21, and the event is designed for adult guests.

Will I see fireworks?
Yes, the boat’s vantage point offers excellent views of Chicago’s fireworks display over Lake Michigan, especially from the open-air rooftop and interior spaces.