Chicago Fireworks Cruise

Saturdays and Wednesdays May-August (Resumes May 25, 2024)

Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise

Adult: $50.00 | Child (4-12): $25.00 | Under 4: Free

No city embraces summer quite like Chicago. Get up-close and personal every Wednesday and Saturday night on this epic Lake Michigan fireworks cruise. Cruise duration is 2-2.5 hours.

chicago river cruise fireworks

45 Minute River Fireworks Cruise

Adult: $32.00 | Child (4-12): $16.00 | Under 4: Free

Enjoy the Navy Pier Fireworks from the Chicago River. A brief version of Wendella's Lake Michigan Fireworks Cruise, this experience is 45 minutes and does not go out to Lake Michigan.

chicago river cruise fireworks

Schedule & Tickets

  • Adult: $50.00 Lake Fireworks $32.00 River Fireworks
  • Child (4-12): $25.00 Lake Fireworks $16.00 River Fireworks
  • Under 4: Free

*Prices listed above are the final prices at checkout.

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Important Info:

  • Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time.
  • All bags are subject to inspection.
  • Prohibited Items: Outside Alcohol, Weapons of any kind (Firearms, Knives, etc.), Flammables, Explosives.

Your boat includes:

Drinks & Snacks

Full-service bar with wine, local beer, and craft cocktails, as well as an assortment of snacks, all for purchase. Pinkies up!

Climate-Controlled Lounge

Keeping you cool when it's warm and warm when it's cool (or freezing).

No need to hold it. We have changing tables for the little ones who don’t know what holding it is.

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE NOW

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COMING SOON ARCHITECTURAL FIREWORKS CRUISE

2 hours — river & lake* , architectural fireworks cruise.

Adults : $48    Seniors : $46    Youths : $26    Children 6 and under : Free

Enjoy your favorite drink while gazing Chicago’s magnificent architecture and finish your cruise with a fabulous light show, at Navy Pier!

Fireworks, one of the Four Great Inventions of ancient China were invented in the 12th century.

Chicago approved City-Wide Use of Fireworks on the 4th of July 1893. Mayor of Chicago Patrick Eugene Prendergast issued a proclamation approving the use of fireworks to celebrate the World’s Colombian Exposition and to celebrate the nation’s 117th Independence Day.

This fascination with fireworks, noise, and color continues today. The City of Chicago offers a fireworks show at Navy Pier on Wednesdays at 9:30pm and Saturday nights at 10:15pm.

Drinks may be purchased individually with a credit card on the boat. Complimentary Coca-Cola soft drinks, lemonade, and cookies are included. Depending on lock traffic, our fireworks cruise will sail along one of two routes, river only or river and lake.

Join us at 8pm on Wednesday nights and 8:30pm on Saturdays for our narrated Architectural Fireworks 2-hour Cruise. There’s something for everyone on this one of a kind cruise!

* Subject to change, depends on lock traffic and weather conditions

  • Due to heavy Lake traffic, cruises may return to dock 30 minutes later than scheduled.

A CRUISE YOU’LL SURELY REMEMBER

Stunning light show.

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OVERVIEW OF CHICAGO LINE’S

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MERCHANDISE

Never forget your onboard experience on your Chicago Line cruise. Be sure to purchase one of our stylish souvenirs today!

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COMPLIMENTARY

Starbucks Coffee, Twinings Tea, Coca-Cola soft drinks and lemonade are all complimentary.

chicago river cruise fireworks

BEER, WINE & COCKTAILS

Beer, wine and cocktails are available for purchase at any time.

CHICAGO LINE CRUISES

Sail with us, make your moments memorable with chicago line cruises.

chicago river cruise fireworks

PRIVATE EVENTS

For parties up to 170, we have fully-outfitted boats and onboard amenities to help you create a private event they’ll talk about for years to come.

DO YOU HAVE A GROUP OF 20 OR MORE? CONTACT US FOR SPECIAL RATES!

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Group discount rates are available for parties of 20 or more aboard any of our river cruises.

GIVE THE GIFT OF CHICAGO LINE TOURS!

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GIFT TICKETS

To give a special someone, friend or client the best tour in Chicago, simply ask at our ticket office or contact us.

This is my 8th time on a Chicago architectural river cruise and this was by far the most informative and biggest bang for your buck. Operagolf / LaHabra
The best guide on our whole USA trip. We took the Architecture tour where the boat meandered in between all of the incredible buildings of the city with the guide knowing EVERYTHING about each building; its style, age, height, architect, cost, purpose, owner ….. Quite brilliant! DrCumbrian / TripAdvisor
I've done several of the architecture cruises since my family moved to Chicago, and this is the best one yet! Allie K / TripAdvisor
If you only have time for one sight-seeing event while in Chicago, do this. We really have no great interest in architecture, but this tour came highly recommended and we did not regret it. Allice I / Oklahoma
My wife and I very much enjoyed the Chicago Line Cruise jazz cruise... My spouse said this was one of the favorite things she has done in Chicago since moving here in the past year, and I agree. I am a jazz snob, and ... I was very pleased with the music offered by the Geordie Kelly group. He's a fine jazz guitarist, and his band was great. Augie R / Yelp

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  • Fireworks Tour

Best seats in the city

See the summer spectacle.

The Chicago skyline at night is an incredible sight, and it’s even better with an up-close view of the Navy Pier fireworks! 

On Wednesday and Saturday evenings, you can take our Skyline Lake Tour and end your visit with a front-row view of the Navy Pier fireworks. On our boat, you’ll have the best seats in the city for the fantastic fireworks display.

Casting off

Our Skyline Lake Tours only depart from our Navy Pier dock at 600 E. Grand Ave . From Navy Pier, you’ll head out on a majestic boat tour of Lake Michigan where you’ll be able to see Chicago’s renowned skyscrapers and landmarks light up.

Our Skyline Lake Tour takes you on a loop around Lake Michigan, heading both north and south on the lake, you’ll see many of Chicago’s famous landmarks and the classic skyline vista. 

Adults: $40.95

Children (3-12): $24.15

Children 2 and under: Free

Tour highlights:

  • Front-row views of the Navy Pier fireworks display (Wednesday and Saturday evenings only)
  • View iconic landmarks including the Willis Tower, 875 N. Michigan Ave (the former John Hancock Center), Aqua Tower, and The St. Regis Chicago (Vista Tower)
  • Enjoy the illuminated Chicago skyline at night from Lake Michigan

Now in its 83rd season, Shoreline Sightseeing operates Chicago's largest and most diverse fleet of cruise boats and water taxis with 11 major tour vessels and 7 water taxis.

(312) 222-9328 ext. 1 [email protected]

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Chicago Water Taxi

Chicago riverwalk fireworks cruise, please note: all fireworks shows are canceled at this time. additional details and decisions related to future fireworks and special events will be made with guidance from state and city officials throughout the summer..

Join Chicago Water Taxi on Wednesday and Saturday nights as we depart from the Riverwalk to view the City’s magnificent fireworks display.

No city embraces summer quite like Chicago. Join the celebration with friends and family on this social fireworks cruise featuring  City Winery ‘s unique Chicago inspired wine selection. The Riverwalk Fireworks Cruise is aboard the Wendella LTD, Chicago Water Taxi’s flagship vessel.

The journey begins at the Chicago Riverwalk, cruises up and down the main branch of the Chicago River, and ends with a spectacular view of the Chicago Fireworks as seen from the Chicago River.

General Cruise Information

Located on the bottom deck of our vessel is a climate controlled lounge with a limited selection of beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic). There is also a restroom available on board. There is no narration, but light music for you to enjoy as the vessel cruises up and down the Chicago River. Boarding for each tour will begin 15 minutes before the departure time at the Chicago Water Taxi’s Riverwalk Clark Street Water Taxi Stop, located on the southwest corner of the Clark Street bridge on the Chicago Riverwalk.

60 – 75 Minutes Adult : $25.00  | Child : $10.00

Tickets can also be purchased by calling 312-337-1446, or on the vessel.

No red lights, no traffic, just relaxation to your destination!

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THANKS FOR A GREAT 2023 CRUISING SEASON

2024 tickets on sale now!

Chicago Cruise Tour

Experience Chicago's skyline like no other as we cruise the Chicago River & Lake Michigan. And check out our specialty cruises, including Chicago's only Canine Cruise & our 3D Fireworks Cruise!

Schedule

Cruising May 24 - October 14. Tickets on sale now!

Location

Conveniently located along the Chicago Riverwalk. Steps from Millennium Park, The Magnificent Mile and all that downtown Chicago has to offer.

Group Rates Available

Call us for group reservations at 312-332-1368 or contact us at [email protected] (group rates available Sunday - Friday). Ask about our school field trip days.

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Get Social with Us!

Follow @mercurycruises on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook to see latest cruise information, special promotions and fun city happenings.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Reservations are not necessary for daytime tours, though you are welcome to purchase tickets in advance online . We also encourage advance purchase online or dockside if you desire to cruise a particular date and time and want to guarantee your seats aboard.

We do advise that you buy CHICAGO BY NIGHT! and 3D Fireworks Cruise tickets in advance – online or at the box office – as these tickets are extremely popular.

Online we accept Visa and MasterCard. At our dockside ticket office, we accept cash, Visa and MasterCard.

Beverages – including water, soda, canned cocktails, beer, and wine – are available for purchase on board. Please note, no outside alcoholic beverages are allowed.

Snacks - including small items such as chips, cookies, and nuts - are also available for purchase.

Please note that all ticket sales are final.

All of our Urban Adventure Cruise, Chicago By Night! and 3D Fireworks tours pass through the Chicago River Lock System. Our guide/narrator gives a full explanation of the operation of the lock. You’ll feel the boat rise as you enter Lake Michigan and lower as you return to the River.

Yes. Our cruises depart rain or shine. We have open and covered seating on board.

Yes, of course! There are "Heads" located on board as well as one lined with newspapers for your dog(s) during the Canine Cruises.

The safety of our guests and crew is our number one priority. After more than 80 years providing memorable cruises of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan for millions of guests, we are proud to say we have a perfect safety record.

All of our vessels are regulated, licensed and inspected by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) every year, and have undergone stability testing to ensure our guests are safe on their waterway experience. Our captains and deckhands go through an extensive training and drilling program that goes above and beyond the standards set by the USCG. Because we are committed to continuing education, we provide extra training every day to our crew.

If you have any questions about our safety training protocols or other concerns, please contact our Company Security Office Captain Tom Hacker at [email protected].

No. Luggage is not allowed aboard the Mercury vessels. Please leave your luggage at your hotel or check your bags in at a hotel near the dock (be sure to confirm in advance the ability for the hotel to accommodate you). Also, please be aware that all bags (purses, backpacks, etc.) are checked before boarding.

Yes, strollers may be brought aboard and will be folded and stored in the indoor salon for the duration of the cruise. They are not allowed on the deck. Please note, children must be removed from strollers before boarding.

In accordance with ADA guidelines, we welcome service dogs onboard. The service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered while in public places unless these devices interfere with the service animal's work or the person's disability prevents use of these devices. Emotional support animals, pets and other animals not covered by the ADA are not permitted. All dogs are welcome on  Mercury's Canine Cruise ! Please visit the ADA's FAQ on service animals for further details. 

We love groups and would be happy to offer you a group discount if you would wish to reserve in advance! Please call 312-332-1368 or [email protected] for more information! 

Please note that we do not offer group discounts for our 3D Fireworks Cruise, but are happy to make a group reservation for full price! 

Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. Choose any seat - all offer a great view!

Children under 5 are always welcome free of charge, but do still require a ticket. Folded strollers may be brought on board. Children’s rates available for kids 5-15 years old.

At this time the Riverwalk does not offer any elevators. For those who need ADA ramps, you may access the Riverwalk via the ADA ramp at State Street and Wacker Drive within the Vietnam Memorial Park. Then just follow the Riverwalk to the East under the Michigan Avenue Bridge. Our Ticket Office is marked with a blue awning. Our stairway offers handrails, and shade from the sun. For guests needing special vehicle drop-off assistance, click here for Mobility Assistance directions.

For safety reasons, motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs cannot be accommodated aboard the ship. Guests who can transfer may use the company's manual wheelchair, based upon availability. Please note guests using manual wheelchairs must be accompanied by individuals who are capable of assisting/lifting the wheelchair over the boat’s threshold. Under Federal law and due to special marine safety construction guidelines, USCG-regulated small vessels are not subject to land-based architectural configuration requirements. Although we do our best to accommodate passengers with limited mobility consistent with our vessel capabilities, staffing and the docking space which is publicly owned and controlled, we can do a better job with advance notice .

LAZ Parking Garage at 111 E. Wacker Drive. This garage is across the street from our street-level dock entrance. Make a self-parking reservation online .

Discount rates available for Mercury customers with validation: $14 for 1-3 hours or $15 for 3-4 hours of parking. After 4 hours, standard rates apply. IMPORTANT: You must have your parking ticket stamped at our ticket window or on your boat in order to receive the discounted rate. Stamped tickets must be further validated at the parking garage office before departing the garage. Note: LAZ Parking Services at 111 E. Wacker is not owned or affiliated with Chicago’s First Lady Cruises. The parking information posted here is merely for the convenience of our guests and is not to be construed as a recommendation or endorsement.

We are located on Michigan Avenue just 3 blocks north of Millennium Park. Visit TheMagnificentMile.com or MillenniumPark.org for activities, events and special offers.

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Photo credit Barry Butler Photography Navy Pier

Vote Navy Pier Best Place to See Fireworks!

Navy Pier Seeks to Defend Title as ‘ Best Place to Watch Fireworks ’ in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards! Cast your vote once per day now-May 13th.

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Fireworks At Navy Pier

Photo credit: Barry Butler Photography

Navy Pier Seeks to Defend Title as ‘Best Place to Watch Fireworks’ in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards! Cast your vote once per day now-May 13th.

Chicago's Free Fireworks Fun!

Join us for Chicago’s favorite free dazzling fireworks display Wednesday and Saturday nights from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Get cozy on the Pier and enjoy the spectacular winter display, then ring in the New Year with Chicago’s favorite sky spectacle show.

  • May 25th @ 10:00 pm
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  • May 29th @ 9:00 pm
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  • June 12th @ 9:00 pm
  • June 15th @ 10:00 pm
  • June 19th @ 9:00 pm
  • June 22nd @ 10:00 pm
  • June 26th @ 9:00 pm
  • June 29th @ 10:00 pm
  • July 3rd @ 9:00 pm
  • July 6th @ 10:00 pm
  • July 10th @ 9:00 pm
  • July 13th @ 10:00 pm
  • July 17th @ 9:00 pm
  • July 20th @ 10:00 pm
  • July 24th @ 9:00 pm
  • July 27th @ 10:00 pm
  • July 31st @ 9:00 pm
  • August 3rd @ 10:00 pm
  • August 7th @ 9:00 pm
  • August 10th @ 10:00 pm
  • August 14th @ 9:00 pm
  • August 17th @ 10:00 pm
  • August 21st @ 9:00 pm
  • August 24th @ 10:00 pm
  • August 28th @ 9:00 pm
  • August 31st @ 10:00 pm
  • December 31st @ 11:59 pm

Other Times

Firework Events

Summer Fireworks

Summer Fireworks

Summer Fireworks Wednesdays (9PM) & Saturdays (10PM) | FREE Enjoy Chicago's beloved sky spectacle show every Wednesday night at 9pm and Saturday night at 10pm,...

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

New Year’s Eve Fireworks December 31, 2024 | 11:59PM | FREE Celebrate the arrival of the New Year with Chicago's renowned award-winning fireworks! Join us...

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Architecture Tour

TripAdvisor users rank the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady as the city's #1 boat tour.

There’s one sure recipe to make your business or social event even more memorable – just add water and Chicago’s First Lady!

Recalling the handsome elegance of 20th century luxury yachts, our vessels are sure to make an impression. Choose from seven perfectly sized ships for your private event.

Your wedding is the start of your lifelong journey together, so begin that journey in a truly memorable way - a wedding cruise down the Chicago River.

Evening River Cruise

Experience our renowned daytime CAC River Cruise in the glow of the setting sun. Take in the city’s magnificent architecture bathed in golden light as it begins its transition from day to night.

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“The very best city tour I have been on in my life! We were in America for a month and this was our best morning.” - JurassicBill TripAdvisor, Dorset UK

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"What an amazing experience, this tour brings all the beautiful architecture and history to life.” - Rachel M Yelp, Arizona, USA

Entertainment | Navy Pier announces summer 2024 music,…

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Entertainment, entertainment | navy pier announces summer 2024 music, fireworks and sports events.

People watch from Navy Pier in Chicago as fireworks are set off on July 1, 2023, to celebrate Independence Day weekend. (Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune)

Navy Pier has announced its summer 2024 schedule of events, opening with a summerlong exhibit devoted to house music, plus a Summer Block Party, multiple sporting events, a return of the LatiNxt Music Fest and the fireworks.

Chicago: Home of House Exhibit (May 1 to Oct. 31): Commemorating the 40th anniversary of house music, an exhibit devoted to the artists from Chicago’s South and West Sides who helped create the style. Presented in partnership with the Design Museum of Chicago and Vintage House Show Collective.

Mexico Fest (May 3-5): Music and dance performances by Mariachi Estrellas de Chicago, Ballet Folklorico Sones Mexicano, Pachanga DJs, Caballo Dorado and others. Plus workshops and more than 30 vendors. Presented in partnership with Consulado General de México en Chicago and the governments of Chihuahua, Nayarit and Queretaro.

Lakefront Loop 5K (May 5): A 5K run on the Pier itself, and for the first time this year a timed event.

Swing Into Summer (May 18): The Pier will become a sports hub with pickleball, wiffle ball, baseball, softball and golf. Coaches and trainers will be on hand to offer instruction, while mini-golf competitions will take place at the new Pier Park Mini Golf Course.

Live on the Lake (May 25 to Sept. 2): Navy Pier’s free weekend music series in the outdoor Beer Garden from 2 p.m. to closing every Saturday and Sunday, plus Memorial Day and Labor Day Mondays.

Summer fireworks (May 25 to Aug. 31): Every Wednesday at 9 p.m. and Saturday at 10 p.m., from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.

Wave Wall Moves (May 25 to Aug. 31): Live outdoor performance series with Chicago dance companies including Chicago Ballet Arts, Uptown Rockers, Ruth Paige School of Dance, Chicago Korean Dance Company and Perpetual Motion. Presented in partnership with See Chicago Dance on Saturday afternoons at 4 p.m. on the Wave Wall Stage.

Wave Wall Wax (May 25 to Aug. 31): Chicago DJs spin house and dance music every Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Including Steve “Miggedy” Maestro, TRQPiTECA, DJ Iggy, Mo Mami and Joe Smooth.

Skyline Sessions (May 30 to Aug. 30): Live music by Larry Anthony, Lydia Cash, James Gedda, MER’s Music Showcase, Daniel Chavez Organ Quartet, and Meg & The Wheelers and others, every Thursday and Friday from 5 p.m. on the Wave Wall Stage.

Rush Hour Workouts and Sunset Yoga (June 4 to Aug. 27): Free Tuesday exercise classes with a fusion of Zumba and Jazzercise at 6 p.m. and yoga at 7:30 p.m. in Polk Bros Park.

Pier Dance (June 5-26): Free dance lessons every Wednesday at 6 p.m. in Polk Bros Park.

Chi-Soul Fest (June 15-16): Two-day music festival celebrating Black History Month with artists including Jamiah Rogers, Bumpus, Manny Torres, Ariel Posen and Chibrations.

Summer Block Party (June 26 and July 31): New for 2024 with live bands, DJs and a Beer Garden stage with ’90s music. Plus family-friendly activities from corn hole to video games. Starting at 3 p.m., concluding with fireworks at 9 p.m.

Navy Pier Pride (June 29): Celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community with live music, dance, storytelling and more, including by the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, Lakeside Pride Marching Band and Party Noir.

Water Flicks (July 1 to Aug. 26): Movies at 6:30 p.m. every Monday in Polk Bros Park. A science theme includes “Back to the Future,” “Honey I Shrunk the Kids,” “Interstellar,” “Big Hero 6,” “Weird Science” and “Oppenheimer.”

Fresh Fest (July 11-12): Young musicians, dancers and artists from noon to 5 p.m. on Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Friday.

Bastille Day (July 13): Celebrate the French national holiday in Polk Bros Park, with live music and tasty French treats.

Noche Caribeña (Aug. 17): Puerto Rican Arts Alliance will present a free evening concert spanning the genres of Puerto Rican and Afro-Caribbean folk at the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park.

LatiNxt (Aug. 24-25): Two-day festival with music from the Latin American diaspora, across three Pier stages. Headliners include AnanTijoux and Pahua. Plus vendors.

All events are free unless otherwise noted; more information at navypier.org

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Summer Smash has announced its lineup for summer, with headliners including Travis Scott, Playboi Carti and Chief Keef. Lyrical Lemonade Sumer Smash will be June 14-16, again at SeatGeek Stadium, 7000 S. Harlem Ave., Bridgeview. Tickets for the three-day hip hop music festival, presented by SPKRBX, are on sale at 10 a.m. Friday, with three-day passes $385; more information at https://www.thesummersmash.com/ Travis Scott’s opening night concert will be a first-time collaboration with his Cactus Jack record label including Don Tolliver and Sheck Wes. FRIDAY: Cactus Jack,              

Music and Concerts | Summer Smash 2024: Travis Scott, Playboi Carti and Chief Keef are headliners

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

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There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

chicago river cruise fireworks

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

chicago river cruise fireworks

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

chicago river cruise fireworks

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

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Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

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“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

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Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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  • Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

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River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

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Chicago River Valentine’s Day Fireworks Dinner Cruise™

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Subscriber only, travel | celebrity cruises joins the party at private bahamas island cococay.

Celebrity Cruises made its first visits this week to Royal Caribbean's private island Perfect Day at CocoCay, seen here in the January 2024 file photo. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

Celebrity Cruises made its first trip to sister cruise line Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamas island CocoCay this week.

The popular destination is rife with bells and whistles that cater to the adventuresome set that frequent Royal Caribbean ships, but the island is filled with tastes for all, including a new adults-only beachfront area called Hideaway Beach.

Celebrity Reflection was the first ship to visit on April 22 followed by Celebrity Beyond on April 23, both part of five-night western Caribbean sailings departing from Port Everglades, part of new shorter itineraries being offered by the premium cruise brand. Sailings also visit Bimini, Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Key West.

“Guest feedback inspired the new shorter Caribbean itineraries, designed to offer year-round opportunities to unwind with loved ones,” said Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge in a press release. “Introducing Perfect Day at CocoCay presents new experiences for Celebrity guests seeking quick beach getaway escapes close to home.”

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Once known as just Little Stirrup Cay, Royal Caribbean now calls it Perfect Day at CocoCay, which received a $250 million overhaul first in 2019 adding a 13-slide water park including the 135-foot-tall Devil’s Peak that is one of seven slides on the castle-like tower that acts as an icon that can be seen from around the 125-acre resort.

It also added a dock that allows for two ships to come alongside instead of having to take day visitors with tender vessels. Nearby Great Stirrup Cay, which is used primarily by Norwegian Cruise Line, still relies on tenders, but recently announced it too would build a ship dock.

It also features a colorful helium balloon ride called Up, Up and Away that takes passengers up 450 feet on the rare calm days it’s not too windy, a 1,600-foot zip line and the largest wave pool in the Caribbean.

Those fall under the “Thrill” side of the island, but there’s plenty on the “Chill” side as well, including the Coco Beach Club, which includes a series of over-water cabanas with hammocks and personal slides plus more beachside cabanas, an infinity pool and a higher-end Mediterranean dining venue.

This image shows Hideaway Beach in January 2024, a new adults-only area on Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

The newest feature on the island, though, opened in January. Hideaway Beach is the first part of the island to be kid-free. It has its own private beach and lagoon, two pools, seven food and drink locations and 20 cabanas.

Spending time at Hideaway Beach is designed to be an all-day experience at an extra charge for those 18 and older. Prices start at $39-$89 per person depending on sail date with the 20 cabanas available for an additional rate.

The On the Rocks bar, classic sports bar with pool and bar shuffleboard, is at one end of Hideaway Beach with views of the ship at dock, seen here in this January 2024 file photo. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)

The space includes the al fresco On the Rocks bar with live musicians, live sports on TV and even a pool table and shuffleboard with great views of the dock along the island’s rocky shore.

The lagoon is surrounded by loungers, hammocks and in-water swingsets while the Hideaway Bar is the central swim-up bar in the main pool while there are two full-service Beach Bars on either side of the area as well.

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The new issue of Explore Florida & the Caribbean takes you places

The immersive experience inside the Wizard of Oz Museum puts guests inside scenes from the fantasy novels in Cape Canaveral. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)

Things To Do | Central Florida’s Wizard of Oz Museum has ruby slippers, real Dorothy dress

The St. Johns River Festival of the Arts returns to downtown Sanford April 27-28 with nearly 140 artists showing paintings, photography, sculptures, jewelry and more. (Courtesy Wellons Communications)

Things To Do | St. Johns River Festival of the Arts brings nearly 140 artists to Sanford this weekend

Regent Seven Seas Cruises third Explorer-class ship Seven Seas Grandeur builds on the luxury offerings of its two sister ships.

Travel | Regent Seven Seas Grandeur builds on luxury of 2 sister cruise ships

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