Chicago Educational Tour and Sail

Embark on a 75-minute educational sail on Lake Michigan. Discover Chicago’s maritime history, help sail a 148’ Schooner, and capture stunning city views.

Duration: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Lake Michigan - Guests will enjoy 75 minute sail where they will learn about sailing, and some of the history of Lake Michigan and Chicago. Ideal for youth groups, children, families and adults.
  • Tall Ship Windy - Chicago’s Official Tall Ship, Windy has been delighting audiences for the past 22 years. This educational sail is a highlight to any trip to the Windy City.
  • Chicago Skyline - Guests will enjoy 75 minute sail where they will learn about sailing, and some of the history of Lake Michigan and Chicago. Ideal for youth groups, children, families and adults.
What's Included
  • Live audio commentary
  • Local taxes
What's Not Included
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

The educational sail aboard Chicago’s Official Flagship Windy departs at 11am Thursday thru Monday from Navy Pier. Leave the hustle and bustle behind, and enjoy a leisurely Educational Sail aboard Chicago’s Official Tall Ship. Guests will enjoy 75 minute sail where they will learn about sailing and the history of Lake Michigan and Chicago. Ideal for youth groups, children, families and adults.. Chicago’s history is forever linked to the history of sailing on Lake Michigan. From these historical maritime roots, guests will be delighted with interesting facts, unique stories, and a healthy dose of whimsy. You will have a chance to help sail Chicago’s famous 148’ Schooner and you will be rewarded with incredible scenery and photo opportunities of the Windy City. Enjoy your time on the water — the third-largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is itself a natural wonder. Your guide will provide live audio commentary throughout the journey. This is approximately a 75 Minute sail.

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Minimum drinking age is 21 years
  • Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
Location
600 E Grand Ave
East Grand Avenue
We are located on the South side of the Pier, between the Billy Goat Tavern and the Riva restaurant.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.5
(85 Ratings)
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Mabr63
Aug 3, 2024
Perfect day for a sail - The weather was perfect, there was plenty of wind, and the crew was entertaining. I recommend this trip for anyone who enjoys sailing.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Terry_r
Jul 31, 2024
Great cruise for all ages. - The crew were also docents who gave lectures on various relevant topics. Great for kids snd anyone sho wants to learn. Kids gog to pull up the sails. Great experience Beautiful views of the city. Sailing is very social. Everyone of crew super friendly.
Review provided by Viator
Doris_a
Jul 14, 2024
Time we'll spent! - It was a beautiful sunny day with enough wind to sail. The crew engages the passengers in activities of putting the sails up and doing other things during the sail. Talking about the safety while on board was also very good. It was the highlight of my visit, feeling the nature of the water and outdoors while enjoying Chicago's beautiful skyline.
Review provided by Viator
Janerj1830ui
Jul 1, 2024
Tall Ship Windy!! The best of the Chicago summer experiences - Tall Ship Windy is such a tremendous treat!! The offerings of different cruises is tremendous. I have been on the architectural tour and Connor is just stupendous with his knowledge and his relay of it to the "audience". He is so good and it is so, so interesting!! Then Captain Rodney and his crew on the Monday Night Blues Cruise. They are the best!! What a glorious night of sailing with the blues!! We will be back!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
N4843jnandrews
Jun 17, 2024
So much fun for all ages - Sailed with my family (including a six-year old). We all had a great time. The crew was great- entertaining, knowledgeable, and professional. There is a small selection of snacks and drinks (including alcohol) available to purchase on board. The crew allows guests to help hoist sails when it is time. You can also take a picture with the actual ship's wheel. Definitely recommended for a unique experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mateusz_w
Jun 2, 2024
One of the best attractions that Chicago can offer... - Dancing lady, galloping horse.... or the ship at full sail. Those are the most beautiful sights you can experience in this world...Rain or shine, there is no better way to experience the chicago skyline other than on abord of Windy. With super friendly crew this attraction is one of the best Chicago can offer....
Review provided by Viator
Kim_f
May 22, 2024
Worth it! - We had a fabulous trip on the Windy! The captain and crew were wonderful, and it was a gorgeous day out in Chicago. I would definitely do it again on my next trip. Completely worth it!
Review provided by Viator
John_m
Oct 7, 2023
The educational part and... - The educational part and talking with Matt and the lady about the ship and their experience working on it.
Review provided by Viator
Juliaegorova
Sep 24, 2023
Sailing Experience - Great experience! Perfect Crew, wonderful weather. We enjoyed the skyline of the Windy City in a friendly atmosphere. Highly Recommended!
Review provided by Viator
Jasmine_a
Sep 20, 2023
Beautiful experience - We had a great time! The crew was very friendly and fun. It was a beautiful morning. We will definitely be back again.
Review provided by Viator