Business Details
48 Years
experience
Luxury Yacht Charters in Chicago for Private Events
Free Spirit Yacht Cruises is a family-run, private yacht charter company dedicated to creating exceptional maritime experiences. With over 45 years of industry experience, we specialize in transforming special occasions into unforgettable memories through personalized service and luxury yachting. Our fleet includes the Free Spirit, accommodating up to 120 guests, and the Gypsy Spirit, designed for intimate gatherings of up to 49 passengers. Both vessels offer custom-designed interiors, multi-level entertainment spaces, and breathtaking views of Chicago's skyline.Our experienced crew, led by Captain Joe, ensures every detail is meticulously handled, from event planning to gourmet catering. We serve corporate clients, families, and individuals seeking unique venues for weddings, celebrations, and business events. Our commitment to exceeding expectations has earned us a loyal clientele and numerous testimonials praising our attentive staff, exceptional service, and memorable cruising experiences on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.
Services
Yacht Charters
Event Planning
Catering Services
Bar Services
Corporate Events
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of yachting expertise and personalized service
- Our fleet includes two luxury yachts for events of all sizes
- We provide attentive crew service with certified professionals
- We accommodate year-round bookings for special occasions
- We offer customizable catering and entertainment options
What people say
Attentive crew
Beautiful yachts
Unforgettable experience
Delicious food
Professional service
Services
Yacht Charters
Luxury yacht charters for private events on Lake Michigan and Chicago River. Our vessels accommodate groups from 25 to 120 guests with customizable itineraries. Professional crew ensures seamless experiences for weddings, corporate events, and special celebrations.
Event Planning
Full-service event planning for yacht charters including itinerary customization, vendor coordination, and special requests. We handle all details from food service to entertainment options for stress-free celebrations.
Catering Services
Customizable catering menus featuring gourmet hors d'oeuvres, cheeseboards, and specialty platters. Options include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free selections with premium bar packages available for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Corporate Events
Specialized yacht charters for corporate functions including team-building, client entertainment, and networking events. Our professional staff provides business-focused services with amenities supporting presentations, meetings, and networking opportunities.
Special Occasions
Memorable celebration experiences for birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. We offer themed decorations, customized menus, and special amenities to create unique celebrations on the water with breathtaking Chicago skyline views.
People
Captain Joe Donofrio
Captain
With decades of sailing experience, Captain Joe safely navigates all charters. His expertise ensures smooth voyages while providing exceptional hospitality to guests on Lake Michigan and Chicago River cruises.
Angela
Event Coordinator
Angela specializes in creating personalized event experiences. She works closely with clients to ensure every detail of their yacht charter meets their specific needs and preferences.
Questions
What types of events can I host on your yachts?
We accommodate weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, graduation celebrations, and special occasions with customizable options for groups of all sizes.
Do you provide catering services?
Yes, we offer full catering services with customizable menus including hot/cold hors d'oeuvres, cheeseboards, and specialty platters with dietary options available.
What is your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy requires advance notice with specific terms outlined during booking. We recommend securing your date early as popular times book quickly.
Are your yachts accessible for disabled guests?
Our yachts have limited accessibility with stairs to lower decks. We recommend contacting us directly to discuss specific accessibility requirements and accommodations.
Can I bring my own caterer or entertainment?
We allow outside caterers with a $1,000 fee and have restrictions on live bands/DJs aboard the Gypsy Spirit. Our premium bar packages offer extensive beverage options.
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