Chicago Cruise Lines Open Downtown Headquarters
Two local cruise linesChicagos First Lady Cruises and Mercury, Chicagos Skyline Cruiselinehave opened their new corporate headquarters in downtown Chicago on the 15th floor of 303 E. Wacker Drive. The new headquarters is steps away from the cruise lines docking area on the citys vibrant Riverwalk and a convenient walk from Chicagos First Lady Cruises partner, the Chicago Architecture Center.
As one of the first permanent tenants of the Riverwalk, we are happy to call Chicago home for our new headquarter operations, said Holly Agra, president of Chicagos First Lady Cruises and vice president of sister cruise line, Mercury, Chicagos Skyline Cruiseline. Our headquarters will bring us even closer to our tours that connect tourists to Chicagos rich culture, and will allow us to give back even more to the city that has supported us for 84 years.
The 9,800-square-foot space, designed by Collective Office, features both private and open concept office space and graphics of various vantage points of the Chicago River wrapped on interior walls to reflect the essence of the cruise lines. It also includes a test kitchen for mixing new and creative cocktail recipes available aboard the tour boats.
Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise Aboard Chicago’s First Lady
- Tickets start at $51.96 for daytime river cruiseTickets start at $55.74 for evening cruiseVISIT THE CAC FOR JUST $5 EXTRA!Please note, prices are subject to change.
- Meet
- Northeast corner of Michigan Ave. and E. Wacker Dr. Look for the blue awning marking the stairway entrance, 112 E. Wacker Dr.
Chicagos First Lady is committed to taking the proper precautions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its river cruise guests and team, including ensuring that boats are cleaned and sanitized throughout the day and their service. Chicagos First Lady offers restrooms on board each vessel with running water and plenty of soap. Chicagos First Lady continues to follow the recommendations of public health officials and is monitoring the evolving situation.
#1 boat tour in North America according to USA Today Readers’ Choice 2021 Awards! Looking for the ultimate Chicago architecture experience? Buy a combo ticket for the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Centeryou’ll save $9!
For more than 25 years, the CAC’s expertly trained docent volunteers have led the river cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world’s largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, you’ll get the best overview of Chicagos architecture and its history.
Learn what’s new on the River Cruise.
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About Our Boat Partner
Were proud to partner with Chicagos First Lady Cruises, operator of Chicagos finest fleet of cruising vessels. Its boats hold up to 250 passengers and feature open-air upper decks, full-service bars, climate-controlled lower cabins and upscale marble and granite restrooms. Being onboard is sure to be an experience youll never forget.
Located On Chicagos Beautiful Riverwalk
COVID-19 Statement:We are committed to taking the proper precautions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our guests and team including ensuring that our boats are cleaned and sanitized throughout the day and service. We also have restrooms on board each vessel with running water and plenty of soap. We continue to follow the recommendations of public health officials and are monitoring the evolving situation.
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Our Chicago River cruises depart from our scenic dockside along Chicagos strollable Riverwalk, just three blocks north of Millennium Park and steps from The Magnificent Mile.
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Prices: Whats This Going To Cost
Rental Fee
- $2,000/event and up
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Pricing is hourly, ranging $1,0001,400/hour, depending on the boat selected and day of the week. Minimum cruise times apply. Each yacht features:
- Use of the open-air upper deck and climate controlled main deck
- Staffed, full-service bar
- White aisle runner, tables & chairs, sound and AV systems, and marble & granite restrooms
Additional Info
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Hosted bar packages range $2842/person for a 2-hour cruise. Cash or consumption bars may also be available.
Chicagos First Lady Cruises
Take a stroll along Chicago Riverwalk and board Chicagos First Lady Cruises.
This is one of the most popular tours in Chicago.
If youre an architecture lover, this tour is a must-do as their guides are well-trained volunteers from the Chicago Architecture Center.
For an extra 5 USD, you can upgrade the ticket to include Chicago Architecture Center admission.
Another option is to book a private vintage yacht that includes a bartender.
This is suitable for small groups of friends or family looking for a more personal tour on the river.
Pay extra for an alcoholic beverage package, so you can have a glass of wine while soaking up the Chicago sun.
For a romantic date, book your seats on the Evening River Cruise and have a few cocktails.
If youre planning a wedding or a private event, Chicagos First Lady Cruise could be a perfect option for you.
- Tours: Architecture, evening & private
- Prices: from $50 USD adults
- Departure Address: Southeast corner of the Michigan Avenue Bridge at Wacker Drive.
See the skyline views on Mercury Cruises most popular tour the 90-minute Urban Adventure Cruise.
Youll see landmarks including Willis Tower, Aon Center, and John Hancock Building.
Although, what really sets them apart, are their Canine Cruises.
Its the only cruise in Chicago where passengers are allowed to bring their pet dogs!
Water bowls and a newspaper-lined restroom are available onboard for your dog.
If you prefer evenings, there are two available.
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Changes Atop Chicago Passenger Vessel Companies
ChicagosFirst Lady Cruises and Mercury, Chicagos Skyline Cruiseline recently announced the transition to the fourth generation of family leadership during its 87th year of operation on Chicagos waterways.
Robert Agra III, who has been with Chicagos First Lady Cruises for 20 years, will now serve as president and chief marketing officer of the company. He will also be vice president of Mercury, Chicagos Skyline Cruiseline. His brother, Capt. Tim Agra, will serve as vice president of Chicagos First Lady Cruises and president of Mercury, Chicagos Skyline Cruiseline.
Captain Bob and I are thrilled to charge our sons with leading our fourth generation, family-owned and operated business into an exciting contemporary chapter of our legacy, said Holly Agra, who will step down as the president of Chicagos First Lady Cruises and assume the new role of board chair. As a mom and business-leader, I couldnt imagine a grander way of celebrating 87 years than by passing the torch to our sons. Bob III and Tim have greatly contributed to our growth with the addition of three-identical, custom designed and built large passenger vessels, as well as initiating new product offerings. They have invested years in their education and use their experience to expand efficiencies, increase ridership and strengthen the collaborative two-decade partnership with the Chicago Architecture Center for our popular river cruise aboard Chicagos First Lady.
Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise Aboard Chicagos First Lady
- Tickets start at $51.96 for daytime river cruiseTickets start at $55.74 for evening cruiseVISIT THE CAC FOR JUST $5 EXTRA!Please note, prices are subject to change.
- Meet
- Northeast corner of Michigan Ave. and E. Wacker Dr. Look for the blue awning marking the stairway entrance, 112 E. Wacker Dr.
Chicagos First Lady is committed to taking the proper precautions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its river cruise guests and team, including ensuring that boats are cleaned and sanitized throughout the day and their service. Chicagos First Lady offers restrooms on board each vessel with running water and plenty of soap. Chicagos First Lady continues to follow the recommendations of public health officials and is monitoring the evolving situation.
#1 boat tour in North America according to USA Today Readers Choice 2021 Awards! Looking for the ultimate Chicago architecture experience? Buy a combo ticket for the river cruise AND visit the Chicago Architecture Centeryoull save $9!
For more than 25 years, the CACs expertly trained docent volunteers have led the river cruise, sharing fascinating stories behind more than 50 buildings along the Chicago River. Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the worlds largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, youll get the best overview of Chicagos architecture and its history.
Learn whats new on the River Cruise.
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The Roots Of The River Cruise
The founders and early members of CAC knew that architecture tours were the organizations most vital offerings. And CAC docents had stories waiting to be told about the Chicago River. During CACs early decades, however, the river was not the sparkling waterway winding through the heart of the city that it is today. Decades of industrial and commercial waste had left it highly polluted. In the 1970s, docents approached the river on foot. At first, they brought tour takers to the old warehouses and Chicagos world-famous bridges, then they brought visitors to see the postmodern structures rising along the riverfront.
By 1979, a volunteer organization called Friends of the River had been formed to support the restoration of the waterway. At the same time, architects began designing buildings in context with the Chicago River. The shimmering 1983 office building at 333 West Wacker Drivewith its curved, blue-green glass facade designed to reflect the shape and color of the riverperfectly captured this new approach. These factors encouraged CACs leaders to recognize that the Chicago River offered one of the most historically and architecturally rich expanses in the cityand that it warranted a larger audience.
The Lady Grebe Chicago River Experience
The best and most stylish way to enjoy summer on the Chicago River and now for the first time, Lady Grebe will be available to reserve for 90-minute private cruises every weekend! For groups of 6 people or less, its the most sophisticated fun you will have with your friends or loved ones this summer. Add on premium bar service, or a Chicago Architecture Center docent for the inside scoop on Chicago and its architecture!
About Chicagos First Lady Cruises
Chicagos Finest Fleet. Home of The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise Aboat Chicagos First Lady and the most unique private events for groups of 2 250.
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St Patrick’s Day Clover Cruise
Join Chicago’s First Lady Cruises on Saturday, March 12, 2022 for our annual St. Patrick’s Day Clover Cruise and witness the dyeing of the Chicago River in spectacular fashion! Don your best green attire and get ready to shake your shamrocks for a whale of a good time as you eat, drink and be merry from the comfort of our luxurious vessels.
Best River Cruise Tours In Chicago
Chicago is home to two stunning waterfronts.
You can explore the city cruising along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan.
But with so many tours available, which one is best for you?
You can get on board a cruise tour and admire the spectacular Chicago skyline.
Or dress up elegantly for a dinner cruise, relax, and enjoy Chicagos gorgeous shores with fireworks show at night.
Theres even a tall ship cruise for those looking for a different experience.
In this article, well show you the best river cruise tours around Chicago to get the most out of your trip.
Check these out!
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St Patricks Day Clover Cruise
Join Chicagos First Lady Cruises on Saturday, March 12, 2022 for our annual St. Patricks Day Clover Cruise and witness the dyeing of the Chicago River in spectacular fashion! Don your best green attire and get ready to shake your shamrocks for a whale of a good time as you eat, drink and be merry from the comfort of our luxurious vessels.
Chicagos First Lady Returns For 29th Season Of Boat Tour Voted No 1 In North America
A Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise aboard Chicagos First Lady pauses to allow guests to photograph the cityscape.
The Chicago Star was on board for the 29th season kick-off cruise of the official Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruise aboard Chicagos First Lady. Hosted by Chicagos First Lady Cruises and the Chicago Architecture Center , the award-winning architectural boat tour departed June 21 at 3 p.m. under sunny skies.
We wanted our season kick-off cruise to be a celebration of the official start of summer, CFL leadership told the Chicago Star. Guests of the season’s inaugural outing had the chance to experience the boat tour voted No. 1 in North America and connect directly with world-renowned CAC volunteer docents alongside leaders from CFL and CAC.
Bob Agra III, President of Chicagos First Lady Cruises, and Juanna Blackwell, Chief Operating Officer and interim CEO of the Chicago Architecture Center, discuss tour highlights. Photo by Elaine Hyde
The CAFC River Cruise offers a unique perspective of Chicagos skyscrapers with unobstructed, open-air, 360-degree views from each vessels top deck that cannot be seen from land. From the First Ladys top deck, cruisers get impeccable, panoramic views of the Merchandise Mart, Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, the Reid Murdoch Center and many more, according to Chicago Star sources on the scene.
Susan Berkes of the Chicago Star. Photo by Elaine Hyde
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