Chicago: Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise

If you’re looking for a laid-back way to see Chicago from the water, the Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise offers a fun, casual experience. It’s not your typical guided tour — instead, think of it as a social, drink-filled float where you can soak up the city’s skyline, sip on brunch cocktails, and enjoy some tunes in a friendly atmosphere.

What makes this cruise appealing? First, there’s the unique setting of a floating tiki bar, which instantly gives it a relaxed, tropical vibe. Second, the stunning views of Chicago’s landmarks and skyline from the water are genuinely impressive — perfect for photos and just taking in the city from a different perspective.

A potential downside? The experience is quite casual, so if you’re after a more educational or in-depth architecture tour, this isn’t the best fit. It leans more toward fun, socializing, and enjoying the scenery. It’s ideal for those who want a lively, easygoing way to spend part of their day and love a good drink with a view. Overall, it’s perfect if your goal is to unwind and enjoy Chicago’s waterfront in a lively setting.

This experience suits travelers who desire a relaxed, social outing with plenty of opportunities for photos and some casual entertainment. It’s especially well-suited for groups, friends, or anyone wanting a different way to enjoy the city’s iconic skyline without the formalities of a typical boat tour.

Key Points

• Casual and social vibe: Perfect for those looking to relax with drinks and music.
• Stunning city views: Capture beautiful photos of Chicago’s skyline and landmarks.
• Light and quick: Just 1.5 hours, great for fitting into a busy day.
• Affordable price point: At $41, it offers a fun water experience without breaking the bank.
• Flexible booking: Can cancel up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.
• Limited included amenities: Drinks are not included in the base price but available for purchase.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Cruise

Once you’ve booked your spot, you’ll head to the designated meeting point — note that it might vary depending on your chosen option. From there, you’ll board the floating tiki bar, a lively vessel designed to feel more like a party than a traditional cruise.

The cruise itself lasts about an hour and a half, during which you’ll glide along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan, depending on the day’s route. The boat is decked out with music and a friendly crew to keep the atmosphere upbeat. The music, often lively, helps set a fun tone, making it easy to unwind or strike up conversations with fellow passengers.

The highlight is undoubtedly the stunning scenery — Chicago’s skyline is best appreciated from the water, and on this cruise, you’ll get front-row seats to landmarks like the Willis Tower, historic bridges, and other signature architecture. Many reviews mention that the views are truly impressive, with some passengers noting that they took “beautiful photos of Chicago’s landmarks” during the trip.

As you sip your cocktails — either mimosas or Bloody Marys — you’ll find yourself continually drawn to the panoramic views. The boat’s open-air design maximizes visibility, so even those standing at the edges get a great shot.

While the included features are limited to the cruise itself and music, drinks are available for purchase on-site if you want to indulge more. It’s worth noting that this isn’t an open bar, so plan accordingly.

The Atmosphere and Crew

The vibe on board is friendly and relaxed. The staff are described as welcoming and eager to keep the energy lively, which adds to the sense of fun. It’s a great way to connect with fellow travelers or enjoy a solo outing with a glass of something bubbly in hand.

Some reviews mention the staff’s attentiveness and the overall lively ambiance, making it clear that the focus is on fun rather than formal touring. The music elevates the mood, and the laid-back setting encourages socializing.

The Scenery and Photo Opportunities

If you’re into photography, this cruise offers plenty of chances to capture iconic Chicago landmarks with the water as your backdrop. Many guests praise the “stunning views” and describe the water as providing a unique perspective that’s different from land-based tours.

The skyline, especially at sunset or during golden hour, can make for some impressive photos. It’s a bit of a “Instagram moment” — casual but definitely memorable.

Keep in mind that the boat’s open design means you’ll want to dress comfortably and weather-appropriate, especially if it’s windy or chilly.

Is It Good Value for the Price?

At $41 per person, this cruise represents a pretty good deal for a fun, scenic experience — especially considering it lasts an hour and a half and offers such great views. You’re paying primarily for the experience and ambiance rather than a fully hosted tour, so manage expectations accordingly.

If you enjoy drinks and socializing in a relaxed setting, the value is clear. Remember, drinks are not included in the ticket price but can be purchased on board, which keeps the initial cost low.

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Who This Experience Is Best For

This cruise is ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who want to enjoy Chicago’s waters in a lively, informal setting. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a casual way to see the skyline without the constraints of a formal tour.

It also works well if you’re in town for a limited time and want a quick, enjoyable activity that offers great photo ops and good vibes. If you love music, drinks, and city views, this cruise hits the right notes.

However, if you’re seeking a detailed narrative about Chicago’s architecture or a more serene, intimate experience, you might find this cruise a bit too lively and simple.

FAQ

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes a 1.5-hour cruise along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan with music and a lively atmosphere. Drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point varies depending on the option you book, so check your confirmation details carefully.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but since it’s a casual, drink-oriented cruise, it might be best suited for adults.

Do I need to wear anything special?
Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, especially if it’s windy or cooler outside.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity to fit into a busy day.

Is there any food served?
No, food is not included or served, but drinks are available for purchase.

What kind of music is played?
The cruise features lively music, adding to the fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Is it a guided tour?
No, this isn’t a guided educational tour; it’s more of a social, scenic experience with some commentary on the landmarks.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Chicago and want a way to enjoy the city’s famous skyline in a relaxed, sociable setting, the Mimosa n’ Bloody Mary Cruise offers an enjoyable, affordable option. It’s less about detailed sightseeing and more about the experience of being on the water, sipping a drink, and capturing stunning views.

It’s a good pick for travelers who appreciate casual fun, lively atmospheres, and scenic photo ops. While it’s not a formal architecture tour, the visual payoff is undeniable — the Chicago skyline from the water is genuinely impressive, especially with a drink in hand.

For those who love a good vibe and a relaxed, social environment, this cruise checks plenty of boxes. Just remember, it’s not the place for a quiet, contemplative cruise — it’s lively, friendly, and perfect for unwinding.

Overall, this experience delivers a memorable, waterside way to see Chicago’s iconic sights and enjoy some lighthearted fun. If you’re after a laid-back, drink-filled afternoon with fantastic views, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: