Free Spirit at Free Spirit Yacht Cruises

Boat

Whole venue

About this space

The Free Spirit offers indoor and outdoor spaces. It is ideal for larger celebrations. Invite up to 120 guests to your next party! This Lake Michigan-only charter includes plush lounge seating, a generous sun deck, and roomy cabins.

For a summer party, corporate outing, or family event, the yacht's relaxed vibe and upscale comforts will make your experience feel premium. A TV is available on board. Charter runs from April through October out of Burnham Harbor.

Prices

Sunday

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800 hire fee per hour

Per hour

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800

Note: Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm. All prices include sales tax.

Please see the breakdown of our prices below:

* Up to 25 guests: $800 per hour
* 26 to 49 guests: $900 per hour
* 50 to 75 guests: $1,000 per hour
* 76 to 120 guests: $1,100 per hour
* Saturdays and during the Air & Water Show: $1,200 per hour

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* Prices do not include tax, gratuities, or a 3.5% credit card processing fee
* A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a date
* We cannot guarantee availability for either yacht without a deposit
* A 50% deposit of the total charter rate is required to secure your desired date

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Catering Menu Sample:

* Hors D’oeuvres

* Antipasto Skewer
Genoa, Capicola, Mortadella, fresh mozzarella, pepperoncini, red wine vinaigrette
Included in hors d’oeuvre packages (e.g., First Mate Package – $31.50/guest for 4 types, 8 pcs per guest)
* Blueberry & Goat Cheese Crostini (V)
Crisp apple and honey
Included in hors d’oeuvre packages

* Hot Items

* Chicken Poblano (GF)
Bacon-wrapped, queso fresco, chipotle sauce, crema ranchero
Included in hors d’oeuvre packages
* Baby Cheesy Beef Burger
Sliced pickle on brioche bun
Included in hors d’oeuvre packages

* Platters

* Classic Cheese Board (V)
Provolone, fontinella, cheddar, Swiss, pepper jack, grapes, strawberries, assorted crackers and flatbread
\$140.00 (serves 25) – $280.00 (serves 50)
* Garden Fresh Crudité
With choice of creamy herb dip or hummus
\$90.00 (serves 25) – $165.00 (serves 50)

* Desserts

* Banana Bread Tiramisu (V)
Banana bread, mascarpone cream, caramel crunch pearls
$37.00 per dozen
* Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownies (V, CN)
Chocolate brownie, peanut butter frosting, chocolate drizzle
$19.00 per dozen

Monday

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800 hire fee per hour

Per hour

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800

Note: Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm. All prices include sales tax.

Tuesday

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800 hire fee per hour

Per hour

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800

Note: Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm. All prices include sales tax.

Wednesday

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800 hire fee per hour

Per hour

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800

Note: Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm. All prices include sales tax.

Thursday

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800 hire fee per hour

Per hour

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800

Note: Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm. All prices include sales tax.

Friday

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800 hire fee per hour

Per hour

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $800

Note: Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm. All prices include sales tax.

Saturday

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $1200 hire fee per hour

Per hour

8:00 am – 11:00 pm

from $1200

Note: Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm. All prices include sales tax.

Pricing updated by venue 1 day ago

Minimum booking duration: 3 hours

Capacity

Standing

up to 120

Dining

up to 75

Catering and drinks

Alcohol licence until 11:00 pm

Facilities

Air conditioner

Paid parking facilities available nearby

Music & sound equipment

Accessibility

Rules of the space

Allowed events

Host rules

Dress & Footwear

* High heels are not recommended due to the stairs and ladder access on the boats. We advise bringing flats.
* It’s cooler on the water, so even during summer, bring a jacket, wrap, blanket, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Safety & Conduct

* No sitting on handrails or standing on benches/chairs.
* No smoking, no drinking games, beer bongs, or shots.
* No swimming.
* No entry into crew-only areas (e.g., galley).

Food & Beverage

* Food is required on all charters; alcohol-only events are not permitted.
* Outside alcohol is prohibited; all drinks must be purchased through our licensed bar service.
* Outside catering is allowed with a fee and proof of insurance; otherwise, please choose from our curated yacht menus.

Children & Seasickness

* Children under 90 lbs must wear life jackets on outside decks (please provide them).
* For those prone to seasickness, medicating an hour before and staying on deck with open horizon is recommended.

Facilities & Comfort

* Both yachts are equipped with marine toilets—do not flush anything other than toilet paper.
* The yachts are non-smoking, in line with City of Chicago regulations.

Booking & Deposits

* A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the charter fee is required to secure your date.
* Final guest count and balance are due 10 days before your event.
* No refunds are issued for inclement weather.

About Free Spirit Yacht Cruises

At Free Spirit Yacht Cruises, we’re a family-run charter company offering private yacht experiences on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Our charters leave right from Burnham Harbor behind Soldier Field. With over 45 years in the industry, we’re proud to host corporate events and celebrations with a personal touch and professional care.

We operate two private yachts: the Free Spirit and the Gypsy Spirit. The Free Spirit accommodates up to 120 guests and is ideal for larger events. The Gypsy Spirit is perfect for smaller occasions of up to 49 people. Both yachts provide inviting spaces for relaxing, dining, and celebrating with unforgettable views of the Chicago skyline.