Chicago is a city with a thriving boating culture, and there are plenty of marinas available for boaters to dock their vessels.
Whether you are a resident or a visitor, finding the best marina can be a challenge. Fortunately, we have done the research for you and have found some of the best marinas in the city.
There are several factors that make a marina great, such as the quality of the facilities, the level of customer service, and the location.
Some marinas are better suited for larger boats, while others are more suitable for smaller vessels. Additionally, some marinas offer more amenities than others, such as restaurants, bars, and swimming pools.
If you are a boater in Chicago, you have plenty of options when it comes to marinas. Each marina has its own unique features and advantages.
Some offer easy access to Lake Michigan, while others are located in more secluded areas of the city. Whether you are looking for a marina for a day trip or for a long-term stay, there is a marina in Chicago that will meet your needs.
In this blog post, we will be discussing some of the best marinas in Chicago. We will be looking at the facilities, amenities, and customer service provided by each marina.
We will also be considering the location and accessibility of each marina. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of the marinas in Chicago and which ones are the best for your needs.
1. DuSable Harbor
DuSable Harbor is a top-rated marina in Chicago, offering a prime location with easy access to the city's attractions.
Boaters can enjoy a perfect slip with an unobstructed view of the city skyline. The harbor also features self-service pump-out facilities, a cafe, and kayak rentals during the season.
The park-like setting offers ample space for kids to run and play, with beautiful gardens and fountains to enjoy. The staff is friendly, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Whether you're looking to dock your boat or take a long walk along the water, DuSable Harbor is a must-see destination in Chicago.
2. Navy Pier Marina
Navy Pier Marina is a great place to visit for anyone who loves the sea. Although the number of ships and yachts may be limited, the marina still has its own unique charm.
Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the coast or simply take in the view of the sea. At night, the Pier comes alive with a variety of shops, restaurants, and public restrooms.
One of the highlights of the Pier is the ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the city. While it may be a bit pricey, it's definitely worth the experience for tourists.
The marina also has plenty of souvenir stores and places to eat, making it a fantastic destination for everyone.
3. Canal Street Marina
Canal Street Marina is a professional and accommodating marina with reasonable prices.
The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, making the experience of picking up a boat seamless.
The Marina also allows customers to do their own maintenance, which is a nice touch.
If you're looking for a reliable and well-managed boat storage facility, Canal Street Marina is a great choice.
4. Calumet Yacht Club
The Calumet Yacht Club is a hidden gem for boaters looking for a welcoming and down-to-earth marina.
The club is not pretentious and offers a great atmosphere to enjoy the water.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and the facilities are well-maintained. The location is perfect for exploring the surrounding area by boat.
If you're looking for a great marina experience, the Calumet Yacht Club is definitely worth checking out.
5. Monroe Harbor Tender Boat
Monroe Harbor Tender Boat is a hassle-free way to enjoy the water without the added responsibilities of boat ownership.
This marina offers a simple solution for those looking for easy access to a variety of boating activities.
With a prime location and no need to worry about docking or maintenance fees, visitors can sit back and enjoy the ride.
Give Monroe Harbor Tender Boat a try for a stress-free way to enjoy the water.
6. Chicago's Finest Marina
Chicago's Finest Marina is a great place to host a party or celebrate special events. It offers a peaceful atmosphere along the Calumet River, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The marina is perfect for boat owners as it is less crowded and has fewer boats in the way.
The marina is also a great spot for history buffs as it showcases Black history along the Little Calumet River.
Although the grass could use a trim and there is a half-submerged boat, the overall experience is enjoyable. If you're looking for a place to unwind and relax, Chicago's Finest Marina is worth checking out.
7. Pier 11 Marina
Pier 11 Marina is a top-notch marina that offers excellent service and care to its customers.
The staff, led by Bill and Mike, treat all customers like family and make them feel at home. The marina provides full-service facilities, and the prices are reasonable.
The boat buffer/handyman is an extremely hard worker and does an amazing job at everything.
If you're looking for a marina where people genuinely care about your comfort and satisfaction, Pier 11 Marina is the perfect place for you.
8. Forest View Marina
Forest View Marina is a top-notch marina with excellent customer service. They are known for their flexibility in drop-off and launch dates, making it easy for boat owners to coordinate with their busy schedules.
In addition to storage, they also offer repair services, which are competitively priced and completed promptly.
The staff at Forest View Marina are attentive and conscientious, ensuring that boats are well taken care of.
If you're looking for a reliable marina to store your boat, Forest View Marina is certainly worth considering.
9. Sunset Bay Marina
Sunset Bay Marina is a safe and secure marina with great staff who offer excellent customer service.
The marina offers maintenance and fuel services along with affordable prices. The location of the marina next to the lock makes it convenient for boaters.
The marina offers a laid-back atmosphere and a beautiful picnic area.
The indoor heated storage is hard to find, making Sunset Bay Marina a great option for storing boats during the off-season. The staff is accommodating, and the customer service is top-notch.
