River + Lake Tour Experience

Fast Boats.
Big City.
YOUR TOUR.

Experience Chicago from the Chicago River to Lake Michigan on a high-speed tour with skyline views.

Experience Chicago from the Chicago River to Lake Michigan on a high-speed tour with skyline views.

We’re not just a boat tour – we’re an adrenaline-fueled journey through the heart of Chicago, piloted by Coast Guard licensed captains aboard US Navy-style rigid-hull inflatable boats.

What Makes Us Different

This isn’t your typical boat tour.

We specialize in small, personal experiences for families and groups who want more than just a view. You’ll get:

Up-close skyline views

Get right up to Chicago’s iconic skyline for a view you simply can’t experience from land.

Stories that bring Chicago’s history to life

Hear engaging stories that turn the city’s landmarks into moments you’ll actually remember.

The thrill of a high-speed adventure on the water

Feel the rush as you speed across the water—adding excitement to every second of your tour.

Up-close skyline views

Get right up to Chicago’s iconic skyline for a view you simply can’t experience from land.

It’s the perfect blend of education, excitement, and unforgettable moments.

What We Offer

Experiences Built for Adventure

Choose your adventure. From high-speed thrills to scenic architectural tours, we have the perfect ride for you.

Adventure Lake and River Tour

Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with high-speed runs on the open waters of Lake Michigan. Feel the power of our Navy-grade vessels.

LAKE ADVENTURE TOUR

Iconic architecture meets high-speed thrills through downtown.

Private Charters

Exclusive experiences for groups and special celebrations.

Custom Adventure Tours

Tailor your experience - we'll build the perfect tour for you.

Our Vessels

Military-Grade Performance

Our fleet consists of US Navy-style rigid-hull inflatable boats - the same vessels trusted by military forces worldwide for their unmatched speed, stability, and safety.

Battle-Tested Safety

Designed for extreme conditions, built for your peace of mind.

Incredible Speed

Reach speeds up to 40 MPH on the open water.

Small Group Comfort

Intimate capacity ensures personalized attention and maximum thrills.

From the USS Laboon

Bravo-22 traces its origins to the USS Laboon — carrying forward a legacy of strength, precision, and performance built in the U.S. Navy.

From the USS Leyte Gulf

Hotel-26 traces its origins to the USS Leyte Gulf — carrying forward a legacy of strength, precision, and mission-ready performance built in the U.S. Navy.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide safe, intimate, and unforgettable boating experiences led by highly trained, Coast Guard–licensed captains with Navy RHIB expertise. We pride ourselves on delivering family-friendly adventures in a relaxed, uncrowded setting, where every guest feels welcome and cared for. Through professionalism, local knowledge, and a commitment to safety, we create memorable moments on the water that are both exciting and accessible for all ages.

Our Story

Born from a Love of Adventure

Our fleet consists of US Navy-style rigid-hull inflatable boats - the same vessels trusted by military forces worldwide for their unmatched speed, stability, and safety.

Captain Ken’s journey didn’t begin in Chicago – it began on the waters of New York City in 2014. While finishing his career as a U.S. Coast Guard recruiter, he spent his weekends on the Hudson and East Rivers, guiding visitors through the skyline and stories of the city. What started as a side job quickly became something more: out on the water, he discovered a new version of himself – one that thrived on connection, storytelling, and the simple joy of sharing an experience.

In 2017, after retiring from the U.S. Coast Guard, Ken made a bold move to Chicago in search of a new beginning. With a passion for service still driving him, he pursued a career in education – but the water kept calling. He joined Chicago’s tour boat companies, gaining experience and insight into the industry. Yet something was missing.

Ken realized he didn’t just want to work on the water, he wanted to create something of his own.

In 2022, he took a leap of faith and purchased an ex-Navy rigid hull inflatable boat – the start of a vision to offer something different from traditional tours: a more personal, more exciting way to experience Chicago.

Today, Captain Ken invites families and small groups to see the city from a new perspective – where history comes alive, the skyline feels within reach, and the thrill of a fast boat ride turns a simple outing into an unforgettable adventure.

This isn’t just a tour.
It’s Chicago – told at full speed.

Licensed Captains

Coast Guard certified professionals

10,000+ Tours

Safe adventures since day one

MEET THE TEAM

Expert captains who live for the water and love sharing Chicago's story.

Gallery

Glimpses of the adventure. See what awaits you on a Blackhawk Boat Tour.

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What People Say

Real stories from real adventurers

"This wasn't just a boat tour - it was pure adrenaline! The captain was incredible, and the views of Chicago from the water were breath-taking. Best tour we've ever taken."

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