Wendella boat tours are a Chicago rite of passage. Family-owned since 1935, we’ve spent nine decades cruising the river, sharing stories, and showing off the skyline. With the city's largest variety of tours and cruises, we give you more ways to experience Chicago, from history-packed architecture tours to golden hour cruises and everything in between. Chicago was built on the water, so trust us—this is the way to see it.
Some things just belong to Chicago—like deep-dish pizza, the Cubs, and Wendella. Our crew knows this city like the back of their hand and loves sharing it from the water.
THE BEST SPOT IN TOWN
We launch from the heart of downtown, right where the best sights are. Just step aboard and enjoy your front-row seat.
MORE THAN A TOUR
Our guides love to yap, but they certainly don’t lecture. They’re here to tell stories, answer questions, and let you soak in the experience.
BUILT FOR ANY WEATHER
Lake-effect? We’ve seen it all. While others dock for the season, we keep showing off the skyline, no matter what Chicago throws our way. With climate-controlled cabins, covered decks, and open-air seating, you’ll cruise in comfort year-round.
CREW YOU CAN COUNT ON
Our people are the difference. Wendella’s crew is the most experienced and best-trained on the water, ready to deliver safe and downright legendary experiences every time you step aboard.
90 YEARS OF CHICAGO STORYTELLING
Wendella boat tours are a Chicago rite of passage. Family-owned since 1935, we’ve spent nine decades cruising the river, sharing stories, and showing off the skyline. With the city's largest variety of tours and cruises, we give you more ways to experience Chicago, from history-packed architecture tours to golden hour cruises and everything in between. Chicago was built on the water, so trust us—this is the way to see it.
“I've done the Wendella Boat Tour four times now whenever friends or family visit, and it's always an awesome experience. This is a must-do if you're in Chicago.”
— Jason, 2025
“The BEST tour guides on the Chicago River! I've been on the Wendella boats for the Chicago River Architecture Tour several times and it's been fantastic every time and worth every penny!”
— Elizabeth, 2025
“The Wendella architecture tour came highly recommended to us when we moved to Chicago. I will say the hype is real.”
— Krupa, 2025
“This tour was easily the highlight of our Chicago trip. I can't recommend it enough!”
— Doug, 2024
“You'll wind your way through the waterways and see skyscrapers of all sizes and learn history along the way! There is literally no better seat in the house to experience Chicago!”
— Katie, 2024
“We were recommended the architecture boat tour by a few locals and it was absolutely amazing!! Beautiful views from anywhere you sat and an extremely knowledgeable and funny tour guide led the trip. Great value for money and so so worth it.”
— Jessica W, 2024
“This was one tour that I can honestly say was worth doing & probably should be a must do/ see on your visit to Chicago.”
— Ginette, 2023
“The skyline was beautiful and the buildings all shined differently. Pictures come out amazing!”
— Christina, 2023
Trusted by Chicago's Finest
Official Boat Tour
of the Chicago Cubs
Official Boat Tour
of the Northwestern Wildcats
Official Boat Tour
of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race
Da Facts
Wendella was founded by carpenter Bo Albert Borgström, a Swedish immigrant.
