New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise

Free

NEXT EVENT
December 31, 2025

TICKETS GO ON SALE
TBD

Ring in the new year on the water with Champagne, twinkling lights, and a front-row seat to the midnight show. Just in time for the fireworks, you’ll glide along the Chicago River past the city’s most iconic architecture on this 90-minute cruise.

You're floating past Chicago’s towering skyline, the city buzzing with energy as midnight approaches. The river is calm beneath you, but the celebration is building all around.

Wendella's New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise is a 90-minute escape from the crowds, offering iconic views and a front-row seat to the fireworks lighting up the heart of the city. This is the ultimate Chicago New Year’s Eve cruise for anyone who wants to be immersed in the magic. 

As the clock counts down, you’ll glide past some of the city’s most recognizable architecture, shimmering against the night sky. Just before midnight, the boat pauses in a prime viewing spot. The skyline surrounds you, the river reflects the lights above, and then the fireworks begin over Navy Pier. Whether you're toasting a friend or sharing a midnight kiss, this is a moment you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Most guests head to the open-air upper deck for the full view, but the lower level offers climate-controlled seating if you’d rather stay cozy. There's also a full bar and restrooms on board, so everything you need is close by. 

Boarding begins 15 minutes before departure, so arrive early and get settled. For a night full of lights, music, and memory-making, this is the iconic New Year's cruise in Chicago.

• Front-row seat to the fireworks!
• Open-air and indoor seating
• Friendly crew to answer your questions
• Iconic skyline views
• Restrooms on board

We depart rain or shine; Chicago weather is unpredictable, but our boats are built for it. We recommend arriving at the dock 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time since boarding typically begins 15 minutes prior. All bags are subject to screening, and outside alcohol or weapons are not allowed. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable after the scheduled departure time. Not sure where to go? Head to 400 N Michigan Avenue, right by the historic Wrigley Building at the northwest corner of the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge. For additional info chat with us, or give us a call.

We have a selection of local favorites available for purchase, including snacks, candy, soft drinks, beer, wine, hard seltzer, cider, and cocktails. Find our full Menu here.

Our boats are wheelchair accessible from our West Dock, with a ramp to the upper deck. All of our boats have ADA-compliant restrooms. Some of our boats have an elevator from the upper to lower deck, where the bar and restrooms are located. Please call us in advance on 312-337-1446 so we can assist.

Recommended for:
  • Floating into your next chapter
  • Celebrating with a city backdrop
  • Finally nailing your NYE plan
  • The ultimate midnight kiss

Your Cruise

Start & End
We'll meet you at 400 N Michigan Avenue. If you or anyone in your party has limited mobility or has a wheelchair, please call us in advance (312)337-1146 so we can accommodate you.

Sights
Here are some (not all!) of the landmarks you'll see along the way.

  1. Aqua Tower
  2. NBC Tower
  3. Marina City
  4. Wolf Point
  5. Civic Opera House
  6. Willis Tower

All routes are subject to change without notice.

Image Map

FAQ

Know before you go

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