Tall Ship Windy

Set sail on Lake Michigan aboard this authentic 148-foot tall ship for an unforgettable hands-on sailing adventure. Kids can help hoist the sails, take the helm, and learn maritime skills from the crew while experiencing what life was like aboard historic sailing vessels. It's an educational and thrilling experience that gets children off screens and into real-world adventure on the water.

• ✓Hands-on experience hoisting sails and steering the ship
• ✓Educational crew demonstrations about sailing and maritime history
• ✓Up-close views of Chicago's iconic skyline from the water
• ✓Learning nautical knots and traditional sailing techniques
• ✓Feeling the wind power a historic tall ship across Lake Michigan

1. 1.Book the sunset sail for spectacular skyline views and cooler temperatures during summer months.
2. 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early for parking and check-in. Parking is available at nearby Navy Pier garages.
3. 3.Dress in layers and bring light jackets even in summer, as it's always cooler and windier on the water.
4. 4.Kids can volunteer to help the crew with sailing tasks, so encourage them to raise their hands when asked.
5. 5.Bring sunscreen and hats for daytime sails, as there's limited shade on deck.

Weekday morning or early afternoon sails are less crowded than weekends. May through September offers the best weather, with calmer waters in early summer. Sunset cruises are magical but book well in advance as they sell out quickly.

Moderate pricing with family packages available. Navy Pier parking garages are within walking distance. No food service onboard, but you can bring water bottles. The ship is not wheelchair accessible due to its historic design and requires climbing aboard.

Operates primarily from May through October, weather permitting. Sailing season typically runs late spring through early fall. Winter months have limited or no operations. Special themed sails and events may be offered during peak summer season.

Navy Pier (just steps away) has numerous family-friendly options including Giordano's for Chicago deep-dish pizza and Harry Caray's Tavern with a kids menu. For quicker bites, the pier's food court offers everything from hot dogs to ice cream.