Wendella Boats

Wendella Boats has been sailing Chicago's waterways since 1935 and remains family-owned. Based at 400 North Michigan Avenue, it has nine decades of history behind it, and it runs a range of tours on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

Architecture tours are the core of the programme. The 90-minute Chicago River Architecture Tour follows the river through downtown with commentary on the buildings along its banks, and a 45-minute version suits those short of time or travelling with young children. The 90-minute Lake and River Architecture Tour adds a stretch on Lake Michigan, giving views back to the skyline from the water. There is also a Chicago Sunset Cruise, along with wine and cheese, fireworks and holiday cruises at certain times of year.

Wendella stands out for operating year-round. The company says its boats keep running when other operators have docked for the season, and its tours run daily on climate-controlled vessels. That makes it a useful option for visitors in late autumn and winter, when many other cruises stop. Check the schedule for the day you plan to go, as departures vary with the season.

Prices start from a modest level for the shorter tours, and booking online in advance is the simplest way to secure a place, particularly on summer weekends and for sunset departures. Arrive in good time before departure to find the dock and board.

Wendella suits first-time visitors, families, couples and anyone who wants to see Chicago's architecture from the water. The shorter tours are a good choice with children, while the longer lake and river tour suits those who want the full skyline view. In cold weather, the climate-controlled vessels keep you comfortable, while on warm days you will want sunglasses and sunscreen. Choosing between the tours depends on your time and interests. If you want the full story of the river's buildings, the 90-minute architecture tour is the one to pick; if you mainly want photographs of the skyline, the lake and river tour adds a stretch on Lake Michigan for the view back to the city. A sunset cruise is a relaxed alternative for couples.

The company also runs a sister service, Chicago Water Taxi, which offers easy rides around downtown and is a practical way to travel between neighbourhoods by water. The base on North Michigan Avenue is convenient for downtown hotels. For enquiries, call +1 312-337-1446.