Chicago: Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise On Lake Michigan

For those seeking a unique way to celebrate Thanksgiving in the Windy City, Chicago’s Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan offers a truly special experience. Treating guests to a delectable three-course meal, stunning skyline views, and lively on-board entertainment, this festive cruise promises an unforgettable holiday outing. However, with limited seating and strict policies, snagging a spot on this popular excursion requires some strategic planning. Whether you’re a Chicago local or a visitor eager to take in the city from a new vantage point, the captivating allure of this Thanksgiving cruise may prove too enticing to resist.

Key Points

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan is a 2-hour cruise departing from Navy Pier, priced at Kč2,690 per person.
The cruise offers a 3-course plated lunch with fresh ingredients, unlimited coffee/tea, and DJ entertainment, in a sophisticated setting with stunning skyline views.
Starter options include a Beet & Baby Arugula Salad or Seafood Chowder, while the main course choices are Turkey Dinner, Broiled Salmon Filet, and Fall Vegetable Ragu.
A Seasonal Dessert Station features cakes, brownies, pastries, and seasonal fruit, with impeccable presentation enhancing the dining experience.
Cocktail attire is required, and the cruise has a strict non-refundable cancellation policy, with advance booking recommended due to limited seating capacity.

Overview and Pricing

The Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan offers an indulgent dining experience for Kč2,690 per person, with a duration of 2 hours from Navy Pier. This non-refundable cruise features a 3-course plated lunch with fresh ingredients, unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, as well as onboard DJ entertainment.

Passengers can take in the 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and landmarks, including Navy Pier, Grant Park, Willis Tower, and the Museum Campus, all while enjoying a sophisticated setting with festive decor and impeccable service.

While the cancellation policy is strict, this lunch cruise promises an unforgettable Thanksgiving celebration on the waters of Lake Michigan.

Experience and Amenities

Aboard the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise, passengers can expect an immersive experience filled with exceptional amenities.

From the 3-course plated lunch showcasing fresh ingredients to the unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea offerings, the culinary offerings promise to delight the senses.

Onboard DJ entertainment sets the celebratory mood as guests take in the stunning 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and iconic landmarks.

The sophisticated setting, complete with festive decor and impeccable service, creates a refined atmosphere for this special holiday outing.

Whether enjoying the salad, chowder, turkey, salmon, or vegetable ragu, diners are sure to appreciate the high-quality fare and memorable dining experience.

Starter Course Options

Diners aboard the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise can choose from two appetizing starter course options – the Beet & Baby Arugula Salad or the signature Seafood Chowder.

The Beet & Baby Arugula Salad features a vibrant mix of earthy beets, peppery arugula, and a light vinaigrette, creating a refreshing and flavorful beginning to the meal.

Alternatively, the Seafood Chowder is a house specialty, boasting a rich and creamy broth brimming with tender morsels of seafood.

Both starters showcase the chef’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft a delightful prelude to the main course.

Whichever option diners select, they can look forward to an exceptional start to their Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise experience.

Main Course Options

Passengers can choose from a selection of tempting main course options, each showcasing the chef’s culinary expertise.

The Turkey Dinner features tender, juicy slices of roasted turkey accompanied by classic Thanksgiving sides like fluffy mashed potatoes, savory stuffing, and a rich, velvety gravy.

For those seeking a seafood alternative, the Broiled Salmon Filet arrives dressed in a vibrant roasted tomato vinaigrette that complements the fish’s natural sweetness.

Vegetarians will delight in the Fall Vegetable Ragu, a hearty, vegetable-forward dish brimming with seasonal produce and infused with aromatic herbs and spices.

These expertly prepared entrees promise to satisfy every palate and leave guests feeling truly thankful for this extraordinary gourmet dining experience.

Dessert Menu

The Seasonal Dessert Station aboard the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise delights with an assortment of indulgent cakes, rich brownies, flaky pastries, and fresh seasonal fruit, catering to a variety of sweet preferences.

Guests can savor the flavors of the holiday season, from decadent chocolate cake layered with creamy frosting to buttery apple turnovers bursting with tart, cinnamon-spiced filling.

The seasonal fruit selection, expertly arranged, offers a refreshing contrast to the richer desserts.

Throughout the cruise, the dessert station is replenished with care, ensuring a delightful finale to the gourmet three-course meal.

With impeccable presentation and quality ingredients, the Seasonal Dessert Station elevates the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise experience.

Dress Code and Policies

A sophisticated dress code sets the tone for the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise, requiring cocktail attire such as collared shirts, blouses, sports coats, slacks, and dresses.

Smoking is prohibited in the cruise’s interior areas, though guests may indulge on the outdoor decks.

Should any food allergies arise, diners are advised to inform their server, as the menu may be subject to change.

Infants aged 0-2 can enjoy the cruise for free, accompanying a ticket holder.

With an impeccable service and festive decor, this two-hour experience on Lake Michigan promises a memorable Thanksgiving celebration amidst the stunning views of the Chicago skyline and landmarks.

Customer Feedback

According to a single review, customer satisfaction with the Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise remains mixed.

Positive remarks highlighted the quality of the appetizers, while the main meal drew some criticism. Diners enjoyed the beet and arugula salad or the seafood chowder starters. However, the main course options of turkey, salmon, and vegetable ragu received more mixed feedback. Some felt the entrees lacked flavor or weren’t up to the standard of the impressive views and upscale ambiance.

To improve the overall experience, the review recommended making a single reservation to ensure group seating, allowing diners to better enjoy the cruise and each other’s company.

Reservation Information

Customers can secure their Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch Cruise reservations through the Odyssey ticket booth located at Navy Pier, the cruise’s departure point.

Booking well in advance is recommended given the limited seating capacity and popularity of this festive luncheon experience on the waters of Lake Michigan.

Cruisers should plan to check in at the ticket booth prior to the scheduled 2-hour departure.

While the cancellation policy is non-refundable, rescheduling may be possible depending on availability.

Groups seeking to dine together are advised to make a single reservation to ensure they’re seated together.

Dress code requirements should be observed, with cocktail attire expected for this sophisticated holiday affair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Unfortunately, the information provided does not mention any discounts for seniors or students on this Thanksgiving lunch cruise. Customers should inquire directly with the cruise operator about any special pricing or promotional offers that may be available.

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on Board?

No, bringing your own alcoholic beverages is not allowed on this cruise. The cruise offers a bar with a selection of cocktails, wine, and beer for purchase. It has a strict no outside alcohol policy to ensure guest safety and enjoyment.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

The cruise doesn’t have a minimum age requirement for children, though infants aged 0-2 can attend for free with a selected ticket option. Parents should consider if the experience is suitable for younger children.

Do You Offer Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Menu Options?

The vessel offers a variety of menu options to accommodate dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten-free selections. Guests are encouraged to inform their server of any special dietary requirements upon arrival.

Can I Request a Specific Seating Location on the Cruise?

Yes, customers can request specific seating locations on the cruise, though availability may be limited. The cruise staff will do their best to accommodate any special seating requests made in advance.