chicago sailboat charter

START YOUR Chicago sailing adventure today!

The salty dog sailing co..

Since 2015, The Salty Dog Sailing Co. has been a premier provider of private Chicago sailing charters.

Whether you’re new to town, just visiting or a Chicago native, we invite you aboard “ Peony “, our acclaimed Dufour 325 Grand Large , to experience the serenity, joy and excitement of authentic Lake Michigan sailing.

Renowned for fine lines, ease of sail, and polished interiors, the premium Dufour brand is synonymous with luxury and high-quality craftsmanship.  Customized with an array of performance features, Peony offers an unparalleled sailing experience with your comfort and safety being our highest priorities.

We welcome you to click “Book Now” to start planning your private Chicago sailing adventure today!

All Charters Are Private Events

Charter rates.

2 Hour Charter w/Paid Captain

Just for Fun with a Friend

Great for a Date / Proposal

Free Harbor Parking

Best Value for Group Size

Perfect Size for Summer Fun

Spread Out and Enjoy

Big Family / Party Size

Please Contact Us!

ON A BOAT SAILING

Luxury sailing adventures along chicago's lakefront, what makes  on a boat sailing different.

If you appreciate attention to detail, hospitality, and thoughtful amenities, this is the group experience for you! Our Chicago sailboat charters & cruises have been enjoyed by thousands of guests since 2018. As we hit the waterfront for our 7th season, we pride ourselves on offering an unforgettable way to experience Lake Michigan from the City.

The Crew - Captain Greg & 1st Mate Cait

Our crew have a combined 25 years sailing experience, allowing us to curate the best possible experience for our guests. Sit back & relax as you take in the sights & sounds of Chicago's famous Lakefront.

The Yacht - 2003 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 37

S/V Dragonfly was built for day cruises & entertainment. Our 37' luxury sailboat is a fantastic venue for any special occasion. We are a fully-licensed commercial passenger vessel and operate under the highest safety standards monitored by the US Coast Guard.

Learn more about our crew and yacht   here .

Whether you're getting on the water for the first time or a seasoned boater, our focus is to curate your special outing with world-class sailing, comfortable amenities, and incredible views of Chicago's famous Lakefront.

2024 bookings are available from Memorial Day weekend to mid-October with multiple departures daily from centrally-located Monroe Harbor in Downtown Chicago . Please visit our all charters page to learn more about our one-of-a-kind sailing adventures. Chicago is the best place to combine the thrill of sailing with views of a city steeped in rich architectural history - let us show you. Cheers! Captain Greg & First Mate Cait

OVER 500 PRIVATE CHARTERS IN CHICAGO SINCE 2018

Chicago sailboat  charters & cruises, limited weekend bookings available - book now, sail & swim playpen charter.

USCG Captain

Up to 10 Guests

Chicago's famous lakefront party is back! This 4-hour private sailboat charter is designed for you & your friends to party in luxury. We will depart from Monroe Harbor, with a good mix of adventure sailing on Chicago's Lakefront along with dropping anchor at the Playpen or a private area of your choosing. Whatever you do - don't forget a bathing suit, some sunscreen & something cold to sip on!

Starting at $1,399 Price  includes  up to 10 guests!

Fri • sat • sun departing 10am & 2:30pm.

Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise

Uscg captain .

This 2.5 hour Chicago sailboat cruise will split your time us between sailing the city's famous Lakefront & eventually making our way to the famous Fireworks show at Navy Pier. These are the best seats you can possible have for a world-class fireworks show. We've all seen fireworks - you've never seen anything like this before.

Starting at $999 for 6 guests 

Wed  7pm •   sat  8pm.

“I rented [Dragonfly] to celebrate my bday with 6 close girlfriends. Greg was very communicative before the trip. He answered all my questions in a very timely manner. The boat is very spacious!

Dyna, Chicago, IL

Chicago Lakefront Cruise

This 3-hour sailboat cruise will take you & your guests on a favorable sail down the gorgeous coastline of Chicago's lakeshore, giving a unique perspective on the city's world-class architectural landscape. If you're looking for a private & intimate sailing experience- this is the cruise for you.

Starting at $899 for 6 guests

WED • FRI • SAT • SUN Departing 10am, 1:30pm & 5:00pm

Skyline Sunset Cruise

Relax and enjoy a captained sunset cruise on our sailing yacht, a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 37. We will cast off from Monroe Harbor in downtown Chicago and set sail to a favorable course on Lake Michigan. Bring your own food and drinks, listen to your favorite music, and take in the views of our city’s iconic skyline from the Lakefront.

Starting at $799 for 6 guests 

FRI • SUN Departing 6:30pm

PLAN YOUR CHICAGO SAILING ADVENTURE  TODAY!

Explore world-class sailing, Great Lakes swimming & luxury amenities all summer long.

Nebula- A Chicago Sailboat

The Chicago sailboat Nebula is a 40-foot sloop-rig Beneteau, providing guests with comfort during their excursions. The nebula is the perfect cruising sailboat for enjoying the Chicago Lakefront as it has several exquisite features that enhance the sailing experience.

Topside of Nebula Chicago Sailboat

The Nebula accommodates up to ten (10) guests and is ideal for relaxing on the Chicago Lakefront.  The custom-made cushions provide comfort and relaxation during a leisurely cruise. Also, the large bimini (sunshade) provides protection from the sun on those hot summer days.

Your party can easily jump into the lake and climb back aboard using the convenient swim ladder. As an added luxury, you can take a hot shower on the swim deck when you've finished swimming.

FIVE STAR RATINGS ON TRIP ADVISOR AND GOOGLE

WINDY CITY SAILING HAS PROUDLY BEEN OFFERING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE FOR TWO DECADES AND WE HAVE THE SATISFIED RETURNING CUSTOMERS TO PROVE IT!

Nebula's Main Cabin- Chicago Sailboat

The Nebula’s main cabin is stocked with amenities ensuring guests will fully enjoy their Chicago sailboat charter. Furthermore, ample natural light and ventilation enhance the comfort of the cabin.

Crafted in cherry-finish woodwork;  guests will find everything they may need in here.  Most noteworthy, the 20” flat screen TV/monitor, Bluetooth stereo, and air conditioning provide an enjoyable onboard experience.

Nebula's Galley- Chicago Sailboat

In Nebula’s custom-designed galley, guests have the use of the kitchen amenities they find in their own homes. Most useful, the large freezer stocked with ice, microwave, and double bin sink are all easily accessible onboard.  Likewise, glasses, plates, utensils, wine/bottle openers, and cutting boards are provided.

Sailing Questions

As you plan to set sail on the mesmerizing Lake Michigan and explore the scenic shoreline of Chicago, you may have inquiries about the weather, safety precautions, rules and regulations, required sailing equipment, licensing needs, recommended routes, local marine life, and nearby amenities. This FAQ is intended to address all these queries and any others that could enhance your sailing experience in the Chicago Harbor. Let's embark on this exciting adventure!

Chicago's Premier Yacht Charter Service

Experience Lake Michigan with the ultimate comfort and style through our tailored charter services.

An Elevated Experience

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Whatever the occasion, do it in style.

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• Chicago River
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Day Charters

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Sea Ray SLX 400 40ft

Winner of the NMMA Innovation Award, the SLX 400, coined “The Entertainer”, combines peak performance, superior comfort, incredible versatility and style, and state-of-the-art technology

• Wet bar, 2 grills, refrigerator, wine cooler, microwave, 3 TVs
• Fresh water washdown, deck shower
• Platform (launch pad) that lowers into water
• Bathroom with toilet and fresh water sink
• Seating for 15 people
• Sleeps 4 overnight
• Stereo in cabin & cockpit, with bluetooth connectivity
• Satellite radio & weather
• Dual inboard-outboard MerCruiser engines
• and much more...

Streamlined process

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To confirm your booking, simply agree to the quote, sign the contract, and submit the corresponding deposit.

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City-Centered, Accessible Luxury

a curated experience

Our Concierge Service

we strive to exceed expectations

Our Happy Clients

What a perfect day out on Lake Michigan! We felt like kings and queens and the boat was as classy as the service. Eleven out of ten experience. 

You won’t find more genuine hosts who want nothing less than the best experience for their guests. Whether it’s a slow cruise down the river or an anchored stay in the Play Pen, you’re sure to be charmed by the magic of the city. They think of everything so you don’t have to, a stress free experience. 10/10 would recommend.

We may be the Second City but Chi City Charters is second to none! Best boat on the lake, period!

We had the best time cruising along the Chicago River on Lock Leader. Our captain and crew were utter professionals and taught us a lot about Lake Michigan and Chicago. Highly recommended to see the city from a different view.

If you have any inquiries, please refer to our list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) provided below. In case you cannot find the answer you seek, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

A bareboat charter, as defined by the United States Coast Guard (USCG), is an arrangement granting the Charterer (the individual renting the yacht) temporary ownership and use of a vessel for a specified duration. Under this agreement, the Charterer assumes responsibility for the vessel, their guests, hiring their own Crew, and providing their own food and beverages.

It is important to note that the Charterer may either operate the vessel themselves if they possess the required credentials or choose to hire their own Captain and Crew.

However, it is crucial to adhere to the maximum passenger limit of 12 individuals for a bareboat chartered vessel.

For bareboat charters, the maximum capacity is 12 passengers, excluding the Captain and Crew.

The hired Captain and Crew are not counted as passengers. So, to clarify, the Charterer can bring a maximum of 11 guests.

Please keep in mind that infants and children are included in the total capacity count. Your Captain will count as an additional person, and the Crew can range from 1 to 2 people, depending on your specific requirements.

Once your booking is confirmed, Chi City Charters will provide you with a selection of qualified and approved Captains who have extensive knowledge of the yacht.

Our Captains can offer valuable recommendations regarding the number of Crew members you may require, depending on your specific charter plan. They have a network of experienced Crew members who are familiar with the yacht, and they can enhance your charter experience by providing additional safety, assistance, and service throughout your journey.

Alternatively, Charterers are welcome to provide their own certified Captain. It’s important to note that Captains are independent contractors hired directly by the Charterer and are not affiliated with or employed by Chi City Charters.

The rate for Captains typically ranges from $80 to $250 per hour, depending on their skills, experience, and qualifications, and this does not include gratuity.

It is customary to show appreciation to your hired Captain and Crew by leaving a gratuity of 18-25% of the total charter price (excluding the Captain’s hourly rate). Payment and gratuity should be made directly to your hired Captain.

Captains usually accept cash or payment through peer-to-peer platforms such as ApplePay, Venmo, Zelle, and others.

At Chi City Charters, we accept all major credit cards, including ApplePay, Venmo, Zelle, direct deposit, and cash, providing you with flexible payment options.

However, please be aware that we are unable to accept payment on behalf of your hired Captain or Crew, as they are separate contractors hired directly by the Charterer.

We recommend discussing the preferred method of payment with your hired Captain to ensure a smooth transaction process that aligns with their payment preferences.

fun in the sun

Get ready for an unforgettable yacht experience on Lake Michigan! Use our booking app to find your desired date and time, and bring your perfect day in the sun to life.

• Diversey Harbor, 2601 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614
• 319-889-7170
• [email protected]

Send us a message

Please allow 1 business day for follow up.

Take Advantage of Spring Savings!

Published February 20, 2024 read more

Chicago’s Sailing Standard Since 1978 Celebrating 46 Years of Service!

Serving today’s active sailor, Fairwind Sail Charters is Chicago’s oldest American Sailing Association sailing school and premier Sailing Yacht Lease Share Program where you can sail your own yacht all season long for a fraction of what it costs to rent or own. Beautiful yachts, unparalleled personal service, and the best rates anywhere have made Fairwind Sail Charters the choice of Chicagoland sailors for sailing instruction, sailing lease share, and private sailing charters for over four decades.

Haven’t you waited long enough? Getting started in sailing can be a daunting and expensive endeavor, but with Fairwind Sail Charters you get a legacy of friendly, straight-talking folks dedicated to making your sailing dreams a reality. Since 1978, Fairwind Sail Charters has set the standard for Chicagoland sailing, providing the best in quality, value, and service.

Best boats, best service, and best location equals the best value in sailing … anywhere!

Located at Burnham Park Harbor in the heart of Chicago’s famed Museum Campus, Fairwind Sail Charters’ legendary Dragon Fleet features BENETEAU YACHTS with direct walk-on access and ample parking right beside your yacht. With Fairwind Sail Charters, you park, step aboard your yacht, and sail away — that’s the Fairwind Difference .

One of Chicago’s oldest and most respected sailing schools, Fairwind Sail Charters offers award winning American Sailing Association sailing lessons leading to ASA sailing certifications from Basic Keelboat Sailing through Bareboat Charter and Advanced Coastal Navigation. Whether novice or old salt, Fairwind Sail Charters is dedicated to providing you the best sailing instruction to ensure a lifetime of safe and happy sailing.

And when you just want to kick back and enjoy one of the world’s most spectacular sailing venues, Fairwind Sail Charters offers private sailing charters for you and your guests with experienced Master Captains at the helm.

Please take a moment to cruise through what Fairwind Sail Charters has to offer. See for yourself the Fairwind Difference .

If you’re looking for Great People and Great Boats for Great Lakes sailing, join the hundreds of sailors who have made Fairwind Sail Charters their home port!

The Most Fun You’ll Have With The Sails Up!

The Vagabond | Setting Sail from Montrose Harbor | 601 W. Montrose Dr. – Chicago, IL 60613 | 630-816-1427

Enjoy the awesome Chicago skyline

Take a nice relaxing sunset sail

Chicago Sailing Charters

Group | Private | Corporate Yacht | Event Rentals

At Two Brothers Sailing Adventures Chicago we take great pride in providing a wide selection of sailing charters and adventure options in the Chicago area. Every yacht we charter or sailing package we offer has been designed with safe and fun activities that are also uniquely planned to make the most of your time. If you don’t know about Chicago sailing or yacht rental on Lake Michigan, it is a great getaway in the Spring, Summer and Fall months. Our safety record is impeccable and our charter captains are fully trained and licensed. You are guaranteed to have a sailing adventure with captains and crew that are all accomplished Lake Michigan sailors excited to share their love of adventure sailing and the water, with a passion for entertaining new passengers and friends in Chicago.  It is easy to Charter a sailing adventure by checking our availability . We love seeing our friends return year after year! When you book a Chicago sailing charter or yacht rental adventure with us, you’ll soon see why people love to go ‘sails up’ with us.

We’re Ready to Put Our Sails Up for You

Two Brothers Sailing Adventures is ready to put our sails up for you. It all starts by tailoring the length of your sail within two to three hours, or more. We provide many options and choices including the sites you’ll sail to and see and the fare you’ll be treated to during your trip with us. Each sailing adventure is conducted by one of our licensed captains with the duty of keeping their passengers safe and entertained on beautiful Lake Michigan.

Two Brothers Sailing Adventures is your Chicago sailing destination. We pride ourselves on offering a wide selection of adventure, including small boat rentals, luxury yacht charters and sailing lessons. Whether you’re traveling from the Midwest, or across Lake Michigan, Two Brothers Sailing Adventures is the perfect destination for an adventurous sailing getaway in Chicago. Our licensed charter captains are fully trained, and we guarantee you’ll have a fun, safe sail in the Chicago area. We look forward to welcoming you aboard, and showing you why people love to go “sails up” with Two Brothers Sailing Adventures.

We may be the captain, but when you sail with us, we let you take the helm. Whether you want to sail for two hours or five, see specific sites, or just sit back and enjoy Lake Michigan, we’re committed to providing you with a unique Chicago sailing experience. 

Let’s set sail together and make some great memories!

We encourage you to be yourself unless you want to be a pirate then always be a pirate! We pride ourselves on using ALL of our sails, not just revving an engine and calling it sailing in Chicago. All of our sails fly high barring safety concerns.

Sailing Services in Chicago Include the Following:

Sailing Lessons

Boat Charters

Boat Rentals

Contact us to schedule your next sailing adventure on the Chicago Lakefront. We’re ready to set sail and provide you with adventures of a lifetime for your co-workers, friends and families.

See the beautiful sights – Sail the city front from Museum Row to Navy Pier…

Sail to the historic Chicago Cribs and beyond . You still get the great city views while adventuring a bit further to sea…

Swim Socialize and Sunbathe – Sail over and join the crazy crowds at Chicago’s famous Playpen – a protected anchoring area just off Oak Street Beach where boaters of all kinds park and play…

Sunsets with your sweetheart – This is a couples sail scheduled so that you capture breathtaking views of the sun setting while the city lights are rising – truly a perfect date night…

Sunsets with family and friends – Like the romance sail, you will enjoy the beauty of day turning to night…but on this ride you’ll have to sneak below to get alone because your passengers will be tagging along for the fun…

• FAQ’s
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Setting Sail From

Montrose Harbor Chicago, IL 60613 630-816-1427 *contact us upon arrival for dock details

• Searay sundacer 35′ powerboat
• fireworks-sunset-cruise-wed-sat-nights
• Wheather Links

Testimonials

• Map of Chicago

Chicago's Best Boats and Yacht Charters

We have two of the best private charter party boats in chicago.

We offer two beautiful powerboats that can take a total of 25 people out together on Lake Michigan. A 51′ Searay Sundancer and a 35′ Searay Sundancer boat that can accommodate a lot of guests. We can bring both of our boats together so you and your entire group can do a “Tie-Up in the Playpen”. Summer in Chicago without spending time with all your friends in the Playpen should not be missed. Please book your group trips early before we get all booked up

Charters can range from going to the world-famous “playpen” where we can anchor and crank up the sound system and go for a swim or chill on our rafts to cruising along the lakefront and by navy pier. you can also take a trip through the “locks” and down the chicago river or some blue water cruising past the chicago lighthouse, the cribs of chicago, and into the deep blue waters of lake michigan and taking in some of the best views of chicago.

Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters provide our guests with exclusive, private charters that offer complete luxury, flexibility, and customization. Take your friends & family on a cruise and experience Chicago like you never thought was possible a priceless adventure.

On wednesday & saturday nights we offer sunset & fireworks cruises just off of navy pier., experience firsthand the relaxing beauty of a peaceful sail on our 4+ hour and all day private boat charter. boating in chicago is the perfect way to end the day with friends. maximum of 12 guests on a boat., come enjoy the beauty of chicago in the lap of luxury. our lake michigan boat charters include many points of interest around chicago such as: the playpen, navy pier, chicago river locks, chicago lighthouse, adler planetarium, shedd aquarium, soldiers field, buckingham fountain and many more., chicago yacht rentals - a unique way to explore the city, our cruises are perfect for these special occasions:.

• Bachelorette or Bachelor Parties
• Anniversary Cruises
• Special Occasions Cruises
• Chicago Scene Boat Party
• Birthday Parties
• Corporate events
• The World Famous “Playpen” we anchor, turn up the music, crack open the drinks and dive into the water
• Chicago River Cruise – Hanging out at City Winery
• Chicago Air & Water Show (Friday, Saturday & Sunday middle of August)
• Holiday Weekends (Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day- Book early they book up fast)
• Lollapalooza- Listening to the concert from Monroe Harbors

51′ Sea Ray

You can also find our website at BoatCharter.info

35′ sea ray.

Private, Luxurious, and Affordable Yacht Charters in Chicago, IL

Bring a group to party in the playpen, the playpen - chicago's popular boating place.

The luxurious amenities on our boat will amplify your experience as you feel the breeze blowing through your hair. The dazzling blue waters are ideal for swimming, and you can even climb aboard a floating island to take a break from all the action.

Whether you’re looking for some relaxation or some excitement, the Playpen is the ultimate destination for boating enthusiasts.

Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters Offer Priceless Pampered Yachting Experiences

At Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters, we pride ourselves on providing our guests with priceless, pampered yachting experiences. We go above and beyond to offer complete luxury, flexibility, and customization, tailoring each of our charters to your unique desires. From taking a cruise down the Chicago River to partying in Lake Michigan’s Playpen to watching the sun go down over the city, our yacht charters will help you do it all in style. At Chicago Sailboat and Yacht Charters, we believe that our guests deserve the absolute best, and we promise to deliver unforgettable, priceless yachting experiences that you’ll treasure for years to come.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US

Check out the Testimonials page to see what people are saying about our boat charters.

The views of the Chicago skyline were amazing, we can't wait to go again!

The captain made our trip really fun and educational seeing all the different sights like Navy Pier with its flags flying high was incredible and the views of the Chicago Lighthouse and water Intake cribs up close were amazing.

Our family had an incredible time sailing on Lake Michigan

The Fireworks by Navy Pier were incredible especially watching while having dinner and a good beer

(312) 587-3474

1300 s linn white dr, chicago, il 60605, contact/directions, chicago sailboat and yacht charters ©2023 all rights reserved.

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The Best Sailboat Rentals in Chicago

Browse, book, and get out onto the water with local captains and boat owners., our favorite sailboat rentals in chicago.

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Recent reviews in chicago.

When I say I celebrated my 36th birthday on this beautiful boat, it was AMAZING!! Cait was so incredibly helpful and prompt with any questions I had. Her husband Greg was the coolest captain you could possibly meet. I wish I could rate this 10 stars, for it was truly a wonderful experience! You can’t go wrong if you book with them!! Thank you again!!

Cait was a lifesaver! Another captain canceled on me less than 40 hours from a booking on a Saturday! The horror of potentially having 10 guest in my crew with that time of letdown was so disappointing. Luckily Cait answered my bat signal and things happen for a reason because we got her amazing sailing yacht and awesome husband, captain Greg, to take care of us which was such a great upgrade! Thank you for taking such good care of us! We will be back and recommending you to all our friends!

Booked this as a last night surprise for my family and friends. On the day, it ended up being super cloudy and rainy but Cait was so great at letting us reschedule. Her communication was excellent throughout. We ended up pushing by a few days and got perfect weather. We had an amazing sunset sail. The boat was clean and comfortable. We sailed and stopped to swim as well. Captain Greg (Cait’s husband) was super friendly and knowledgeable. He was a pleasure to be around. I would highly recommend booking this trip. For us, it was a life changing experience.

I would sail with Nijole again and again. We had a blast with the air and water show and with Captain Piper (the dog). Perfect time!

Nijole was a great host and made us all feel comfortable on her boat! It was great to have her dog Piper on board as well! You can bring your own music too. If you like for your captain to be very involved in your experience, this is for you!

It was a great experience on Nijole’s boat! She made sure everyone was comfortable, and that everyone enjoyed the trip. She was patient, and we had a great conversation! She ensured we had a great time

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How To Book on Getmyboat

Find the right listing for you and your crew, with options for boat types, group size, captained or self-charter, and lots more.

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Found one you like? Send a rental inquiry with your preferred trip details, and you’ll receive an offer from your captain to book.

Coordinate a pick-up place and time, meet your boat captain, and get out onto the water!

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Chicago's #1 Boat Rental

Book your boat. set sail. make memories..

Knot My Boat Charters is a Chicago boat rental company that specializes in yacht rentals, memberships, and corporate events for up to 12 passengers. Offering 17 iconic vessels from 33 sport cruisers to 70’ luxurious yachts, our team brings over 20 years of boating and hospitality experience, providing the best boat rental experience in Chicago.

Featured Vessels

Starting at $200 / hr, each boat rental comes equipped with upgraded audio, bluetooth, USCG safety equipment, and a kitchen, restroom, and cooler for guests to enjoy.

How To Book Your Charter

SELECT YOUR DATE

View charter availability on our booking platform

BOOK YOUR BOAT

Reserve and pay online in 60 seconds or less

HIRE YOUR CAPTAIN

Refer to confirmation email to hire a captain (fee not included)

Chicago Boat Charters

Why Knot My Boat Charters

Whether you're planning a social gathering, bachelorette/bachelor party, birthday, or corporate event, the Knot My Boat Charters team will provide you the best boat rental experience in the Chicagoland area!

When you book with us, the KMBC price includes fuel, tax, cleaning, safety training, and all of our amenities. We also supply you with a list of pre-approved captains that are familiar with KMBC vessels.

We dock at the 31st Street Harbor, Chicago's newest addition to the harbor system, providing an exceptional experience for you and your guests.

 Why knot book with us?

Corporate Packages

Impress clients or reward employees with corporate yacht charters in Chicago. Choose from luxurious vessels and customize itineraries to create a memorable boating experience. Enjoy stunning views, exceptional service, on-site catering, and a unique opportunity to bond outside the office.

Yacht Membership

KMBC members share all of the benefits of boat ownership for less than 1/3 of the cost of actual ownership without any of the hassles of maintenance, cleaning, storage, mortgages, or unexpected fees! Starting as low as $3000 per person, memberships are the economical option for guests interested in boating multiple times per season. 

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Can’t say enough good things about Knot My Boat Charters!! We had the best captain which made it such a good day on the water. Highly recommend to anyone looking for the best boating in Chicago!

KMBC was amazing to work with. The team is extremely knowledgeable and very accommodating. They had an extensive list of captains to choose from. I would highly recommend KMBC to everyone!

I’ve booked Knot My Boat Charter for my birthday the last 3 years and already booked my boat for next year during their Black Friday sale. Easy to work with and their captains are great. Highly recommend!

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Knot My Boat Charters is perfect for...

A yacht charter is the perfect way to create a memorable and unforgettable experience for your team. Learn more about corporate discounts.

Hosting a proposal or wedding party on a boat offers a unique and romantic setting that will create a memorable and intimate experience for you and your guests.

Hosting a party or birthday celebration on a boat provides a unique and fun atmosphere with stunning views and customizable itinerary, making it a memorable experience for your guests.

Bachelorettes

Tying the Knot? Host your bachelorette party on a boat in Chicago for a unique and fun experience with customizable itineraries, onboard amenities, and stunning views.

Family Gatherings

Hosting your family on a boat for the day is a unique and exciting way for families and kids to bond on the water. KMBC is family friendly, accommodating all ages.

Travel & Tourism

Visiting Chicago? Tour the Chicago skyline over the lake or via the Chicago river and experience the ultimate beauty of Chicago  during the summer.

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“This was the best boat charter in Chicago! The captain and crew were fantastic. Great proximity to downtown and easy loading on and off. The boat rental in Chicago was a great price for everything.”

“I was referred to Knot My Boat for an upcoming bachelorette party. I spoke with one of the owners Sommy and he was really helpful in working out the details. Overall a very easy booking process, 10/10 would recommend!!!”  

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(312) 971-0971

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3155 S Lake Shore Drive Chicago IL 60616

Corporate Office

350 N La Salle St #420 Chicago, IL 60654

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as professional advice for any situation. By using this website you agree to our privacy policy, terms & conditions, and cancellations policy.

All Rights Reserved | Knot My Boat Charters, Chicago, IL

THE MOST LUXURIOUS

Yachting experience.

reserve your yacht charter today

We are taking reservations for this summer and are looking forward to hosting your party! Before each charter, the yacht is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected including all surfaces, doorknobs, railings, handles, counters, tables, seating, sinks, toilets, etc. We’ve always taken safety very seriously and will continue to do so. 

In order to fulfill dreams, we strive to create the best yacht charter experience. Experience breathtaking views of the Chicago Skyline while aboard our opulent yacht. You are more than welcome to bring your own food, beverages, and anything else you may need! 

Our larger vessel Eclipse offers four spacious entertainment areas that are available to guests onboard, perfect for celebrations, corporate outings, and more. A complimentary cooler is provided to store your ice and beverages. The vessel comes equipped with a roll-out lake pad for water activities.

Our vessel Escape is the perfect yacht to enjoy a day on the lake with friends and families. If you are looking for a more scenic experience, we can cruise down the Chicago River. A complimentary cooler is provided to store your ice and beverages. The vessel comes equipped with a roll-out lake pad for water activities.

Searching for elite yacht charters in Chicago? Look no further because Exclusive Charter Yacht provides the greatest rental experience for a variety of occasions, including birthdays, bachelorette/bachelor parties, social gatherings, proposals, and business events. Fuel, tax, cleaning, safety instruction, and all other amenities are included in our price. We also offer a list of qualified captains who have experience with our boats. Our commitment lies in offering safe, fun, and full-service yacht charters.

There are two distinct boat options available from Exclusive Charter Yacht, each tailored to suit various preferences and price ranges. 

Corporate Event

Fireworks Cruise

Birthday Party

If you are looking for a luxury yacht that is sure to impress for corporate event, then book a business cruise on the Eclipse! Show your employees and clients that you care about their efforts and business.

Host your Bachelor & Bachelorette parties aboard our luxurious fleet. Make this an experience you’ll never forget!

Exclusive Charter Yacht is perfect for celebrations of all kinds. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, contact us for more information.

Visiting Chicago? Tour the Chicago skyline over the lake day or night and experience the beauty of Chicago during the summer. 

Have you opened a new location, redesigned your shop, or added a new product or service? Don’t keep it to yourself, let folks know.

Experience amazing sunset cruises and firework cruises on Lake Michigan. There are numerous dates available for your own private fireworks cruise, with fireworks displays happening every Wednesday & Saturday night!

• 31st Street Harbor, 3100 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, Illinois, United States
• 773-888-1133
• moc.l 1724635274 iamg@ 1724635274 thcay 1724635274 retra 1724635274 hcevi 1724635274 sulcx 1724635274 e 1724635274

555-555-5555

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OUR SPACIOUS, OPEN, CONFIGURABLE

When you rent a boat from Chicago Sailboat Charters, we provide the best variety, service, and value for any charter or rental boat experience you desire.

50'  FEET

36 PASSENGERS

FLEXIBLE BOOKING

DUSABLE HARBOR

OUR SPACIOUS BIG BOAT

The "Big Boat" accommodates groups of up to 36 people, providing ample space on the foredeck for mingling, sunbathing, viewing fireworks, and relaxing.

The big boat has a swim ladder extending 4 feet under water, ensuring comfortable and safe swimming experiences. The charters offer various activities including river cruises, shoreline cruises, fireworks viewing, and swimming or sunbathing at the playpen.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR CHARTER

HOW TO BOOK YOUR CHARTER ONLINE

Step 1: Use our online booking platform (click HERE ) to select your date and view charter availability.

Step 2: Once you select your charter, reserve and pay directly online in less than 60 seconds.

Step 3: After booking, refer to your confirmation email for instructions on how to book a captain. 

WHY CHICAGO SAILBOAT CHARTERS?

Chicago Sailboat Charters offers Chicago's largest variety of captained charters for sailboats, yachts, and spacious boats, accommodating groups of 1 to 36 people. Enjoy daytime sailing, sunset cruises, swimming and sunbathing sails, or even witness the spectacular Navy Pier fireworks from our boats.

OUR SAILBOATS & YACHTS ARE PERFECT FOR...

Swimming & playpen, navy pier fireworks, chicago river cruises, celebration events, corporate outings.

773-236-7245

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400 West Belmont Harbor Drive, Chicago, IL 60657

Belmont Harbor

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Departure date

Trip duration, multiple days (less than 1 week), weekly trip show boats that have weekly prices. most weekly boats outside of the us are available only saturday to saturday., boat length: 5ft -, manufacturer, boat build year: -, weekly trip, price: $ - $, 3 sailboat charters in chicago, il.

Chicago, IL

boating guide

In addition to the best offers we have for boat and yacht charters in Chicago, IL, see also options available for rent in these nearby locations:

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Rent a Sailboat Charter in Chicago, IL from Sailo!

Looking for a sailboat rental in Chicago, IL? Discover Chicago by a private sailboat yacht charter with Sailo. Enjoy a whole other side of Illinois on a sailboat rental in Chicago with captain, or skipper yourself if you prefer. Whatever your boating needs, you’ll find the perfect sailboat for your Chicago sailing trip, party or special event. Enjoy sunset cruises, watersports or fishing trips, or a day out with family and friends for a memorable experience on a Sailo boat.

Our premium inventory of private sailboat charters in Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL is a well-known boating destination in the US, perfect for a memorable experience on a Sailo boat. The sailboat rentals are popular for both locals and tourists and a great choice if you want to spend some quality time with your family or friends. 16 charters are currently available with or without captain, lined up in the Chicago’s marinas, waiting for their guests. Rent a private sailboat in Chicago with Sailo: it’s easy, quick, secured and the best choice for a fun experience in the waters of Illinois.

How to find the perfect Chicago sailboat charter?

How to rent a sailboat in Chicago, IL? Sailo has the most advanced filters to help you find the perfect sailboat rental in Chicago, Illinois for an amazing experience on the water. Start your search by choosing your start Chicago sailing trip date, duration and number of guests. For a great day trip with your family or friends, you have the option to select 2, 4 hours or full day rentals. Depending on your preferences and budget, you may narrow your results by boat type and price range. The 'crew' filter allows you to check the boat rentals with the captain included in the price, skipper optional (paid as extra) or bareboats that you’ll captain yourself (boating resume required). Once you have laid your eyes on a boat you like in Illinois, click on it to read the description, reviews and see more pics. We also recommend using our direct 'Message Owner' feature that allows you to start a conversation with the boat representative to ask away everything you want to know before you submit a booking request.

How does it cost to rent a sailboat in Chicago for a day?

Whether you are looking to rent a yacht for a city sightseeing tour, a romantic sunset cruise or an active day on the water with your family or friends, we're confident you’ll find the best one for you on Sailo. The average starting price to charter a sailboat in Chicago is $1100. You can however find excellent affordable rentals from $250 and also elegant Chicago sailboat yacht charters that can go up to $6500 (service fee and mandatory extras not included).

Essential safety tips for recreational boating

Whether you’re renting a boat with captain or you choose a bareboat, always keep in mind this basic safety guidelines:

• if you rent a captained charter, always pay close attention to your captain
• walk slowly and never run onboard as you can easily slip and fall overboard
• be mindful of stairs and hatches (never step on them)
• if you go swimming, floating or paddling, stay away from other boats even if they are anchored or moored
• pay attention to the other group members and make sure that everybody is accounted for at all times

Sustainable yachting tips

If you’re looking to start Chicago sailing, a sailboat charter is a great place to start! Explore coral reefs with your snorkel, discover hidden bays and islands and generally enjoy the view of nature. Remember, that sailing motto: 'Take only photos, leave only wake' (OK, so we paraphrased). To be a responsible sailor, remember:

• Don’t disturb coral or sealife
• Take your trash home (and don’t throw anything in the sea)
• Respect the locals and their customs wherever you go

Read more about responsible boating.

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Popular boat types among renters:

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Chicago Sailboat Charters

Updates From This Business

30% OFF Labor Day w/e Fri-Mon

Big Boat (up to 36 people) Yachts (up to 13 people)… read more

40% OFF This Sunday

Book it for July 21 directly on the website and the… read more

50% OFF This Sunday

Click the button and choose this Sunday, June 23 for… read more

Highlights from the Business

Locally owned & operated

20 years in business

Review Highlights

“ Chicago Sailboat Charters rocks, and if you get Captain Steve and Alison you are sure to have an awesome time. ” in 38 reviews

“ . The boat we rented was fantastic but it was captain Greg g and captain Liz that made it an outstanding experience ” in 26 reviews

“ Our family had a great sunset sail with Captain Bill on the 39 foot luxury sailboat Aras. ” in 20 reviews

Location & Hours

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400 W Belmont Harbor Dr

Chicago, IL 60657

Amenities and More

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About the Business

Business owner information

Business Owner

36 people on Big Boat, 13 people on power boats, 12 people on sailboats, We have the boats and all the captains you could need. Boat rentals and charters with first class service is what we do. Swimming, river trips, shoreline views, offshore boating, catering, BYOB (alcohol is available for purchase on BIG BOAT or you can do BYOB). The Chicago skyline is a spectacular sight from a sailboat or power boat. Whether you are sailing towards Navy Pier, or straight out away from the Chicago shoreline, the views cannot be matched. Enjoying a swim party or just a quick dip anchored down at the "playpen" or further off shore is a great way to spend part of your sail on a summer day. Sailing as the sun sets behind the Chicago skyline and watching the glow come up from behind the buildings after sunset is followed by seeing the skyline light up once the sky gets completely dark. Or you can go Navy Pier to see the Fireworks will offer a fantastic front row view of the show. The Chicago skyline acts as a backdrop and it seems as if the fireworks are directly overhead With many sail and power boats to choose from, and a huge 36 passenger power boat, we can arrange the perfect trip to meet your wishes and fit your budget. Chicago Sailboat Charters provides the best variety, service, and value for any sailing experience you desire. …

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Overall rating

205 reviews

Captain Rob and Jill were great. Everything ran like clockwork and they were accommodating on the boat. Great conversationalists as well. I appreciated the simplicity of booking and acquiring their services. It felt a little too easy to be true but it was. They just have an efficient and fun operation. Thanks captain Rob and Jill!

Our family had a great sunset sail with Captain Bill on the 39 foot luxury sailboat Aras. The sunset and views of the city skyline were spectacular. Capt Bill was easy to talk to and a skilled sailor. We would do this again!

We had an excellent charter experience with Captain Bill on a speedboat. Booking the boat was quite easy through the website, then you can contact the captain yourself to see who is available (company gives names/contact info). I would definitely rent from CSC again. Prices were also pretty average compared to other companies! Definitely recommend.

My husband and I had a great experience on today's 2hr sailboat ride. Dennis was our captain and was very informative, friendly, and put safety first. I would highly recommend this company and already told my husband that I want to do this again for my birthday with our friends!

Chicago skyline / sailboat cruise.

SO MUCH FUN!! How it works: You charter a boat along with the captain and crew. The boats are owned by the company. We chartered a boat on Labor Day, with Bill and Nancy. We departed from Montrose Beach. We were able to bring our own drinks and snacks for the sail. There were 7 of us total at ~$100/person. We specifically selected this company because they had a money back guarantee in the event of inclement weather - most other boating companies do not offer this! HUGE PLUS. Fun Fact: All of their boats mean "Lost" in different language, but not to be confused with lost at sea!

The best boating experience ever!!! After doing a ton of research, I came upon Chicago Sailboat Charters. I found them through their amazing reviews and recommendations. They were quick to respond and answered all of my questions. I ending up booking a Cruiser Class Power Boat for a bachelorette party of 11 girls. After booking, you receive a list of captains to choose from and I chose Gregg after reading countless, 5-star reviews! When it comes to your choice of captains, you need to choose Gregg!! I cannot rant and rave enough about how accommodating Gregg and Lori were. They went above and beyond for our boating excursion. And Lori captured the entire trip with 200+ photos! As if the day couldn't get better, Capt. Gregg and Lori took us up the Chicago River and accommodated our group for an extra hour. Everyone in our bachelorette party agreed that the boating day was by-far, the best part of the trip!! I highly recommend this company.

Had the best time with Bill on the water. Very knowledgeable about the parameters and specs of the lake and overall vicinity. Laid back and very personable. Would definitely do again and next time bring some friends. The only recommendation would be to set up a Venmo account for tips. Worth every penny! Thanks Bill!

My friends and I had the best time on our charter and Captain Gregg and Amanda were amazing. They took such great care of all of us and were super fun and professional. This was a surprise for my husband's birthday and it could not have been better. They both made sure all day we had everything we needed to make it a great day. Chicago Sailboat Charters were super responsive and answered all if my questions before we arrived. They made sure my friends and I had all of the details of where to be and when. I will definitely be making this an annual thing. Thanks again.

What an amazing time! We sailed the beautiful Lake Michigan early one Friday morning in August with a great crew. We did the semi-private boat sail and it was wonderful. The captain Greg kept the conversation smooth and easy and it made for a great start to a wonderful weekend.

The seven of us had a tremendous family outing with Captain Gregg on a beautiful, clean, well-appointed 40-ft powerboat rental from Chicago Sailboat Charters. It was a perfect day cruising up the lakefront, listening to our music, swimming off the back of the boat in "the playpen" traveling through the locks into the river and back again. Captain Gregg couldn't have been a more courteous host for the day. Truly, a wonderful staycation trip for us during the summer of COVID.

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Chicago Sailboat Charters 773-236-7242

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Boat Rental with Captain in Chicago

No rain guarantee for july 15 – click here for details….

Choose from 3 different boat types below. If you are looking for a boat rental with a captain, we have it here.

Click here to check pricing and availability on any given day and time.

Big Boat comes with a captain assigned by us. Nothing for you to do except get your party together and enjoy yourselves. Up to 36 people for you day or night party. Enjoy the Chicago  skyline  during the daytime, and at night watch the city lights come up.

Power Boat and Sailboat Rentals with Captains.

Our power boats can accommodate up to 12, our sailboats up to 11. In some cases we can provided the captain directly to you, but in all cases for groups of 7 or more, we will help you get a captain arranged quite easily. All the pricing we provide includes the cost of the captain.

Lake Michigan Boating Guide

Table of Contents

Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Boatsetter Team

With over 1,600 miles of coastline to explore, Lake Michigan can’t be beat for gunkholing, cruising, and sailboat racing. One of the five Great Lakes, this giant body of water is over 300 miles long, has more than 22,000 square miles of surface area, and borders four sates so there’s always somewhere to go and somewhere to rent a boat with a sharing service like Boatsetter. From Indiana to Chicago and Milwaukee to Mackinac, there are dozens of secluded anchorages, state parks, and charming waterfront towns to visit.

Where to Go

You could spend years of summers exploring all that Lake Michigan offers but if you have just a few days of boat rental each season, consider checking out some of these destinations.

Grand Traverse Bay is well-protected and generally calm even if Lake Michigan itself is less so. Learn about Ernest Hemmingway who was from the area or explore the town of Charlevoix that is split in two by a canal which leads to Round Pond and Lake Charlevoix. Bring or rent bikes and ride the 26-mile Little Traverse Wheelway for some exercise.

Visit scenic Door County in Wisconsin on the lake’s western shore. The Door County Lighthouse Festival is popular as are July 4 th fireworks in Egg Harbor. And you don’t want to miss the Sturgeon Bay Harvest Festival in late September. Harbor hopping in this area can’t be beat.

Beaver Island is the opposite of busy Mackinac. This remote island is 35 miles from Charlevoix on the mainland and tends to be a quiet respite with an unpretentious municipal dock and fun toy museum. The beaches are pristine and you won’t want to miss the Whiskey Point Lighthouse and the Beaver Head Lighthouse for their spectacular views. Check the weather before crossing from the mainland so you don’t get caught in 30-mile winds which are not uncommon here.

Activities & Highlights

Whether you’re in Milwaukee, Chicago, or Door County, there’s much to do during the summer including live music, wine tastings and art festivals. One big draw is the Chicago Air & Water Show that takes place in August and on a boat, you’ll have front row seats to the action. Another can’t miss event is the Playpen boat party which is like a giant tailgate party for boaters that draws in excess of 800 boats in late July.

There are also sailing regattas like the famous “Mac” race that runs from the Chicago Yacht Club to Mackinac Island. This race takes place in July, is over 300 miles long, and over 125 years old. Join the sailboat send off in Chicago or welcome them at the finish line at the island and partake of all the activities and celebrations on both sides of this classic event.

Lake Michigan is long and it can build up seriously large waves when a northerly wind runs along its entire length. Always check the weather before departing, especially if you’ll be boating farther south around Chicago where the weather and sea state can get gnarly. Freshwater forms steeper waves than saltwater because it’s less dense and running into a wall of square waves is no fun.

It can also get very cold in winter with temps below freezing in January near the Windy City. Target to rent a boat in the area from May to October but be ready to change course or cruising plans, especially in spring and fall when the weather may be iffy. Dress appropriately, bring lots of layers, pack flashlights in case you’re caught out after dark, and don’t forget some extra food and water.

Rules & Regulations

There are a few things to know before you untie the dock lines. Like in most other states, the Coast Guard requires all children under 13 to wear a lifejacket when aboard a vessel under way, and there must be a sufficient number of PFDs for the rest of the people aboard as well. You as the operator, cannot bring the boat within 150 feet of a person in the water for safety reasons – unless you’re participating in watersports.

Also, Lake Michigan is located in its entirety within the United States which means there are no check-in requirements for Canadian immigration or customs. You’ll have a bureaucracy-free run of the whole lake.

Serious Boating

Just because it’s called a lake doesn’t mean you should take it less seriously than coastal boating on the ocean. The Great Lakes are massive bodies of water and Lake Michigan can be nearly 200 miles across so it will take some time to traverse. Be boating savvy and prepared. All this said, there are great anchorages, wonderful beaches, and much to do on its shores so book a boat and have fun all summer long

Boatsetter  is the leading online marketplace for boat rentals and on-water experiences. Download the Boatsetter app ( App Store  |  Google Play ) and follow us on  Instagram .

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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Video shows moments before superyacht went down in storm off Sicily

A celebration turned into tragedy for a british tycoon when the storm sank the vessel off sicily. six people remain missing., by henry austin and corky siemaszko | nbc news • published august 21, 2024 • updated on august 21, 2024 at 3:08 pm.

Newly released video captures a luxury superyacht being battered by a violent storm before it suddenly sank off Sicily with 22 people aboard  Monday.

The grainy images obtained by NBC News and other outlets were recorded on closed-circuit television not far from where the Bayesian was anchored,  about a half-mile from the port of Porticello, on Sicily’s northern coast .

📺 24/7 Chicago news stream: Watch NBC 5 free wherever you are

The yacht's 250-foot mast, illuminated with lights and lashed by the storm, appears to bend to one side before it finally disappears and is replaced by darkness.

The speed with which a yacht built to handle the roughest seas capsized stunned maritime experts.  

“I can’t remember the last time I read about a vessel going down quickly like that, you know, completely capsizing and going down that quickly, a vessel of that nature, a yacht of that size,” said Stephen Richter  of SAR Marine Consulting.

British tech tycoon Mike Lynch and five of the 22 other people who were aboard the 184-foot vessel remain unaccounted for and are believed to be trapped in the Bayesian’s hull, nearly 170 feet underwater.

Officials confirmed Monday that at least one person, the ship’s cook, had died.  

Missing revealed as divers search superyacht that sank in storm off Sicily

British tech magnate Mike Lynch, 2 US citizens among missing after luxury yacht sinks off Sicily

Superyachts like the Bayesian, which had been available for charters at a rate of $215,000 a week, are designed to stay afloat even as they are taking on water to give the people aboard a chance to escape, Richter said. 

“Boats of this size, they’re taking passengers on an excursion or a holiday,” Richter said. “They are not going to put them in situations where it may be dangerous or it may be uncomfortable, so this storm that popped up was obviously an anomaly. These vessels that carry passengers, they’re typically very well-maintained, very well-appointed.”

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Built by Italian shipbuilder Perini Navi in 2008, the U.K.-registered Bayesian could carry 12 guests and a crew of up to 10, according to online specialist yacht sites. Its nearly 250-foot mast is the tallest aluminum sailing mast in the world,  according to  CharterWorld Luxury Yacht Charters. 

On Tuesday, Italian rescue workers  resumed the search for Lynch  and the five other passengers still missing: Lynch’s 18-year-old daughter, Hannah; Morgan Stanley International Chairman Jonathan Bloomer and his wife; and Clifford Chance lawyer Chris Morvillo and his wife.

“The fear is that the bodies got trapped inside the vessel,” Salvatore Cocina, the head of civil protection in Sicily, told Reuters .

The Bayesian is owned by a firm linked to Lynch’s wife, Angela Bacares, who was one of the 15 people rescued Monday after it capsized.

“It’s extremely rare for a boat of this size to sink,” Richter said.

What’s not rare is the kind of storm that sank it , said Simon Boxall, senior lecturer in oceanography at Britain’s University of Southampton.

“People assume the Mediterranean is this rather calm and passive place that never gets storms and always blue skies,” Boxall said. “In fact, you get some quite horrendous storms that are not uncommon at this time of year.”

The president of Italy’s meteorological society has said Monday’s violent storm may have involved a waterspout, essentially a tornado over water, or a downburst, which occurs more frequently but doesn’t involve the rotation of the air.

Luca Mercalli, president of the Italian Meteorology Society, also said recent temperatures may have been a factor. 

“The sea surface temperature around Sicily was around 30 degrees Celsius [86 Fahrenheit], which is almost 3 degrees more than normal,” Mercalli told Reuters. “This creates an enormous source of energy that contributes to these storms.”

The Mediterranean sailing vacation was designed to be a celebration for Lynch, who two months ago was  acquitted by a San Francisco jury of fraud charges  stemming from the 2011 sale of his software company Autonomy to Hewlett-Packard for $11 billion.

Prosecutors alleged that Lynch, dubbed “Britain’s Bill Gates,” and Autonomy’s vice president for finance, Stephen Chamberlain, had padded the firm’s finances ahead of the sale. Lynch’s lawyers argued that HP was so eager to acquire Autonomy that it failed to  adequately check the books .

Lynch had taken Morvill, who was one of his defense attorneys, on the luxury trip. 

Chamberlain was not on the Bayesian.

In what appears to be a tragic coincidence, a  car struck and killed Chamberlain on Saturday as he was jogging in a village about 68 miles north of London, local police said.

“Steve fought successfully to clear his good name at trial earlier this year, and his good name now lives on through his wonderful family,” Chamberlain’s lawyer, Gary Lincenberg, said in a statement .

Henry Austin reported from London and Corky Siemaszko from New York City.

This story first appeared on NBCNews.com . More from NBC News:

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Here's what we know about why a luxury sailing boat sank off the coast of Sicily

Emergency workers in southern Italy are still hunting for six people missing after a tornado sank a luxury yacht early Monday - prompting an air and naval operation off the coast of Sicily.

Fifteen people were rescued from the wreckage, according to Italy's Coast Guard. One body was recovered on Monday and four more on Wednesday, after divers struggled to reach deep inside the yacht around 50 meters underwater (approximately 150 feet).

Two Americans and four Britons were among the six initially reported missing - including British tech tycoon Mike Lynch, Jonathan Bloomer, chairman of Morgan Stanley International, and Chris Morvillo, a prominent lawyer.

Here's what we know.

What happened?

A small waterspout - a type of tornado - spun over the Mediterranean island early Monday, likely capsizing the sailing boat amid lashings of rain and strong thunderstorms.

The British-flagged yacht, called the "Bayesian," was anchored about a half a mile from the port of Porticello, on Sicily's northern coast. The vessel sank after its mast broke in half in the storm, Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily's Civil Protection, told CNN on Tuesday.

Eyewitnesses described furious gales and hurricane-like winds that left an avalanche of debris near the pier.

More than a dozen survivors were spotted in the area hanging onto life rafts, according to the captain of a nearby boat, who steadied his ship to avoid colliding with the Bayesian.

"We got this strong hurricane gust and we had to start the engine to keep the ship in an angled position," Karsten Bower told reporters in Palermo on Monday. "After the storm was over, we noticed that the ship behind us was gone."

Bower and his crew rescued four injured people, he said, before calling Italy's Coast Guard - who later rescued the remaining survivors.

One of those rescued - a child - was airlifted to the children's hospital in Palermo. Eight people were hospitalized in total, according to the mayor's office.

The girl's mother, Charlotte, described how she battled to hold onto Sofia, her 1-year-old daughter, as reported by Italian news agency ANSA.

"In two seconds I lost the baby in the sea, then I immediately hugged her again amidst the fury of the waves. I held her tightly, close to me, while the sea was stormy," she told journalists. "Many were screaming."

The mother and daughter were later reunited with the father, James, according to a doctor at the local children's hospital in Palermo.

"The survivors are very tired and are constantly asking about the missing people," the doctor, Domenico Cipolla, said Monday. "They are talking and crying all the time because they have realized that there is little hope of finding their friends alive."

Italy's fire brigade dispatched helicopters to aid in the search, officials said Monday. After an unsuccessful attempt on Monday, the brigade sent divers to try and enter the sunken ship Tuesday, recommencing the operation on Wednesday.

The depth of the wreck means divers can only work there for limited periods of time, according to Marco Tilotta, an inspector for the diving unit of Palermo's local fire brigade. The Italian fire brigade said Monday its divers had reached the yacht's hull 49 meters (160 feet) below sea level.

The United Kingdom's Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said it has deployed a team of four inspectors to Palermo which is conducting a preliminary assessment of the scene.

Who was on board?

Twenty-two people were on board the Bayesian, which was flying under a British flag and had mostly British passengers and crew, in addition to two Anglo-French, one Irish and one Sri Lankan person, a spokesperson for Italy's Coast Guard told CNN.

A troupe of high-profile guests are among those missing, including Lynch, the 59-year-old British tech investor who fought a fraud case earlier this year in the United States - which spiraled from the disastrous $11 billion sale of his company to tech firm Hewlett-Packard (HP) in 2011.

His 18-year-old daughter was also named missing. Lynch's wife, Angela Bacares, survived the accident. Bacares told Italian daily newspaper La Repubblica that she woke up at 4 a.m. local time, as the boat tilted. She and her husband were not initially concerned, she said, but became worried when the windows of the yacht shattered and chaos erupted.

RELATED: Divers find 4 bodies during search of superyacht wreckage after it sank off Sicily, 2 still missing

Bacares spoke to the newspaper while sitting in a wheelchair, at a hospital in the Sicilian town of Termini Imerese. She had abrasions on her feet and bandages on other parts of her body, it reported.

Bloomer, the finance tycoon, and Morvillo, a prominent lawyer - and both their wives - are also among the missing, according to Salvatore Cocina, head of Sicily's Civil Protection.

Morvillo, an American partner at Clifford Chance, was involved in successfully defeating the US fraud case against Lynch in June. Another employee of the firm, Ayla Ronald, and her partner, survived the incident, according to a spokesperson for Clifford Chance.

The body that was recovered from the vessel on Monday was identified as the onboard chef Ricardo Thomas, an Antiguan citizen, Reuters reported.

What do we know about the boat?

Built in 2008, the 56-meter (184-foot) yacht was manufactured by Italian company Perini Navi, Reuters reported. According to the Associated Press, the boat has been available for charter for $215,000 (195,000) per week.

Lynch's wife is linked to the yacht. The Bayesian is held by the company Revtom Limited, according to records from the maritime information service Equasis. The company's latest annual return from April lists Bacares as the proprietor.

"Bayesian," the name given to the vessel, is linked to the statistical theory on which Lynch built his fortune, according to Reuters.

The yacht's mast stood 72.27 meters (237 feet) high above the designated water line, just short of the world's tallest mast which is 75.2 meters, according to Guinness World Records. It was the tallest aluminium mast in the world, the Perini Navi website said.

Perini Navi is known for making "good quality boats," according to Caroline White, deputy editor of BOAT International, a media group serving the superyacht industry.

White told CNN that if the Bayesian dismasted, "it should theoretically become more stable." "But it might be a different story if you are in the middle of a violent storm with incredibly strong winds pinning you to the water," she added.

Dangerous weather conditions

Strong storms across Sicily brought torrential rainfall late Sunday. Initial reports suggest a small waterspout, which developed over the area Monday morning, could have been behind the yacht's sinking.

Waterspouts - one of several types of tornadoes - are spinning columns of air that form over water, or move from land out to water. They are often accompanied by high winds, high seas, hail and dangerous lightning. While they are most common over tropical oceans, they can form almost anywhere.

Matthew Schanck, chair of the Maritime Search and Rescue Council, told CNN that while waterspouts in Sicily are rare, "there is a risk" they can happen - just not every day.

Waterspouts rely on warm waters to gain energy and the Mediterranean Sea has been very hot, reaching a record daily median of 28.9 degrees Celsius (84 Fahrenheit) last week, according to preliminary data from researchers at the Institute of Marine Sciences in Spain.

Local temperatures have been even higher, with waters around Sicily reaching almost 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit), almost 3 degrees more than normal, Italian climatologist Luca Mercalli told CNN.

"Warmer oceans have more energy and more humidity to transfer to the atmosphere, the most important fuels for storms," he said.

(The-CNN-Wire & 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.)

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