Chicago Line Cruises, home to the city’s original architecture river cruise, today announced the kickoff to its 2026 season, marking a major milestone as the family-owned company celebrates 40 years operating from the historic Ogden Slip. Chicago Line Cruises will once again welcome guests aboard for its signature architecture tours and full lineup of specialty cruises, offering Chicagoans and visitors alike a unique opportunity to explore Chicago’s iconic waterways.
“As we celebrate 40 years sailing from our private docks on the historic Ogden Slip, we’re proud to be a longstanding part of Chicago’s tourism and cultural landscape, and to continue our beloved tradition of sharing the city’s extraordinary architectural story from the Chicago River,” said Terry Johnson, Co-Founder. “This milestone season is a celebration not only of our history, but of the countless passengers who have experienced the city with us over the decades, and we’re excited to welcome new and returning guests aboard for another incredible season on the water.”
The 2026 season will once again feature Chicago Line Cruises’ signature 90-minute architecture river tour, which navigates the Chicago River’s main, north and south branches while highlighting the history, design and engineering behind many of the city’s most celebrated buildings. Led by knowledgeable docents, the tours offer thoughtful storytelling and a close-up view of Chicago’s skyline in an intimate setting.
In addition to the popular architecture cruise, Chicago Line Cruises will offer a variety of specialty and themed 90-minute cruises from Memorial Day to Labor Day, including a Fireworks Tour on Wednesday evenings ending with the Navy Pier fireworks show from the river; and Wine and Whiskey Tasting Tours on Thursday evenings featuring three tastings and specialty cocktails.
For four decades, family owned and operated Chicago Line Cruises has pioneered the premier way to experience the city’s renowned skyline and architectural heritage from the Chicago River since the architecture tour’s first iteration for 1983’s NeoCon convention at Merchandise Mart. Today, the company operates four vessels from its Ogden Slip docks: the 200-passenger Ft. Dearborn, 100-passenger Innisfree, 50-passenger Marquette and 20-passenger Tender No. 1.
Chicago Line Cruises’ 2026 season runs from Thursday, March 12 through late Fall, weather dependent. Cruises depart from the Ogden Slip, located at River East Plaza, 465 N McClurg Ct.
Tickets for architecture tours and specialty cruises are available now at www.ChicagoLine.com.
About Chicago Line Cruises
Chicago Line Cruises is Chicago’s original architecture boat tour company, offering expertly narrated cruises along the Chicago River from its historic Ogden Slip location in Streeterville. Family-owned and operated for more than 40 years, the company provides guests with an intimate and engaging way to explore the city’s world-famous architecture and skyline. In addition to its signature architecture tour, Chicago Line Cruises offers specialty experiences including wine cruises, fireworks sailings and private charters throughout the season. For more information, visit www.ChicagoLine.com.