While this time of the year is filled with joy courtesy of the light shows, ice rinks, and Christmas markets of the holiday season, it also ominously instills in us all a little dread about the impending plummet in temperatures.
Luckily for us, despite the inevitable snow and frequent fears about a polar plunge, the city knows how to keep its social scene surviving through the teeth-chattering chill with a variety of spas, winterized rooftops, and snug retreats of all kinds.
This year, however, a new unforgettable winter activity has been added to the mix courtesy of The Chicago Electric Boat Company.
Since opening in early 2012, the company has expanded and improved the variety of boats it offers now ranging from 22ft long luxury Duffy boats for 12 passengers to unique donut boats with circular seating designs and round tables that were introduced in 2020.
For over a decade, The Chicago Electric Boat Company has offered a unique, environmentally friendly way to see the city of Chicago thanks to their fleet of rentable 100% electric boats but now a winter addition will join the the Chicago Electric Boat Company fleet, this time in the form of Hot Tub Boat Cruises.
Yes, you read that correctly. Launching out of the docks at Marina City, the new zero-emissions vessels will take up to six people at a time floating along the main branch of the Chicago River in a boat equipped with a fully functioning hot tub.
“Picture this: a bubbling hot tub, on a boat, cruising the Chicago River. It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a floating paradise, exclusively yours to enjoy” read the official Chicago Electric Boat Company release.
“As the city lights reflect on the water, you’ll find yourself immersed in a winter wonderland like never before. This is more than an adventure; it’s a soak-worthy spectacle.”
With underwater lights, floating cup holders, coolers, and a Bluetooth speaker the boats are perfect for either an intimate date or an unforgettable gathering with friends.
While food is prohibited, BYOB rules invite guests to bring their favorite beverages and kick back in the warmth of the hot tub while sailing through the heart of the Chicago cityscape.
Reservations for rides on Wednesdays through Sundays are now available from December 8 onwards, including the whole of 2024.
The boats can be rented for 90 minutes from noon to 8 pm with extended hours of 9 pm on Saturdays.
Along with their “newest sensation,” the Chicago Electric Boat Company also announced a second surprise — revamped heated Duffy boats.
All 22-foot Duffy boats, which can fit up to 10 people and depart from any of the company’s docks, have now been made fully enclosed vessels equipped with built-in heaters and decorated with festive lights.
According to the Chicago Electric Boat Company, the luxury heated Duffys are priced at $156 per hour on weekdays and $191 per hour on Saturdays and Sundays while the Hot Tub Boats cost $250 for 90-minute sessions on weekdays and $315 on weekends.
More information can be found at www.chicagoelectricboats.com.
[Featured image courtesy of the Chicago Electric Boat Company]