Architecture Boat Cruises

Question

Planning on booking a tour for next week. We are a party of 8. (6 seniors - no mobility issues)

Looking at either Wendella or First Lady.

Thoughts/ recommendations?? Thanks!!

Answer

Chicago is famous for its architecture cruises, and both Wendella and First Lady are popular options for sightseeing along the Chicago River. Since your group includes six seniors with no mobility issues, comfort, accessibility, and quality of narration are key factors to consider.

Here’s a breakdown of both companies and what you can expect:

Wendella Cruises: Wendella is one of the most established architecture tour companies in Chicago. Their boats are sturdy and have both open-air and enclosed seating, which is great if weather changes. They provide a professional, live narration with knowledgeable guides who highlight Chicago’s architectural history and iconic buildings. Tours typically last around 75 minutes.
First Lady Cruises: Operated by Shoreline Sightseeing, First Lady offers similar architecture tours with options for open-air or heated indoor seating. The tour is informative, often using recorded narration with supplemental live guide input. The boats are well-maintained and comfortable for larger groups.

Considerations for your group:

If your party values live narration and a classic Chicago cruise experience, Wendella is slightly preferred by many architecture enthusiasts for its knowledgeable guides and scenic views.
If you want a slightly more modern vessel with flexible seating arrangements and potentially easier boarding, First Lady is a solid choice.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for a group of 8, as both companies can sell out during peak season.
Both tours are accessible and manageable for seniors with average mobility; however, check if anyone prefers minimal walking or stairs, as some boarding ramps may vary.

Overall, either choice will provide a fantastic architectural experience along the Chicago River. Wendella may offer a more traditional, guide-led narration, while First Lady provides comfortable modern amenities and recorded commentary options. It’s also worth checking if either has sunset or evening cruises, which can provide a different perspective of the skyline.

Architecture Boat Cruises

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