2026 CHICAGO
​AIR AND WATER SHOW

Dates: Saturday, Aug. 15 & Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026
​Duration: 4 Hours
Departure Point: Navy Pier Marina, Gate B

Get ready for LOUD!  Get ready for SPEED!  Get ready for the U.S. AIR FORCE THUNDERBIRDS! 

Headlining the 2026 Chicago Air and Water Show, the Thunderbirds will thrill the crowd with spectacular precision flight demonstrations right over Lake Michigan. Experience the thunderous action away from the packed beaches on an unforgettable 4-hour sailing charter.

CHOOSE YOUR AIR SHOW SAIL

Option	Vessel	Capacity	Rate	Details
Public Ticketed Sail	CITY CAT	Individual Tickets	$200 / adult	4-Hour shared sail. Enjoy unmatched stability, trampolines, and covered seating.
Private Catamaran Charter	CITY CAT	Up to 49 Passengers	Starting at $4,320	Exclusive 4-hour venue for corporate groups, families, and large parties.
Private Small Group Charter	BERNARD	Up to 6 Passengers	Starting at $1,196	Tailored, intimate 4-hour private sailing experience for small groups.

​WHAT'S INCLUDED ON YOUR 4-HOUR CHARTER

• Prime Show Viewing: We sail directly toward the "show box" near North Avenue Beach, positioning you among the offshore fleet for the best views of the Thunderbirds.
• Onboard Comfort: Fully equipped restrooms on all vessels, plus covered seating and forward bow trampolines on CITY CAT.
• BYOB & Catering Friendly: Bring your favorite drinks! We provide ice, bottled water, and setup assistance.  Please ask about details.
• Hands-on Sailing: Take a turn at the helm or relax as our USCG-licensed captain and professional crew take care of everything.

​
TIMING & REHEARSAL NOTES

While the official show schedule is finalized closer to the event, the weekend itinerary typically follows this layout:

• Friday, August 14 (Rehearsal Day): Official practice day. A great opportunity for a quieter private charter while the Thunderbirds perform full-run rehearsals over the lake.
• Saturday, August 15 (Main Show): 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Sunday, August 16 (Main Show): 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
  
  

Sailing Note: It takes approximately 45–60 minutes to navigate from Navy Pier Marina to the official show box. Your 4-hour charter ensures ample time to arrive, anchor or cruise in the viewing area during peak performance hours, and return safely.

Event Policy & Disclaimer: We have no control over weather conditions, flight delays, or air show schedule changes. We make no guarantees regarding which performers or demonstration teams actually take to the air. Standard cancellation and refund policies apply regardless of performer participation.

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CHICAGO AIR AND WATER SHOW CHARTERS

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OTHER CHARTERS YOU MIGHT ENJOY

View Day Sail Schedule

View Sunset Schedule

View Fireworks Schedule

YOUR SAILING ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE!

​​Come Sailing is Chicago’s home for authentic sailing adventures. From social public cruises on our stable catamaran, CITY CAT, to intimate private voyages on the classic sailboat BERNARD, we offer a personalized alternative to the large-scale commercial tours. Join us at our new home in Navy Pier Marina to experience the skyline as it was meant to be seen—from the deck of a sailboat. Take a break, Come Sailing, and let the lake breeze gently whisk away the stress of everyday life.