FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if the weather looks bad?

Safety is our top priority. We monitor Lake Michigan conditions using professional marine data to ensure a safe experience. While we sail rain or shine, our refund and rescheduling policies vary by vessel:

• Public Ticket Tours (CITY CAT): All sales are final. If the Captain cancels a public tour due to unsafe conditions, guests will receive a digital voucher to reschedule for a future date. No refunds are issued.
• Private Charters (BERNARD): If the Captain cancels a charter on BERNARD due to weather, guests may choose to reschedule or receive a full refund.
• Private Charters (CITY CAT): CITY CAT is a spacious and stable 49-passenger catamaran designed to serve as an excellent venue both on the water and at the pier.
  • The "Dockside" Clause: If the Captain determines it is unsafe to leave the dock, but safe to remain at the pier, the charter will proceed as a Dock Party. Guests have full access to the vessel's bar service, sound system, and lounge areas.
  • Service Rendered: Once the vessel is made available for boarding at the scheduled time (whether dockside or underway), the service is considered rendered.
  • No-Show Policy: If the Captain deems the vessel safe for a Dock Party and guests choose not to board, the booking is considered a No-Show. No refunds or rescheduling vouchers will be issued.
  • Extreme Weather: In the rare event the Captain determines it is unsafe for even a dockside party to occur, a rescheduling voucher will be provided.

​NOTE: For real-time technical data, please visit our Marine Weather Dashboard.

May I cancel or reschedule my sail​?

Our policies vary by vessel and booking type:
​

• Public Ticket Tours (CITY CAT): All sales are final. If we cancel due to unsafe weather, you will receive a digital voucher to reschedule; no refunds are issued for public seats.
  
• Private Charters (CITY CAT):
  
  • 30+ days notice: Refundable minus a 10% admin fee.
    
  • 15–29 days notice: A 50% cancellation fee applies.
    
  • 14 days or less notice/No-Show: A 100% cancellation fee applies.
    
• Private Charters (BERNARD):
  
  • 48+ hours notice: Full refund.
    
  • 24–48 hours notice: A 50% cancellation fee applies.
    
  • 24 hours or less notice/No-Show: A 100% cancellation fee applies.
    

What kind of footwear is appropriate​?

For your safety and to protect our decks, only soft-soled, non-marking shoes (like sneakers or boat shoes) are permitted. High heels, work boots, and dark-soled dress shoes are strictly prohibited. Please note that guests in inappropriate footwear may be denied boarding without a refund.​

Is smoking or vaping allowed​?

No. All vessels maintain a 100% smoke-free and vape-free environment, including cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and all marijuana products. Violations will result in the immediate termination of the charter without refund and the assessment of the applicable Minimum Cleaning & Damage Fee.​

What if I start to feel seasick?​

If you feel unwell, we highly recommend staying on the open-air deck where fresh air and a view of the horizon provide the best relief. Please do not go below into the cabin or restrooms if you are feeling nauseous. Our crew is trained to assist you on deck, and please be aware that sickness incidents in interior areas, restrooms, or trampoline areas will trigger a Minimum Cleaning Fee

Can I bring my own food and drinks​?

• On BERNARD: Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks; small coolers are preferred.
  
• On CITY CAT: No outside food or beverages are permitted. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase on board.
  

Can I bring my pet dog, cat, snake, or fish?

While we love all animals, the answer is no. For the safety and comfort of all guests, and to protect our vessels' interiors, no animals or pets of any kind are allowed on board at any time.

What happens if we are late for our scheduled sail?

• Private Charters: Your charter begins and ends at the scheduled time. If you arrive late, your time on the water will be reduced accordingly. No refunds or extensions are provided for late arrivals.
  
• Public Ticket Tours (CITY CAT): The vessel departs at its scheduled time. Late arrivals may miss the boat, and in these cases, no refunds or reschedules can be issued.
  

Can I Fish from the Sailboat?

We love a good catch, but the answer is no. For the safety of all guests on board and to protect our sailing equipment (and the boat’s finish), fishing is not permitted on any of our vessels. Our trips are focused on the sailing experience, but we’re happy to recommend some great local fishing charters in the area!

Can I Swim from the sailboat?

Swimming is only available on private charters of 3 hours or longer aboard our sailboat BERNARD.  Swimming is strictly prohibited on all evening and sunset charters.  It is not permitted on any public tours or on CITY CAT.
Please note:
​

• Captain's Call: Swimming is never guaranteed and is always at the Captain’s discretion based on lake conditions.
• Safety First: The vessel must be at anchor with the engines off.
• Waivers: Every passenger on board must sign a waiver and release before anyone enters the water.
• At Your Own Risk: Swimming in Lake Michigan is always at your own risk.

Should I Tip the CAptain/Crew?

Our captains and crew work hard to ensure your safety and provide a great experience. While not required, a gratuity of 15-20% of the booking price is customary in the charter industry and is greatly appreciated by the team.
Please note the following:

• Public Tickets & BERNARD Charters: Gratuity is not included in public tour tickets or private charters onboard BERNARD.
  
• CITY CAT Private Charters: A minimum 15% gratuity is automatically included in the total price for all CITY CAT private charters.
  

How do i use a corporate booking code, gift VOUCHER, or promo code??

Use the "Enter code" button which can be found on the top left of the booking area or, under the final price during checkout.  Click here to see a demonstration video.

We are located at the Navy Pier Marina on the North Side of Navy Pier at Gate B near Light Post 26​.
​
Hint: Click the red sailboat icon on the map below for a photo of our meeting gate and arrival instructions!"

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.