Elegant Dinner Fireworks Cruise

Enjoy a three hour escape to the signature elegance and total entertainment experience only a true luxury cruising vessel can provide.

Creative appetizers, entrees and desserts are prepared fresh onboard daily. Award-winning wines may be ordered from our cash bar. Enjoy dancing to live music and unmatched views of the historic Chicago skyline drifting past your table. Weather permitting, you will also have a GREAT view of the weekly Navy Pier Fireworks Show!

Schedule Notes

This cruise is not available on July 3 or 4 when either date falls on a Wednesday. Special event cruises at different rates are available on those dates.

Cruise Summary

Arrive at the Pier dressed in your finest attire. As you are boarding, the ship's photographer records the moment for your entire party. The Captain and crew greet you as you step onto the ship. Once on your deck, our hostess will greet you and escort you to your private table where your wait staff will introduce themselves and give you the opportunity to decide for yourself how to pace your service. Settle in and enjoy a drink or tour the ships three indoor dining rooms. Exquisitely renovated interiors, enticing dance floors and a distinctive atmosphere reminiscent of the classic ocean liners.

A great way to start your evening is by watching the boat cast off from one of our outside observation decks. When you are ready to begin dinner, order your meal from the extensive menu of creative seasonal hors d'oeuvres, appetizers, entrees and desserts complemented perfectly by our excellent wine list. Bring an appetite, as the food is delicious, plentiful and always prepared freshly to your specifications.

As you enjoy your appetizers, the band sets the mood with smooth jazz classics and romantic standards. Each deck aboard the ship offers spacious dance floors and live music from classic jazz to contemporary favorites; from a five-piece band to soft piano music. After the main course and a delicious dessert, prepare to dance as the night comes alive. If intimate romance is what you are after, this is the perfect time to enjoy the Chicago Skyline views under the stars. Near the end of your cruise, you will want to go outside onto one of the many observation decks. The sky above the lakefront will fill with spectacular displays of color and the thundering sounds of Navy Pier's outstanding fireworks show (weather permitting). Upon your return to The Pier, the crew will wish you farewell. When you disembark be sure to stop and view your boarding photo, processed and ready for purchase.

Dinner Menu
Subject to Change

FIRST COURSE
Caramelized Duck en Croûte - Duck Confit, Forest Mushrooms, Sage and Monterrey Jack Cheese baked in a Puff Pastry, served over Spaghetti Squash, with Dried Cherries, Candied Pecans and drizzle of Marsala Wine Demi-glace

Mixed Greens with Apples and Strawberries - Fresh salad Greens tossed with Granny Smith Apples, Caramelized Pecans, Strawberries, Grape Tomatoes and crumbled Bleu Cheese, in a Raspberry Vinaigrette

Lobster Bisque - Lobster simmered in sweet cream Butter and blended with Sherry and Crème Fraiche, served with an herbed Crouton

Seafood Mélange - Fresh Atlantic Sea Scallops, Gulf Shrimp and Blue Crab baked with Peppers and Dijon into a cake, accompanied with toasted Crostini

MAIN COURSE
Maple-Glazed Chipotle Chicken - Pan-roasted Smoked Chicken Breast, served with a fiery Vegetable Ratatouille and roasted Yukon Gold Potatoes, topped with a Chipotle Tomato Cream

Argentinean Salmon - Pan-seared fresh Salmon fillet marinated in spicy Chimichurri Sauce, served over a fried mashed Yucca Cake, topped with a sweet Corn Posole and crispy Corn Tortilla Strips

Seafood Ravioli - Gratinee Jumbo Ravioli filled with imported Italian Cheeses, topped with Gulf Shrimp, Bay Scallops, and a rustic Pomodoro Sauce

Mushroom Braised Short Ribs - Braised Beef Short Ribs marinated in a Shallot and Wild Mushroom Gravy, served with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Puff Pastry and crispy Onion Straws

Roasted Vegetable Napoleon - Ragoût of Tomato, Zucchini, Eggplant and Summer Squash, layered with a White Bean Purée between crispy Lavash, served with a fresh Basil Marinara

DESSERTS
New York Style Cheesecake - Traditional rich Cheesecake atop a seasonal Glaze

Odyssey's Signature Decadent Chocolate Truffle Torte - Rich two layer moist Cake filled with a delicate Chocolate Mousse fully enrobed in a smooth Dark Chocolate Ganache

Bread Pudding Baked with Dried Currants, Cranberries and Coconut, served warm with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream sprinkled with Toasted Coconut

Peach and Blueberry Crisp - Fruit Crisp served warm with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream and a light Blueberry Purée

Sightseeing on the Cruise:

Your excursion covers the magnificent lakefront with spectacular views of the city's downtown. No trip to Chicago is complete without a view from the deck of our festive ship. And while you're enjoying all the highlights, you can dine, dance and have a great time, too.

1. Navy Pier
This Chicago landmark was built in 1916 and today offers more than 50 acres of parks, gardens, shops, restaurants, and attractions including one of the country's largest Ferris Wheels.

2. Jardine Filtration Plant
The world's largest filtration plant; it processes one million gallons a minute.

3. Adler Planetarium
Built in 1930, this fascinating attraction was a gift to the city from Max Adler of Sears & Roebuck fame.

4. John G. Shedd Aquarium
Opened in 1930, its original salt water came by train from Key West. Today, it is home to more than 8,000 aquatic animals.

5. Soldier Field
Opened in 1924, it was named in memory of Americans killed in World War I, and later rededicated to World War II soldiers. It is now home stadium of the Chicago Bears football team.

6. Grant Park
Covering 319 prime acres along the lakefront, it was developed into one of America's great city parks after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.

7. Buckingham Fountain
Built in 1927 at the center of Grant Park, this is the world's largest lighted fountain.

8. McCormick Place
This stunning lakefront convention center boasts the largest column-free space in the world.

9. Willis Tower
At 110 stories, this soaring skyscraper was the world's tallest building until 1996 when the Petronus Towers in Malaysia were built. From the Willis Tower Observatory, you can see Michigan, Wisconsin, and Indiana.

10. Associates Center
Now known as the "Stone Container Building," this uniquely designed diamond-roofed structure was completed in 1983 at 41 stories and has been featured in movies and television.

11. Amoco Oil Building
Built in 1973 and rising 80 stories, it is one of the tallest buildings in Chicago. It is unusual for the fact that it has no corner offices.

12. A T & T Corporate Center
Affectionately known as the "white castle building," it was built in 1988 and, at 875 feet, is among the top ten tallest buildings in Chicago.

13. John Hancock Center
When it was completed in 1970, it was the world's tallest building, supported by braces to prevent it from swaying in the gusts off Lake Michigan. Its skywalk observatory, at 1127 feet, is the Midwest's highest open-air experience.

14. Lake Michigan
Formed by Ice Age glaciers, it is the only one of the Great Lakes that lies wholly in the US. It is approximately 307 miles long, 118 miles wide and 925 feet deep.

Frequently Asked Questions

May I bring my own camera on board?
Guests are more than welcome to bring their own camera for personal pictures aboard the ship. In addition, as you are boarding, the ship's photographer records the moment for your entire party. As you depart, you'll find your boarding photo ready for purchase.

Are children allowed on the dinner cruise?
Children are welcome on the cruise; however, a child rate is not available for our dinner cruises. Children under 3 are complimentary.

Is there a coat check where my jacket and briefcase may be kept during the cruise?
Coat checks are available when needed. Your server would be more than happy to check any items for you at the beginning of your cruise.

What is our cruise route?
Weather permitting, We cruise south along the lake shore, past the Adler Planetarium, north to Montrose harbor, then returns south to Navy Pier. All the while, We offer unmatched views of our world-famous skyline, from the Sears Tower, the John Hancock, to the Museum campus, Aon Center and more.

How far off shore does the ship travel?
The ship is licensed to travel as far as 3 miles off shore, however, our cruise route typically remains only one mile off shore.

Can I bring a birthday cake on-board?
Small cakes that do not require refrigeration are allowed to be brought on board. Your server will place the cake in our pantry until it is ready to be cut and served.

What is the dress attire?
The atmosphere is special and we hope our guests experience it to its fullest. For Dinner Cruises, jackets are recommended for men and cocktail attire for women. We request no jeans, shorts, tank tops, halter-tops, gym shoes or flip-flops are worn on any cruise.

What type of entertainment do you have?
We offer an inviting dance floor and a variety of live music from classic jazz on our brunch cruise to contemporary favorites from a five-piece band on our dinner cruise.

What size groups can you accommodate?
We accomodate groups from 2 to 600.

Is the vessel handicapped accessible?
Yes, the vessel is handicap accessible. Once your party arrives, our marine crew can assist you as you embark our boarding ramp. Please indicate when making your reservation that you have handicap guests in your party.

What beverages are served on your cruise?
Coffee, tea and iced tea are inlcuded in the ticket price. Any additional beverages may be purchased onboard at our cash bar.

Do you offer Kosher meals?
Yes we do offer a Kosher Meal option on our lunch and dinner cruises. We order from an outside establishment who delivers the meal to us fresh that day/evening. The meal typically consists of a plated chicken dish with vegetables. We can do fresh fruit for your dessert option. You will be served your Kosher Meal in place our standard 4-course meal at your private table. Please notify your Reservation Agent of any kosher requirements at least 48 hours in advance of your event.

Do you offer vegetarian meals?
Yes, please check our menu for our vegetarian options. If you have any special dietary concerns please notify your Reservation Agent to make special arrangements.

Can I bring wrapped gifts or packages onboard?
Yes, you can. Please be aware that we have the right to inspect all bags and packages prior to boarding.

Is there a phone on the boat that receives calls?
We do not have a phone for use by guests. However, most cellular services are available on the water as we do typically do not cruise beyond one mile off shore.

Are there restrooms on board?
Yes, restrooms are located in every enclosed dining room on the ship.

When does the season end?
We cruise all year round! In fact, December is one of our most popular months due to the many Holiday Parties we have aboard.

Is there pre-assigned seating?
As you board, our captain and marine crew will direct you to your deck. From there, our hostess will show you to your assigned table(s).

How many people may be seated at one table?
Anywhere from 2-10 people may be seated at one table, depending on the total number of individuals on the ship during a given cruise. If your party requires more than one table, we will ensure that they are located next to each other.

Is smoking allowed on the cruise?
Smoking is allowed on the outside decks only.

How soon will my party begin eating on our cruise?
Once on your deck, our hostess will greet you and escort you to your private table where your wait staff will introduce themselves and give you the opportunity to decide for yourself how to pace your service. Serving may begin immediately.

What if it rains or snows?
We will cruise in most weather conditions all-year round. Each enclosed deck is climate controlled and the weather will not affect your cruise. In the case of severe weather conditions or upon the direction of the U.S. Coast Guard, the ship will remain dockside for the length of the event.

72 HOURS MINIMUM ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED. This tour does NOT include a hotel pick-up. Rates are per person and include food service gratuity. There is no child rate for this cruise. Reserve online, or call us toll-free at 888-881-3284.