Hot Tub Boats Return To The Chicago River — Just BYOB

CHICAGO — If you think it’s too cold to tour the Chicago River, there’s a warmer option starting Friday: hot tub boats . The floating hot tubs have been popular since their debut season in 2023, when they were fully booked. Last year, the boats nearly sold out as well, according to operator Chicago Boat Company, previously known as the Chicago Electric Boat Company. Each boat fits up to six passengers and has an 800-pound weight limit. Passengers must be at least 13 years old. While soaking in hot water for the 90-minute ride, passengers have the chance to captain their own boat and steer the vessel along the Chicago River. There are six boats this season, the company said. Reservations are open , and prices range from $300-$425 a boat, depending on the day and time. Holiday pricing varies between $450 and $475. You can bring your own drinks, but glass bottles are not allowed; floating cup holders are provided. “I equate it to going into a hot tub after a long day of skiing and having it snow on you,” Ron Silvia, president of the Chicago Boat Company, told Blo ck Club in 2024 . “It’s just like that surreal experience that once you have it, you’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is great. I’d love to do this again.'” Hot tub boats operate rain or shine, but tours on days 20 degrees or lower will be rescheduled. This is primarily to protect employees and avoid rescue operations in frigid weather, Silvia previously said. ______________________________________________________________________ Support Local News! Subscribe to Block Club Chicago , an independent, 501(c)(3), journalist-run newsroom. Every dime we make funds reporting from Chicago’s neighborhoods. Already subscribe? Click here to gift a subscription , or you can support Block Club with a tax-deductible donation. Listen to the Block Club Chicago podcast: From Stoves To Overhead Heat: The History Of The CTA’s Warming Lamps Episode play icon From Stoves To Overhead Heat: The History Of The CTA’s Warming Lamps Episode play icon Should Chicago Have Public Festival Grounds? It’s On The Ballot. Episode play icon Need A Halloween Costume? A Chicago Thrifting Expert Shares Her Secrets Load More Search Results placeholder Previous Episode Show Episodes List Next Episode