Frequently Asked Questions
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is the dock location/address for boarding?
Please click here for our dock location/address: DOCK LOCATION/ADDRESS. Our dock location is conveniently located at Monroe Harbor! Simply Uber/LYFT to 400 E Monroe Street, then walk north on the lakefront path around the first set of docks, and we’re right there! Please have your group hang in the grassy area above the bike path. When your charter boat arrives, your captain will welcome you aboard!
Do all Tailgate The Lake charter boats come with a captain?
Absolutely yes! All of our boats come with a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain & first mate to ensure everyone is well taken care of! Our boats are inspected and approved for commercial use by the U.S. Coast Guard, and all documentation is on board & renewed each year.
What is included on our charters?
All of our boats include a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain & first mate, coolers & ice, table for games and/or food & drinks, blue tooth sound system, aqua mat & noodles for swimming, and a bathroom. Also included are cups, ping pong balls, soap, paper towels and toilet paper.
How do I leave gratuity for the crew?
15% – 20% tips for the captain and first mate are customary and appreciated! Venmo or cash are the norm!
What time should I arrive?
15 minutes before your charter start time.
Can I communicate with my head captain?
Absolutely yes! Your head captain will send a text to the point person on the booking early in the the morning of your charter date.
BYOB?
Yes! We supply coolers & ice ~ you bring the beverages and snacks.
How long does each charter last?
3 hours
How do I book a boat?
It’s simple! Click the book now button to choose an available boat on your preferred date. You can also call us at 833-733-2563 and we can get you all set up!
Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes! All of our boats have a bathroom.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes! In accordance with the U.S. Coast Guard regulations, all of our boats carry a life jacket for every passenger on board, along with all required safety equipment.
What if it rains?
No problem at all ~ we will take care of you and your guests! Weather happens, and technically we do operate rain or shine as our boats are fully covered with canvas, but if our captain cancels a charter due to severe weather or high seas, your charter will be rescheduled or refunded.
What is the cancellation policy for other than weather?
We understand things come up, and also please understand that we have to keep a schedule with captains, crews and dock rotations, so we keep it simple and fair for everyone:
30 days out = full refund.
Inside 30 days = no reschedule or refunds.
30 days out = full refund.
Inside 30 days = no reschedule or refunds.
Are kids allowed to ride?
Yes! All of our boats are private charters and all are welcome!
Is there parking?
We highly recommend taking an Uber/LYFT, but if you are driving, there is convenient parking located at the Millennium garage, just north of Columbus & Monroe. Once you enter the garage, simply follow the signs to the lakefront. Exit the garage on foot, walk across lake shore drive, and follow the map above to our dock location.
Is smoking allowed?
No smoking on our boats.
For any additional questions, please feel free to
call us at 833-733-2563 or email us at info@tailgatethelake.com
IMPORTANT LINKS
CONTACT INFORMATION
400 East Monroe Street
Monroe Harbor, Dock G11
Chicago, IL 60603
Copyright © 2025 Tailgate The Lake
