Captain Brian Haas: Lake Michigan from the Playpen to the Chicago River

CHICAGO BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE

Captain Brian Haas: Lake Michigan from the Playpen to the Chicago River

Private charters departing from 31st Street Harbor with a local captain who knows Monroe Harbor, the playpen, and the Chicago River—useful for planning a safe, tailored outing on the water.

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Captain Brian Haas: Lake Michigan from the Playpen to the Chicago River.

Duration
3-4 Hours
Location
Chicago
Operator
Knot My Boat Charters
Category
Boat Rental
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Captain Brian Haas has spent the last 15 years boating on Lake Michigan in the Chicago area and knows the city’s best on-water spots, from the lively playpen to Monroe Harbor and the scenic Chicago River. His charters promise a safe, memorable outing tailored to your needs.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Hot spots: The playpen, Monroe Harbor, and the Chicago River

The charter route visits well-known local spots—what operators call the playpen, Monroe Harbor, and stretches of the Chicago River—giving you skyline views and sheltered waterways within one outing.

THE GUIDE

Local experience and safety first

Captain Haas brings long local experience on Lake Michigan and emphasizes a safe, enjoyable trip that can be adapted to your group’s preferences.

THE BOOKING

Transparent hourly rates and deposit policy

Rates start at $100 per hour for vessels under 39' and $125 per hour for vessels 40' and over; a $100 deposit is required at booking, and operators accept cash, Venmo, and Zelle. Rates may change for special events.

What the day feels like

What the cruise feels like

Expect a hands-off, captain-led outing that moves between open-Lake Michigan stretches and the built landscape of the Chicago River, paced to your group and overseen for safety and enjoyment.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this charter suits

1
Couples & Small GroupsIdeal for small private charters seeking skyline and harbor views with a local captain; pricing is charged by the hour and varies by vessel size.
2
Event BookingsSuitable for special outings, but note that rates may change for special events and a $100 deposit is required at booking.
3
FamiliesA multi-hour (typical outing length is 3–4 hours) daytime cruise that can be paced for family groups under the captain’s guidance.
4
Budget-Conscious TravelersPricing starts at $100 per hour for smaller vessels; plan for customary gratuity (see FAQs) and a required $100 booking deposit.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

Typical charter length is 3–4 hours.

What to Bring

Operator requires a $100 deposit at time of booking; acceptable payment methods include cash, Venmo, and Zelle.

Logistics

Meet at 31st Street Harbor on J Dock for departure.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How much should I anticipate for gratuity?

Customary gratuity is 20% of your total charter price (all‑in price); this is separate from captain fees.

How long is a typical charter?

Typical duration is 3–4 hours.

Where do charters depart from?

Departure point is 31st Street Harbor on J Dock.

What are the hourly rates?

Rates start at $100 per hour for vessels under 39' and $125 per hour for vessels 40' and over; rates may change for special events.

Is a deposit required and how can I pay?

A $100 deposit is required at the time of booking; the operator accepts cash, Venmo, and Zelle.