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Carnival, Royal Caribbean and more change cruise itineraries amid Hurricane Ernesto

Cruise lines are changing itineraries in an effort to avoid Hurricane Ernesto . The storm brought heavy rain and wind to Puerto Rico Wednesday, leaving close to half the island without power and prompting flash flood warnings. The Virgin Islands also felt the impacts.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Pride ship, which left from Baltimore for a Bermuda cruise on Sunday, moved its visit to the island up by one day, arriving on Tuesday and leaving on Thursday, the cruise line said.

Carnival Magic skipped a planned stop in San Juan on Wednesday and will make an additional stop in Nassau in the Bahamas on Friday. The ship left Miami on Sunday for an Eastern Caribbean cruise.

“As the safety of our guests and crew is our priority, we will continue to watch the storm and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, U.S. Coast Guard and the local port authorities to provide timely updates as more information becomes available,” the cruise line said in a news release .

Norwegian Cruise Line rerouted Eastern Caribbean cruises on its Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Breakaway ships to the Western Caribbean, according to a spokesperson. The ships departed from Miami on Monday and Sunday, respectively.

Their new itineraries include Roatan in Honduras, Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico and Harvest Caye in Belize (Sky will also stop in Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios in Jamaica).

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: Here's what to do next

Norwegian Joy , which left for a Bermuda cruise from New York on Sunday, arrived at the island on Tuesday, one day ahead of schedule. While the ship will spend two nights at the Royal Naval Dockyard as planned, it will depart Thursday, a day earlier than planned.

“The safety and security of our guests, crew and the communities we visit is a top priority,” a spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

Royal Caribbean International’s Rhapsody of the Seas will make planned stops on its Southern Caribbean cruise in a different order, but no ports were canceled, according to a spokesperson for the line’s parent company, Royal Caribbean Group . The ship departed from San Juan on Sunday.

Icon of the Seas , which departed from Miami on Saturday, is sailing a Western Caribbean itinerary rather than an Eastern Caribbean cruise as planned. Stops include Cozumel, Costa Maya and Roatan. 

Symphony of the Seas, which left from Bayonne, New Jersey , for an Eastern Caribbean cruise on Friday, will also visit Nassau rather than Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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The Best Cruises for Exploring the Galapagos Islands

Galapagos cruises are the best way to experience the collection of remote, mostly uninhabited islands about 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. But cruises to the Galapagos Islands aren’t like cruises anywhere else. The ships here are smaller, with some carrying as few as 16 passengers. There are no water slides, elaborate Broadway shows, casinos, or wild nightclubs. And don’t expect big bus tours in port either.

Galapagos cruises are about experiencing nature and wildlife while limiting environmental impact as much as possible. Ships are built for sustainability, toting items like kayaks, paddleboards, and scuba gear. Itineraries may feature two active excursions a day, limiting downtime on board the ship. Instead of museums and historic sights, you’ll visit uninhabited islands to encounter marine iguanas, sea lions, unspoiled beaches, and the adventures of a lifetime.

Trips to the Galapagos Islands are logistically complicated, making cruises an especially good way to experience the area. Travelers to the Galapagos Islands must first fly to Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador , for a night before flying to the Galapagos to board their ships. All travelers must also be accompanied by National Parks Guides who can help them navigate these largely undeveloped islands.

Galapagos cruise itineraries are typically a week long and cover a portion of the islands, sometimes more. Here’s everything to know about cruising in the Galapagos, from frequently asked questions to the best Galapagos cruise itineraries to book now.

Best luxury Galapagos cruise

Best galapagos cruise for adventure seekers, best galapagos cruises for solo travelers, best small ship galapagos cruise, best galapagos cruises for families, best galapagos cruise for lifelong learners, best galapagos cruise for foodies, when is the best time to cruise the galapagos islands.

With pleasant temperatures all year long, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands is whenever you’re ready to go. Several cruise lines sail to the Galapagos Islands all year long. While you can see wildlife all year, December is hatching season for the giant tortoises, and July is mating season for blue-footed boobies and short-eared owls. Sea turtles lay their eggs early in the year and fully formed marine iguanas typically hatch in April and May.

Are Galapagos cruises expensive?

The Galapagos Islands aren’t a bargain destination. Expect to pay somewhere between $5,000 and $12,000 per traveler depending on the ship, itinerary, and length of the voyage. But one thing’s for sure: Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you. These are seven of the best Galapagos cruises for every type of traveler.

Whatever your preference, there’s a Galapagos Islands cruise for you. For those who want to travel in style, the ships of luxury cruise line Ecoventura meet expectations—and then some.

Ecoventura offers one of the most luxurious—and family-friendly cruises—in the Galapagos. Each of its three expedition yachts—the Origin, Theory, and Evolve —can accommodate 20 guests across 10 staterooms. These seven-night all-inclusive voyages make environmental responsibility a priority, encouraging guests to join the effort to help preserve this delicate area. Children six and up are welcome on board. Some staterooms connect to create spacious family suites, and two are designed to accommodate three guests each. Kids menus, children’s activities, and a kids club are also available. For adults, there’s a fitness center, jacuzzi, cooking demonstrations, and group cooking classes. You’ll also find kayaks, standup paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and zodiacs on board. On shore, naturalists lead daily two-hour nature walks, visiting lava fields, scenic cliffs, and secluded beaches. Replenish yourself at the onboard restaurant which serves a breakfast buffet, afternoon tea, and multi-course lunch and dinner menus.

Uncruise’s Galapagos island cruise will take you to seven islands over the course of a week on board La Pinta , a 48-passenger yacht boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, a sundeck, a fitness center, and a hot tub. This isn’t the newest or most luxurious ship sailing the Galapagos, but it’s comfortable and has been recently refurbished. It also comes with everything you need to make the most of your Galapagos adventure—including kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, scuba equipment, and a glass-bottom boat. This is a Galapagos cruise where nature and wildlife take center stage: Hike Dragon Hill on Isla Santa Cruz while looking for iguanas and flamingos, paddleboard alongside sea lions at Isla Floreana, or enjoy a stroll along a secluded white-sand beach. This small cruise operator prides itself on cruises that don’t feel like cruises. If you think cruising isn’t your thing, Uncruise might change your mind.

Join a small group of future friends on the Reina Silvia Voyager , G Adventures’ newest catamaran that’s custom-built for sailing the Galapagos. This vessel began sailing in 2022, and two of its 10 cabins are designed for solo travelers . These solo cabins are no tiny hideaways. Each comes with a queen-sized bed, desk, and a large picture window to frame your Galapagos view. A 10-day itinerary starts and ends in Quito, taking guests on a journey through the Central and East Islands to look for sea lions, iguanas, and a seemingly endless variety of birds. Go kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or paddleboarding—or kick back and relax on the spacious sundeck while enjoying some of the most unspoiled views in the world. There’s a chef on board to ensure you never go hungry, a jacuzzi to soothe sore muscles, lots of spaces for socializing when you want to, and a bar that’s perfect for sunset cocktails.

Avalon Waterways may be better known for its European river cruises , but it also sails the Galapagos Islands. The Treasure of the Galapagos is a gorgeous small ship, carrying a maximum of 16 guests. And while there’s no long list of restaurants onboard, there are creative, locally inspired menus featuring seasonal ingredients and lots of vegetarian options. You’ll also find daily natural history lectures, a team of multilingual naturalists, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, and a plunge pool.

If you have family members who are keen on science and nature, then the a science center on board the Hurtigruten Expedition’s MS Santa Cruz II will be sure to delight.

There may be no better way to get your kid interested in science and history than a Galapagos Islands cruise on board Hurtigruten Expedition’s MS Santa Cruz II . The ship operates a Citizen Science Program, enlisting guests to help with completing research projects. There’s also a science center on board and a slate of lectures and expert-led discussions. The HX In Darwin’s Footsteps itinerary follows the famous evolutionary biologist’s journey through the Galapagos. Walk along a beach Darwin visited in 1835, see the giant tortoises, which have a lifespan of over 100 years, that may have greeted him nearby, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, which helps care for endangered baby tortoises. Only about 15,000 Galapagos tortoises remain in existence, and there really is no better place to learn about them or the endangerment of wildlife. While there’s no specific kids programming, children six and up are welcome onboard the MS Santa Cruz II.

If you grew up reading National Geographic magazine, you’ll want to hop on board the National Geographic Gemini . The ship sails the Galapagos as part of a partnership between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic , two legendary names in exploration. National Geographic experts lead these journeys and they’re often joined by National Geographic photographers. Kids can join the National Geographic Global Explorers program, a hands-on experience designed to teach them about geographic exploration and scientific research. The National Geographic Gemini can accommodate up to 48 passengers in 27 guest suites. More than a dozen suites come with private balconies, one of which is large enough to accommodate a private hot tub. (Don’t fret if that suite is already booked, there’s a whirlpool hot tub on the sundeck that’s open to all guests.) You’ll also find a well-stocked library, a well-stocked bar, and meals made with locally sourced ingredients on board.

If you want to learn about Ecuadorian cuisine while sailing the Galapagos, Silversea may be the cruise line for you. Silversea is a luxury cruise line known for its next-level onboard dining programs . Learn all about the local cuisine from the ship’s executive chef while feasting on locally sourced meat and produce—you can try Ecuadorian cheese aged in lava tubes and even make ceviche during a hands-on cooking demonstration. The Silver Origin ’s onboard restaurants serve a mix of international, traditional, and modern Ecuadorian food, and vegans and vegetarians aren’t afterthoughts here. Each Silversea suite comes with the service of a butler; most have private teak verandas as well. With a capacity for 100 guests, Silversea’s Silver Origin is one of the largest ships sailing the Galapagos Islands, but these voyages regularly sell out, so be sure to book early.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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Can I bring marijuana on a cruise ship?

If you plan to smoke marijuana or ingest cannabis in any form on your cruise vacation, there are a bunch of rules you should know.

Most importantly, cruise ships operate under federal jurisdiction. While you may light up legally in some states — and some countries — it's illegal to have cannabis on a cruise ship, so you cannot get high on the high seas.

Does that mean you can't smoke marijuana on your cruise vacation? Not exactly. It depends on where you are cruising.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Cruise ships visit some states where private use of cannabis is legal, including Alaska, California, Washington, Maine, Massachusetts and New York. Additionally, Amsterdam is a popular stop on many Europe cruise itineraries. You might have an opportunity to indulge on land, but that does not mean you can walk right off the ship and light up.

Marijuana rules on cruise ships

It's important to know the cruise ship rules because violations come with stiff penalties, as every cruise passenger who has been caught has learned.

If you do smoke, say, on your cabin balcony, it might be your fellow cruise passengers who rat you out. The crew is also trained to spot and report any illegal drugs.

That's when the fun ends. Under the cruise contract you sign to board a ship, cruise lines have the right to search your room, throw you off the ship and turn you over to local authorities for any violations. From there, you could face fines and possible jail time. Your cruise vacation will come to an abrupt halt.

But is CBD allowed on cruise ships?

Cruise lines say very clearly that cannabis in any form is not allowed on board. It doesn't matter that medical marijuana is allowed in Florida or that you have a marijuana medical card. You can't bring pot or edibles — including those containing CBD — onto a cruise ship.

Virgin Voyages , for instance, specifies that "all illegal drugs, non-prescribed controlled substances, medically prescribed marijuana or synthetic marijuana and CBD products are prohibited." You'll find something similar on every other cruise line website.

As you board your cruise at the pier, you might notice customs or security officials with dogs. Among their duties is sniffing out drugs in carry-on baggage. Cruise lines also have technological means to find drugs in checked bags, though they don't publicly talk about that.

What happens if you 'forget' marijuana is illegal on your cruise ship and get caught?

Consider the case of a Pennsylvania woman who, in 2018, was found by customs officers to have two bags of pot in her purse as she boarded Royal Caribbean 's Anthem of the Seas in Bermuda. A subsequent search of her cabin found pipes, other paraphernalia and cannabis oil. She was arrested by Bermuda authorities and held in custody before pleading guilty to four counts of drug possession. She was fined $4,000, which she had to pay on the spot, and was then sent home — no cruise for her. The authorities did not accept her excuse that she didn't realize the items were in her bags.

More recently, in 2023, a nurse from Texas was banned for life from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line after port officials found CBD gummies in her luggage.

If you think you can cheat the system, consider that drug trafficking is among the possible charges for bringing marijuana into international waters.

Pot in port

Ports of call might have looser rules. For instance, despite efforts by Femke Halsema, Amsterdam's mayor, to ban tourists from the city's famous "coffee shops," you may still legally light up in these cafelike establishments. Menus typically feature loose grass, prerolled joints, hashish and some edibles, such as muffins, cookies, cupcakes and brownies. Some shops have added loaded gelato. Just remember: No takeout is allowed.

As part of your ocean or river cruise from Amsterdam, you might consider exploring the scene on a ganja walking tour . This and similar tours include snacks.

Despite the common belief that Jamaica is a pot free-for-all, smoking in public is illegal. Although violations are punishable by a fine, it's usually not much — 500 Jamaican dollars, which is about $3. To legally explore the scene, you might want to book a marijuana tour , where you visit a private weed-growing plantation and sip ganja tea while enjoying ganja cake.

High in Alaska

Alaska has been at the forefront of a movement in the U.S. to provide places where tourists and locals can light up socially.

Marijuana was legalized in Alaska for private use in 2014. Shops selling locally grown weed (and, in some cases, edibles) for adults ages 21 and older opened around the state, including in the cruise ports of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan. However, the product was limited to use in private, leaving cruisers out of the picture.

After a drawn-out debate and after putting strict rules in place, Alaska's Alcohol & Marijuana Control Office approved two venues for on-site consumption in August 2021. These are among the first places in the nation approved to cater to locals and tourists.

Related: Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

The on-site consumption rules say that you may buy raw or edible (containing up to 10 milligrams of THC) cannabis products for on-site use — in a lounge behind a secured door or in a separate building.

Consumption lounges are popping up all over Alaska, including in Ketchikan, Juneau and Fairbanks, but they aren't always within walking distance of the cruise ports.

It is still illegal for tourists to take the products off-site. Alaska law bans consuming marijuana in public view, including while walking down the street or in city parks. If you're caught, you might be fined. It's also illegal to light up in any U.S. national park — and for much of your cruise in the Inside Passage in southeast Alaska, you are in national parkland.

Don't even try to bring your purchases back onto your cruise ship.

Post-cruise cannabis

One way to ensure the opportunity to smoke on your cruise vacation is to do a pre- or post-cruise stay at a cannabis-friendly hotel, assuming you are in a port city where pot is legal. A Google search will produce results.

For those sailing from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego, check out Eaze, a leading California cannabis delivery service that delivers to certain hotels.

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This Luxury Cruise Line Just Announced 24 Sailings Across the U.S. and Canada — Including Gorgeous New England Foliage Cruises

Seabourn just announced 24 sailings to Alaska, Canada, and New England in summer and fall 2025.

If you're sad summer is ending — don't be. After Seabourn's newest announcement, outlining the luxury cruise line's 2025 itineraries, we're already looking ahead. The slate of 2025 cruises includes 24 all-inclusive voyages — to Alaska in the summer and Canada and New England in the fall.

Courtesy of Seabourn

Seabourn Quest will take up a summer residence in Alaska, alternating between seven-day and 14-day itineraries; the shorter trips sail between Juneau and Vancouver, while the two-week cruises are round-trip from Vancouver. The 225-suite vessel's smaller size means it can deftly navigate the abundant fjords in Southeast Alaska, bringing guests to visit sites like Hubbard Glacier and Tracy Arm/Endicott Arm, as well as the major port towns of Ketchikan and Sitka, among others. The sailings will feature the cruise line's Ventures by Seabourn program, which introduces expedition-style excursions like kayaking, Zodiac cruising, and hiking to the itineraries for interested parties.

Mike Louagie/Courtesy of Seabourn

Then, starting in September, the 225-cabin Seabourn Sojourn will sail a series of fall foliage cruises between Montreal and New York, calling at such destinations as Quebec City; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Portland, Maine; and Newport, Rhode Island, depending on the itinerary.

"Our guests are truly exceptional individuals in search of extraordinary experiences, and at Seabourn, we take tremendous pride in guiding them to the world's most stunning destinations while providing unparalleled ultra-luxury experiences and personalized service," said Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn, in a statement released to Travel + Leisure . "Whether exploring the beauty of Alaska on a Ventures by Seabourn outing or immersing themselves in the beauty of Canada and New England's historical towns during fall's vibrant colors, every moment becomes a cherished memory, filled with awe and wonder.”

A seven-day Alaska sailing starts at $4,499 per person and a 12-day Canada and New England trip starts at $7,499; book your cruise at seabourn.com .

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The 5 best kids sail free cruises for 2025 & beyond.

Save on your family cruise with these kids sail free deals.

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

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If you're angling for an affordable family cruise , you'll be happy to know that several major cruise lines let children sail for free (either regularly or during special promotions). Read on to discover which lines cater to families with kids sail free offers.

Cruise lines where kids sail free

Holland america line, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international, costa cruises, msc cruises.

Find your perfect cruise

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Deal: Holland America Line is offering a "Kids Cruise Free" promotion on select itineraries in 2025. The offer applies to several itineraries including Hawaii , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal; to qualify, children must be 18 or younger and cruising as third and/or fourth guests in the same cabin as adults. As with similar promotions, taxes and port fees are still required for each child's sailing.

Additionally, kids ages 12 and under eat for half off in specialty restaurants or for free from a dedicated kids menu. Reduced children's rates for shore excursions are also available.

Family-friendly perks: Amenities onboard Holland America ships include kids clubs and youth programs, as well as shore excursions oriented to families with little ones in tow. Plenty of stateroom options can also accommodate larger bookings. The Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam ships, in particular, feature oversized staterooms with beds for four, a large sitting area and a spacious veranda.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Deal: Norwegian Cruise Line often lets third and fourth guests cruise free on select itineraries. During other promotions, the cruise line will let the third through eighth passengers sail free. Cruises to which this promotion applies are offered all over the world, including Bermuda , the Caribbean and Canada .

Some of the itineraries that qualify for free third and fourth guests also come with complimentary amenities like an unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursions and/or complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, some of the itineraries include generous discounts on the total cruise cost , as well as free airfare for a second guest (when booked through the cruise line).

Family-friendly perks: With Norwegian's all-ages kids clubs, family dining, entertainment and activities included in one bundled rate, planning a kid-approved vacation with the cruise line is a breeze. Many Norwegian ships also feature an array of family-friendly staterooms with plenty of extra space. For example, the luxurious Norwegian Prima offers a two-bedroom family villa with a large balcony in "The Haven" – its exclusive area for VIP guests.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Deal: Royal Caribbean offers a "Kids Sail Free" deal several times each year, allowing children 12 or younger to cruise free provided they are the third guests (or beyond) staying in the same cabin as at least two paying adults. Typically, the deal applies to sailings of four nights or longer. The only catch is that blackout dates apply – typically during holiday and school breaks.

Family-friendly perks: There's a reason so many families choose Royal Caribbean ; kid-friendly amenities range from age-specific programming to zip lining at sea. The line's  exclusive island for cruisers , Perfect Day at CocoCay in  the Bahamas , is also a big hit with young passengers thanks to its waterslides and splash areas.

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Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Deal: Costa Cruises may not be as popular as some other cruise lines on our list, but it's a worthwhile option for cruisers looking to sail through Europe, the Middle East or South America. The cruise line allows kids traveling as third or fourth guests to sail for free with two adults in the same cabin, and this promotion applies to passengers ages 2 to 17. This offer is valid on all sailings offered by the line, many of which feature destinations in desirable ports along the Mediterranean such as Barcelona , Marseille and Rome .

Family-friendly perks: Costa Cruises vessels offer abundant family-friendly amenities, from water parks to arcades to mini golf. Kids clubs are available for children ages 3 to 11, and they provide entertainment like arts and crafts, themed parties, and games galore. A teen zone also hosts cruisers ages 12 to 17 who want to mingle, sing karaoke and play group sports when ships aren't in port.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Deal: MSC Cruises lets children 17 and younger cruise for free on select itineraries, depending on the ship's capacity. (Other exclusions or eligibility requirements may apply.) Kids must be the third or fourth guests traveling in the same cabin as their parents (at least two adults) for the deal to be valid; note that any port fees and taxes still apply to children's fares.

Family-friendly perks: MSC Cruises offers a variety of leisure activities and amenities designed specifically for kids. On board, youngsters can take advantage of perks from water parks with slides and swimming pools to Broadway-style shows and interactive dinners. The line also hosts a variety of exclusive Lego experiences, including Lego-themed parades and a Lego Family Game Show. In addition, there are a myriad of amenities for parents to enjoy while the youngest passengers are occupied by a variety of dedicated kids clubs.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a seasoned travel writer who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries, and her many trips have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruises for Teens
• The Top Cruises for Babies & Toddlers
• Do You Need a Passport to Cruise?
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Top Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

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CAC River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady

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#1 Chicago Boat Tour for 10+ years

6 best tours and walks in Chicago

Led by the Chicago Architecture Center's expertly trained docent volunteers, this 90-minute cruise reveals fascinating stories behind Chicago's majestic buildings in a way no other tour can.

Northeast corner of Michigan Ave. and E. Wacker Dr ( 112 E. Wacker Drive ). Look for the black awning marking the stairway entrance. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Allow extra time for traffic and parking in summer.

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Rated #1 year after year.

Learn about the architects who created our city's magnificent buildings—and the stories behind them. Along the way, you'll also hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities.

This classic tour, aboard the city's most luxurious fleet, is a must for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike.

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Evening River Cruise

Serene and bathed in softer light, the city's architecture takes on a whole new life in the setting sun. Wind down and enjoy a cocktail with friends and family on our luxury boats. All departures later than 5:00 p.m.

Tour Information and Tips

• Each person must have a ticket, including infants and children. Please note that infant tickets must be purchased with an adult ticket.
• Seating is general admission
• The River Cruise is available in 4 languages: Continental French, Latin American Spanish, Japanese and Korean. To access these languages, please download the "Listen Everywhere" app in advance. Once you are on board the boat, the app will connect and allow you to listen in your selected language as the boat makes its way down the river.
• All tours depart rain or shine. Climate-controlled cabin is available.
• Arrive 30 minutes prior to your cruise departure time. Allow extra time for traffic and parking in summer.
• Cruise guests board 15 minutes before departure time.
• Tickets may not be refunded or exchanged if you miss your boat. Allow extra time.

Accessibility

Chicago’s First Lady Cruises works hard to ensure that everyone is able to access the beauty of their boats and enjoy a wonderful experience aboard. For the best experience, give us advance notice for any special boarding needs.

Guests with Limited Mobility – What to Expect Onboard

Handicap Accessible Boats

All our boats, except Chicago's First Lady & Chicago's Little Lady, are handicap accessible and offer a wheelchair-accessible restroom.

Seating Options

Guests who are unable to climb stairs to the upper deck may sit on the open-air bow deck or the climate-controlled cabin with large windows.

Accessing the Dock Area

For guests unable to use stairs, there are two options: an ADA-compliant ramp to the Riverwalk at Wacker Drive and State Street, or a drop-off area on the same level as our dock at Lower Lower Wacker Drive. View directions .

Assistance can be provided

Staff members will gladly take table-side drink orders for passengers with limited mobility.

Have more questions?

Please visit Chicago's First Lady or contact our tour operations team.

How to Buy Accessible Tour Tickets

Tickets for tours on accessible boats can be purchased by selecting the 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. or 5 p.m. departure times.

Wheelchairs Available for Use

For those requesting use of the company's manual wheelchair, please visit the dockside CFL River Cruise ticket office upon arrival.

Service Animals

We welcome service dogs onboard! The service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered while in public places. Emotional support animals, pets and other animals not covered by ADA guidelines are not permitted. Please visit the ADA's FAQ on service animals for further details.

Boarding Ramps Available

When boarding the ship, guests cross two ramps and enter through a opening (doorway) that is 36" wide. Crew members can assist you in guiding the wheelchair across the gangway. Motorized scooters and electric wheelchairs may not board the ship; guests may utilize our manual wheelchair (based upon availability).

Who gives the tours?

All tours are given by CAC-certified  volunteer docents . Docents receive hundreds of hours of training about Chicago’s architecture and its history. They are storytellers and Chicago experts.

Where do we board the CAC River Cruise?

Meet at the Chicago’s First Lady boat dock at least 30 minutes prior to departure. The dock is located at the southeast corner of Michigan Avenue Bridge and Wacker Drive.

Look for the black awning at the stairway entrance (if using a GPS, enter 112 E. Wacker Drive ).

Are refunds or exchanges available for online ticket purchases?

Refunds and exchanges for ticket purchases are not permitted. Please double-check your dates and times before making a ticket purchase.

Is parking available?

The closest parking garage is located at  111 East Wacker Drive . CAC guests and members receive a discount on parking at this garage for up to 4 hours. You can receive a validated parking sticker at the Center box office or the dockside CFL River Cruise box office. The parking garage is open 24/7.

Several other public parking garages are available in the River North and Loop neighborhoods. You can also book convenient and affordable parking in advance through SpotHero, the nation's leading parking reservations app.

To reserve your parking spot, visit the  Chicago Architecture Center SpotHero Parking Page .

Group & Private Tours

Interested in a tour for a group? Learn more about our group and private tour options.

Fantastic views. Love the history and the facts about architecture! I highly recommend this boat tour to anyone visiting Chicago.

What an amazing tour!!! Our guide was fantastic! He was funny and knowledgeable and made the entire trip very interesting! I would highly recommend for anyone visiting the city; this is definitely one not to miss!

So worth it. This was a highlight of our trip. Just beautiful. Very interesting info, too! We learned a lot and had a great time.

Such a wonderful experience. Megan was very knowledgeable and her love and passion for her city made me fall in love with it too. Highly recommend.

Aerial view of the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady. Photo by: Barry Butler

A docent shares stories on a CAC River Cruise. Photo by: Dennis Lee Photography.

The CAC River Cruise is an annual tradition for out-of-town visitors and Chicagoans alike. Photo by: Barry Butler.

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