frequently asked questions

  • Description text goes here

  • You can receive a refund of the payment balance (security deposit not included) within 5 days of reservation. Full refund (security deposit included) is given for coast guard wave warning and severe weather conditions.

  • You can show up to 30 minutes in advance of start time.

  • Unfortunately, departure times are not adjustable. You will be limited to rest of your booking time.

  • Directions: We are located at 31st Street Harbor on D Dock (see image below). The address is 3155 S. Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60616 IL 60614. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure if you are using a rideshare service, or 30 minutes prior if you plan on parking. Parking: Please let us know if you would like to park a vehicle prior to your departure date. There are multiple parking options nearby – our team will send you instructions prior to arrival.

  • Per the United States Coast Guard (USCG), a bareboat charter is an agreement where the Charterer (client) has use of a vessel for a period of time and is temporarily considered the owner. The Charterer is responsible for the vessel, their guests, hiring their own Crew, and for supplying their own food & beverage. Please note that the Charterer may either operate the vessel (if credentialed) or may hire their own Captain/Crew. A bareboat chartered vessel may NOT carry more than 12 passengers.

  • Civilized Empire reserves the right to cancel the Services in case it considers, at its own discretion, the weather to be non-charterable, be it because of large waves, heavy rains, thunderstorms, heavy winds, or other conditions. In this case, rescheduling (at no additional costs) must be done by Charterer within twelve (12) months of the Rental Period, subject to Services availability. Charterer acknowledges that any other weather conditions such as, without limitations, cloudy weather, light rain, or passing storms are deemed charterable conditions.

  • Yes there is one restroom on the boat that includes a shower.

  • All ages welcome, infant life jackets are to be provided at your own responsibility.

  • No, a license is not required to operate a boat. However, you’ll need to schedule a captain who will drive the boat during your reservation. See LINK here to available captains.

  • Alcohol and food are allowed on the boat, a cooler is provided. It is recommended to bring light foods such as sandwiches, salads, etc. We ask to avoid red wine because of stains. Additionally, there is a service called https://www.docksidedelivery.net/ available for easy food/drink order placement that delivers directly to the boat for your convenience.

  • Our boat is thoroughly cleaned between rentals however we request you leave the boat in the same condition as when you arrived to the boat.

  • Yes, life jackets are provided.

  • Yes, there is a kitchenette including a sink available for customers.

  • Yes, there is sound system available.

  • Weekday Empire Pursuits are 3 hours, Firework Majesty Wednesday are 3 hours, Weekend Empire Seafaring is 4 hours, and Weekend Empire Prestige is 3 hours.

  • No, fishing is unfortunately not permitted.