Test drive: Winter Duffy boat on the river
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Justin, Moyo, Carrie and Monica hanging out on the river in winter. Photo: Monica Eng/Axios
Last winter the Axios crew took a river cruise in a hot tub boat, but this year we matured and graduated to a heated Duffy boat.
Why it matters: For novice boaters who want to try captaining a vessel on the Chicago River, the Duffy can offer a fun low-stress water outing during these cold months when few others are on the water.
- Plus, it's a lot warmer and easier to steer than the hot tub.
How it works: Passengers book a date and time on the Chicago Electric Boat Company website where Duffy boat rentals cost $156-$191 per hour.
- Folks need to show up at least 30 minutes before departure at Marina Towers.
- Here the designated "captain" must watch a safety video and sign several documents including one promising not to drink any alcohol right before or during the ride.
- The captain must also pay a returnable safety deposit in case of damage to the boat.
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The amenities: The heated boat covered in clear plastic flaps offers 11 comfy seats, a decent blue tooth speaker system and a cooler.
- Guests can pack their own food, drinks and yacht rock playlists.
The experience: Even with its flaps and heater, the boat got a little chilly so we kept our coats on for the scenic two-hour tour past some of the finest architecture in the world.
- While the hot tub boat's rudimentary steering handle made maneuvering a pain, the Duffy, with its real steering wheel and throttle, lets you navigate the river with ease.
- And unlike the hot tub boat, a Duffy boat rental doesn't require you to ask all of your passengers to disclose their weight.
Yes, but: If the temperature dips below 20 degrees, your trip will need to be rescheduled.
The bottom line: On a sunny winter day with the right friends, snacks and tunes, a winter cruise on a Duffy boat can make for a splendid, low-stress water adventure.
- Eat your heart out Miami.