Chicago River and Lake Michigan: best boat is... ?

[Rookiemistake]

I'm looking for a versatile boat that's able to putt-putt reliably (with 8-10 people) through the 7 mile no-wake zone from a dock on the Chicago River to the Lake Michigan lock, and then safely handle the lake on the way to a swimming spot off downtown Chicago. Any suggestions? Warnings?

 

[64osby]

No wakes for me are about 3mph. That means over 2 hours to the lock. :Cry:

Maybe a big Tritoon would be a solution.

Welcome to iboats. :welcome:

 

[smokeonthewater]

The answer could be anything from an open 25' aluminum guide boat with a tiller steer outboard to a $30,000,000 yacht with a helicopter pad....


You need to explain what sort of boat you want and what you have to spend.... Then the answer is whatever boat fits that description and has been taken care of.... Condition condition condition.

 

[thumpar]

No wake zone for 7 miles? I would trailer it. That is half a day wasted in no wake and lock.