This Chicago Hotel Is Offering Chef Tasting Menus On A Private Yacht

When you think about summer yacht culture, Chicago is most likely not one of the first spots on your radar. But Four Seasons Hotel Chicago has decided Summer 2023 is going to be the one that’s changing that with the launch of its new luxury yacht experience.

A customizable adventure, the Four Seasons Chicago Yacht offers its guests the chance to enjoy a cruise through the Chicago River and on Lake Michigan while partaking in an array of activities — many of which are culinary focused. Docked just a few minutes away from Four Seasons Chicago, the 56-foot yacht allows the hotel’s guests to experience the city from a different perspective during a four-hour excursion with itineraries that are thoughtfully created for couples, families, and groups.

“Growing up in the Midwest, summer was never complete without time spent on Lake Michigan. It’s been so rewarding to share this cherished local tradition while adding our elevated luxury craftspeople and service. Nothing beats time on the water in new-fashioned Four Seasons style,” shared Kristen Klus, Chef Concierge and Guest Relations Manager at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago.

Hoping to sip your way through a wine tasting while taking in the city’s stunning skyline? Done! Or maybe you’re looking to brush up on your cocktail-making skills — that’s easy with the Art Of The Aperitivo package where you get to learn how to make a spritz, Negroni, and a highball while enjoying a selection of canapes by the hotel’s chef.

Wanting a bit of a more elevated experience? Guests can opt for a magical three-course tasting menu prepared on board by Adorn Bar & Restaurant’s executive chef Richie Farina. This interactive meal starts off with perfectly bite-sized canapes (always say yes to lobster filled cones with uni) to nosh on while enjoying cocktails or a sommelier-selected glass of wine, before guests sit down at the yacht’s spacious dining room table for the real treat. Chef Farina effortlessly whips up a specialty three-course meal and tableside presentations right on the yacht as you drift around Lake Michigan and take in the sunset over the city — or even the fireworks at Navy Pier.

“The Chef Tasting Menu Experience on the Four Seasons Chicago Yacht is a luxurious way to experience Adorn’s menu from the most exclusive al-fresco seat in Chicago. I have lived in the city for 15 years, and I feel like the first time I was truly able to “see” the city was on the Yacht Experience,” says Farina. “I enjoy creating a bespoke menu for guests and making each excursion an unforgettable one. Plus, you get to make all your friends jealous as you post yacht pictures on your IG!”

Okay, so maybe you’re not quite looking for a grand chef experience while enjoying the Four Seasons Chicago Yacht — that doesn’t mean you’re not eating well when you’re out on Lake Michigan. Early morning cruisers can look forward to the yacht’s Rise and Shine Wellness menu filled with energizing breakfast dishes like avocado toast and heirloom tomato salads paired with fresh squeezed juices and flavorful smoothies, plus the option to enjoy on-board massages or yoga with an expert from the hotel’s newly renovated spa.

Those who want to cruise during the day can feast on a delightful picnic-style meal with international cheese boards and a selection of sandwiches including a shaved wagyu with truffle aioli or chicken bahn mi wraps with pickled vegetables, and hearty salads filled with local produce.

The yacht is bookable from June through September and all beverage and culinary experiences are custom curated to fit the needs and desires of your group. Once you’ve booked your day on the water, guests are offered the chance to set up a personal consultation with the Four Seasons Chicago team ahead of the excursion to ensure that you’re able to make your Four Seasons Chicago Yacht dreams come true.