Take This Unique And Informative Fireboat Tour Along The Chicago River And Lake Michigan In Illinois
By Melissa Mahoney|Published April 23, 2021
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I grew up in New England before moving to SoCal for several years. I then lived in NYC or a year before moving to AZ in 2009. I worked in the entertainment industry for many years of my adult life and have a deep love for photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world. Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream!
Have you ever dreamed about taking a cruise along the Chicago River and getting a close-up look at the city? How about a cruise along Lake Michigan? Book a voyage with Chicago Fireboat Tours and you will be treated to an informative one-of-a-kind scenic tour on both bodies of water.
The Fred A. Busse, also known as Engine 41, is a retired fireboat that served the Chicago area from the years 1937 until 1981. It was once the largest diesel-powered fireboat in the world and played its part in responding to many emergencies, including massive fires, along the river.
The boat is equipped with four water pumps that can spray water an impressive 27 stories high.
Today, the Fred A. Busse is owned and operated by two Navy Veterans and friends who have turned it into a tour boat. Those who book a trip on this vessel will be taking a ride on a piece of Chicago's history.
Onboard the boat is a small museum with artifacts and photos showing the fireboat in action during its years of service. This goes along nicely with the historical boat tours that are offered.
Take a Historical and Architectural Cruise that starts out on Lake Michigan before heading through the Chicago Locks and onto the Chicago River. You'll get a close look at the architecture that has made the Chicago skyline famous as tour guides give information about the city's history.
Take a memorable Sunset Cruise on the lake. Grab a drink at the bar as you watch the sun set behind the Chicago city skyline. It's a breathtaking experience!
Fireworks Cruises are only offered when the Navy Pier has a fireworks display scheduled, but if you can book one of these, you'll have the time of your life! Check the schedule online.
A cruise aboard the Fred A. Busse fireboat is not only an incredible way to see Chicago but also a fascinating way to learn some history about the boat and the city it once protected.
To book your tour with Chicago Fireboat Tours, visit the website and go ahead and like their Facebook page for updates and information. Have you taken a cruise along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan? Please tell us all about your experience!
