FAQS
What is the dress attire?
The atmosphere aboard Odyssey is special and we hope our guests experience it to its fullest. An Odyssey Cruise is an opportunity to dress up! Please see our recommended dress by cruise type below.
Dinner Cruises:
Collared shirts for men (jackets requested). For women, cocktail wear, a dress or dressy-casual attire. Dark or dressy Jeans are acceptable. However, we strongly recommend no casual jeans, t-shirts, shorts, athletic shoes or flip flops.
Lunch, Brunch or Moonlight Cruises:
For men, we recommend dressy casual attire such as nice slacks and a collared shirt. For women, dressy-casual attire. Dark or dressy Jeans are acceptable. However, we strongly recommend no casual jeans, t-shirts, shorts, athletic shoes or flip flops.
What is the difference between “Boarding Time” & “Cruising Time”?
“Boarding Time” is the earliest you and your guests may board the ship. Our lunch cruises typically begin boarding one half hour prior to sailing and our dinner cruises an hour prior.
You are free to board anytime after that up until the “Cruise Time”. The ship will leave port at the “Cruise Time”. No boarding will be allowed once the ship has set sail.
May I bring my own camera or photographer on board?
Guests are more than welcome to bring their own camera for personal pictures aboard the ship. In addition, as you are boarding, the ship’s photographer records the moment for your entire party. These photos may be pre-purchased for your group or purchased independently upon departure. If your group has purchased a full deck or full ship charter you may bring your own photographer on board.
What is your cancellation policy?
All purchases are final and non-refundable. We cruise rain or shine throughout the year.
Are there any age requirements to cruise?
Children are welcome on most of our cruises. Children under 3 are complimentary and a discount is offered for children between the ages of 3 and 12 on select Brunch and Lunch Cruises. A discount is not available for our Dinner Cruises. No one under the age of 21 will be permitted on our Moonlight Cruises.
Is there a coat check available onboard the ship?
Coat checks are available when needed. Your server would be more than happy to check any items for you at the beginning of your cruise.
Is the vessel Coast Guard certified?
Odyssey II is Coast Guard certified and regularly maintained to adhere to strict safety regulations.
What is our cruise route?
Sailing routes may vary. Weather permitting, Odyssey II cruises south along the lake shore, past the Adler Planetarium, north to Montrose harbor, then returns south to Navy Pier. All the while, offering unmatched views of our world-famous skyline, from the Sears Tower, to the John Hancock, to the Museum Campus, Aon Center and more.
What type of Entertainment do you have?
Odyssey offers an inviting dance floor and a variety of live music from classic jazz on our brunch cruise to contemporary favorites played by a five-piece band on our dinner cruise. For groups chartering a deck or a full ship, a DJ or customized entertainment is also available.
Do you offer Gift Certificates?
Yes, Gift Certificates are available for purchase in increments of $50, $100, $250 and $500 or for any cruise type. Certificates for specific cruise types are not valid for holidays or special events.
What size groups can Odyssey II accommodate?
Odyssey II can accommodate groups from 2 to 700.
Is the vessel handicap accessible?
Yes, the vessel is handicap accessible on our Sapphire Deck. Once your party arrives, our marine crew can assist you as you embark our boarding ramp. Please indicate when making your reservation that you have handicap guests in your party.
Can we bring wrapped gifts or packages onboard?
Yes, you can. Please be aware that Odyssey has the right to inspect all bags and packages prior to boarding.
Is there a phone on board that receives calls? Will my cell phone work on the cruise?
The Odyssey does not have a phone for use by guests. However, most cellular services are available on the water. For the comfort of other guests, we recommend cell phone use on the outside decks only.
How can I make reservations?
For parties of 20 or more, please contact our group sales department at 866.391.8439 or complete our group questionnaire.
Are there restrooms on board Odyssey?
Yes, restrooms are located on every enclosed dining room on the ship.
When does the season end?
Odyssey cruises all year round! In fact, December is one of our most popular months due to the many Holiday Parties we have aboard. We also cruise for both New Year’s Eve and Valentines Day!
Can you tell me a little about the ship?
Odyssey II is an elegantly appointed ship with three climate-controlled interior decks and an outdoor observation deck. It is a handicap accessible and Coast Guard approved vessel for up to 700 passengers. Amenities include full service bars on all interior decks, dance floors, restrooms and customizable seating arrangements.
Is smoking allowed on the cruise?
All interior areas of our ship are non-smoking. Guests who smoke may do so on the outdoor observation decks only.
Can I get my group’s tickets in advance?
For parties over 20, tickets can be sent in advance to the planner once the cruise is paid in full. Alternatively, the organizer can pick up tickets for the group at the ticket booth or can provide a guest list to Odyssey allowing their guests to pick up tickets individually. Photo Identification is required to pick up tickets at the ticket booth.
Do you sail in inclement weather? What if it rains or snows?
Odyssey will cruise in most weather conditions all-year round. Each enclosed deck is climate controlled for your comfort. In the case of severe weather conditions or upon the direction of the US Coast Guard, the ship will remain dockside for the length of the event.
