2023 Chicago Boating Season Is Here!
The un-official start to Chicago boating began last weekend – April 15! So as boaters trickle back into the city’s 10 harbors, we wanted to share some tips and information to help those arriving early. While harbor services and staffing are limited until the opening day, which is now April 29 (moved up from May 1st), harbor parking lots and most slips will be accessible starting this weekend. Here are a handful of suggestions that will make the start of the season a success as long as the weather cooperates!
Checking In with Harbor Staff
Upon arrival, I highly suggest checking in with your harbor office (if it’s open and someone’s there). If the office is closed, send an email or leave a voicemail with your name and contact information in case an emergency arises. There were several instances, during my 10+ years working for the harbors, when boater information was not updated or inaccurate and their boat was taking on water. Do not be that boater! April/May can be a very rainy time of the year, so ensuring that both your batteries and bilge pumps are working is crucial. Typically, when harbor staff know which slips are occupied, they will check on them daily. It’s also good karma to check the waterlines of any boats you pass while exiting the dock – good dock neighbors are the best!
Harbor Contact Information
Do you have the correct phone number for your harbor? All phone numbers were updated last season, how about their email address?
Below, are links to each harbor along with email addresses and phone numbers:
- Montrose Harbor – montrose@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 216-0791
- Belmont Harbor – belmont@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 270-1295
- Diversey Harbor – diversey@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 273-9475
- DuSable Harbor – dusable@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 292-9499
- Monroe Harbor – monroe@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 442-0695
- Burnham Harbor – burnham@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 448-7124
- 31st Street Harbor – 31ststreet@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 481-6059
- 59th Street Harbor – 59thstreet@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 481-6352
- Jackson Outer Harbor – jacksonouter@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 481-6390
- Jackson Inner Harbor – jacksoninner@chicagoharbors.com – (312) 481-6386
Limited Operations
One of the downsides of coming in prior to opening day is the limited services and staffing. Most regular services are unavailable. Fuel docks, harbor stores, and offices are closed or have limited hours. Security is also scarce until opening weekend, so be mindful of what is left onboard and if you see something dangerous tell the harbor staff or call the police. The updated 2023 hours have not been posted online but the Chicago Harbors Facebook Page is usually where you’ll find official updates regarding the harbors.
These are just a handful of tips and information – for more Chicago specific boating information check out the “Chicago Boating Basics” post from last summer.