MERCY HOME FOR BOYS & GIRLS “On behalf of Mercy Home for Boys & Girls, I am writing to offer our full support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters. For more than 10 years, the wonderful team at the Anita Dee II has hosted our Mercy Day event, an annual event that recognizes and celebrates the hard work of the 250+ people that work at Mercy Home and dedicate their lives to our life-saving mission. As a non-profit organization that provides a safe home for abused and neglected youth, this is an incredibly important day to honor those who work tirelessly all year long to support the young people entrusted to our care. The Anita Dee team has always provided top-notch hospitality and a friendly, inviting atmosphere. They have always been incredibly kind and accommodating to the needs of our large group of co- workers. Our annual cruise is a long-standing, beloved tradition that our co-workers look forward to every year – we truly can’t imagine our Mercy Day celebration anywhere else! We are so thankful to the Anita Dee team for all they have done for us over the years. We hope that their continued generosity to our organization and many others will allow them to maintain their current harbor location.”
Rachel Twarog
Mercy Home for Boys & Girls
8/20/25
Community Enrichment Programs“On behalf of Chicago Children’s Charities (CCC), I am writing to express our full support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters as they seek to maintain their current harbor location. Over the past two years, CCC has hosted two major fundraising events aboard the Anita Dee II vessel. These events have raised approximately $30,000 in total, with 100 percent of proceeds going directly to support education and community enrichment programs for at-risk children in Chicago. These outcomes are a direct reflection of the professionalism, convenience, and overall experience provided by Anita Dee Charters. The Anita Dee team delivers top-tier service at every step. Their staff is organized, friendly, and extremely accommodating. From early planning to night-of logistics, they make hosting an event effortless. The atmosphere on board the Anita Dee II is elevated yet welcoming, giving our guests a unique and memorable experience that keeps them engaged and inspired by our mission. Anita Dee Charters has become more than just a venue for CCC. They are a true partner in our fundraising efforts and community impact.”
Sam Mather
Chicago Children’s Charities
8/20/25
Free Faith & Community Focused Activities“On behalf of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Young Adult League, I am writing to express our full support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters. Since 2017, our organization has hosted an annual boat cruise event that began on the Anita Dee I and is now aboard the Anita Dee II vessel. The funds raised by this event fuel our operation for the following year. As a non-profit religious organization, we turn the profit here into affordable and free faith and community focused activities open to all Orthodox Young Adults age 18-35. Anita Dee’s hospitality and flexibility have been true blessings to our organization, and it directly reflects their professionalism, convenience, and overall experience. The Anita Dee team delivers top-tier service at every step. Their staff is organized, friendly, and extremely accommodating. From early planning to night-of logistics, they make hosting an event effortless. Throughout our long partnership, the Anita Dee team has been consistently spectacular. Our cruise organizers change every year and despite these changes, their communication has always been quick, consistent, prepared and informative with each change. The vessel’s location is also a major asset. Our attendees come from the greater Chicago area and beyond, even seeing visitors from Minneapolis, Indianapolis, New York and California. The central location makes the harbor easily accessible by car, public transit, and foot traffic. This convenience has been instrumental in driving strong attendance, which is critical for a nonprofit like ours. Anita Dee Charters is a true partner that works hand-in-hand with us every year forging a path to success. Losing access to their current harbor location would severely hamper our funding efforts and cause uncertainty in our yearly budget. We hope that they are able to maintain their docking location so that we can continue our partnership!”
Fr. Luke Melackrinos
Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago Young Adult League
8/20/25
Annual Chicago Air and Water Show“On behalf of Belkin International, I am pleased to extend our wholehearted support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters. Since becoming a client in 2004, we have continuously enjoyed hosting a major customer on the Anita Dee 2 yacht during the annual Chicago Air and Water Show. The Anita Dee team consistently delivers exemplary service. Their staff is not only organized and friendly, but also incredibly accommodating. From early planning stages to day-of logistics, they make hosting an event seamless. The atmosphere aboard the Anita Dee II is both sophisticated and inviting, providing our guests with a unique and memorable experience that aligns with our mission.”
Emily Cooke
Belkin International
8/20/25
Young Gaelic Association“As President of the Young Gaelic Association (YGA), I am writing to offer our enthusiastic support for Anita Dee Yacht Charters. YGA is a volunteer-led organization under the umbrella of Gaelic Park Charities, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Over the past two years, we have hosted two successful events aboard the Anita Dee I. The proceeds from these events have allowed us to support young adults battling cancer through our partnership with Weish4Ever, as well as assist a local family coping with the sudden loss of their husband/father, leaving them in a financial hardship. Our relationship with Anita Dee Yacht Charters goes beyond one of our typical event hosting interactions. Not only has the company consistently provided exceptional service, but as a resident of the neighborhood where the yachts are docked, I also value the presence of a local business that actively supports charitable causes. In addition to private events, Anita Dee Yacht Charters offers public sailings, giving our community a unique and affordable way to experience the city from the water. The crew prioritizes safety and professionalism at every turn. Convenient access by car, public transportation, and foot makes attending events seamless for our event guests.
Anita Dee Charters is a valued partner in YGA’s mission to serve the community. Losing access to their current harbor would eliminate a dependable and meaningful resource—not only for our organization, but for many others that count on their services to host impactful events. We are grateful for the partnership and opportunities Anita Dee provides, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future.”
Kathleen Giblin
President, Young Gaelic Association
7/19/25
Gabriel Environmental Services“Gabriel Environmental Services (Gabriel) is pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Anita Dee Charters.
Gabriel is an environmental consulting firm which works with a variety of clients to prevent pollution of our waterways (including the Chicago River and Lake Michigan) and clean up contaminated sites. Gabriel has been hosting customer appreciation cruises with Anita Dee Charters for more than ten years. From the initial reservations through our on-board experience, the entire Anita Dee team consistently delivers an exceptional experience. Their staff is not only friendly but also incredibly professional and efficient, making every aspect of the event seamless.
Our guests always have a wonderful time, largely thanks to the attentive and accommodating Anita Dee crew. Our annual cruise is the highlight of the summer for many of our clients.
We highly recommend Anita Dee Charters to anyone looking to host a memorable and impactful event.”
John Polich, P.E. President
Gabriel Environmental Services
7/1/25
CIMA“Chicago Interactive Marketing Association (CIMA) has been a welcome guest of Anita Dee Charters ten times over the past 20 years. Their staff has provided exceptional services for our professional networking group, leading to larger memberships in our mission to educate, entertain, and give back to the greater Chicago marketing industry.”
Gage Barry, President
Chicago Interactive Marketing Association
8/20/25
Departmental Retreat“On behalf of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Northwestern, I am writing to express our full support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters. Over the past decade, we have hosted our departmental retreat aboard the Anita Dee I vessel. This is an opportunity for nearly 120 people who work in the Department to come and enjoy Chicago with their families. Events such as these allow us to understand one another, bond together, and more effectively work together. It is the highlight of the year for all involved.”
Maciej S. Lesniak
Northwestern Medicine
8/20/25
Annual Latin Dance“On behalf of Chicago Loves Bachata Events (CLB), I am pleased to offer our strongest support and recommendation for Anita Dee Yacht Charters. For the past four years, CLB has hosted annual Latin dance events aboard the Anita Dee II vessel. These events have become a highly anticipated and meaningful tradition for the Chicago Latin dance community. This success is due in large part to the exceptional service, convenience, and overall experience consistently provided by Anita Dee Charters Team. The Anita Dee team demonstrates professionalism and excellence at every level. Their staff is organized, welcoming, and consistently accommodating—from the initial planning stages through the execution of each event. Their attention to detail and commitment to client satisfaction make the process seamless and stress-free. The ambiance aboard the Anita Dee II is both elegant and inviting, offering our guests a memorable experience that reflects and enhances our mission. Anita Dee Charters has grown to become more than just a venue provider—they are a trusted partner in supporting and promoting Latin dance culture in Chicago. We are proud to be in collaboration with Anita Dee Charters and deeply value their role in fostering vibrant community events in Chicago.”
Timothy Currier
Chicago Loves Bachata Events
8/20/25
Fundraising“I hope this message finds you well. My name is Defonda J. Louie, and I am the Fundraising Chairperson for the Nu Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. We are an esteemed organization dedicated to uplifting the community through service, mentorship, health awareness, and educational initiatives. I am writing to express our full support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters. Over the past three years, Nu Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., has hosted three major fundraising events aboard the Anita Dee II. These events have raised approximately $26,000 in total profits, with 100 percent of the proceeds going directly to support the Nu Pi Chapter’s Dr. Charles J. Kennedy and Floyd A. Eskridge Scholarship Fund, helping to uplift and invest in the next generation of scholars. Also the proceeds has help invest in community enrichment programs for at-risk children in the Chicagoland area and other chapter service programs. Because of the professionalism, convenience, and overall experience provided by the Anita Dee Charters, the Nu Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., has been able to meet its core principle of service in the community. Over the years of working with the Anita Dee Staff planning fundraising events, the Staff has been very organized, friendly, and extremely accommodating. The Anita Dee Staff delivers top-tier service from the early planning to day of logistics, making hosting an event effortless. The atmosphere on board the Anita Dee II is elevated welcoming, giving our guests a unique and memorable experience of breathtaking views of the beautiful Chicago Skyline that keeps them engaged and inspired to return to future events. Anita Dee Charters has become more than just a venue for Nu Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. They are a true partner in our fundraising efforts helping to impact the Chicagoland community.”
Bro. Defonda J. Louie
Nu Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
8/20/25
Corporate Outing“I’m writing on behalf of Databricks to share some feedback about the Anita Dee charter services. We needed to host a corporate outing for 125 people. Unfortunately, we lost a cruise provider the week prior, and it looked like we would be stuck without a boat. Marc Barrile and his team came to the rescue with the Anita Dee II! Not only did they secure the boat for us at a very reasonable price, but they were also great to work with. The staff on board was super helpful, and the pier location was perfect, as it was just a five-minute walk to our dinner spot on the Riverwalk. Overall, the whole experience was a major success and I would highly recommend both the Anita Dee I and II to anyone in need of a boat charter.”
Jane Knynenburg
Databricks
8/20/25
Annual Navegantes Yacht Cruise“I’m writing this letter not just as the Co-Founder of the Executive Latino Council, but as someone who has seen first-hand the impact Anita Dee Yacht Charters has had on our organization and community. Since 2023, we’ve had the pleasure of hosting our annual Navegantes Yacht Cruise aboard the stunning Anita Dee II. What began as a simple event venue quickly became something much more, a partner in helping us bring people together, celebrate culture, and create truly unforgettable experiences on the water. The Anita Dee team has always gone above and beyond. Their professionalism, kindness, and attention to detail are unmatched. Every time we step onto that yacht, we know we’re in good hands. From the layout of the decks to the coordination with catering and entertainment, they help us make magic happen, and they do it with grace and excellence. But what really sets Anita Dee apart is how much they care. They’re not just running a charter business, they’re creating memories, supporting local organizations like ours, and showcasing the very best of what Chicago’s lakefront has to offer. The views are breathtaking, yes, but it’s the people and the service that keep us coming back year after year. Chicago is better with Anita Dee in it and we, as a community, are better for having them as partners.”
Jose Alfredo Suarez
Executive Latino Council
8/5/25
Kappa Delta Sorority“I am pleased to state that Kappa Delta fully supports Anita Dee Yacht Charters. Every event that our sorority has held on board the Anita Dee has been an unforgettable experience. The team is highly professional and attentive, ensuring that every step, from planning through the event, is handled smoothly and efficiently. Their dedication to managing all the details makes the experience effortless and enjoyable. During our most recent charter, there was one particular instance that caught our attention. In an incredibly wonderful and surprising gesture that made the evening one to remember, the crew kindly extended our time out on the water so we could take in the lake’s fireworks. A highlight for many of our members and a memory we will all cherish is seeing the city light up while peacefully anchored on the water. They are an essential partner for our organization and countless others throughout the city because of their dedication to service, safety, and providing outstanding experiences. At Kappa Delta, Anita Dee Yacht Charters has grown to be a cherished part of our history. We hope to continue commemorating many more milestones with them in the future and fully support their continued operation at their current location.”
Smera Dwivedi
Kappa Delta Sorority, Northwestern University
8/20/25
Wedding“I am writing in strong support of Anita Dee Yacht Charters. On Saturday, October 5, 2024, my wife Evie and I celebrated one of the most important days of our lives—our wedding—aboard the Anita Dee I yacht. From start to finish, the experience was exceptional. Chicago already held a special place in our hearts, as we’re deeply rooted in the community—I’m a lawyer at Sidley Austin LLP on Dearborn Street, and my wife teaches at Lincoln Park High School. But on that day, we fell even more in love with the city. From the moment we began planning the event, the Anita Dee team was responsive, thoughtful, and professional. They guided us through every step with clarity and flexibility, helping us navigate the logistics of hosting a large event on the water with confidence. We felt genuinely cared for throughout the process. The day itself was absolutely beautiful. The Anita Dee I was pristine and elegantly arranged, the staff was warm and attentive, and the service was top-notch. Our guests were treated to stunning views of the Chicago skyline as we cruised along the river and lake—a setting that truly made our celebration unforgettable. It was a one-of-a-kind experience that blended the best of Chicago’s architectural beauty with the intimacy of a private gathering. Perhaps most memorable was how much our family and friends enjoyed the event. Many of our guests had traveled from out of town and even from abroad, and for several, it was their first visit to Chicago. Thanks to Anita Dee, including its beautiful docking location, their impression of the city was overwhelmingly positive. They were amazed not only by the scenic cruise but by the caliber of service and the way it showcased the city’s charm. Months later, we still receive messages from guests raving about the experience. Anita Dee is a true Chicago gem. I hope that for many years to come, Evie and I, and countless others like us, can continue enjoying breathtaking experiences boarding Anita Dee yachts at DuSable Harbor.”
Maseeh Moradi
10/5/24
Summer Work“On behalf of Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP, I am writing to express our full support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters. Our company has held its summer work events on the Anita Dee for many years. The only gap was during Covid. We are thankful they are still around today. The service and safety the Anita Dee provides is second to none. The Anita Dee team delivers top-tier service at every step. Their staff is organized, friendly, and extremely accommodating. From early planning to night-of logistics, they make hosting an event effortless. The atmosphere on board the Anita Dee II is elevated yet welcoming, giving our guests a unique and memorable experience that keeps them engaged and inspired by our mission.”
JIMMY ANTONOPOULOS
GORDON REES SCULLY MANSUKHANI, LLP
8/20/25
Corporate Celebrations“On behalf of Grant Thornton, I am writing to express our full support and recommendation for Anita Dee Charters. We have had the pleasure of working with Anita Dee for many years – so many, in fact, that we’ve lost count. Their service has become a trusted and beloved venue for our firm’s corporate celebrations, offering a unique and memorable summertime experience that our interns and teams look forward to year after year. We wholeheartedly support Anita Dee Charters.”
Brittany Kmieciak
Grant Thornton Advisors LLC
8/20/25
Summer Outing“The Cardiac Care Unit at Ann & Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital has been enjoying a summer outing with Anita Dee Yacht Charters for the past 5 years! This event is SO special for our hardworking nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, and CNAs. This event is the highlight of the year for our team! We greatly appreciate the ability to walk to the event from work and John and his team even accommodate a second pick up time for us to get staff after getting off their 7 pm shift at the hospital. John and his team are phenomenal to work with and are so accommodating of our needs. Their team is incredibly professional and show our team a safe and amazing time out on the river and lake. I am so grateful to work with John and the entire Anita Dee Team.”
The Cardiac Care Unit at Ann & Robert H Lurie Children’s Hospital
8/20/25
Exceptional Experience“The Chicago Bar Association has had the pleasure of hosting events with Anita Dee Yacht Charters, and our experiences have been nothing short of exceptional. From start to finish, the Anita Dee team consistently delivers top-tier service, making every aspect of our events seamless and memorable for our members and guests. It offers stunning views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan, creating an unmatched atmosphere for networking and celebration. Anita Dee has been an invaluable partner in helping us create unique, high-quality experiences for the Chicago legal community. We strongly support their efforts to remain at DuSable Harbor and look forward to continuing our relationship for years to come.”
Octavio Duran
Duran Law Offices
8/20/25
School End Celebration“For the past six years, the Anita Dee has been the highlight of our school’s end-of-year celebration. What started as a one-time idea quickly became an annual tradition our entire staff looks forward to. The experience is always seamless, elegant, and unforgettable. From the moment we board, we’re treated with warmth and professionalism by the crew. The yacht is always impeccably maintained—spacious, comfortable, and perfect for both relaxing and celebrating. Cruising along the Chicago skyline as the sun sets is nothing short of magical, and it’s the perfect way to reflect on the hard work of the year and celebrate together as a team.
The Anita Dee staff consistently goes above and beyond to make sure everything runs smoothly. Whether it’s coordinating catering, music, or helping with logistics, they make it easy for us to enjoy the evening stress-free. After six years, I can confidently say the Anita Dee is not just a venue—it’s a tradition that brings our staff closer and leaves lasting memories every single time.”
Chivon Ford, M.Ed
Chicago Bulls College Prep, a Noble School
8/20/25
