Imagine saying “I do” as the Chicago skyline glows behind you, the gentle waves of Lake Michigan beneath your feet, and the person you love standing beside you on a luxurious private yacht. This isn’t a fantasy—it’s the reality that awaits couples who choose an elopement yacht wedding ceremony with Anita Dee Yacht Charters.
For couples seeking an intimate, stress-free alternative to traditional weddings, a yacht elopement in Chicago offers the perfect blend of romance, sophistication, and unforgettable memories. Whether you envision a ceremony with just the two of you, a handful of close family members, or a small group of your nearest and dearest, Anita Dee Yacht Charters transforms your elopement dreams into reality.
Why Choose a Yacht for Your Chicago Elopement?
The Romance of Water + Skyline Views
There’s something inherently romantic about exchanging vows on the water. The gentle motion of the yacht, the sound of waves lapping against the hull, and the ever-changing backdrop of Chicago’s iconic skyline create an atmosphere that simply cannot be replicated on land. Lake Michigan provides a stunning natural backdrop recognized by the City of Chicago as one of the region’s most valuable assets.
As you cruise along the Chicago River, you’ll pass over 40 architectural landmarks—from the Willis Tower to Marina City to the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Lake Michigan stretches endlessly before you, offering panoramic views as the perfect backdrop for your ceremony and photographs. During summer, you can even time your elopement to catch the fireworks display over Navy Pier, adding a magical finale to your celebration.
Intimate Atmosphere Without the Guest List Stress
Elopements are about stripping away the complexity and focusing on what truly matters: your love and commitment. A yacht provides the perfect intimate setting without the overwhelming logistics of a traditional wedding venue. Unlike land-based venues, private yacht charters eliminate the need for multiple vendor coordination across different locations.
You won’t worry about seating charts, managing hundreds of guests, or dealing with the stress of coordinating multiple vendors across different locations. Instead, you’ll have a personalized, stress-free experience where every detail is tailored to your vision. The Anita Dee team handles the logistics so you can focus on the moment. Our testimonials showcase how couples consistently report reduced stress and increased enjoyment compared to traditional wedding planning.
Anita Dee Yacht Charters‘s Luxury Yachts: The Perfect Elopement Setting
Anita Dee Yacht Charters operates two stunning luxury yachts, each designed to provide an exceptional experience for your special day. Both vessels meet all U.S. Coast Guard safety and inspection requirements, ensuring your celebration is both luxurious and secure.
Anita Dee I: Intimate Elegance for Two (or a Few)
Anita Dee I is the perfect choice for couples seeking true intimacy. This yacht features an open-air observation deck where you can exchange vows under the sky, and a temperature-controlled enclosed salon deck for receptions or gatherings. The intimate setting is ideal for elopements with just your partner, a few close family members, or a small wedding party.
The recently remodeled interior combines elegance with comfort. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to ensure your experience is memorable and stress-free. Learn more about Anita Dee I pricing and availability. This yacht provides the perfect intimate backdrop for wedding ceremonies.
Anita Dee II: Flexible Space for Small Ceremonies
Anita Dee II offers flexible space across multiple decks if you’re planning a slightly larger elopement celebration—perhaps with 20-50 guests. With the ability to accommodate up to 400 guests, this yacht provides ample room for intimate ceremonies while maintaining the exclusivity and personalization you seek.
The multiple interior and exterior decks allow seamless transitions between ceremony and reception spaces, and the recently remodeled interiors provide a sophisticated backdrop for your celebration. Explore Anita Dee II pricing options and why couples choose this vessel for their special day.
Customizable Elopement Packages & Services
One of the most significant advantages of choosing Anita Dee Yacht Charters for your elopement is the complete customization that is available. Every ceremony aspect can be tailored to reflect your unique love story. Our wedding events specialists work with you to create a personalized experience.
Ceremony Options:
- Dockside ceremonies at DuSable Harbor
- On-the-water ceremonies as you cruise
- Flexible timing to capture the perfect light and views
Catering & Bar Services:
Anita Dee Yacht Charters partners with Chicago’s finest caterers, including Catered by Design, Beyond Catering & Events, Harry Caray’s Catering and Events, and Blue Plate Catering. The team can accommodate your preferences, whether you envision an intimate champagne toast, a gourmet multi-course dinner, or casual cocktails and appetizers. Explore our comprehensive catering options for your celebration.
Bar packages range from premium open bars featuring top-shelf brands to beer and wine selections, all served by professional bartenders. Our bar pricing page details all available options for your elopement.
Entertainment & Ambiance:
State-of-the-art sound systems built into both yachts ensure crystal-clear audio for your vows and music. DJ services set the perfect mood for your celebration, while live music options and custom décor complete your vision. Our entertainment specialists can coordinate with your preferred vendors.
Photography & Memories:
The stunning backdrops—Chicago River architecture, Lake Michigan views, Navy Pier, and the iconic skyline—provide endless photography opportunities. Many couples report that their yacht elopement photos are among the most beautiful they’ve ever seen. Our photography page showcases galleries from past celebrations.
The Elopement Experience: From Planning to “I Do”
Planning your elopement with A Anita Dee Yacht Charters is a seamless, personalized process. The team, including dedicated event coordinators like Colleen, responds quickly to every question and provides guidance through every step. Our contact page makes it easy to reach our planning specialists.
One couple shared their experience: “From the moment we began planning the event, the Anita Dee Yacht Charters team was responsive, thoughtful, and professional. They guided us through every step with clarity and flexibility, helping us navigate the logistics of hosting an event on the water with confidence. We felt genuinely cared for throughout the process.”
The day of your elopement, the professional crew ensures everything runs smoothly. From clearing pathways for the bride to walk through to updating you on every move the boat is making, the Anita Dee Yacht Charters crew handles the details so you can focus on the moment. Read detailed testimonials from couples who celebrated with us.
Weather contingencies are built into the planning process, with temperature-controlled indoor spaces available if needed. The crew’s decades of experience mean they’ve handled every scenario and know how to keep your day perfect, rain or shine.
Stunning Backdrops & Scenic Routes for Your Ceremony
Chicago’s waterfront offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and a yacht elopement allows you to experience it all. The City of Chicago recognizes the waterfront as a premier destination for special events and celebrations.
Chicago River Route:
Cruise past over 40 architectural landmarks, including the Willis Tower, Marina City, the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and countless other masterpieces. The river’s narrow passages create intimate moments while the surrounding architecture provides a sophisticated backdrop. Discover more about Chicago architecture yacht tours and the historic significance of these structures.
Lake Michigan Views:
Open water offers expansive views of the skyline from a distance, perfect for those golden-hour photographs. The tranquility of the lake creates a peaceful, romantic atmosphere. Lake Michigan is recognized as one of the Great Lakes and provides unparalleled natural beauty.
Navy Pier & Millennium Park:
Sail past Navy Pier with its iconic Ferris wheel, and view Millennium Park’s famous Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as “The Bean”) from the water. These landmarks add iconic Chicago charm to your celebration. Both are recognized Chicago attractions that provide stunning backdrops for your ceremony.
Sunset & Fireworks:
Time your elopement for sunset to capture the city lights beginning to twinkle. During summer, you can even anchor near Navy Pier to watch the fireworks display—a magical finale to your ceremony.
Real Elopement Stories: Couples Who Said Yes on the Water
Alex & Partner (August 2025):
“The customer service of the Anita Dee Yacht Charters staff blew us away. From Colleen responding so quickly to every email and providing us with whatever we needed to the First Mate clearing the downstairs for the Bride to walk through and updating us on every move the boat was making, everything went perfectly! The whole night was smooth sailing (literally and figuratively) and our guests were stunned by the views of the city. We are still receiving messages about how this wedding on a yacht was the best wedding they’ve ever been to.”
Maseeh & Evie (October 2024):
“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 Yacht Charters I yacht. From start to finish, the experience was exceptional. The day itself was wonderful. The Anita Dee Yacht Charters 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. Months later, we still receive messages from guests raving about the experience.”
Joe & Partner (August 2025):
“We reserved the Anita Dee Yacht Charters II for an evening charter for our wedding ceremony and reception. The staff did an amazing job turning over the boat after a large charter went on in the afternoon to have the boat cleaned and decorated for the wedding before guests arrived. Throughout the night and week, we received many compliments from friends and family that our wedding was the best they have ever attended. Special thanks to AMP DJ services, Smoke Daddy Catering, and Colleen of Anita Dee Yacht Charters on making this the most special night of our lives.”
Getting Started: Book Your Elopement Yacht Wedding Today
Your dream elopement is just a phone call or email away. The Anita Dee Yacht Charters is ready to help you plan every detail of your special day.
With over 50 years of yacht charter experience, a 5.0 rating from hundreds of satisfied couples, and a team dedicated to creating unforgettable moments, Anita Dee Yacht Charters is Chicago’s premier choice for elopement yacht weddings.
Your love story deserves a setting as unique and beautiful as your relationship. Make it unforgettable aboard the Anita Dee Yacht Charters yacht. Contact us today at (312) 379-3191.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an elopement and a small wedding on a yacht?
An elopement typically involves just the couple or a tiny group (under 10 people), while a small wedding may include up to 50+ guests. Both can be hosted on Anita Dee Yacht Charters yachts with full customization—our wedding events page details all available options.
How many guests can we accommodate for an elopement ceremony?
Anita Dee I is perfect for intimate groups of 20-50 people, while Anita Dee II can accommodate larger celebrations up to 400 guests. The team can help you choose the right yacht for your vision.
What’s included in an elopement package at Anita Dee Yacht Charters?
Packages are fully customizable and can include the yacht rental, ceremony coordination, catering, bar service, entertainment, and décor. You work with the team to design exactly what you want. Visit our wedding ceremonies page for details.
Can we customize the ceremony route and timing?
Absolutely. You can choose to cruise the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, or both. Timing is flexible to capture the perfect light and views for your celebration. Our special events team specializes in customized routes.
What happens if the weather is bad on our elopement day?
Both yachts feature temperature-controlled enclosed salon decks, so your ceremony can move indoors if needed. The Anita Dee Yacht Charters team has decades of experience handling all weather conditions.
Do you provide catering and bar services for small ceremonies?
Yes. Anita Dee Yacht Charters partners with Chicago’s finest caterers and offers customizable bar packages. You can also bring your licensed and insured caterer for an additional fee.
Can we bring our own officiant or photographer?
Yes. The team welcomes your choice of officiant and photographer. They’ll coordinate with your vendors to ensure everything runs smoothly. See our photography page for examples.
What’s the best time of year for a yacht elopement in Chicago?
Summer (June-August) offers the most beautiful weather and the chance to see fireworks over Navy Pier. Spring and fall provide stunning views with fewer crowds. Winter is possible but less common due to weather conditions.