Freedom Boat Club

Pros:
Great Club
Nice Boats
Awesome Staff
Affordable way to have access to boats
Cons:
It can be really difficult to reserve boats on weekends.

I have nothing but great things to say about this Club. Having access to Lake Michigan at a moments notice is a true luxury. There are many boats to choose from and the staff is more than accommodating. Overall, the concept of reserving a boat, going out for 3 – 4 hours and returning without hassle is as easy as it gets. Whether cruising the coastline up north or having lunch in the «pen» downtown overlooking the skyline, there are endless options. This is a truly unique opportunity and I recommend it to anyone who loves boating!

We became members of the Freedom Boat Club in July after researching boating options in Chicago. Owning wasn’t a convenient option for us and this club works much better than a timeshare or partial ownership. We have several rolling reservations to schedule online and can pick from three boats (more will be added as more people join to keep the boat-​to-​member ratio). We literally show up, check out the boat and enjoy it for the day — the club cleans and refuels it at cost afterward.
We asked a ton of questions before signing up and are glad we joined. We make a point to stay in the city more often and have gotten to know the owner, Mike, and dock manager, Patrick, over the course of the summer. They’re great, as well as the rest of the dockhands.
This club gave us the access to boating in Chicago we’d been looking for without the downside and time commitment of boat ownership. It makes sense for us financially as well (especially after the first year, when you pay your up-​front membership fee). Overall, I’d highly recommend this option if you’re considering boating.

I was one of the founding members of Freedom boat club in Chicago. If you love boating and don’t like or want the hassles of owning your own boat, then freedom boat club is where you should be. I have a choice of 3 beautiful and different types of boats. I make a reservation arrive at the dock and I’m greeted by Patrick, the best dock manager and captain. He has your boat waiting for you. When you return for a great day of boating you hop off and Patrick takes care of the cleaning and gas. Only thing you have to do is drive home. And if you decide to take a vacation in any of the other freedom boat locations your membership allows you full privileges. All for an initial membership and a recurring monthly fee. So come on done and check it out.