Construction on Navy Pier Marina Set to Begin this Year

Navy Pier Marina has received all the permits necessary to begin construction this year, with plans to open in summer 2025. The new privately owned marina will offer transient mooring to boaters from Chicago and around the Great Lakes, including those completing the Great Loop.

“We are very excited to bring this first-ever marina to Navy Pier,” says developer Randy D. Podolsky. “The marina brings water access to the iconic Navy Pier and the city’s core to boaters from a lake approach. Until now, Navy Pier has been inaccessible to waterborne tourists desiring access to everything the Pier has to offer. We are eagerly anticipating our marina launching a new era of maritime enjoyment for local and visiting yachtspersons alike!” 

There will be limited space for fishing, sailing and diving charters, with potential seasonal mooring for boat clubs and other recreational boating commercial uses. The marina will offer 6,400 feet of broadside mooring for vessels up to 180 feet in length, with a mix of fixed and floating piers. Visitors can book lunch and dinner hourly tie-ups and overnight stops through the easy online reservation system.

Amenities will include concierge-quality service, power and water hookups, Wi-Fi, pump-out service, and a boater’s amenity facility equipped with restrooms, showers, a lounge, and a ship’s store. The Marina will also host a bicycle repair station and a pet-friendly environment, including a pet relief station.

“The addition of a full-service marina means a whole new way to experience all Navy Pier has to offer,” adds Marilynn Gardner, President and CEO of Navy Pier. “We can’t wait to open our doors to boaters from all over Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes and provide them with the unique opportunity to discover the wonderful restaurants, shops, attractions, and programs that make this lakefront treasure so special.”

To learn more, visit navypiermarina.com.