Pontoon Rides, Sunset Sails Return To Crystal Lake With Expanded Schedule

CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. — There will be two new ways to get out on the water on Crystal Lake this summer, offering residents and visitors a chance to experience the lake by pontoon or sailboat.

Pontoon rides return with scenic and historical tours

Pontoon boat rides will run on Wednesdays from June 3 through Aug. 5, with multiple departure times available at 3 p.m., 4 p.m. (historical tour), 5 p.m., 5:45 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Each ride accommodates up to six passengers and lasts just over 30 minutes, according to the Crystal Lake Park District Facebook post.

The 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. trips include narration by Jim Heisler, a member of the Crystal Lake Historical Society, who shares stories about the lake’s history. The historical tours may run slightly longer due to the narration and reduced boat speed.

Cost is $50 per reservation.

Sunset sailing offered on Tuesdays

A second option, sailing at sunset, will be offered on Tuesdays with two time slots available: 4:30 to 6 p.m. and 6 to 7:30 p.m. Guests will sail with an experienced captain during evening hours as the lake transitions into sunset.

Reservations are required at least one day in advance. Booking opens May 5 at https://www.crystallakeparks.org/rentals.ls

Stephanie Scott, recreation supervisor overseeing aquatics for the Crystal Lake Park District, said the expanded programming reflects increased community demand for lake access and recreational experiences.

“Crystal Lake continues to be one of our strongest assets for program development,” Scott said. “Each year, we evaluate existing resources, identify service gaps, and adjust programming to better meet community interests.”

Scott noted that recent additions to lakefront programming — including boat rides and youth offerings — have seen strong participation in recent years, prompting the district to expand into sailing charters for residents who may not have had prior access to the experience.

“As long as staffing and resources remain available, we will work to meet the interest of lakegoers throughout the summer,” she said.

The Park District said additional departure times, themed cruises, or expanded accessibility options could be considered in the future if demand continues to grow.