Mystic Blue

On Monday night, I got to enjoy Chicago from an entirely different angle – from a cruise ship on the water. Granted, boating in any capacity isn’t something I do often, and most days I don’t think of going to Navy Pier as a “must do,” but every once in a while a girl makes exceptions.

Consider Mystic Blue this Chicagoan’s exception (one that I brought my mom to [Yes. My mom.]).

Our cruise (we chose the dinner cruise, but there are other options available) began at 6 pm sharp (yes, they will leave the Pier without you if you are late). I have to say that right away I was pretty impressed with the courtesy of the staff.  Benji, our waiter, was really jovial and attentive (and, as we found out later, also breakdances – but I’ll get to that…).

After offering a drink menu – we chose Cranberry Apple Cosmos – dinner started. The food was enjoyable, with a variety of choices – Aloha Roasted Brisket (steak with a pineapple demi glaze), Pennette Alla Vodka and Mystic Seafood Boats (shrimp and scallops in a Yukon potato shell). With dinner consumed, we opted to go onto the deck.

There are two upper decks.  And this is where I think I fell in love with Chicago just like a tourist might. The views of the city were absolutely breathtaking. Even though the day itself was a little overcast, it didn’t matter. What few spots of sunshine there were highlighted the tops of buildings ever-so-perfectly, and it was – dare I say? – mystical and magical. On the top deck, people congregated, talked, drank and relaxed. A live band played soft guitar music from the deck below which enhanced the relaxed atmosphere.

We then returned to our seats for dessert (an assortment of cheesecakes and brownies, some fruit, and a chocolate fondue pot) which, for me, was nothing special (and also sad, because I really like dessert). By that time, the DJ on our deck had started to get a few people out on the dance floor (including a ridiculously cute 4-year-old who went crazy for “California Gurls”). Classics like “I Will Survive,” “Thriller,” (enter breakdancing here) and a couple slow songs played – a decent selection for every age. Before we knew it, we were back at the dock.

So, the next time you find yourself taking this city for granted, try this cruise. It may not be as calming as an entire vacation getaway, but it definitely gives you a much needed (two hour) break.