A boating bachelorette party in downtown Milwaukee

Cruisin' the Milwaukee River on a private pontoon

When my college girlfriends and I were in search of a unique Milwaukee activity for our bride Christina's mini bachelorette party, a private boat cruise down the Milwaukee River seemed like a solid plan. Now that our pontoon party has come and gone, I'm left with only one question: Why don't we do this more often? 

We rented the pontoon, which can fit up to 10 people, through Edelweiss — a choice we made because other companies only offer half- or full-day rentals on the weekends, and we sadly didn't have the time or money for such things. With Edelweiss, even on Saturdays and Sundays, you can rent for just two hours — and the price is certainly right when split between your captain and crew. 

I will say, however, that two hours flies by, and choosing a four-hour cruise would probably be worth it in the end. Still, this time we went for two hours, with Captain Lindsey at the helm. A bit about commandeering a pontoon boat: Edelweiss doesn't require any boating license, training, or previous experience — just a willing spirit. 

Lindsey said she hadn't driven a boat since she was a teenager, surely under the watchful eye of an adult. But after a one-minute lesson from an Edelweiss staffer, Linds drove our party down the river like a champ! I dare say if she can do it, anyone can — but staying sober is, of course, required. 

Speaking of sobriety, packing a picnic (complete with booze) for a pontoon boat ride is indeed a must! Our spread included a cheese plate, caprese skewers, quinoa salad, homemade bruschetta and guacamole, and lemon bars for dessert. Fritz made her signature margs and popped a bottle of champagne to toast the bride. 

We truly lucked out with perfect weather — not too hot, but not the slightest chill in the air. That said, I'd of course recommend that anyone cruising the river, especially if you brave Lake Michigan, pack layers. Better safe than sorry.

And here's a logistical note: Make sure to arrive 15 to 20 minutes prior to your boat reservation time. Our rental lasted from 5:30 to 7:30, but it took some time to check in and be escorted to out pontoon. Giving yourself some wiggle room allows you to really maximize time spent on the water. End lecture. 

Now here's one final shout-out: Congrats to Christina, our beautiful bride-to-be! Thank you for giving us a reason to gather, sip champagne, and buy grass skirts and tiny men to adorn our cups. Celebrating your happiness is an absolute joy. As you once said: Cheers to makin' memories!