seattle sailboat tour

First day of Sailing: Wednesday May 1st!

Trim the sails or sit back and relax

#wesailseattle

CANDERÉ CRUISING

Seattle's favorite sightseeing cruises and sailing adventures.

Cruising Lake Union and Lake Washington, and Sailing the Puget Sound are the most unique things to do in Seattle. After 10 years, our reputation speaks for itself. Join us for Seattle's best boat tours and create memories to last a lifetime. We are a small family business and we staff based on reservations. Please book as far in advance as you are able!

Choose from Our Top Rated Experiences on Seattle's Waterways

• Key Hole Private and social options
• Hour Glass 1 hour
• User All ages

One Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Experience the best of Seattle’s urban and natural beauty with a Lake Union sightseeing cruise. This delightful excursion offers a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and delightful commentary while taking in the iconic sights of the city. We staff based on reservations. Please book in advance!

• Most Popular
• Key Hole Private
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Two Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Experience the best of Seattle’s urban and natural beauty with a Lake Union sightseeing and cruise. This delightful excursion offers a perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and delightful commentary while taking in the iconic sights of the city. We staff based on reservations. Please book in advance!

• Hour Glass 3 hours

Day Sail on the Puget Sound

Experience the natural beauty and maritime magic of the Puget Sound with a 3-hour sailing tour that will take you on a memorable journey through the heart of this stunning waterway. Great for locals and travelers alike!

We staff based on reservations. Please book in advance.

Sunset Sail on the Puget Sound

For an enchanting and intimate adventure, embark on a private 3-hour sunset sailing tour in the Puget Sound. This experience is tailored for a group of up to six passengers, providing the perfect setting to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest as the sun dips below the horizon.

• Hour Glass 5 Hours

Blake Island Adventure!

Enjoy your own private cruise across the Puget Sound to Blake Island, a beautiful state park that will make you feel miles and miles away! We staff based on reservations. Please book as far in advance as you are able!

Check out our Takacat Catamaran & Paddleboard Rentals

• Hour Glass 1 - 3 hours

Takacat Rental

Explore all the scenery Lake Union has to offer at your own pace in style. Take our Takacat Inflatable Catamarans for a spin and enjoy a leisurely cruise around Lake Union! We staff based on reservations. Please book as far in advance as you are able!

Paddleboard Rental

Embark on a self-guided tour around Lake Union with our Paddleboard rentals. Get your swim suit and sunscreen ready to get on the waters and take your paddleboard for a ride! We staff based on reservations. Please book as far in advance as you are able!

Canderé Cruising

Explore Seattle’s waterways in luxury and style with Canderé Cruising’s intimate experiences for up to six guests. Offering social and private sightseeing cruises and sailing adventures via motor or sailboat, Canderé Cruising will introduce you to Seattle in ways you didn’t think possible. What we offer is among the best things to do in Seattle, even on a rainy day! All boats can be enclosed to keep you dry and comfortable.

Get up close and personal with Seattle’s floating home and houseboat community, beautiful classic cruisers, modern mega yachts, and breathe taking views of Mt. Rainier, and the Seattle Skyline!

Read what our customers say about us

We had a delightful time with Captain Curt. He was friendly and answered all questions. We didn't feel rushed or hurried at all. We had a great afternoon and family outing. I highly recommend this excursion.

Captain Russ is spectacular. He is an amazing captain with a great personality. Captain Russ made my family feel at home out on the water. Thank you for creating a fabulous memory for my family.

Loved it, we had a 3 hour daytime private sail with Russ. We were able to sit on the front of the boat and got to relax together. Would recommend for anyone looking for a private experience or a COVID-safe experience.

We took an afternoon sail on the Puget Sound. We hardly sailed because the wind did not cooperate but the experience was still wonderful. Russ was attentive and full of interesting facts about the Puget Sound and the locations we saw along our cruise. I highly recommend this experience. You will not be disappointed. Thanks Russ!

Captain Russ was great. Very mellow afternoon, no set agenda. Boat was very nice, stable. If you are looking for a way to get out of town and enjoy something cozy with your family this is a great option. Thanks

Thoroughly enjoyed our time sailing. Russ was a knowledgeable and friendly captain! Highly recommend this experience while in Seattle.

Seattle’s Tall Ship

Come for a boat ride on Seattle’s Tall Ship, a historic 19th-century style gaff-rigged schooner. We offer three public sailing tours daily from Seattle’s downtown waterfront. Our beautiful sailing ship, the Bay Lady, evokes the romance of traditional sailing as we work together to set the sails, turn off the engine, and sail off into an age of cannon fire and sunsets behind the untouched mountain ranges of the Puget Sound.

Bay Lady is the largest public sailing vessel in Seattle. With her high railing and comfortable seating, she is the premier boat ride for families.

Enjoy a drink from our onboard bar and set sail into the perfect day on the water!

Contact us to learn about our daily public sailing boat tours or hosting your next event on the pristine waters next to the iconic Seattle skyline.

• Address Pier 66, Bell Harbor Marina, 2203 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121
• Phone (360) 209-2109

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Ride a Boat from Downtown Seattle

Discover the Emerald City, Elliott Bay, and the Puget Sound from a different perspective!  Board your vessel of choice right in downtown Seattle.

Whether you are a visitor or a local, Seattle’s Waterfront is your gateway to the Salish Sea straight from downtown.  The boat trips and tours from here range from 1-hour harbor cruises to overnight excursions in some of the world’s most beautiful waters.  Want to smell the breath of a whale or taste the liquor (juice) of a live oyster?  Your Seattle Waterfront adventure starts here.  Take your pick of departure points anywhere between Pier 50 and Pier 70.

QUICK LINKS: Argosy Cruises | Salish Sea Tours | FRS Clipper | Sailing Seattle | Seattle’s Tall Ship | Des Moines Fast Ferry | Kitsap Fast Ferries | King County Water Taxis | WA State Ferries | Cruise Ships  

Argosy Cruises - Boards at Pier 55 (Year-Round)

• 1-hour Harbor Cruises
• Ballard Locks Cruises
• Happy Hour & Sunset Cruises
• Charter cuises for companies, parties, group events
• Seattle's Christmas Ship Cruises

Children 0-3 ride free.  Discounts for youth, seniors, and WA residents.  $ave by ordering tickets online.  Check website for more deals, including Game Day and AAA Discounts.  

Check out Argosy on Social

Salish Sea Tours - Boards at Pier 57 (Year-Round)

Check out Salish Sea Tours on Social

FRS Clipper Ferries board at Pier 69 (Year-Round)

• Seattle to Victoria Fast Passenger Ferry
• Whale Watching Trips from Seattle
• FRS Clipper guarantees that you will see whales or you can come back again until you do.
• Whale watching trips run seasonally.  Check website for dates (Spring-Summer-Fall).

Check out FRS Clipper on Social

Sailing Seattle boards at Pier 56 (May-October)

• City Sails (1.5 hours)
• NEW! Northwest Sails (2 hours)
• Seattle Sunset Sails (2.5 hours)
• Seattle Private Sailing Yacht Charters - Rent whole boat for your group or team
• Scheduled sailings daily during high season on two 70-foot racing yachts.
• Discounts for youth, seniors and military.  
• Book online up to 14 days in advance.  

Check out Sailing Seattle on Social

Seattle's Tall Ship boards at Bell Harbor Marina (May-October)

• Seattle Harbor Sailing Tours (2 hours)
• Sunset Sailing Tours (2 hours)
• Sunday Brunch Cruise
• Full Boat Buyouts for Charter
• Scheduled sailings daily during high season.  Children under two sail free.
• Runs through October, depending on weather – check website for final sailing date of the 2024 season.

Seattle’s Tall Ship

Book online or just walk on this Seattle schooner.  Check website for themed sailings and special deals.  The vessel is available for groups, corporates, parties, classes, and more.  Check site for charter rates.

Check out Seattle's Tall Ship on Social

Des Moines "Ride the Boat" Fast Water Taxi boards at Pier 50 (Seasonal)

2023 service is expected to return this summer, providing trips between Des Moines and downtown Seattle with five round trips per day (Tuesday-Sunday).  Boarding will take place at Pier 50 Seattle Ferry Terminal and at Des Moines Marina.

Check out the City of Des Moines on Social

Kitsap Fast Passenger Ferries board at Pier 50 (Year-Round)

Kitsap Fast Passenger Ferries depart from  Seattle’s Waterfront at PIER 50:

• Southworth Fast Passenger Ferry  (26 minutes crossing; M-F)
• Kingston Fast Passenger Ferry  (40 minutes crossing; M-F)
• Bremerton Fast Passenger Ferry  (30 minutes crossing; M-Sat)

Check out Kitsap Transit on Social

Friends of the fast ferry on facebook, fast ferry riders - kitsap (facebook group).

King County Water Taxis board at Pier 50 (Year-Round)

King County Water Taxis depart from Seattle’s Waterfront at PIER 50:

• West Seattle Fast Passenger Ferry  (10-15 minutes crossing; daily)
• Vashon Island Fast Passenger Ferry  (22 minutes crossing; M-F)

Check out King County Metro on Social

Washington State Ferries at Pier 52 Colman Dock (Year-Round)

WSF ferries depart from Seattle’s Waterfront at PIER 52:

Bainbridge Car & Passenger Ferry schedule  (35 minutes crossing* – daily)

Bremerton Car & Passenger Ferry schedule  (60 minutes crossing* – daily)

* There is no fare collected or ticket required for the return leg to Seattle by walk-on passengers (passengers with vehicles pay for both legs).

Check out WA State Dept. of Transportation on Social

Alaska cruise ships board at pier 66 (april to october).

Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66.

Find Cruise Ship Schedule at Port of Seattle Cruising Portal

Please note that  cruise ships also use the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91, which is a 10-15 minute drive from Pier 66 depending on traffic.  The closest hotels to Pier 66 are the Seattle Marriott Waterfront Hotel and the Edgewater Hotel.

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WATERFRONT DINING OPTIONS

Clam chowder | fine dining | seafood specialists  | lunch | breakfast | casual dining | indoor seating | outdoor seating | counter service | private dining & groups | olympic view terraces & patios | kids menus | hot dogs & ice cream | baked goods | caffeine | tv screens | revolving | brunch, – clam chowder –.

Ivar’s Fish Bar on Pier 54 ( menu )

Ivar’s Acres of Clams on Pier 54 ( menu )

Elliott’s Oyster House on Pier 56 ( menu )

The Crab Pot at Miner’s Landing on Pier 57 ( menu )

The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar at Miner’s Landing on Pier 57 ( menu )

Anthony’s Fish Bar on Pier 66 – open seasonally ( menu )

Anthony’s Bell Street Diner on Pier 66 ( menu )

Anthony’s Pier 66 – upstairs dining room ( menu )

Six Seven at the Edgewater on Pier 67 ( menu )

AQUA by El Gaucho on Pier 70 ( menu )

– Fine Dining –

– seafood specialists –.

Ivar’s Fish Bar on Pier 54 ( menu )

– Lunch –

Premier Meat Pies & Brews on Pier 54 ( menu )

Great State Burger on Pier 54 ( menu )

Skalka across from Pier 54 ( menu )

The Wing Dome on Pier 56 ( menu )

Alaskan Sourdough Bakery at Miner’s Landing on Pier 57 ( menu )

Pub 70 on Pier 70 ( menu )

– Breakfast –

Starbucks on Pier 55

Hook & Plow at the Marriott across from Bell Harbor Marina

Cafe Opla across from Pier 66 ( menu )

– Casual Dining –

– indoor seating –, – outdoor seating –.

Ivar’s Fish Bar on Pier 54 year-round ( menu )

– Counter Service –

The Salmon Cooker at Miner’s Landing on Pier 57

– Private Dining & Groups –

Diane’s Market Kitchen across from Pier 54 ( menu )

– Olympic View Terraces & Patios –

– kid menus –, – hot dogs & ice cream –.

The Frankfurter on Pier 55

The Creamery Ice Cream Shop at Miner’s Landing on Pier 57

– Baked Goods –

Aquarium Café at Pier 59 (Seattle Aquarium)

The Brim Coffee Shop at the Edgewater on Pier 67

– Caffeine –

Uptown Espresso on Pier 70

– TV Screens –

The lounge at Ivar’s Acres of Clams on Pier 54 ( menu )

– Revolving –

Enjoy a meal served in your own private gondola with up to three other people as you rise 200 feet above Elliott Bay on the Seattle Great Wheel at Pier 57.

– Brunch –

Please see Breakfast & Lunch options above.

Seattle’s 10 Best Boat Tours for Unmatched Views and Unforgettable Adventures

One of the most unique things about Seattle is its abundance of waterways. Besides its direct connection to the Pacific Ocean, Seattle is surrounded by a bounty of lakes, bays, and islands to explore via ferry, cruise, or boat tour .

With so much to explore, it can be hard to narrow down the best places and ways to see the beauty Seattle has to offer. Below is a list of 10 of the best boat tours and cruises that simultaneously allow guests to take in the views of Seattle’s waters while having a unique and fun time with family and friends.

The 10 Best Boat Tours from Seattle

Here are 10 of our favorite boat tours from Seattle:

• Argosy Cruises : The biggest fleet in the Pacific Northwest
• Boat Tours Seattle : Unique boats available for rental
• Sailing Seattle : 70-foot sailboat rides with a view of downtown
• Seattle’s Tall Ship : Going even bigger! An 85-foot boat that gives tours of Elliott Bay
• Soundview Sunset Cruises : Morning, mid-day, and afternoon cruises of Union Bay and beyond. Soundview has tons of options for seeing Seattle from the water.
• Emerald City Pirates : Pirate-themed cruises!
• Waterways Cruises And Events: Dinner and drink pairing cruises and more
• Seattle Water Tours : Seasonal ice cream cruises
• Steamer Virginia V Cruises : Cruise aboard a historic landmark
• Lake Union Charters & Adventures: Ride a 1926 schooner

1. Argosy Cruises

One of the longest-running boat cruises available in the Seattle area, Argosy Cruises offers cruise tours that explore the beauty and history of the city of Seattle, complete with a full-service bar. Argosy Cruises also boasts the largest fleet in the Pacific Northwest , which in combination with their 70 years of service makes them one of the most trustworthy cruise companies in the state.

Argosy Cruises offers a 1-hour Harbor Cruise and 2-hour Locks Cruise option for passengers to choose from. Their boats can also be reserved for corporate events as well as weddings. Additionally, they also have happy hour cruises that combine the stellar views with tasty drinks and special sales for holidays like the 4th of July.

2. Boat Tours Seattle

With a unique fleet where every boat is different, Boat Tours of Seattle i s spearheaded by a group of United States Coast Guard Captains who are dedicated to using their skills to provide some of the safest and most enjoyable experiences on the water. From 2 hour tours to overnight adventures, Boat Tours Seattle is one of the most unique boat tours available in Seattle.

Each boat has its own special features and pricing. From smaller motor boats to full-blown sail boats, passengers can pick and choose their type of tour and the setting. Boat Tours Seattle has multiple tour packages as well, including rent-by-the-hour tours, special event tours, and overnight adventures. Check out the picture above, which shows their Metlite Boat. As you can tell, it’s a pretty unique experience!

3. Sailing Seattle

Featured in National Geographic, Conde Nast Traveler , Trip Advisor, and more, Sailing Seattle is a sailing-themed boat tour company that allows passengers to enjoy a sailing experience without having to steer or be involved in a guided tour. Hop aboard one of their two 70-foot sailing yachts and enjoy the views without any worries. Each boat is complete with a seating area on the deck, bench seating, and restrooms that guests can utilize while they explore Elliott Bay.

Sailing Seattle is an all-ages experience, including children and infants. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks as well, including alcohol. Passengers can even learn to help sail the boat by simply asking the deckhand or captain, who will then provide instructions. Each route aboard one of their yachts is unique as their routes are determined by wind direction and boat traffic that day. 

4. Seattle’s Tall Ship

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seattle’s Tall Ship (@seattlestallship)

Offering 3 public sailing tours every day, Seattle’s Tall Ship runs all of its tours aboard the Bay Lady, an 85-foot tall sailing ship that currently resides in Elliott Bay. The ship is equipped with bathrooms, a drink and snack bar, and outdoor seating for guests. Apart from their daily tours, Seattle’s Tall Ship also has private charter tours and sunset sailing tours. 

Run by a skilled captain and crew, guests do not have to worry about steering when aboard the Bay Lady. Guests of all ages are welcome to enjoy one of their daily 2-hour tours or partake in an evening sunset tour complete with delicious drinks. The Bay Lady is available for reservation for private events for up to 6 hours at a time for events like weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, and much more.

5. Soundview Sunset Cruises

Here’s a great choice for boating options! Want to cruise to a University of Washington football game and “sailgate” ( that’s tailgating on a sailboat )? Well, Soundview has sailgate cruises.

They have mansion cruises, morning cruises, mid-day cruises, afternoon cruises, and much more.

Home of the yacht known as Rainbird, Soundview Sunset Cruises showcases the views, landmarks, and history of Lake Union in addition to Portage Bay, Lake Washington, and Seattle Locks. Most famous for their sunset cruise views, they also have morning, mid-day, and afternoon cruises so passengers can enjoy Seattle in all of its beautiful and scenic forms.

In addition to their daily cruises, Soundview Sunset Cruises has holiday cruises, UW sailgate cruises for sporting events, and custom cruises. They even have a boat tour showcasing some of Seattle’s gorgeous mansions. Custom tours can refine their route for specific locations or special occasions. Passengers can also add things to their tour package, such as drinks.

6. Emerald City Pirates

One of the most unique water experiences available in Seattle comes in the form of a fully interactive pirate-themed ship. Known as the Queen Anne’s Revenge, the ship is the home of themed boat tours of the area, treasure hunts for families, and adult only parties, all complete with pirate flags and costumed crew.

Emerald City Pirates is for all ages, even babies. Dogs under 25 pounds are also allowed on board provided they are well-behaved. All tours come with snacks, water, soft drinks, beer, and cider for sale, as well as a ship store full of hats, swords, eyepatches, and more. Passengers can join tours without reservations, but for events like birthday parties or other private boat charters, it is best to make reservations ahead of time. Party cruises can be booked for either families or adults only.

7. Waterways Cruises And Events

From dinner and drink pairing cruises to private events and holiday tours, Waterways Cruises And Events has a boat tour for every occasion. They regularly offer dinner cruises, weekend brunch cruises, and Sunday dinner buffet cruises. All of these cruises are complete with either a buffet or a plated dinner with roughly 2 hours of time on the water, making it a fabulous way to take in the views while spending time with friends or loved ones.

In addition to their regularly hosted tours, there is no shortage of special cruises throughout the year. Holidays like the 4th of July and Father’s Day come with special pricing, events, and food, from brunches and dinners to party cruises. They also have karaoke night cruises and drag brunches for Pride Month and miscellaneous special tasting events for breweries, chocolate and wine pairings, and spirits sampling.

If you’re looking for something to do during Seafair (held in early August), Waterways Cruises is a top option.

8. Seattle Water Tours

Known for their seasonal summer ice cream cruises, Seattle Water Tours takes passengers to historic sites on Lake Union aboard the Fremont Avenue. Throughout the year they offer special event cruises for holidays, sports events, and more. Guests can book the Fremont Avenue for private charters for birthdays, weddings, corporate events, and more.

Seattle Water Tours’ Sunday Ice Cream Cruise is their most popular cruise, which runs from March through October. They also offer it on Saturdays from June to August. Each ice cream cruise is walk-ons only with no reservations or advance tickets available. Every cruise hosts up to 42 passengers and serves ice cream while showcasing local landmarks and history, such as the Boeing Company, a 100-year-old shipyard, the busiest drawbridge in the world, and more.

9. Steamer Virginia V Cruises

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Steamer Virginia V Foundation (@steamervirginiavfoundation)

As the name implies, the Steamer Virginia V Cruises is a historic boat tour aboard the Steamer Virginia V, which is a nearly 100-year-old steam-powered wooden ship. These tours simultaneously serve as a great way for passengers to explore the local area and to learn more about maritime history. It is also a great way to keep one of the most iconic historical ships of Seattle functioning for generations to experience and enjoy.

Passengers can enjoy public cruises, educational tours, and special events aboard the Steamer Virginia V for 9 months out of the whole year. Guests can rent the ship for private charters, like weddings, parties, fundraisers, corporate events, and more, either as a dockside rental or a leisure cruise. Private charters all come with a 3-hour rent time and come with tables, seating, speakers, microphone, projector, and more. Guests can then bring any cutlery, plates, food, and drink as needed for their celebration through Lake Union, Elliott Bay, or the Ballard Locks.

10. Lake Union Charters & Adventures

Lake Union Charters & Adventures has a number of options. There are Lake Union Cruises, private sailings, sailing battles, and even lessons. One big reason to look into Lake Union Charters? They have a 63-foot schooner named the Lavengro, which can accommodate up to 22 people. It’s beautiful and can be chartered for all kinds of sailings ranging from nights out to family events and sunset sails.

Hi, I'm Ashleigh! Welcome to Seattle Travel, my little piece of beautiful PNW. This is home and I'm here to share all my experiences so visitors and locals alike can find the best experiences this part of the country has to offer. I started Seattle Travel in 2012 as a way to journal my experiences and over the years have been encouraged by family and friends to open up my adventures to everyone. I actively seek out the best food, activities, and day trips and give you a local perspective.  The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful areas in the world and my goal is to let you explore it to the fullest. 

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Seattle Sailing Tours

When visiting Seattle, you most definitely want to take a sailing tour. Whether you are visiting Seattle with your partner, family, or friends, you can find a sailing tour that works for you. Keep in mind what you are looking for. Do you want a sunset cruise? Or are you looking for a day trip to take your family on?

Best Harbor Sailing Tours in Seattle, WA

Seattle harbor cruise .

One great option if you are looking to take a quick trip is the Seattle Harbor Cruise. An hour round trip, on this sailing tour, you will be able to get a view of the city from Elliot Bay. Additionally, with a narrator and a guide, you will be able to learn a ton about Seattle’s historic waterfront. Also, from the ship, you can see the Cascade mountains, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountain range – all breathtaking views. 

Suppose you want to book a trip with the Seattle Harbor Cruise. Not only will you be able to see the mountainous coast, but the cruise will take you past other famous destinations like the Seattle Great Wheel, the Space Needle, the Seattle Aquarium, and more. You can find Seattle Harbor Cruise on Pier 55, Alaska Way. Kids ages three and under ride free but do need a boarding pass. So get started and plan your trip to the Seattle Waterfront today – your entire family will love it! 

Seattle Locks Cruise

Looking for a way to see both Lake Union and Puget Sound? Then book a trip with the Seattle Locks Cruise. Another one of the best Seattle Harbor Sailing Tours, Seattle Locks Cruise, takes you through the Ballard Locks and can be taken for a tour or even just as public transportation. The cruise is one-way and takes riders from the Seattle Waterfront to the AGC Marina on South Lake Union (or vice versa – depending on the time of day). 

On this cruise, you will also see the floating community where Sleepless in Seattle was filmed while getting an eclectic view of the Seattle Skyline. If you take the entirety of the two-hour cruise, you will NOT be disappointed! Departing from Pier 54 or AGC Marine on Lake Union, you should expect to learn, laugh, and enjoy. Operating all year round, be sure to check out the Seattle Locks Cruise! 

Half-Day Guided Tour | Seattle City and Snoqualmie Falls 

See more than just the city with this half-day guided tour. Begin your tour at Pike Place Market and get picked up. Then, your tour will begin with a trip through Pioneer Square to CenturyLink Field, then to T-Mobile Park, and later, you will enter Snoqualmie Falls. 

When entering Snoqualmie Falls, you will get an up-close view of the Cascade Foothills, the Snoqualmie Falls, and other fantastic destinations like Fremont. Depending on the time of year you visit, there are other stops, including at Fishermen’s Terminal and the Ballard Locks. And lastly, regardless of what time of year you visit, the tour will pass through Kerry Park – one of the most picturesque viewpoints in the Seattle area. Leaving at 10 am and returning to Pike Place Market at 2, this tour will take up the day. Be sure to dress appropriately for changing weather conditions, and do not forget to get tickets for the entire family. Serving for years as one of the best-guided tours of Seattle, you will not want to miss this trip! 

Salish Sea Tours 

Salish Sea Tours are an excellent way to see the city of Seattle and its surrounding landscapes while learning more about the Indigenous people that shaped the land we live on today. Native-owned and designed, this sailing tour offers the history of the city of Seattle while also showcasing artists, historians, and landmarks. 

Including dancers, drummers, food, and live music, all attendees can enjoy the tour on Orca One – the name of the catamarans that the tours operate on. The boat ride itself is a sight to see with fantastic views of the cascades that are accompanied by informative narration. Additionally, with this tour in particular, you will have a vibrant experience – filled with laughter, dancing, and a ton of fantastic views. Take the 1-hour cruise and see the custom-designed catamaran that will make your trip around Seattle even more magic. 

Evening Colors Sunset Sailing Tour 

There is nothing quite more beautiful than the Seattle skyline at sunset. So, if you want to experience Seattle’s Waterfront at dusk, the Evening Colors Sunset Sailing Tour will be perfect for you. Especially if you are looking for a romantic sailing tour, this particular tour is one of the best options in the entire city, as it offers drinks, food, and open-deck seating. 

Lasting about two hours, with this sunset sailing tour, you will see the entirety of the Seattle Waterfront as the sun slowly sets over the city. Raising sails and allowing the sea to push the ship towards the Puget Sound mountains, this sunset tour is incredibly calming, romantic, and of course – memorable. Plan the perfect date or evening with friends and book tickets for the Evening Colors Sunset Sailing Tour at Seattle’s Tall Ship . 

With its breathtaking views, history, and culture, the Seattle Waterfront has a lot to offer. Therefore, if you are looking for the best Seattle Harbor Sailing Tours, you are in the right place. For more tips and trip ideas, check out our blog. We have all of the tourism tips, tricks, and information you need… plus more! 

Works Cited: 

• https://www.viator.com/tours/Seattle/Seattle-Harbor-Cruise/d704-2960HARBOR
• https://www.viator.com/tours/Seattle/Seattle-Locks-Cruise-One-way-Stay-and-Play/d704-2960P11
• https://www.viator.com/tours/Seattle/Snoqualmie-Falls-and-Seattle-City-Tour/d704-7265P1
• https://ictnews.org/news/salish-sea-tours-launch
• https://seattlesailingship.com/seattle-sunset-sailing-tour/

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• Locks Cruise
• Sightseeing Cruises

Best Value! Over 120 years of Seattle history in 120 minutes

Get double the sightseeing on our Locks Cruise! Venture beyond the waterfront and explore three Seattle neighborhoods in a one- way trip on the Locks Cruise! This fully narrated tour provides you with knowledge, fun facts, and the one of kind experience of going through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks . Become the attraction to those on shore as the vessel transitions from salt to fresh water! Who wouldn’t want to take a ride on the boat elevator?

Your experience includes:

• One-way trip through the Hiram M. Chittenden (Ballard) Locks aka the ‘Boat Elevator’
• Live, full narration with facts about Seattle history and industry
• Up-close views of large fishing vessels, seaplanes, floating home communities
• Coverage of multiple Seattle neighborhoods and well known attractions like Gas Works Park and the Space Needle
• Full-service bar on board with cocktails, local wine and beer, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks available for purchase

* In-person/walk up ticket sales available at our AGC boarding location Friday through Monday*

CityPASS® reservations:  First,  purchase CityPASS® tickets online for immediate mobile ticket delivery. Next,  redeem CityPASS® tickets online to reserve your visit date & time and receive your Harbor Cruise boarding pass.  LEARN MORE about saving 48% off a Locks Cruise plus 4 more top Seattle attractions with  Seattle CityPASS® tickets .

Groups of 20 or more: Purchase  group tickets (Minimum 20) on the Locks Cruise and save

Trip Protection/Refund Policy: Receive a full refund on the value of your cruise until 48 hours before departure when you add on Trip Protection. Learn more

Washington state residents: Save up to $4 on your next visit! Reservations can be made online or in person. A valid, state issued ID must be shown during boarding.

The Locks Cruise is a one-way trip that ends at a different location than it starts – Pier 54 on the Seattle Waterfront or AGC Marina on Lake Union. Take the opportunity to further explore after your trip! If you aren’t feeling up to it, choose to take multiple modes of transportation back to your original departure location.

Head to our Transportation page below for resources, ideas, and tips on planning out your Locks Cruise sailing!

Transportation Page

• Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
• Space Needle
• Olympic Sculpture Park
• The Great Wheel
• Location in the movie “10 Things I Hate About You”
• Kenmore Sea Planes
• Iconic floating home in the movie “Sleepless in Seattle”
• Historical Bridges, pass under the Fremont and Ballard bridges
• Full-service bar –  Sip on local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages like a margarita in the summer and hot cocoas in the winter. No outside food or beverage allowed onboard.
• Variety of local snacks –  Purchase from a menu of delicious pre-packaged sandwiches, salads and snacks.
• Indoor/Outdoor seating –  Whether you enjoy the breeze through your hair or like to stay cozy, you have the choice of indoor or outdoor seating
• Restrooms –  All of our vessels are equipped with gender specific, gender neutral or single stall restrooms
• ADA accessibility –  Our crew is trained to help guests with wheelchairs, strollers, scooters, etc. to navigate our docks, vessels and facilities. For specific ADA questions, please call our office at 206.623.1445

DEPARTURE INFORMATION

The Locks Cruise departs from either the Seattle Waterfront or the AGC Marina in South Lake Union . Please check boarding confirmation for boarding location.

Parking Info

Map Legend:

Red = Cruise Route

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Cruise route is approximate and can change based on each sailing’s weather patterns, vessel traffic, and other non-predictable factors, and based on our experienced captains’ discretion. Seating on board our vessels is first-come, first-served and will begin 20 minutes prior to departure. Vessel available on the day of your sailing may vary.

No outside food or drink allowed onboard.

Before you depart:

1 Book your reservations

2 E-pass or print at home

3 Board your vessel