Seattle, with its stunning waterfront, lush surroundings, and diverse scenic beauty, offers visitors a chance to experience the city from a unique perspective: the water. Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to explore or a tourist wanting to see Seattle from a different angle, there are plenty of boat tours and cruises to choose from. Here’s an in-depth guide to the best boat experiences in Seattle.
1. Argosy Cruises: A Classic Seattle Boat Tour Experience
Argosy Cruises is one of Seattle’s most well-known boat tour operators, offering a variety of scenic cruises around Puget Sound. Whether you’re interested in a short sightseeing trip or a more leisurely cruise, Argosy offers something for everyone.
Lake Union Tour: This 1-hour tour explores Lake Union, where you’ll get a front-row seat to spectacular views of Seattle’s skyline, including the Space Needle. The tour takes you past picturesque houseboats (including the famous “Sleepless in Seattle” houseboat) and provides fascinating facts about the city’s history, as well as the architectural beauty of some of Seattle’s most iconic buildings. For those interested in the history of Seattle’s tech scene, you can even glimpse the innovative houseboats and floating homes that reflect the city’s ever-changing character.
Locks Cruise: A 2-hour cruise that takes you through the Ballard Locks—an engineering marvel that connects Puget Sound to Lake Washington. Along the way, you’ll see beautiful views of the Ballard and Magnolia neighborhoods, and there’s the chance to observe various wildlife, including salmon migrating through the fish ladder. This tour is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in maritime engineering.
Sunset Cruise: For a more romantic or relaxing experience, the Sunset Cruise is perfect. It provides a peaceful evening tour where you can witness breathtaking views of the city at sunset. The tour also includes refreshments and live commentary, ensuring that you can unwind and take in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest as the sun sets behind the skyline.
2. Seattle Boat Tours & Rentals: Private Tours for a Personalized Experience
For a more customized and private boating experience, Seattle Boat Tours & Rentals is an excellent choice. Their tours are designed to give you an intimate view of the city’s waterways, with the option to either rent a boat and go at your own pace or enjoy a guided tour.
Private Yacht Charters: Ideal for those looking for a luxurious, private experience, private yacht charters allow you to explore Puget Sound, Lake Union, and surrounding islands in style. Depending on the charter you choose, you could be treated to gourmet meals, onboard amenities, and a personalized itinerary that includes scenic stops or hidden gems around the Sound. Whether it’s a special celebration or a relaxing day on the water, this option offers the ultimate in comfort and flexibility.
Guided Sightseeing Tours: For those who prefer a knowledgeable guide, these private tours offer a more in-depth exploration of Seattle’s landmarks. As you cruise through Elliott Bay and Lake Union, your guide will provide historical context and point out important sites like Gas Works Park, the Space Needle, and the city’s famous houseboats. This is a great option for people interested in the history and culture of Seattle.
3. Seattle Water Taxi: Scenic and Affordable Ride to West Seattle
The Seattle Water Taxi offers a short but scenic ride from downtown Seattle to West Seattle. The water taxi is a quick and affordable way to get across Elliott Bay, but it’s also a wonderful way to take in the stunning views of the Puget Sound, the Seattle skyline, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
Quick Ride with Big Views: The water taxi ride takes only about 10 minutes, but the views along the way are worth every second. You’ll be able to take in views of Seattle’s downtown, the Space Needle, and the surrounding islands, all from the comfort of a ferry-style boat.
West Seattle Exploration: Once you arrive in West Seattle, you’re within walking distance of some of the city’s best beaches, parks, and dining options. Alki Beach is a popular destination, offering views of the Seattle skyline, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.
4. Washington State Ferries: A Scenic Ride to Bainbridge Island
Although not technically a boat tour, taking the Washington State Ferry to Bainbridge Island is a must-do experience in Seattle. This iconic ferry ride takes you across Puget Sound and offers some of the best views of Seattle’s skyline and the natural beauty surrounding the city.
A Scenic 35-Minute Ride: The ferry ride itself lasts about 35 minutes, giving passengers time to enjoy panoramic views of the Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier in the distance. It’s a perfect way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region, especially during sunset when the views are truly spectacular.
Exploring Bainbridge Island: Once you reach Bainbridge Island, you’ll have the chance to explore charming shops, restaurants, and parks. It’s a peaceful and picturesque place to spend a few hours or an entire day.
5. Puget Sound Dinner Cruises: Dining with a View
For an unforgettable evening out, a dinner cruise on Puget Sound offers the perfect combination of scenic beauty and fine dining. Several operators provide luxurious dinner cruises, allowing guests to enjoy a multi-course meal while taking in stunning views of Seattle and the surrounding islands.
Royal Argosy Dinner Cruise: One of the most popular options for a dinner cruise in Seattle, the Royal Argosy Dinner Cruise offers a 2-hour dining experience with breathtaking views of the city, the Space Needle, and the waterfront. The cruise features a three-course meal, live music, and attentive service, making it an ideal option for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Bates Beach Cruises: For those looking for a more intimate dining experience, Bates Beach Cruises offers luxury dinner cruises with gourmet meals, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for a sunset dinner or a celebratory evening with friends or loved ones.
6. Seaplane Tours: A Unique View of Seattle
If you’re looking to explore Seattle from the air, Kenmore Air offers seaplane tours of the city. These tours give you a completely different perspective of the region’s natural beauty.
Aerial Views of Iconic Landmarks: These tours offer an incredible view of the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, Lake Washington, and the Olympic Mountains. The seaplane lands and takes off directly from the water, adding an extra layer of adventure to the experience.
Personalized Tours: You can customize the tour to include specific landmarks or areas you want to see, making this a highly personalized way to experience Seattle from above.
7. Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals: Hands-On Exploration of Seattle’s Waterways
For a more active way to explore Seattle’s waterways, renting a kayak or paddleboard is a fantastic option. Several rental companies, like Waterways Cruises & Rentals and Seattle Kayak Rentals, provide access to some of the city’s most scenic areas.
Lake Union and Lake Washington: These bodies of water are perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Kayaking around Lake Union offers views of the Space Needle, Gas Works Park, and houseboats, while Lake Washington provides a more serene experience with views of Mount Rainier.
Rentals and Guided Tours: Whether you’re exploring on your own or with a guided tour, kayaking and paddleboarding provide a unique way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest from a more intimate perspective.
8. Seattle Harbor Tours: Discovering the Working Waterfront
Seattle’s Harbor Tour offers a fascinating look at the working harbor, where you’ll learn about the city’s maritime history and industry.
Harbor Tour: This 1-hour tour takes you through Seattle’s bustling waterfront, where you’ll see commercial ships, cargo terminals, and fishing boats in action. Your guide will provide interesting facts about Seattle’s port operations, making it an educational and exciting experience for visitors of all ages.
Elliott Bay Tour: For a longer tour, the Elliott Bay Tour ventures further out into Puget Sound, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and islands. This tour is ideal for those looking to experience Seattle’s maritime industry as well as its natural beauty.
9. Private Boat Rentals: Explore at Your Own Pace
For those who want to explore Seattle at their own pace, private boat rentals are a fantastic option. Whether you’re looking for a small motorboat or a luxury yacht, there are rental options for every budget and group size.
Flexible Exploration: Renting a boat gives you the freedom to design your own itinerary, from leisurely cruises around Lake Union to more adventurous explorations of Puget Sound.
Affordable and Accessible: Private boat rentals are available for hourly or full-day rentals, making them accessible to a variety of budgets. Whether you’re planning a special celebration or simply want a relaxing day on the water, renting a boat is a great option for those who want flexibility and privacy.
Conclusion
Seattle’s boat tours and cruises offer an incredible way to experience the city’s stunning waterfront, vibrant neighborhoods, and surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner cruise, a scenic water taxi ride, or an exciting seaplane tour, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the water in Seattle. Explore the best of the Pacific Northwest with one of these unforgettable boat tours!