harbor cruises seattle washington

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• About this activity

Harbor Cruise of Elliott Bay & Seattle Skyline

• Free cancellation available
• Printed Voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Seattle’s Original Harbor Cruise, since 1949
• Live narration with facts about Seattle sights and history
• Great photo opportunities of Seattle skyline and attractions
• Sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound
• Up-close views of Port of Seattle container shipping port

Activity location

• 1101 Alaskan Way
• 98101, Seattle, Washington, United States of America

Meeting/Redemption Point

• 1101 Alaskan Way Pier 55
• Sat, Jun 8 $45
• Sun, Jun 9 $45
• Mon, Jun 10 $45
• Tue, Jun 11 $45
• Wed, Jun 12 $45
• Thu, Jun 13 $45
• Fri, Jun 14 $45
• Sat, Jun 15 $45
• Sun, Jun 16 $45
• Mon, Jun 17 $45
• Tue, Jun 18 $45
• Wed, Jun 19 $45
• Thu, Jun 20 $45
• Fri, Jun 21 $45
• Sat, Jun 22 $45
• Activity duration is 1 hour 1h 1h

One hour harbor cruise with live commentary in English

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included 1 hour cruise around Elliott Bay and Seattle Harbor
• What's included What's included Live tour commentary provided in English
• What's excluded What's excluded Food and beverages available for purchase

Know before you book

• General seating - check-in is 30 minutes prior to the tour start time
• All vessels have both indoor/outdoor seating and restrooms
• Kids 3 years and under are free, but do require a boarding pass
• No outside food or beverages permitted
• This activity is wheelchair accessible - based on advanced notice

What you can expect

This is the Seattle sightseeing cruise that started it all! During this 1-hour, fully narrated cruise, you'll see all of the beauty and history that Seattle has to offer. From the skyline to the shipping port, there's a view everyone will enjoy.

Cruise along Seattle’s historic waterfront, with seemingly never-ending views of the city skyline and the Space Needle, the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier (weather permitting), the waters of Elliott Bay and Puget Sound, Seattle's container shipping port, and so much more.

Your vessel will feature and enclosed lower deck with an open upper sun deck and has a bar onboard with snacks and beverages available for purchase.

Cleaning and safety practices

Enhanced cleanliness measures.

• Vehicles and venues cleaned with disinfectants
• High-touch surfaces cleaned and disinfected

Social distancing

• Contactless ticket redemption

Safety measures

• Hand sanitizer provided
• Masks provided
• Individually wrapped food options available

• 206-829-9267

• Hop-On Hop-Off
• Guided Tours
• LIVE HOP-ON MAP

Discover Seattle

• Ballard Locks
• Chinatown International District
• Gas Works Park
• Historic Seattle Waterfront
• Lake Union Park
• Mount Rainier
• Olympic Sculpture Park
• Pike Place Market
• JOIN OUR TEAM

Harbor Cruise + Hop-On Hop-Off

• What’s Included

ABOUT THIS TOUR

Soak up the relaxing views of Seattle’s waterfront on this 1-hour harbor cruise. Chartered by Argosy Cruises, you will experience the Emerald City in a whole new way while learning about the Port of Seattle’s long history. Witness Puget Sound’s natural beauty and take plenty of pictures with your group. In addition to your harbor cruise, this package includes a 24 or 48-hour Hop-On Hop-Off pass. With this ticket in hand, you can explore Seattle from land by stopping at 17 iconic places around the city. After you visit the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Edgewater Hotel, stop by Pike Brewery for 10% off a treat.

What's Included

• You’ll get to see Seattle from the land and sea with this Harbor Cruise and Hop-On Hop-Off Tour bundle.
• Experience the hustle and bustle of the famous Seattle waterfront and learn more about its past (courtesy of Argosy Cruises).
• Move around the city with a 24-hour or 48-hour Hop On Hop Off pass. Our buses have 17 stops in front of several iconic Seattle landmarks.
• Get in touch with Seattle’s roots as you explore the city via sea and land. Discover well-known locations and hidden gems as a group or on your own — whatever works best for you!
• Benefit from Gray Line Seattle’s business partnerships and get 10% off meals and drinks at local restaurants.

Must See Seattle Hop-On Hop-Off

Don’t miss out on any of seattle’s famous landmarks.

Our Must See Seattle Hop-On Hop-Off is a fun and flexible way to see the best of the city! With our 24 or 48-hour ticket, you’ll get unlimited access to all of the highlights available on our route —a total of 17 stops!

(First tour starts at 10:00 am, last pick-ups of the day start at 4:00 or 5:00 pm – season dependent)

1 : SPACE NEEDLE

2 : frs clipper, 3 : edgewater hotel, 4: pier 66 - cruise terminal, 5: pier 55 - argosy cruises, 6 : pioneer & occidental square, 7 : historic chinatown gate, 8 : panama hotel & tea house, 9 : sky view observatory, 10 : seattle library, 11 : seattle convention center, 12: pike place market, 13 : pike brewing company, 14: seattle art museum, 15 : seattle waterfront at pier 55, 16 : the original starbucks @ pike place market, 17: amazon spheres, frequently asked questions (faqs).

At this time, all tours are conducted in English.

You will get off the bus at Stop #5. Argosy Cruise is located right next door at Pier 55.

To give you the most bang for your buck, we have based pricing for our Hop-On Hop-Off service on hours rather than days. For example, if you purchase a 24-hour pass and Hop-On at 3:00 pm, your ticket will remain valid until 2:59 pm of the next day!

Yes, all vessels are equipped with single-stall restrooms.

It is highly unlikely that you will get seasick. Our tour boats sail in the calm waters of Elliott Bay’s inner harbor and the protected waters of Lake Union and Lake Washington. Since they never go out onto the open ocean, you likely will not even feel the boat rocking.

Yes. As larger vessels, these boats can accommodate wheelchairs, strollers, and scooters up to 41” wide. There is also an accessible restroom onboard. Note, though, that Pier 55 is a floating dock that moves with the tide.

Yes! All vessels are fully enclosed and climate-controlled. The tour will happen rain or shine!

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Seattle: Harbor Cruise

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Seattle Sailing Tours

Seattle Harbor Sailing Tours

More than just a boat tour…

Our Seattle sailing tours are a perfect family-friendly activity for a beautiful sunny afternoon. We will set the sails, turn off the engine and experience the romance of traditional sailing. Our sailboat, with its comfortable seats, two restrooms and high perimeter railing makes for a perfect boat ride for sailors of all ages!

The tours route is powered by the wind, but no matter the direction we sail the views of Seattle Icons such as the Space Needle, Smith Tower, and city skyline are nothing short of breathtaking! With clear conditions, we have the best mountain views, providing spectacular photos of Mount Rainier!

The sea life during a harbor cruise is always a mysterious delight! With a little luck we’ll see some harbor seals, and maybe even get to do some whale watching! No matter what mother nature provides, we always know how to have fun on our Seattle sailboat tours! Will you have a drink from our onboard bar? Will you get involved in hoisting the sails? Maybe we will even go full pirate ship and fire the cannon during your cruise!

Looking to add a little romance to your sailboat ride? Make sure to check out our sunset sailing tour ! Have an upcoming event? Our private sailing charters have got you covered.

• 2-hour duration, with multiple afternoon departures daily.
• Beverages are available to purchase on every boat ride.
• We recommend bringing an extra layer (such as a light jacket), sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Don’t forget a camera! The photography from our boat tour is always spectacular!
• Pricing: Tickets start at $45 for adults / $35 for children (ages 2-12). Infants (under 2) always $1

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• Parking & Directions
• (888) 623-1445
• 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

Seasonal Return Bus is back! Now make your Locks Cruise experience round-trip by adding on the City Sightseeing Return Bus to your purchase at checkout

* 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 Seattle Locks Cruise offers a detailed, narrated journey through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, providing a unique perspective on over a century of the city’s maritime history. This one-way tour showcases three distinct Seattle neighborhoods, immersing passengers in the vibrant cultures and scenic landscapes from the water’s edge. The full-service narration enriches the experience, blending entertainment with educational insights, making the cruise appealing for both history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

Passengers aboard the cruise can expect to witness a variety of maritime activities, including the close-up views of fishing vessels and seaplanes. The journey through the locks is not only a visual delight but also an engineering marvel, offering an in-depth look at the operational aspects of the locks which manage the water levels between Puget Sound and the inland freshwater bodies.

Moreover, the onboard amenities enhance the cruising experience. A full-service bar and a selection of local snacks are available, catering to all tastes and preferences. Indoor and outdoor seating options provide comfortable vantage points for all passengers, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience. The cruise is accessible, with ADA compliance for those with special needs, making it an inclusive attraction for all visitors.

Historical Significance

Exploring the historical significance of the Seattle Locks Cruise, it becomes evident that this attraction offers beyond a scenic journey—it serves as a living museum that captures the essence of Seattle’s maritime heritage. The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, completed in 1917, are not only crucial for managing the water levels between the saltwater of Puget Sound and the freshwater of Lakes Union and Washington but have also stood as a proof of engineering ingenuity. This essential infrastructure was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and has since facilitated the passage of around 50,000 vessels each year, showcasing a pivotal element in Seattle’s economic development and maritime history.

The locks’ role extends beyond mere functionality; they have helped prevent saltwater intrusion, preserving the delicate ecological balance necessary for the local aquatic life. Additionally, as part of the cruise, passengers witness the operational mechanics of the locks, offering them a direct link to understanding the complexities and challenges of early 20th-century engineering projects. This immersive experience not only educates but also connects visitors with the historical narrative of Seattle, highlighting the city’s evolution from a fledgling port to a bustling urban center.

Onboard Experience

While cruising through the historic Seattle locks, passengers enjoy a range of onboard amenities designed to enhance their experience. The Locks Cruise offers a unique blend of comfort, entertainment, and scenic beauty, ensuring that every moment on board is memorable. From the moment passengers step onto the vessel, they’re greeted with a hospitable environment that caters to all ages and preferences.

The cruise features several key amenities:

• Full-Service Bar: Offering local beverages, the bar is a perfect spot to relax while enjoying the views. Passengers can choose from a variety of craft beers, regional wines, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.
• Variety of Local Snacks: Complementing the beverage selection, the cruise provides a range of snacks sourced locally. Whether you’re craving sweet or savory, there’s a snack to satisfy every palate.
• Comfortable Seating Options: The vessel is equipped with both indoor and outdoor seating. Indoors, guests can enjoy climate-controlled comfort, while outdoor seating offers fresh air and unobstructed views of the Seattle skyline and the operation of the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks.

These amenities are thoughtfully designed to enhance the educational and leisure aspects of the Seattle Locks Cruise, making it a preferred choice for both tourists and locals.

Booking and Tickets

Booking your Seattle Locks Cruise tickets in advance is strongly advised to secure availability. There are several booking options available to cater to different preferences and needs. Tickets can be purchased online, which is convenient and enables you to select a specific date and time for your cruise, ensuring your spot is reserved ahead of your visit.

Additionally, if you’re looking to save on multiple attractions, consider the CityPASS®. It offers a 48% savings on popular Seattle attractions. Group Tickets are also available for parties of 20 or more, making it an ideal choice for larger gatherings like family reunions or corporate events.

For last-minute planners, limited tickets might be available at either our Waterfront or AGC Marina in South Lake Union boarding locations. However, availability cannot be guaranteed, and options may be restricted compared to pre-booking. 

Trip Protection is available for purchase, offering a full refund up to 48 hours before departure, providing peace of mind for unforeseen changes to your schedule.

Transportation and Tips

Finding your way to and from the Seattle Locks Cruise requires careful planning and consideration of various transport options. Since the cruise is a one-way trip that ends at a different location from the starting point, passengers need to plan both their arrival and their return journey. This can involve multiple modes of transportation, depending on one’s starting point and subsequent destination in Seattle.

Here are some essential tips to manage your transportation:

• Choose Locks Cruise with Return Bus: When booking your Locks Cruise, choose the the round-trip experience! Starts and ends at Pier 54 on Elliott Bay. Same two hours of sightseeing on the Locks Cruise, plus tickets for a Return Bus that will transport you back to Pier 54. Return Bus operated by City Sightseeing.
• Use Ride-Sharing or Taxis: For convenience, consider booking a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. This can be particularly useful for the return journey from the cruise’s endpoint, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free conclusion to your adventure.
• Drive and Park Strategically: If you prefer driving, look for parking garages near the cruise departure points. Remember, since the cruise ends at a different location, you might need to take public transit back to your vehicle or plan for a ride-sharing service.
•  Check Public Transit Options: Utilize Seattle’s efficient public transportation system. Buses and light rail can get you close to both the departure and arrival points. Visit the King County Metro website for schedules and route updates.

CityPASS® Benefits

Utilizing the CityPASS® with an upgrade to the Seattle Locks Cruise offers significant savings, allowing visitors to save 48% at top Seattle attractions. This is a great way for solo travelers to families looking to explore Seattle. The pass not only economizes your visits but also enhances the experience by simplifying the reservation process. CityPASS® can be purchased online or in person at our Reservation Center and redeemed easily to reserve a specific date and time for the cruise, ensuring planned and hassle-free travel.

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

Due to our various food preparation permits, we are unable to invite pets onboard with the exception of service animals. If you bring a service animal you may be asked:

• Is the animal required because of a disability? This is a yes or no question. You are not required to, nor can you be asked to, disclose the nature or details of the disability. If the animal is not required because of a disability, then it will not be permitted.
• What is the nature of the work or task(s) that the animal is trained to perform? This question will not be asked if the nature of the work or task is readily apparent, such as a Seeing Eye dog. If the animal is not trained to perform specific work or tasks to assist the individual because of a disability, then it will not be permitted.

You cannot and will not be required to provide any sort of certification or documentation proving that the animal is a service or assistance animal. Nor will you be required to pay a fee to bring the animal onto an Argosy Cruises vessel.

The service or assistance animal must be housetrained, and must be kept under control at all times while on board an Argosy Cruises Vessel. Argosy may ask that a service or assistance animal be removed from the property if it is not housetrained, if it is acting out of control and no effective action is being taken to control it, or if it poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others. The threat of an allergic reaction is not a direct threat to the health or safety of others.

Children of all ages are welcome on all of our public tours with a few exceptions: Occasionally, we offer special event cruises that are for adults 21 and older. These are indicated on the specific event description.

Per Washington State law, all of our vessels are non-smoking and non-vaping, including on the outer decks.

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

High Winds Strand Two Cruise Ships in Seattle Bay

Two cruise ships were stuck in Seattle's Elliott Bay on Monday as high winds tore through the area.

The winds were associated with an atmospheric river moving through the region. Storms began on Sunday and will continue through Tuesday.

This winter, the West Coast faced a slew of atmospheric rivers that caused devastating floods and landslides. The storms also brought a deluge of rain that supplemented California lakes and rivers , helping to eliminate the state's drought. However, the systems are uncommon in the Pacific Northwest during the summer months, since they typically develop during the wet season, which occurs over the winter.

Atmospheric rivers are a "long, narrow region in the atmosphere—like rivers in the sky—that transport most of the water vapor outside of the tropics," according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. In the United States, the storms are typically seen during the West Coast's wet season in the winter.

The storms have brought rain to Seattle that has broken some records, and winds are also a concern. The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Seattle issued a wind advisory on Monday, forecasting winds that will reach up to 45 miles per hour.

The turbulent weather caused two cruise ships to become stranded in Elliott Bay when the strong winds made it difficult for them to dock. The affected ships were Quantum of the Seas , from Royal Caribbean and the MS Roald Amundsen , from Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Newsweek reached out to Royal Caribbean, Hurtigruten Expeditions and the U.S. Coast Guard by email for comment.

Cruise ships frequently leave from Seattle to take passengers to Alaska.

Quantum of the Seas was taking passengers back to port in Seattle at the culmination of its journey, according to Seattle TV station KOMO.

"Due to high winds, Quantum of the Seas is delayed in returning to port," a spokesperson for Royal Caribbean told KOMO. "We're closely monitoring the weather and are communicating updates directly to our guests."

The ship required a third tugboat to help it dock when usually only two are needed.

As of Tuesday morning, the wind advisory was still in effect for Seattle.

"Wind Advisory is in effect through 11 am Tuesday. Strongest wind gusts could approach 45 mph, especially across the North Interior from Oak Harbor through Bellingham (45% chance) after midnight tonight," the NWS office in Seattle posted on X (formerly Twitter ).

The NWS advisory urged people to use extra caution when driving, adding that some wind damage could occur.

"Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects," the advisory said. "Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result."

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Renewing vows on an Elliott Bay Cruise of the ‘Love for All Boat’

Fifty-six local LGBTQ+ couples boarded a special Argosy cruise ship on Thursday for a vow-renewal ceremony, drinks, dancing and a waterfront view of Seattle from Elliott Bay. The ship was decked out as the “Love for All Boat,” and featured local drag performer BenDeLaCreme as the emcee.

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