Top Seattle Water Tours

Enjoy the sights and sounds of Seattle from Elliott Bay and Seattle Harbor on this narrated cruise. Learn about Seattle’s historic waterfront and get an up-close look at one of the world's largest shipping terminals. Take in the view of the city’s skyline with a spectacular panoramic background of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, including majestic Mt. Rainier. Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard the ship.

Enjoy Seattle’s cityscape, Olympic Mountain and Mt. Rainier views aboard Seattle's premier tall ship. After hoisting the sails, we’ll cut the engine and enjoy the tranquility on our beautiful schooner. As the sun sets, we will celebrate another beautiful summer day in the Pacific Northwest! Enjoy a beverage and the beautiful views as we sail back to the city.

You don’t have to venture into the San Juan Islands to see whales in their natural habitat—with this tour, you can board a whale-watching cruise right in downtown Seattle. Spend several hours onboard, looking for whales and learning about the area’s ecosystem from an expert naturalist. Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard.

There’s no better way to experience a summer evening in Seattle than from the water. Join us for the Seattle Sunset Cruise, a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise with minimal narration timed perfectly to capture the golden hour and sunset over Puget Sound. Come aboard and head to the open-air deck as the city begins to glow in the warm evening light. As the captain navigates through Elliott Bay, enjoy breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, passing ferries, and the Olympic Mountains. Whether you’re enjoying a date night, celebrating with friends, wanting a memorable evening on your trip, or simply soaking in summer, the Seattle Sunset Cruise offers a peaceful and unforgettable way to end the day on the water.

Pass through the renowned Ballard Locks and learn about the complex system on a cruise that transports you between the freshwater of Lake Union and the saltwater of Puget Sound. The one-way cruise can be used as transportation, making it ideal for travelers who want to avoid traffic and enjoy a unique journey from the Seattle waterfront to the AGC Marina on South Lake Union (or vice versa).

Spend a full day discovering the beauty of Olympic National Park, with highlights like the dramatic Hurricane Ridge and the serene, ancient Lake Crescent. Your driver-guide leads you to some of the park’s most stunning spots while sharing insider knowledge you wouldn't get on your own. With park admission, round-trip ferry tickets, lunch, snacks, and bottled water included, all you have to do is enjoy the views.

Have the special chance to explore Olympic National Park with a naturalist guide—and make your sightseeing logistics smooth and hassle-free—on this full-day, small-group tour from Seattle. With round-trip transit from your downtown hotel, getting to the UNESCO–listed park is made simple. From beaches to mountains to forests and beyond, experience the best of this spectacular landscape, seeing and doing more with your guide than you could alone.

Experience the maritime charm of Seattle as you sail across Puget Sound on a classic Washington State Ferry. With a knowledgeable local guide, enjoy stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay. Upon arrival at Bainbridge Island, embark on a guided walking tour through downtown Winslow, uncovering its vibrant arts scene and local culture. This tour offers a unique glimpse into Seattle's maritime identity, making it ideal for families, first-time visitors, and those interested in cultural exploration. - Scenic ferry ride across Elliott Bay with panoramic views - Guided visit to the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art - Explore the creative shops, cafés, and galleries of Winslow - Suitable for families and those wanting to learn about Seattle's maritime history - 2-hour small-group experience

Seattle is famous for its bustling waterfront, numerous green spaces, and historic neighborhoods. Ideal for first-time visitors, this sightseeing tour provides an overview of top attractions such as Pioneer Square, the Space Needle, and Pike Place market. Sit back and relax while your guide provides historical and cultural background for each destination, and enjoy stops to walk and take photos.

Experience the beauty of Lake Union and Lake Washington from the comfort of your very own private luxury lake boat. Pass by Gas Works Park and the many floating homes along the shore, including the iconic Sleepless In Seattle home. Cruise through the Montlake cut into Lake Washington, passing by Husky Stadium and the boat house made famous in the movie 'Boys In The Boat.' Take in views of Mount Rainier and the many mansions along the shores of Medina, including the Bill Gates Estate. Finally, return to Lake Union for one last look at the Seattle skyline and its iconic Space Needle. Optional stops include Downtown Kirkland, Old Bellevue, and Fisherman's Terminal near the Ballard Locks. Each stop provides guests with access to a variety of restaurants and boutique shops to enhance your experience in the Pacific Northwest. Feel free to bring your own snacks and beverages. We have a cooler on board to keep things cold and plenty of seating to relax and enjoy the ride.

Make the most of summer in Seattle on an evening cruise that takes you past the city's skyline from a vantage point on the water. Pass by Elliott Bay, Alki Point, and into Puget Sound as the sun begins to set—perfect for snapping golden hour photos. Up on the top deck, enjoy an included drink (cocktail, mocktail, beer, or wine) and feel free to purchase more from the onboard bar and catch a glimpse of the Olympic Mountains.

The ONLY Whale Watching tour with hotel pickup in Seattle! Most whale sightings in the Puget Sound happen near the San Juan Islands - make the most of your day and explore Deception Pass before your Whale-watching cruise! Journey north of Seattle to Deception Pass State Park, a Pacific Northwest hidden gem with views that rival our National Parks! Explore the old growth forest among the jagged cliffs and secret coastlines before enjoying a seasonal catered picnic lunch. After lunch, we'll drive up to Anacortes and join our partners, Outer Island Excursions, on a 3-hour Wildlife and Whale Watching boat tour. The Outer Island Excursions Captain and Naturalist will share information about the Salish Sea while we cruise around the channels in search of whales and other wildlife. Our all-inclusive small-group day trip is limited to 10 travelers. We also bring assorted snacks, water, and other cold beverages for the day. Don’t worry about a thing.

Discover Seattle’s original neighborhood, Pioneer Square, on this guided walking tour that is great for locals and tourists alike who want to learn more about this city. Explore the underground pathways that were built in the southwest corner of the Emerald City more than 120 years ago. Learn about Seattle’s history and the events that transformed this once-small Indigenous dwelling place into one of the most popular and thriving cities in the United States.

Experience Bainbridge Island the way locals do. This tour combines a scenic Washington State Ferry crossing, charming waterfront streets, fascinating World War II history, beautiful parks, and Thomas Dambo’s famous wooden troll. With hotel pickup, round-trip ferry tickets included, and a knowledgeable local driver-guide, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, authentic Pacific Northwest experience beyond Seattle.

Discover the breathtaking wilderness of the Olympic Peninsula on this private day tour from Seattle. Begin with a scenic ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, then enjoy the stunning views along Lake Crescent. Explore the historic town of Forks before reaching the rugged beauty of Rialto Beach, where towering sea stacks and driftwood create a dramatic coastal landscape. Finally, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Hoh Rain Forest, walking among ancient trees in one of North America's most spectacular temperate rainforests. This tour offers a personalized experience with a flexible itinerary and a dedicated guide. - Scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island - Visit the historic town of Forks and enjoy stunning views of Lake Crescent - Explore the rugged coastline at Rialto Beach, known for its towering sea stacks - Experience the serenity of the Hoh Rain Forest with a dedicated guide

Discover the Pacific Northwest's charm on this full-day coastal adventure. Board the iconic Washington State Ferry for stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Olympic Mountains. Explore Bainbridge Island's hidden gems and the lush Kitsap Peninsula, where winding rainforest trails lead to the picturesque Dickerson Creek Waterfall. Stroll along the serene shores of Island Lake County Park and visit the historic downtown of Poulsbo, known as "Little Norway." Enjoy free time to explore the waterfront, Nordic boutiques, and sample pastries from Sluys Poulsbo Bakery. End your day with a craft beer tasting at a local brewery, savoring the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Discover the hidden wine country of Whidbey Island on this shared wine tour that begins with a scenic ferry ride across the Puget Sound. Explore the charming Greenbank Farm, featuring art galleries and a wine shop, before savoring bold wines at Holmes Harbor Cellars. Experience unique honey wines at Hierophant Meadery and elegant Rhône varieties at Ott & Hunter Wines. Conclude your tasting journey with exceptional wines and bistro dining at Leo & Leto's Winery. Enjoy a relaxing return ferry ride, making for a perfect day of island exploration and Pacific Northwest hospitality. - Scenic ferry ride from Mukilteo to Whidbey Island - Visit Greenbank Farm, Holmes Harbor Cellars, Hierophant Meadery, and more - Enjoy a variety of award-winning wines and unique honey wines - Return ferry ride provides stunning views of Puget Sound

Discover the charm of the Pacific Northwest on a private full-day coastal adventure. Start with a scenic Washington State Ferry ride across Puget Sound, enjoying stunning views of Seattle and the Olympic Mountains. Explore Bainbridge Island's hidden gems and the lush Kitsap Peninsula, including peaceful rainforest trails leading to Dickerson Creek Waterfall and the serene shores of Island Lake County Park. Visit Poulsbo, known as 'Little Norway,' to learn about its rich Scandinavian history at the Poulsbo Heritage Museum, stroll the vibrant waterfront, and indulge in delicious pastries from Sluys Poulsbo Bakery. End your day with a craft beer tasting at a local brewery before returning to Seattle. - Private full-day tour perfect for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers - Scenic ferry ride with views of Seattle and Olympic Mountains - Discover Poulsbo's history and enjoy free time in its charming downtown - Sample local craft beers and traditional Norwegian pastries along the way

Discover the enchanting wine country of Whidbey Island on this exclusive private tour. Begin with a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound, setting the stage for a day filled with boutique wine tastings and stunning coastal views. Visit Greenbank Farm, a historic site with art galleries and a wine shop, before heading to Holmes Harbor Cellars for exquisite vineyard experiences. Explore the unique Hierophant Meadery for gluten-free honey wines, savor fine Rhône varietals at Ott & Hunter Wines, and indulge at Leo & Leto's Winery and Bistro, where wine tasting meets local artistry. Enjoy a scenic return ferry crossing for a perfect end to your wine adventure. - Private tour showcasing the best of Whidbey Island's wineries - Scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound included - Visit to multiple award-winning vineyards and meaderies - Enjoy local art and cuisine at various stops - Enjoy a multi-sensory experience with wine tasting and dining at Leo & Leto's Bistro

Experience the magic of being carried by the wind, just as Peter Puget was when he mapped these waters back in 1792. From Seattle’s Shilshole Bay Marina we sail west across Puget Sound toward the magnificent Olympic Mountains. Along the way we will watch for orcas, schools of our local porpoises, sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles, great blue herons, and other wildlife. On the Sunset Cruise, we’ll enjoy the light show as the sun drops behind the well-named Mount Olympus and other peaks in the Olympic Range and illuminates feathery horizon clouds into glorious colors. Captain Grant, who holds a 100-ton Master of Inland Waters License from the U.S. Coast Guard, is dedicated to sharing the joy of being on the water with others. A former reporter for the Seattle Times, former Science and Medical writer for the Associated Press, and author of four books (one of which was named one of the year’s 10 Best nonfiction books by the American Library Association) Grant is a natural story teller.

Explore the stunning waters of Puget Sound with Windworks' Private Skippered Charters, for groups of 4 (minimum) up to 6 people. Or charter multiple boats for larger parties. No sailing experience is necessary; simply relax and enjoy the scenery or learn some basic skills like tacking and jibing and take the helm under the guidance of an experienced captain. Bring your favorite food and beverages. - Choose from a range of sailboats, 32 to 46 feet in length, all newer-models and based at Shilshole Bay Marina, Seattle - Options for 3-hour and 6-hour private cruises available - All safety gear provided, along with basic sailing instruction - USCG Licensed Captain ensures a safe and enjoyable adventure

I've been doing sailing tours for 10 years, and compared to the bigger boats, with more passengers, I offer more intimate setting with great history on an antique modern sailing yacht.

Step aboard a Pacific Northwest holiday tradition! Experience the magic of the holidays aboard the Spirit of Seattle™, the official Christmas Ship™, as it sails through Puget Sound's many waterfront communities. Each 1.5-hour cruise features a live performance by a local choir, Santa's reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas', and has a full-service bar available offering holiday cocktails, local wine and beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. This family-friendly tradition has been delighting guests year after year, offering a unique and festive way to celebrate the season. Don't miss out on this enchanting holiday experience!