Seattle Two-Hour Sightseeing Locks Cruise
Enjoy a Captivating Cruise Through Lake Union and Seattle's Iconic Ballard Locks
WA
people
1 participant
hours
- • Cruise Lake Union, Travel Through the Locks to Puget Sound
- • See Seattle's Famous Floating Home Communities
- • Pass Under the Fremont Bridge on this One-Way Tour
Why We Love This Unique Experience
Immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Seattle with a Seattle Locks Cruise - One-Way Tour. This local favorite offers a unique opportunity to explore both Lake Union, showcasing the city's rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Departing from either Pier 54 or the AGC Marina on Lake Union, this two-hour narrated boat tour takes you on a memorable journey through the heart of Seattle.
As you sail along the tranquil waters of Lake Union, you'll have a chance to admire the famous floating home communities, made famous by the classic movie Sleepless in Seattle. Keep an eye out for seaplanes gracefully taking off and landing, adding a touch of excitement to the scenic surroundings. Passing under the iconic Fremont Bridge, known as the most frequently opened drawbridge in the USA, you'll enter the Ballard Locks. These historic locks raise and lower vessels an average of 20 feet, allowing them to seamlessly transition between Lake Union and sea level. Marvel at the engineering marvel of the locks as you witness the smooth operation of this impressive feat of human ingenuity. Once in the Puget Sound, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking views that unfold before your eyes. Take in the sight of Seattle's unique skyline, with its iconic Space Needle and modern architectural wonders. Admire the majesty of the Olympic Mountains and the grandeur of Mount Rainier, towering in the distance. Throughout the cruise, your knowledgeable and entertaining guide will provide live commentary, sharing fascinating insights about the city's history, landmarks, and local lore. Learn about the Ballard Locks' role in connecting Lake Union to the Puget Sound, and discover the hidden stories behind Seattle's historic neighborhoods.
Whether you're a visitor to the city or a long-time resident, this cruise offers a unique perspective on Seattle, showcasing its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich maritime heritage.
Points Of Interest and Landmarks
- Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
- Lake Union Park
- Gas Works Park
- Fremont Canal Park
- Fishermen's Terminal
- Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
- Discovery Park
- Space Needle
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Experience Overview:
Seattle Locks CruiseThis one-way cruise starts & ends at 2 different central Seattle locations. Choose to depart from Pier 54 or from AGC Marina on Lake Union. This local favorite offers an opportunity to explore both Lake Union & downtown Seattle. Situated in the heart of Seattle, Lake Union is home to famous floating home communities seen in the classic movie Sleepless in Seattle. See seaplanes taking off & landing on a regular basis, commercial docks with vessels from the hit TV show Deadliest Catch. Pass under the Fremont Bridge, the most frequently opened drawbridge in the USA, and cruise past many of Seattle’s historic neighborhoods. On your way from the freshwater of Lake Union to the saltwater of the Puget Sound, pass through the Ballard Locks. These locks raise & lower vessels an average of 20 feet between Lake Union and sea level. Once in Puget Sound, take in the views: Seattle's unique skyline, the Olympic Mountains and Mt Rainier, and large ferry boats taking passengers to and from the city.
Meeting Point
Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
1101 Alaskan Way Pier 55, Suite 201, 1101 Alaskan Wy, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a one-way tour
- If your Locks Tour departs from AGC Marina on Lake Union
- Then it will end at Elliott Bay / Pier 54 on the waterfront
Argosy Cruises - Lake Union
Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a one-way tour
- If your Locks Tour departs from Elliott Bay / Pier 54 on the waterfront
- Then it will end at AGC Marina on Lake Union
What's included:
- Live commentary on board
- 2 hour narrated boat tour through the Ballard Locks
Not included:
- Food and drinks (available for purchase on board)
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase on board)
What to expect:
Duration: 2 hours
Lake Union
Seattle, Washington
Begin OR end (depending on your tour direction - check your ticket) your cruise on the bustling southern end of this lake in the heart of the city
Pass by without stopping
Lake Union Drydock Co
1515 Fairview Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
See large commercial fishing vessels hauled out of the water in drydocks at one of the oldest businesses on Lake Union
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Floating Homes Association
2329 Fairview Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
See several of Lake Union's famous floating home communities, including the one featured in the classic movie "Sleepless in Seattle"
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Gas Works Park
2101 N Northlake Way, , Seattle, 98103-9122, Washington
Witness the decommissioned coal gasification plant that became one of Seattle's favorite parks
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Fremont Bridge
Fremont Bridge, Seattle, WA 98103, USA
Your vessel barely fits under the colorfully-decorated Fremont Bridge, one of the busiest drawbridges in the United States
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Ship Canal Trail
W. Nickerson St & 6th Ave. W., Seattle, Washington
Cruise down the Lake Washington Ship Canal and peek at several of Seattle's historic neighborhoods
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Fishermen's Terminal
3919 18th Ave W, Seattle, WA 98119, USA
Marvel at commercial fishing vessels of all sizes and learn about Seattle's fishing and maritime history
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Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
3015 NW 54th St, , Seattle, 98107-4213, Washington
Experience your vessel being lowered an average of 20 ft (6m) from the freshwater level of Lake Union to the saltwater level of Puget Sound in this 100+ year old locking system
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Discovery Park
3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, 98199-1029, Washington
Learn the history of Seattle's largest park and enjoy the photo opportunities of West Point Lighthouse on its beaches
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Puget Sound
Puget Sound, Washington, USA
Experience expansive views of this inland body of saltwater and its surrounding islands and mountain ranges. If you're lucky, you may even glimpse some wildlife!
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Space Needle
400 Broad Street, Seattle, 98109-4607, Washington
Enjoy unobstructed views of the Space Needle and the Seattle skyline from the water
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Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
1101 Alaskan Wy Pier 55, Seattle, 98101, Washington
End OR begin (depending on your tour direction - check your ticket) at Seattle's central waterfront, a short walk from the Seattle Aquarium, Pike Place Market, and the Seattle Art Museum
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Details & Important Info
Additional Experience Details & Important Information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
TWO DEPARTURE OPTIONS - This is a one-way tour that starts & ends at two different central Seattle marinas. Choose to depart from Pier 54 on the waterfront or from AGC Marina on Lake Union. The departure location is noted in the subtitle of the tour. If unsure - please call Argosy Cruises
Kids (3 and under) ride free but do require a boarding pass
All vessels offer both indoor & outdoor seating
All vessels have bathrooms
Wheelchair accessible. PLEASE CALL in advance to secure crew/boarding support.
Check-in 30 minutes prior to tour - Boarding starting 20 minutes prior to departure
Gates close 5 minutes prior to tour departure time for boat preparation and safety checks
Cancellations & Refunds
Reservation Changes, Cancellations & Refunds
Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 3 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.
Organized by
Argosy Cruises
Product SKU: US-3394-0003
Google Business Profile: Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
What People Are Saying
Experience the beauty and charm of Seattle with the highly acclaimed Ballard Locks Cruise! Customers rave about the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who provide a delightful mix of historical insights and entertaining commentary throughout the journey. From stunning views of floating houses to the fascinating mechanics of the locks, this cruise offers a unique perspective on the city’s waterfront. With impeccable customer service and a comfortable vessel, it’s an exceptional way to relax and explore Seattle—making it a must-do for both tourists and locals alike. Don’t miss out on this enriching experience!
Experience Highlights
Knowledgeable Guides... Beautiful Scenery... Fun for All... Excellent Customer Service... Unique Experience... Great for Families... Informative Narration... Relaxing Afternoon... Engaging Commentary... Highly Recommended...
Seattle Locks Cruise One-Way Tour
WA
people
1 participant
hours
- • Cruise Lake Union, Travel Through the Locks to Puget Sound
- • See Seattle's Famous Floating Home Communities
- • Pass Under the Fremont Bridge on this One-Way Tour
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