Seattle · HARBOR CRUISES & SUNSET SAILS
33 reviewed
The skyline looks its best from the water, and Elliott Bay runs everything from narrated harbor cruises to quiet sunset sails past the ferries and the Olympics. Here are the best Seattle cruises and sails, with how long each lasts, what is included, whether there is a bar aboard, and which time of day to book for the view you want.
A one-hour guided harbor cruise from Seattle’s waterfront with live narration, skyline views, working port sights, and big mountain backdrops.
“It’s not always at pier 55 and people start lining up early! Great tour guide and views, snack and drinks were fun too.”
A one-hour narrated Seattle harbor cruise from Pier 55 with skyline views, Space Needle, port action, and mountain photo chances for $45.
“Drew did a great job narrating our tour. He was kind, respectful, considerate, and patient. The cruise was delightful. Our weather was perfect and we had a very clear view of Mt. Rainier and the city. It was a great introduction to Seattle.”
Evening Colors sunset sail in Seattle: help hoist the sails, cruise Puget Sound for Space Needle and possible Rainier views, with a drink.
“Everything was perfect, weather, vibe, whole thing. The crew seemed so happy to be there and having a great time. It’s nice to see people who enjoy their jobs”
A 2-hour tall ship sail from Pier 66 for skyline photos, Space Needle views, and a clear-day shot at Mount Rainier.
“It was fun. Chris and Madison were good crew, and Anthony was a good captain. Focused on safety. Added some fun elements such as letting guests raise the sails, and firing a toy cannon off the boat. It was an all around fun tour.”
A one-way Seattle cruise through Ballard Locks, Lake Union, Puget Sound, and the Space Needle, with live narration and great photo views.
“A really excellent way to see Lake Union, get out onto the sound and learn more about the history of the bay.”
A 4-hour whale and wildlife cruise from Seattle’s Pier 69, with onboard naturalists, Salish Sea sightings, and flexible routing.
“Not only did we see Orca, we saw a family pod of Biggs Transients. We even got to see them hunt! Our captains, support staff, and naturalist guide were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. 10/10 would go again!”
A 2-hour Puget Sound boat cruise from Gig Harbor with big bridge views, Mt. Rainier, and wildlife—plus Captain Ethan’s stories.
“Beautiful day to be on the boat! Great weather and terrific information conveyed by our knowledgeable friendly guide! Additionally we were delighted to see several bald eagles and many harbor seals!”
Sail the Bay Lady at sunset from Pier 66 for 2 hours. Help raise sails, enjoy skyline and mountain views, and sip beer or wine onboard.
“Best experience we have had here. The captain and crew were tremendous.”
A 2-hour Seattle sunset sail on a 70ft yacht with skyline views and landmark passes, plus BYOB and your own food onboard.
“Great, casual way to see the city from the water. Crew/Captain were all great as well. They're opening up a new location near Ballard too - for those that want to miss the areas chaotic traffic/parking situation.”
BYOB on a 70ft Seattle sailing yacht with the engine off for skyline views, friendly crew, limited seating, and 2 hours of Puget Sound calm.
“Very relaxing. Comfortable sailing with stable boat. Friendly Captain and First Mate. Beautiful setting. Great way to end a busy day with amazing views of Seattle from the water. We enjoyed the sail very much. Thank you!”
Post-cruise Seattle highlights in 5 hours, with cruise terminal pickup, guided narration, key stops like Pike Place and the views at Kerry Park.
“Entertaining while informative. I feel like I got a good look at Seattle with a drive through express”
Private 3-hour Puget Sound sailing from Shilshole Bay. Up to six, daytime or sunset, BYOB, skyline views, wildlife spotting.
“Russ was responsive, professional and entertaining. The saling was peaceful and relaxing. Nature did her part and gave us a stunning sunset to take in. This is simple and easy and private. Absolutely perfect. Thank you Russ!! -Nick and Family”
A small-group BYOB cocktail cruise on Lake Union, with floating homes, Space Needle views, and night lights plus a friendly captain-bartender.
“We loved the boat trip, captain David was great host ! A great way to see Seattle from the water, will do it again !”
2-hour sunset sail on a 70-ft ocean yacht over Elliott Bay. Bring your own drinks, enjoy skyline, Rainier, and mountain views.
“Really enjoyed the cruise! Sat in the back in the cock pit for some seating ease but really had fun conversing w both the captain and first mate. Met some fun people as well and just had a very fun time celebrating our 41st anniversary on the Salish Sea!”
Sail Elliott Bay from Pier 56 on a 70ft racing boat. Downtown skyline and Mount Rainier views, BYO snacks, blankets provided.
“Was a fantastic trip! Crew was wonderful and provided great hospitality and information!”
