Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
4.7(8.8K)google
BoatingHarborWater ActivityScenic LookoutGuided Tour Only
Overview
Providing an exceptionally scenic, comfortable, and highly educational aquatic excursion, Argosy Cruises tours the historic Seattle Waterfront to give travelers an unmatched perspective of the Emerald City. Operating for over seventy successful years, these curated boat cruises safely transport excited guests through the active waters of Elliott Bay, past massive cargo terminals, and around deep channels. Guided by knowledgeable local historians, passengers are treated to spectacular panoramic views of the city skyline, the Olympic Mountains, and the sweeping marine wilderness of Puget Sound.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration1-2 hours
Best TimeBoarding between 3 PM and 5 PM from June to September is recommended. The marine weather is pleasant with high visibility, offering panoramic views of the Seattle waterfront, shipping ports, and a high chance of spotting Mount Rainier.
Getting ThereThe cruise departs from Pier 55 on the downtown Seattle Waterfront. Walk west across Alaskan Way from Pioneer Square or the retail core, taking about 5 to 10 minutes to arrive at the ticketing office.
Travel Tips
- Seattle's premier cruise operator, providing classic 1-hour narrated Harbor Cruises and historic locks tours through the Lake Washington Ship Canal.
- Boarding takes place at Pier 55. Book online in advance and line up 30 minutes early to secure prime outdoor window seating on the top deck.
- Seating capacity on each vessel is limited. Secure your timed boarding tickets online in advance and join the queue 30 minutes early to snag prime window seats on the open top deck.
- Winds out on Elliott Bay are vastly stronger and colder than on the piers. Bring a windbreaker or a light jacket to stay comfortable on the outdoor deck even during sunny summer months.
- Boarding takes place at Pier 55. Parking nearby is heavily restricted and expensive due to waterfront upgrades. Use a secure parking garage a few blocks inland or use public transit.
Reviews
Positive
- The 1-hour harbor cruise delivers immense value, sailing into Elliott Bay for stunning, unobstructed views of the city skyline and Mt. Rainier.
- The live onboard narrator is fantastic and witty, sharing engaging stories about Seattle's maritime history and waterfront transformation.
- The vessels are well-maintained with spacious indoor climatized seating options as well as a full 360-degree open-air observation top deck with a bar.
- The departure pier is centrally located on the waterfront, and the boarding process is highly organized with quick electronic QR scanning.
Heads up
- Ticket prices are becoming steep for a basic 1-hour sightseeing loop that doesn't include any complimentary snacks or drinks.
- If you catch Seattle's signature heavy fog or rain, visibility drops to zero, completely hiding the mountains and skyline behind gray mist.
- The ocean winds are fierce and temperature drops rapidly on the water; even in summer, the top deck is freezing without a windbreaker.
- Popular sailings in peak season get incredibly overcrowded; the best edge-rail photo spots sell out fast, leaving latecomers blocked by crowds.