Kenmore Air - Lake Union
4.6(380)google
LakeNatureWildlife Watching
Overview
Operating from its central terminal on Lake Union, Kenmore Air provides legendary seaplane flightseeing excursions that define the premium Seattle travel experience. Passengers soar directly off the water in historic de Havilland aircraft, gaining unmatched aerial perspectives of the downtown core, Lake Washington, and the snow-capped volcanoes of Mount Rainier and Mount Baker.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 45-60 minutes
Best TimeBooking the Seattle Scenic Seaplane Tour during a sunny summer afternoon (1 PM to 4 PM) is highly recommended. The clear air ensures optimal visibility to look down upon the skyline and mountain ranges simultaneously.
Getting ThereThe seaplane terminal is situated at 950 Westlake Ave N on the south shore of Lake Union. Take the South Lake Union Streetcar to the Westlake & Mercer stop and walk about 8 minutes. On-site paid parking is available.
Travel Tips
- Floatplanes have rigid structural weight-and-balance limits. Check Kenmore's strict per-passenger luggage baggage allowance policies online before packing, as excess bags will be left behind.
- Book the 20-minute Scenic Seattle Tour for incredible views. Don't stress over left vs. right side seating, as the pilot executes a broad figure-eight loop ensuring equal panoramic coverage.
- Flights operate strictly under visual weather conditions. Sudden lake fog, low cloud ceilings, or winter storms can trigger instant grounding; always have a backup travel buffer plan.
Reviews
Positive
- A bucket-list seaplane experience! Taking off from the waters of Lake Union is exhilarating, offering a bird's-eye view of downtown, the Space Needle, and Lake Washington.
- The pilots and ground crew are exceptionally professional, providing thorough yet witty safety briefings before flight, and the ride is smoother than expected.
- The terminal features an elegant viewing lounge with large windows looking out at the busy dock, complemented by free coffee and high-quality brochures.
- The boarding flow is well-organized with smooth accessible pathways, and scanning electronic boarding passes is quick, making the service feel premium.
Heads up
- The ticket prices are very expensive for a brief 20-to-30-minute flight, creating a high barrier to entry for budget-conscious families.
- Seaplane flights are highly sensitive to weather; catch Seattle's signature thick fog, heavy rain, or high winds, and your flight will be canceled unexpectedly.
- The cabin is quite cramped, and the engine roar is deafening during flight; though they provide earplugs, the vibration can still cause mild dizziness.
- There are very few free parking spots at the Lake Union base, surrounded by highly competitive metered spots, requiring you to arrive early to park.