Seattle Locks Cruise

Overview

Discover the best of Seattle on a scenic cruise through the heart of the city and experience the iconic Hiram M. Chittenden (Ballard) Locks, a ‘boat elevator’ connecting Puget Sound and Lake Washington Ship Canal. On the saltwater of Puget Sound, take in breathtaking views of the city skyline and majestic mountain ranges. Then, glide through the freshwater canal for a closer look at historic neighborhoods, commercial fishing vessels, floating homes, seaplanes, and more. Along the way, enjoy captivating stories of Seattle’s past and present from a live, local guide.

City: Seattle

Fri 18 Jul

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $56.54

Make a reservation

Fri 18 Jul

Starting at $56.54

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Live narration

2-hour sightseeing cruise

Interior and exterior seating areas

Restrooms available on board

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
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

What To Expect

Lake Union

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

Gas Works Park

Witness the decommissioned coal gasification plant that became one of Seattle's favorite parks

Ship Canal Trail

Cruise down the Lake Washington Ship Canal and peek at several of Seattle's historic neighborhoods

Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

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

Discovery Park

Learn the history of Seattle's largest park and enjoy the photo opportunities of West Point Lighthouse on its beaches

Space Needle

Enjoy unobstructed views of the Space Needle and the Seattle skyline from the water

Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront

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

Show 4 more stops

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (289)

ckfp46r5k7

Dec 2024

I bought this tour mostly for my husband because he absolutely loves boats and has been trying to get me over to the Ballard Locks for several years. We absolutely love playing tourist in our hometown and this tour did not disappoint. Our tour guide (I think his name is Matthew? 😬) was so informative and hilarious on top of that. We had an added bonus in Elliot Bay with a random boat fire! Smelled terrible but was pretty rad to role play as investigators trying to solve a crime (you know, making up scenarios in your head to match your vision). I have developed motion sickness in my midlife (yay add more goodies to the wrinkle bag) and was near vomit status in the Bay but as soon as we locked it up and got on Lake Union I was fine. Maybe the fish ladder has magical powers? The views of the city were fantastic and everyone on board was great. I also would like to say to the captain, sir, I greatly appreciate your need to put safety first as you stopped narrating the tour to safely drive us into the small locks. Plus your captain skills are legit, fine work to you and crew. I will recommend to others, can’t say I’ll personally be back due to sea sickness, but will send everyone I know your way!

Julia_B

Nov 2024

Had a fun time getting to learn about the locks and Seattle with a friend visiting town! Kurt and the captain did a great job narrating the experience.

jamesrQ7030QH

Nov 2024

It was a beautiful and entertaining cruise. We stayed downstairs most of the trip until we got to the Locks. Then went outside to watch the bridge fill and open the gate for us to pass.