Name: Seattle Locks Cruise
SKU: 2960P11
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (456 reviews)

WizardTrip

Seattle Locks Cruise

4.8(456)· Seattle· By Argosy Cruises Watch the video

Free cancellation

From

€57per person

1 to 15 travelers per booking.

Options2 of 4 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €57€57

Total€57

About the activity

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.

What's included

✓Live narration
✓2-hour sightseeing cruise
✓Interior and exterior seating areas
✓Restrooms available on board

What is not included

✕Snacks and beverages (available for purchase)
✕Gratuities
✕Transportation between start and end location (return bus ticket available for purchase seasonally)

Itinerary

1
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. Lake Union is a natural body of water surrounded by city buildings and highways. This is a popular spot for recreational activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and boating.
· Non-stop passage
2
Shipyard
This is a popular shipyard providing full-service repairs and renovations for vessels. Passing by you’ll see large commercial fishing vessels. This is one of the oldest businesses on Lake Union and a go-to area for large vessels to be put into dry-dock.
· Non-stop passage
3
Floating Homes
Unique to Lake Union is the large floating home communities on it. See a variety of floating homes and houseboats, including the famous home featured in the classic 90’s movie “Sleepless in Seattle”. Spot quirky, colorful exteriors as well as luxurious, modern floating homes.
· Non-stop passage
4
Gas Works Park
Get clear views of one of Seattle’s most picturesque and popular park. Gas Works Park is a decommissioned coal gasification plant that became later known as local-favorite for people to socialize, play, and visit. Nestled in the neighborhoods of Fremont and Wallingford, this park was also a filming location for the popular 90’s movie “10 Things I Hate About You”.
· Non-stop passage
5
Fremont Bridge
One of the few bridges you’ll go under on the Locks Cruise, the Fremont Bridge is one of the busiest in the United States. As you go cruise through the colorfully-decorated drawbridge, be in awe of how close our vessel fits right under.
· Non-stop passage
6
Ship Canal Trail
Cruise down Lake Washington Ship Canal and follow the actual footpath from the boat. This trail stretches 1.9 miles and peeks at several of Seattle’s historic neighborhoods. The trail follows an abandoned railroad and has views of Ballard’s maritime industrial area.
· Non-stop passage
7
Fisherman's Terminal
Opened by the Port of Seattle, marvel at the many commercial fishing vessels at Fisherman’s Terminal. Learn about Seattle’s fishing and maritime history and how this terminal has housed hundreds of fishing vessels over the years. Also, famously known for housing some of the boats from the popular show “Deadliest Catch”.
· Non-stop passage
8
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks
Be in the center of all the action of the nations busiest locking system. Experience your vessel being lowered an average of 20 ft (6m) from the freshwater level of Lake Union to the saltwater of Puget Sound. This locking system is 100+ years old and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
· Non-stop passage
9
Discovery Park
Learn the history of Seattle’s largest natural park and enjoy the photo opportunities of West Point Lighthouse on its beaches. With about 560 acres of land, enjoy tranquility and overlook views of the Puget Sound. Visit the park in-person and visit the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle.
· Non-stop passage
10
Puget Sound
Enjoy sweeping views of this large inland estuary, that lies between the Olympic Peninsula and Seattle metropolitan area. Approximately 95 miles long, see views of popular mountain ranges like the Olympics. If you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of some wildlife!
· Non-stop passage
11
Space Needle
The Locks Cruise makes sure to go by the iconic landmark, the Space Needle. You’ll have both up-close and panoramic views while on the tour. You’ll be able to take photos from our unobstructed view of the famous Space Needle, while also snapping the landmark itself in the skyline as a whole.
· Non-stop passage
12
Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
End OR begin (depending on your tour direction - check your ticket) your cruise from Seattle’s historic and lively central waterfront! Learn about both the past and present from your local tour guide as you cruise by the many piers and landmarks. You’ll see popular sights like the Space Needle, Great Wheel, Overlook Park, etc.
· Non-stop passage

How to use your ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking

Meeting point and return

IMPORTANT DEPARTURE NOTE

There are two potential departure locations for the One-way Locks Cruise.

If your Locks Tour is titled: "One-Way Cruise from Lake Union / AGC Marina"

Then that tour will depart from Argosy Cruises at AGC Marina on Lake Union

IMPORTANT DEPARTURE NOTE

There are two potential Argosy Cruise departure locations for the Locks Cruise.

If your Locks Tour is titled: "One-Way Cruise from Elliott Bay / Pier 54"

Then that tour will depart from Argosy Cruises at Pier 54 on the waterfront

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

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

Boarding begins 20 minutes prior to the time listed on your ticket and ends 5 minutes before departure. Check in with an Argosy Cruises representative before joining the boarding line. Questions? Call 206 623-1445

Meeting point

End point

Practical information

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
Check-in 30 minutes prior to tour - Boarding starting 20 minutes prior to departure
All vessels offer both indoor & outdoor seating
All vessels have bathrooms
Wheelchair accessible. PLEASE CALL in advance to secure crew/boarding support.
Kids (3 and under) ride free but do require a boarding pass
Gates close 5 minutes prior to tour departure time for boat preparation and safety checks

Activity options

From Lake Union: Cruise Only
Duration: 2 hours
Departs from AGC on Lake Union: This one-way Locks Cruise begins at AGC Marina on South Lake Union and ends at Pier 54 on the Seattle Waterfront.
Starting point:
Argosy Cruises - Lake Union, Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
From Elliott Bay: Cruise Only
Departs Pier 54/Elliott Bay: This one-way Locks Cruise begins at Pier 54/Elliott Bay on the Seattle waterfront & ends at AGC Marina on South Lake Union.
Starting point:
Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront, 1101 Alaskan Wy Pier 55, #201, Seattle, WA 98101, USA

Duration

2 h

How to prepare for your experience

Choose your departure point carefully: Lake Union or Pier 54.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
Boarding starts 20 minutes before departure; gates close 5 minutes prior.
Enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Restrooms are available on board.
Consider purchasing snacks and beverages if desired.

Embark on a captivating 2-hour cruise through Seattle, exploring its vibrant waterways, iconic landmarks, and the fascinating Ballard Locks.

Cancellation conditions

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

Any questions?

Product code: 2960P11

Activity offered by Argosy Cruises via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Tourists
Families
Couples
Anyone interested in Seattle's maritime history and scenic views

Activity essentials

Scenic cruise through Seattle's waterways
Experience the Hiram M. Chittenden (Ballard) Locks
Views of the city skyline and mountains
Live local guide providing insights
Pass by iconic landmarks like the Space Needle
Unique floating home communities

Seattle: good to know

Population: 737,015 (2020)
Elevation: 40 m
Currency: United States dollar
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: A, B · 120 V
Emergency number: 911
Capital city: Washington, D.C.

Average temperatures

4°Jan
5°Feb
7°Mar
9°Apr
13°May
15°Jun
18°Jul
18°Aug
15°Sept
11°Oct
7°Nov
4°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the Seattle Locks Cruise?

The cruise lasts for 2 hours.

Are there two departure locations for this cruise?

Yes, this is a one-way tour with two possible departure locations: AGC Marina on Lake Union or Pier 54 on the Seattle waterfront. The specific departure location is noted in the tour title.

Can I bring my child on the cruise?

Yes, children aged 3 and under ride for free but require a boarding pass. Infants and small children can also ride in a pram or stroller.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible. It is recommended to call in advance to secure crew and boarding support.

What should I do if I need to cancel my booking?

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

Are food and drinks included?

Snacks and beverages are not included but are available for purchase on board.

Reviews

4.84.8(456)

5 stars

407

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Viator review
Fun Day on Ballard Locks cruise
CHRISTINA_O, October 2026
The crew was fantastic. We saw a sea lion, seals, sea planes and got to ride through the lock. Nate was very informative and funny. Captain Amy and Emma were great a well. I had the best Bloody Mary I've had in a long time.
★★★★★Viator review
Boat Cruise
Lu_C, October 2026
The guide was well-informed about Seattle. She shared information that was interesting to the people on the boat. She was professional throughout the boat ride. She answered all questions. I would take this boat ride again.
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Great way to spend a couple hours
stephaniefA600PZ, October 2026
Nice relaxing and informative trip. Very friendly and helpful staff. Spectacular views of Seattle from the water.
★★★★★Viator review
Interesting cruise
Frank_O, October 2026
Terrific views, fascinating operations of the lock, interesting information from tour guide, Angelo and Captain Sean.
★★★★★Viator review
So fun!
Cristan_R, September 2026
Amazing sight seeing experience. Our tour guide Nate was super knowledge and the Captain and Brian too!

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