Seattle’s iconic Locks Cruise is a captivating two-hour journey that immerses visitors in the city’s stunning waterways. Departing from Pier 54 or AGC Marina, this cruise offers breathtaking views of landmarks like the Space Needle while knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary. Witness the unique transition between salt and fresh water at the Ballard Locks, and enjoy onboard snacks as you explore Seattle’s scenic beauty. With wheelchair accessibility and a family-friendly atmosphere, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to discover more.
This experience made our article of You’ll Love these 14 Cruises And Boat Tours In Seattle.
Key Points
- A two-hour cruise along Seattle’s waterways, including Elliott Bay, Lake Union, and the Ballard Locks, with live narration in English.
- Views of iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Seattle Waterfront, and Gas Works Park during the scenic tour.
- Wheelchair-accessible cruise with the option for hotel pickup and drop-off, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Onboard refreshments available for purchase, with gratuities included in the ticket price of $62.83 per person.
- Highly rated by customers for the informative commentary, good value, and overall enjoyable cruise experience.
Activity Overview
The Seattle Locks Cruise offers visitors a captivating two-hour journey along the city’s waterways.
This family-friendly cruise departs from either Pier 54 on the Seattle Waterfront or the AGC Marina on Lake Union.
Passengers can expect a live narrated tour in English, with informative commentary about the area’s history and landmarks.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible, and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance.
With a price starting at $62.83 per person, the Locks Cruise provides an affordable way to experience Seattle’s iconic sights, including the Ballard Locks, Space Needle, and Gas Works Park.
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Itinerary and Highlights
The cruise departs from either Pier 54 on the Seattle Waterfront or the AGC Marina on Lake Union, giving passengers two convenient options to start their journey.
The tour takes guests through Elliott Bay, Lake Union, and the Ballard Locks, showcasing iconic landmarks like the Space Needle and the Seattle Waterfront. Passengers can experience the boat’s transition between salt and fresh water, accompanied by a live, informative narration.
Key highlights include:
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Sailing past the Gas Works Park
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Enjoying panoramic views of the city
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Learning about Seattle’s rich history
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Accessing the cruise’s onboard snacks and beverages.
Inclusions and Amenities
The Locks Cruise in Seattle includes a one-way boat trip with live on-board narration. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase during the journey. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, though this varies by departure option. Gratuities are also part of the package. Guests should note that outside food and drinks are not permitted.
| Inclusions | Details |
| — | — |
| Cruise | One-way trip |
| Narration | Live on-board commentary |
| Refreshments | Snacks and beverages for purchase |
| Transportation | Hotel pickup and drop-off (varies) |
| Gratuities | Included in price |
| Outside Items | Not allowed (except assistance dogs) |
Important Information
While the Locks Cruise in Seattle is a family-friendly activity, pets (except assistance dogs) aren’t allowed on board.
Plus, outside food and drinks aren’t permitted.
The cruise route is subject to change due to weather, vessel traffic, or the captain’s discretion.
Seating is first-come, first-served, and boarding begins 20 minutes prior to departure.
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Pets (except assistance dogs) aren’t allowed.
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Outside food and drinks aren’t permitted.
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The cruise route is subject to change due to weather, vessel traffic, or the captain’s discretion.
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Seating is first-come, first-served, and boarding begins 20 minutes prior to departure.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
According to the information provided, the Locks Cruise in Seattle has received an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 52 reviews.
The guide and transportation ratings are both 4.8 out of 5, indicating customers are highly satisfied with the tour experience.
Reviewers praised the "very good view of the city from the water" and described the commentary as "interesting and friendly."
The cruise is also seen as offering good value for money, with one reviewer calling it "highly recommended."
The Cruise Experience
Embarking on the Locks Cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Seattle’s waterways up close.
As the boat glides along Elliott Bay and Lake Union, passengers enjoy a narrated tour filled with engaging historical facts and insights.
The cruise features several highlights:
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Witnessing the remarkable engineering of the Ballard Locks, where the vessel seamlessly transitions between salt and fresh water.
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Admiring the iconic Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle, against the backdrop of the picturesque waterfront.
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Discovering the charming Gas Works Park, with its repurposed industrial structures and panoramic city views.
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Savoring snacks and beverages available for purchase, enhancing the overall cruise experience.
Planning Your Visit
Planning a Locks Cruise in Seattle is straightforward. Cruises depart from the Seattle Waterfront or Lake Union, with ticket prices from $62.83 per person.
The 2-hour family-friendly tour includes live narration by an English-speaking guide. Guests can expect to see landmarks like the Space Needle and Gas Works Park.
The cruise provides the unique experience of transitioning between salt and freshwater via the Ballard Locks. Seating is first-come, first-served, and guests should arrive 20 minutes early.
While food and drinks aren’t permitted, snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard. The Locks Cruise offers an informative and scenic way to explore Seattle from the water.
Sum Up
The Seattle: Locks Cruise With Live Narration is a captivating way to explore the city’s waterways. Departing from Pier 54 or AGC Marina, the two-hour journey offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks, with knowledgeable guides providing engaging commentary. Visitors can witness the unique transition between salt and fresh water at Ballard Locks and enjoy onboard snacks, making it a family-friendly and accessible adventure that promises an unforgettable exploration of Seattle’s scenic beauty.
📍 This experience made our list of the 14 best Cruises And Boat Tours in Seattle
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