Christmas Ship™ Festival
A Northwest Tradition for over 75 years
The Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship™ Festival is a beloved Pacific Northwest tradition that has been lighting up the holidays since 1949. Each season, the Spirit of Seattle™—our Official Christmas Ship™—is adorned with hundreds of sparkling white lights and sails to nearly 40 waterfront communities across Puget Sound. On board, the choir fills the night air with festive music, serenading guests on the ship, passengers aboard follow boats, and joyful crowds gathered on shore.
Three ways to experience the Christmas Ship™ Festival
Christmas Ship™
21+ Follow Boat
Onshore Event
Hop aboard the official Christmas Ship™, the Spirit of Seattle™, and choose from departure locations across Seattle, Kirkland, Renton, Ballard, and Edmonds.
This experience includes:
- 1.5-hour cruise to a waterfront community
- Onboard performance by a community choir
- Santa reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
- Full-service bar with specialty cocktails, local wine & beer, and non-alcoholic beverages
A festive and themed adults-only party! Hop on the 21+ boat and follow the Spirit of Seattle to a waterfront community.
This experience includes:
- 1.5-hour cruise to a waterfront community
- Light trivia & chances to win giveaways
- Selfie Station & Photo-op opportunities
- Full-service bar with specialty cocktails, local wine & beer, and non-alcoholic beverages
Welcome the Christmas Ship™ from a community gathering or onshore event and enjoy the 20-minute choir performance broadcasted from the Christmas Ship™. Find where the boat will be stopping and performing in our full schedule.
- Gatherings are open to the general public (unless noted private in the schedule)
- Onshore gatherings are hosted by the park & community
- Events, times, and locations are subject to change
Additional Info
Parking & Directions
Find your departure location address & additional parking information
Full Schedule - PDF
See who is performing onboard, where the Christmas Ship™ will be stopping, and more
Accessibility
More information on boat accessibility and additional assistance for boarding




Argosy Cruises is proud to donate a portion of ticket sales to participating non-profits and The Seattle Times Fund For Those In Need, an annual program that raises money for several local charitable organizations in the Puget Sound area. Contribute to Argosy’s $45,000 goal by riding the Christmas Ship™!