Locks Cruise

CRUISE LENGTH

2 Hours

Departs from

Seattle Waterfront or Lake Union

Detail

Led by Local Guide

Our Most-Loved Tour! Discover Seattle in Just 2 Hours

Discover the best of Seattle on a scenic one-way 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.

Your experience includes:

  • Transit through the Hiram M. Chittenden (Ballard) Locks
  • Led by a local guide that brings Seattle’s rich past and vibrant present to life
  • Up-close views of fishing vessels, seaplanes, and floating homes
  • Views of the Space Needle and Seattle skyline from both Lake Union and Elliott Bay
  • Full-service bar on board with cocktails, local wine and beer, non-alcoholic beverages and snacks available for purchase

Please Note: This cruise is a one-way journey, ending at a different location than where you boarded.  Be sure to check out our Transportation Tips page for easy return options. The Return Bus is available to purchase for sailings starting April 17.

If you or someone in your party needs assistance with boarding/disembarking, please call ahead of your Locks Cruise to let us know.

Plan & Save

Purchase tickets in advance and save! Secure the best price possible by booking ahead and reserving your spot. 

Combo Tickets: Save more by bundling your Locks Cruise with tickets to other local attractions! Purchase HERE

Groups of 20 or more: Purchase group tickets (Minimum 20) on the Locks Cruise and save

CityPASS® reservations: First, purchase CityPASS® tickets online for immediate mobile ticket delivery. Next, redeem CityPASS® tickets online to reserve your visit date & time and receive your Harbor Cruise boarding pass. LEARN MORE about saving up to 47% off a Locks Cruise plus 4 more top Seattle attractions with Seattle CityPASS® tickets.

Amenities

  • Full-service bar – Sip on local alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages like margaritas (Please, no outside drink permitted)
  • Variety of local snacks – Purchase from a menu of delicious pre-packaged sandwiches, salads and snacks (Please, no outside food permitted)
  • Indoor seating/Outdoor space – Whether you enjoy the breeze through your hair or like to stay cozy, you have the choice of indoor seating or the spacious outdoors
  • Restrooms – All of our vessels are equipped with gender specific, gender neutral or single stall restrooms
  • ADA accessibility – Our crew is trained to help guests with wheelchairs, strollers, scooters, etc. to navigate our docks, vessels and facilities. For specific ADA questions, please call our office at 206.623.1445

Departure Information

The Locks Cruise is a one-way journey that departs from the Seattle Waterfront or the AGC Marina in South Lake Union. The departure location is noted in the subtitle of the cruise or please check your confirmation email for location and address.

Parking Info

Map Legend:

Red = Cruise Route

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

Cruise route is approximate and can change based on each sailing’s weather patterns, vessel traffic, and other non-predictable factors, and based on our experienced captains’ discretion. Seating on board our vessels is first-come, first-served and will begin 20 minutes prior to departure. Vessel available on the day of your sailing may vary.

No outside food or drink allowed onboard.

Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

Seattle Skyline

Seattle Skyline

Gas Works Park

Gas Works Park

Floating Home Communities

Floating Home Communities

Ballard Bridge

Ballard Bridge

Fremont Bridge

Fremont Bridge

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