Seattle Locks Cruise
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Live narration
2-hour sightseeing cruise
Interior and exterior seating areas
Restrooms available on board
Snacks and beverages (available for purchase)
Gratuities
Transportation between start and end location (return bus ticket available for purchase seasonally)
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. 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.
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.
Options
From Lake Union w/ Return Bus
Roundtrip AGC Marina/Lake Unio: This experience includes both a one-way Locks Cruise and a Return Bus to bring you back to your starting location.
Starting point:
Argosy Cruises - Lake Union, Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
From Elliott Bay w/ Return Bus
Roundtrip Pier 54/Elliott Bay: This experience includes both a one-way Locks Cruise and a Return Bus to bring you back to your starting location.
Starting point:
Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront, 1101 Alaskan Wy Pier 55, #201, Seattle, WA 98101, 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
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
Reviews
373 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Locks cruise
Rebecca B,
Sep 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Bring a jacket! Cold until you go through the lock and in to lake water. Very good commentary! Enjoyed the whole excursion!
Nice boat. Comfortable....
John K,
Sep 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00Nice boat. Comfortable. Roomy. Crew very nice. Safety Paramount concern. Clean and pleasant. Know that you are dropped not where you boarded.
Great skyline views
Craig M,
Sep 2, 2025
- Viator
4.00Enjoyable morning on the water - harbor & lake. Great views / perspective of the City. Crew was friendly
where to board the boat...
Jon V,
Sep 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00where to board the boat unclear can be puzzling if you don't know Seattle. where to park if not starting at pier 54.
Wonderful views and great information!
Colleen S,
Aug 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00Get there early and try to sit in front and on top of the boat. Lots of fun, and things to see, wonderful information about the area and its history.
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Operated by Argosy Cruises