Seattle’s waterfront offers practical sailing options for every traveler. The essential experience is the 2-hour harbor cruise, which delivers the best bang-for-your-buck with prime skyline views and wildlife spotting. I’m especially fond of the private Puget Sound tours – they’re pricier but worth every penny for the peaceful atmosphere and stunning Olympic Mountain backdrop. Sunset cruises are a smart choice for photographers, while the longer wildlife-and-hiking combinations perfectly capture the authentic Pacific Northwest spirit. These sailing adventures range from 1 to 10 hours, fitting various schedules and budgets. Check out our favorite Seattle sailing tours below.

Key Points

  • Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour offers a 2-hour scenic cruise on a 65-passenger vessel with views of the city skyline and potential wildlife sightings.
  • Sailboat Cruise Options provide a variety of tours ranging from 1 to 3.5 hours, offering breathtaking views of Seattle landmarks and a unique perspective of the city.
  • Private Sailing Adventure on Puget Sound provides a 3-hour private sailing experience with views of the Seattle skyline, Space Needle, and potential wildlife sightings.
  • Sunset Sailing Cruise offers a 2-hour intimate small-group cruise during the golden hour, providing views of the Seattle skyline as the sun sets.
  • Pacific Northwest Sailing Experience offers diverse sailing and adventure options, including wildlife and whale watching cruises, hiking tours, and waterfalls exploration.

2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour

2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour

The 2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour offers a delightful maritime experience for visitors to the Emerald City. This highly-rated tour allows you to sail aboard a 65-passenger vessel, taking in the scenic skyline and nature of Seattle’s harbor.

You can even lend a hand in hoisting the sails while the friendly, knowledgeable crew engages you throughout the journey. With a 92% recommendation rate and 4.5/5 reviews, this tour promises a relaxing yet exciting outing, complete with the chance to spot local wildlife like orcas.

While some wish the route ventured beyond the harbor, the majority of travelers thoroughly enjoyed this family-friendly sailing experience.

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Seattle: Sailboat Cruise

Seattle: Sailboat Cruise

Eager to experience Seattle from a different vantage point? Step aboard a sailboat for a serene cruise around the harbor.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Space Needle, Puget Sound, and the majestic Olympic Mountains in the distance. Choose from a variety of sailing tours, ranging from a quick 1-hour jaunt to a more immersive 3.5-hour excursion.

For the ultimate experience, consider the Whale and Orca Boat Tour, which offers the chance to spot marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Whichever option you select, you’re guaranteed a memorable sailing adventure that will provide a unique perspective of this vibrant Pacific Northwest city.

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Seattles Best Private Sailing Adventure on the Puget Sound BYOB!

Seattles Best Private Sailing Adventure on the Puget Sound BYOB!

Experience the Puget Sound like never before with this private, 3-hour sailing adventure from Shilshole Bay Marina.

Admire the iconic Seattle skyline, Space Needle, and Great Wheel, as well as the stunning Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier. Keep an eye out for marine wildlife like seals, sea lions, and even the occasional whale.

Your knowledgeable local guide will provide insight throughout the journey. Bring your own drinks and snacks to enjoy as you relax on the comfortable sailing vessel.

With 5-star reviews and 100% recommendation rate, this is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Puget Sound. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity.

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Seattle: Sunset Sailing Cruise

Seattle: Sunset Sailing Cruise

During the golden hour, embark on an enchanting sunset sailing cruise along Seattle’s picturesque waterfront.

Soak in the breathtaking views of the skyline, including the iconic Space Needle, as the sun dips below the horizon. This 2-hour cruise offers an intimate and relaxing experience, with a small-group setting and complimentary drinks available.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the tranquil waters of the Puget Sound while the city’s landmarks fade into the distance.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this sunset sail is the perfect way to cap off your day in the Emerald City.

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Seattle: Pacific Northwest Sailing Experience

Seattle: Pacific Northwest Sailing Experience

Venture beyond the serene sunset cruise and embark on an exhilarating Pacific Northwest sailing experience.

Explore the rugged beauty of the region with a 5-hour wildlife and whale watching cruise. At $104.71 per person, this tour offers the chance to spot orcas, seals, and other marine life.

For a longer adventure, consider the $179 Mt. Rainier hiking tour, a 10-hour small-group excursion that showcases the area’s stunning natural landscapes.

Prefer a faster-paced outing? The $79 Pacific Northwest Waterfalls & Hiking Tour takes you on a 4.5-hour small-group hike to cascading waterfalls.

With a range of sailing and adventure options, you can craft the perfect maritime experience in Seattle.

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Seattle: Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise

Seattle: Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise

As the sun dips below the horizon, embark on a captivating 2-hour Seattle Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise. Priced at $74.74 per person, this experience offers breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Seattle’s iconic skyline.

Aboard the schooner Bay Lady, you’ll have opportunities to participate in sailing activities and enjoy an onboard bar with local wine, beer, and refreshments. With comfortable seating and spacious decks, you’ll savor the scenic sights, including the Space Needle and Mount Rainier on clear days.

Rated 4.8/5 by previous customers, this cruise promises an unforgettable sunset experience on the waters of Seattle.

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Seattle: Puget Sound Sailing Adventure

Seattle: Puget Sound Sailing Adventure

Seattle’s Puget Sound offers a captivating sailing adventure that lets you learn about the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Aboard a small group tour, you’ll glide across the tranquil waters, taking in panoramic vistas of the Olympic Mountains, lush islands, and Puget Sound’s diverse marine life.

The 3.5-hour experience provides an intimate, personalized encounter with the area’s wildlife, including potential sightings of whales, seals, and bald eagles.

With knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the local ecosystem and history as you sail past picturesque coastlines.

Priced at $119 per person, this Puget Sound sailing tour offers an unforgettable way to explore Seattle’s natural wonders from a unique on-the-water perspective.

Read our full review: Seattle: Puget Sound Sailing Adventure Review
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The Sum Up

You’ll find an abundance of exceptional sailing experiences in Seattle. Whether you prefer a leisurely harbor tour, a private adventure on the Puget Sound, or a stunning sunset cruise, the city offers a diverse range of options to suit your interests and budget. With stunning scenery and the chance to explore the local waterways, a sailing excursion in Seattle is sure to be a highlight of your visit.