Private One-Hour Seattle Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Union — BYOB
Cruise Lake Union in a private boat with a knowledgeable captain and BYOB permission. In one hour you’ll see seaplanes, floating homes, the Space Needle from water level, and the industrial-turned-park landscape of Gas Works.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early and use rideshare
Parking near the Divers Institute is limited; plan to arrive 10–20 minutes early and prefer Uber/Lyft or transit to avoid stress.
Dress in layers
A light jacket and close-toed shoes make the hour comfortable—wind off the water can be noticeably cooler.
Pack a small cooler
You’re allowed to bring food and nonalcoholic beverages (and a limited amount of beer or wine); bring a compact cooler for picnic-style snacks.
Respect safety and sobriety rules
The operator can refuse service if a passenger appears intoxicated; for safety and refund policies, moderate alcohol consumption.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Center for Wooden Boats’ small-boat collection on the south shore — a quiet place to browse traditional dinghies
- •Eastlake’s houseboat alleys — slip lanes and private gardens that reward a slower look from the water
Wildlife
- •Great blue heron
- •Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Shoreline restoration and tight regulations on fuels and waste keep the lake healthier; operators follow waste and no-smoking rules to reduce pollution and disturbance.
Lake Union was carved by glaciers and later industrialized; Gas Works Park occupies a former gasification plant site that now serves as one of the city’s most visible reclamation projects.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along the north shore near Gas Works Park for industrial-into-park contrasts
- • Mid-lake for low-angle skyline shots including the Space Needle
- • Close to Eastlake houseboats for intimate water-level compositions
What to Bring
Light wind jacketEssential
Blocks chill from wind off the lake and layers easily.
Sunscreen and sunglassesEssential
Bright reflections from the water intensify UV exposure—protect skin and eyes.
Closed-toe shoesEssential
Stable footwear for boarding and disembarking on docks and ramps.
Compact camera or phone with a polarizer
A polarizer reduces glare and deepens blue tones for better skyline and water shots.
Common Questions
Is this tour really private?
Yes—the listing is for a private booking of Candére (up to six guests). The captain will run narration and handle navigation just for your party.
Can I bring alcohol and food?
Yes—small coolers and picnic items are welcome; a limited amount of beer or wine is allowed. Intoxication that compromises safety can lead to refusal of service without refund.
Are there restrooms onboard?
Yes—Candére is equipped with a bathroom for guest use during the cruise.
Is the boat accessible for people with limited mobility?
The vessel is not fully wheelchair accessible, but the operator will accommodate guests with limited mobility as much as safely possible—contact them ahead of booking to discuss needs.
What happens if it rains?
The cruise operates in most weather; dress appropriately. The operator may cancel in severe weather for safety and will follow the cancellation policy.
When should we arrive and where do we meet?
Meet at the picnic-table area next to the Divers Institute parking lot at 1341 N Northlake Way; arrive 10–20 minutes early so the boat can leave on time.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Seattle, Washington
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated and low exertion
Ready to Explore Seattle?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now