Seattle Locks Cruise: Tour the Ballard Locks, Lake Union & Puget Sound in 2 Hours

Float between Lake Union and Puget Sound on this two-hour Argosy cruise that threads Seattle’s industrial shorelines, floating homes, and the century-old Ballard Locks. Expect close-up views of the Space Needle, Fisherman’s Terminal, and working maritime life, with live narration and both indoor and outdoor seating.

Seattle, Washington•

2 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

The bow cuts through a cobalt morning and the city unfolds like a film reel: the Space Needle rises to port, a floatplane scribbles across the sky, and Seattle’s skyline sits patient behind a scatter of cranes and houseboats. On an Argosy Seattle Locks Cruise you sit where saltwater meets freshwater and watch the boat become cargo of the century-old Hiram M. Chittenden (Ballard) Locks — the living, hissing “boat elevator” that lowers you roughly 20 feet from Lake Union into Puget Sound.

Before You Go

Confirm your departure point

This is a one-way cruise with two possible departure locations (AGC Marina on Lake Union or Pier 54 on Elliott Bay). Check your ticket and arrive at the correct marina 30 minutes before departure.

Dress in layers and waterproofs

Wind off the sound can be cold and damp even on sunny days—bring a windbreaker and a warm mid-layer for deck time.

Bring binoculars and a zoom lens

Binoculars or a 70–200mm lens help you see wildlife, distant lighthouses, and detail on houseboats and ships.

Board early if you want a prime deck spot

Boarding starts 20 minutes prior and doors close 5 minutes before departure; early boarding gets the best outdoor photo positions midship.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Look back toward Gas Works Park from Lake Union for unique boat-and-skyline photo angles
•Peer over Fisherman’s Terminal docks to see the smaller working boats and ice houses where crews prepare nets

Wildlife

•Harbor seal
•Bald eagle

Conservation Note

The locks and surrounding shorelines are managed with an emphasis on water quality and habitat protection; avoid feeding wildlife and dispose of trash in marina receptacles to minimize impacts.

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks opened in 1917 and were built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to control lake levels and support commercial navigation between freshwater Lake Washington and the saltwater Puget Sound.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (late afternoon), Sunrise for soft light and calm water, Overcast midday for even exposure

Key viewpoints:

• Open deck midship for lock operation and panorama
• Port side when departing Pier 54 for skyline shots with the Space Needle
• Starboard side near the locks for close-up shots of the lock chamber

Subjects to capture:City skyline and Space Needle, Lock chamber and water level change, Houseboats and industrial piers

What to Bring

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Waterproof windbreakerEssential

Blocks spray and wind on the open deck during cooler months.

✓

Binoculars or telephoto lensEssential

Helps capture wildlife and architectural details from the boat.

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Warm mid-layer (fleece or wool)Essential

Keeps you comfortable during chilly crossings and evening departures.

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Small daypack

Carries snacks, camera, extra layers, and any personal items while on board.

Common Questions

Where does the cruise depart and end?

This is a one-way tour that operates between AGC Marina on Lake Union and Pier 54 on Elliott Bay; your ticket subtitle lists the departure location.

Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?

Yes — vessels offer wheelchair access and indoor seating, but you should call in advance for boarding support and crew assistance.

Are restrooms available on board?

Yes, all boats used for this cruise have restrooms and both interior and exterior seating options.

Can I bring food or alcohol onboard?

Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed; policies on alcohol vary so check with Argosy Cruises before boarding.

What happens in bad weather?

Cruises operate in most weather conditions; if the operator cancels you’ll be notified and eligible for a refund under the booking policy if cancelled 24+ hours before departure.

Can I see wildlife on the cruise?

Yes — harbor seals, bald eagles, and occasionally porpoises or porpoise-like activity are commonly spotted during the trip.

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