Seattle’s best sailing options deliver memorable experiences on Puget Sound. Several excellent choices stand out:
The interactive 2-hour harbor tour teaches traditional sailing skills while showing off the city skyline.
I love the sunset cruise for its perfect photo opportunities of Seattle landmarks bathed in golden light.
The 3-hour wildlife excursion often reveals orcas and seals – a particular favorite for nature enthusiasts.
For a more intimate experience, the classic 44-foot sailboat from Bainbridge Island offers old-world charm with modern comfort.
Below are our carefully selected tours, ranked by value and experience quality.
Key Points
- The 2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour offers an interactive sailing experience with scenic views and amenities like snacks and drinks.
- The Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise provides a 2-hour immersive sailing journey with stunning views of Seattle’s landmarks and local refreshments.
- The private 3-hour Seattle’s Best Private Sailing Adventure on the Puget Sound offers opportunities to spot wildlife and a flexible BYOB experience.
- The 3.5-hour Puget Sound Sailing Adventure combines a private sailing tour with the chance to spot whales and orcas.
- The private 2-hour Sail Bainbridge Island & Seattle Waters – Luxury Classic Sailboat experience features a well-equipped classic sailboat and a knowledgeable captain.
2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour
Take a relaxing 2-hour sail around Seattle’s vibrant harbor on this highly rated tour.
With a 4.7-star rating from 375 reviews, and recommended by 92% of travelers, this excursion offers an excellent way to experience the city’s waterfront from a unique perspective.
The tour departs from Bell Harbor Marina, where you’ll find the ticket booth next to Anthony’s Restaurant.
Once aboard, you’ll have the chance to participate in raising the sails, adding to the interactive nature of the experience.
Onboard, you’ll find restrooms and the option to purchase drinks and snacks.
For an extra thrill, listen out for the small cannon that’s fired during the tour.
Though not wheelchair accessible, this tour is suitable for families, with reviewers praising the kid-friendly activities.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Seattle Sailing Harbor Tour Review
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Seattle: Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise
For those seeking a more immersive sailing experience in Seattle, the Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise offers a captivating two-hour journey. Priced from just £59.07 per person, this tour allows you to watch the sunset over Seattle’s harbor while admiring the city skyline and majestic mountain ranges.
Board the comfortable sailboat and enjoy local wine, cold beer, and snacks from the onboard bar as you participate in sailing activities like raising the sails and steering the ship.
The tour’s highlights include scenic views of iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, Smith Tower, and Mount Rainier on clear days. With a live English-speaking guide, you’ll gain insights into the city’s waterfront while relaxing on the spacious decks.
The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later. Boasting an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 174 reviews, this sunset harbor cruise is a must-do for families, friends, and anyone seeking a unique Seattle experience.
Read our full review: Seattle: Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise Review
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Seattles Best Private Sailing Adventure on the Puget Sound BYOB!
Embark on Seattle’s Best Private Sailing Adventure on the Puget Sound, a 3-hour BYOB journey aboard the S/V Kingsley.
Depart from Shilshole Bay Marina and learn to sail or simply take in the stunning views of marine wildlife and the iconic Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle and Olympic Mountains.
With 103 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, this private tour offers an opportunity to spot seals, sea lions, porpoises, and even whales.
Your local guide will provide adult life jackets, while you’ll need to bring your own for children 10 and younger.
Consult your doctor for motion sickness remedies before booking, as food and drinks aren’t included.
Use Lyft, Uber, or a taxi to reach the meeting point at 7001 Seaview Ave NW, as parking is limited.
This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Contact Captain Russ or Captain Dylan for any inquiries or to secure your spot on this scenic Puget Sound adventure.
Read our full review: Seattles Best Private Sailing Adventure on the Puget Sound BYOB! Review
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Seattle: Puget Sound Sailing Adventure
Discover the breathtaking Puget Sound on a private sailing adventure. Climb aboard and embark on a 3.5-hour journey with a knowledgeable guide, as you take in the stunning natural beauty of the Seattle waterfront.
Spot whales and orcas on the Anacortes: Whale and Orca Boat Tour, a top-rated 4.8-star experience. For a more intimate excursion, consider the 1-hour Harbor Cruise with Live Narration, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and landmarks.
If you’re seeking a longer adventure, the 12-hour Olympic National Park Small-Group Tour offers the chance to explore the rugged wilderness and take in the breathtaking landscapes.
Elevate your experience with the CityPASS, granting you access to five top attractions, including the iconic Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s natural wonders and create lasting memories on these unforgettable sailing adventures.
Read our full review: Seattle: Puget Sound Sailing Adventure Review
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Sail Bainbridge Island & Seattle Waters – Luxury Classic Sailboat
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and learn about the serene waters of Puget Sound aboard a luxurious classic sailboat.
Depart from Bainbridge Island, just a 30-minute ferry ride from Seattle, and embark on a private 2-hour sailing adventure on a 44-foot sailing ketch.
With over a decade of experience navigating Seattle’s waterways, Captain Ben will provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere as you take in the breathtaking views of the city skyline, distant volcanoes, and abundant wildlife.
You’ll have the opportunity to take the wheel and learn the art of sailing, or simply sit back and relax as you glide across the water.
The galley is stocked with coffee, tea, and provisions, and rain gear is available if needed.
Safety is a top priority, with life jackets in all sizes.
This 5-star rated experience comes highly recommended, with 100% of travelers praising Captain Ben’s expertise and the overall beauty of the journey.
Read our full review: Sail Bainbridge Island & Seattle Waters – Luxury Classic Sailboat Review
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Recap
Explore Seattle’s stunning waterways by setting sail on one of the city’s top-rated sailing experiences. From relaxing harbor tours to thrilling sunset cruises, you’ll find an adventure that suits your preferences and budget. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time voyager, these sailing excursions offer an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the Puget Sound. Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories on the water.