Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
Experience Seattle's iconic skyline and maritime charm on a narrated harbor cruise, offering breathtaking views and fascinating insights.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Seattle's iconic skyline and maritime charm on a narrated harbor cruise, offering breathtaking views and fascinating insights.
"The best harbor cruise across the US, offering a rewarding and enjoyable experience with beautiful views."
🎯 CityPASS Savings
Consider a CityPASS for potential savings if you plan to visit multiple Seattle attractions.
🧥 Layer Up!
It can get chilly and windy on the water, even on a sunny day. Bring layers and a windbreaker.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seattle Skyline Views
Elliott Bay
Marvel at the iconic Seattle skyline from a unique vantage point on the water. See skyscrapers, piers, and the bustling waterfront.
Puget Sound Marine Life
Puget Sound
Keep an eye out for marine life, including California sea lions, as you cruise through the waters.
Ballard Locks & Lake Union
Ballard Locks, Lake Union
Experience the engineering marvel of the Ballard Locks and explore the serene waters of Lake Union.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress for the Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 CityPASS Savings
Consider a CityPASS for potential savings if you plan to visit multiple Seattle attractions.
🧥 Layer Up!
It can get chilly and windy on the water, even on a sunny day. Bring layers and a windbreaker.
🎧 Listen to the Narration
The narrated tours are informative and engaging, offering great insights into Seattle's history and sights.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The best photo opportunities are from the deck. Have your camera ready for stunning skyline shots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 CityPASS Savings
Consider a CityPASS for potential savings if you plan to visit multiple Seattle attractions.
🧥 Layer Up!
It can get chilly and windy on the water, even on a sunny day. Bring layers and a windbreaker.
🎧 Listen to the Narration
The narrated tours are informative and engaging, offering great insights into Seattle's history and sights.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The best photo opportunities are from the deck. Have your camera ready for stunning skyline shots.
🚢 First To Board
Opt for the 'First To Board' program to secure a prime spot on the ship for the best views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour for its stunning views of the Seattle skyline and its informative narration. The comfortable boats and friendly staff contribute to a rewarding experience, making it a highly recommended activity for both tourists and locals. Some find it a bit pricey compared to alternatives, but most agree the value is excellent.
"I have been on many harbor cruises across the US. The Argosy Seattle Waterfront cruise was the best. The boat was comfortable and could accommodate a large number of visitors, all with good views. The narration content was rich, informative, and expertly delivered. The bar and food offerings were ample. The vibe of the ship was professional yet casual and welcoming. The views were beautiful. In short, Argosy provides a most rewarding experience that we thoroughly enjoyed."
Gary Bradt
"Took a short cruise in Seattle and it turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. The views were absolutely stunning—from the city skyline to the surrounding mountains and water, everything was picture-perfect. It offered a unique perspective of Seattle that you just can’t get from land.
The service on board was excellent—staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and made sure everyone felt comfortable and taken care of. The cruise was well-organized and ran smoothly from start to finish.
Whether you're a tourist or a local looking for a quick escape, this short cruise is definitely worth it. It’s a relaxing and memorable way to enjoy the beauty of Seattle. Highly recommended."
Jayvee De Ocampo
"We had a very relaxing, enjoyable and informative cruise during our 1-hour cruise with Argosy. The narrator did a great job with providing information of the key areas and sights surrounding the waterfront. We had bought our tickets through the City Pass (C3), worth the money!"
Neil Armstrong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour typically departs from Pier 55 on the Seattle Waterfront. It's easily accessible by public transportation, ride-sharing services, or a short walk from downtown hotels. Parking is available nearby, but can be expensive.
Yes, there are several parking garages and lots near Pier 55. However, parking in downtown Seattle can be costly, so factor that into your budget.
Absolutely! Seattle's public transit system, including buses and the Link Light Rail, can get you close to the waterfront. Check King County Metro for routes and schedules.
Yes, the Salish Explorer ship used for some Argosy Cruises tours is wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors with mobility needs.
The Harbor Tour is a narrated sightseeing cruise focusing on Seattle's waterfront and skyline. Argosy also offers other tours like the Locks Tour, which goes through the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets directly from the Argosy Cruises website, at their ticket booth on Pier 55, or through third-party vendors like CityPASS. Booking online in advance is recommended.
Ticket prices vary, but a standard 1-hour harbor tour typically costs around $30-$40 per adult. Prices can be lower if purchased as part of a package like CityPASS. Check their website for current pricing.
Yes, Argosy Cruises participates in the Seattle CityPASS, which can offer significant savings if you plan to visit multiple attractions. They may also have seasonal promotions.
The harbor tours run on a schedule, typically multiple times a day. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official Argosy Cruises website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, the Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour is often included in the Seattle CityPASS (C3 option), making it a popular choice for bundled attraction visits.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The standard harbor tour is approximately 1 hour long, offering a comprehensive yet concise overview of the Seattle waterfront.
You'll see the Seattle skyline, Elliott Bay, the bustling port, potentially marine life like sea lions, and learn about the city's maritime history through narration.
Reviewers consistently praise the narration for being rich, informative, and expertly delivered, providing great historical and current insights.
The 'First To Board' program allows you to get on the ship before other passengers, giving you the best opportunity to secure a prime viewing spot.
While you can't bring your own food and drinks, there is a bar and food service available onboard for purchase.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a bar and food service available for purchase on board the Argosy Cruises ships.
While specific menus can vary, typical offerings might include snacks, light meals, and beverages. It's a convenient option for a quick bite during your tour.
The Seattle Waterfront is lined with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines, from seafood to casual fare, if you prefer to dine before or after your cruise.
📸 📸 Photography
The open decks offer the best panoramic views. Aim for shots of the skyline, the water, and any marine life you might spot.
Yes, the boats are designed to offer good vantage points. The 'First To Board' option can help you get unobstructed shots.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive skyline. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water.
A standard lens or even a smartphone camera is usually adequate for capturing the Seattle skyline. If you want to zoom in on distant details, a telephoto lens can be helpful.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, professional or commercial photography might require prior permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring snacks and drinks for the kids, or purchase them onboard. The narrated aspect can also be educational, making it a fun learning experience. Ensure you dress everyone in layers, as it can get breezy on the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're planning to visit other major attractions, look into the Seattle CityPASS. The Argosy Harbor Tour is often included, providing a great way to see the city from the water as part of a bundled deal.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Utilize the 'First To Board' program to get unobstructed views for your shots. Be prepared for changing light conditions and bring a versatile lens, perhaps a wide-angle to capture the expansive cityscapes. Don't forget to look for wildlife in Puget Sound!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Argosy Cruises Experience
The experience is designed to be both relaxing and informative. The narration is a key feature, with guides sharing historical facts and interesting tidbits about Seattle's maritime heritage and landmarks. The ships themselves are comfortable, with ample seating and good viewing areas, and some, like the Salish Explorer, are even wheelchair accessible.
For those looking to maximize their experience, options like the 'First To Board' program can help secure the best vantage points. While food and drinks are available for purchase onboard, it's also a great opportunity to simply soak in the scenery and enjoy the fresh sea air.
Maximizing Value with CityPASS and Alternatives
If cost is a primary concern and a full narrated tour isn't essential, consider the West Seattle Water Taxi. While not a tour, it offers a much cheaper way to get across Elliott Bay and provides fantastic views of the Seattle skyline from a different angle. It's a practical option for locals and visitors alike who want to experience the water without the tour price tag.
Ultimately, whether you opt for the full Argosy experience, a CityPASS bundle, or the more economical water taxi, experiencing Seattle from its waterways offers a unique and memorable perspective.
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