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Seattle Ice Cream Cruise for Kids

Posted on Last updated: November 2, 2023

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The Seattle Ice Cream Cruise (also called the Sunday Ice Cream Cruise) is a little boat ride offered by the Seattle Ferry Service.

This post about the seattle ice cream cruise was written by seattle family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog., what’s the seattle ice cream cruise.

The captain narrates this Seattle Lake Union cruise to explain a bit about the history of Seattle and the sights you’ll see.

When he’s not talking, you’ll jam out to oldies music! It’s a short boat ride on a small boat perfect for exploring Seattle with kids! 

Where is the Sunday Ice Cream Cruise Located?

They are next to the Museum of History and Industry clock at South Lake Union Park. You’ll see a sandwich board sign with balloons on it. That’s where you’ll line up to board.

When Can I Go?

The Seattle Ice Cream Cruise is available year-round on Sundays on the hour from 11am-5pm. Yes, even during rain/snow.

Personally, you can’t beat cruising around Seattle in the summer, but I think it would be fun to do it in the fall/winter and sip hot chocolate!

How Long is this Seattle Boat Ride?

The Sunday Ice Cream Cruise in Seattle is about 45-50 minutes long, which is perfect for families with little kids.

What Will I See?

This Seattle boat ride takes you past Gasworks Park, Dale Chihuly’s glass studio, Ivar’s Salmon House, Seattle floating homes (including the Sleepless in Seattle houseboat), and more.

Plus, you can see seaplanes, kayaks, and lots of other boats!

How Much Does it Cost?

The Sunday Ice Cream Cruise in Seattle is cash/check only.

• Adults: $12
• Seniors: $11
• Kids 5-13: $8
• Kids under 5: $3

What’s the Seating Situation Onboard?

On the top deck, there is bench seating. We also saw a few chairs scattered around. There are some adorable painted chairs inside, if you want to be indoors.

What Type of Ice Cream is Available?

When we were there in August 2018, they had Haagen-Daz bars, ice cream sandwiches, traditional root beer floats, chocolate root beer floats, orange Crush floats, and Strawberry soda floats. They were $2-5 each.

Do They Have Anything Besides Ice Cream?

They have chips, coffee, soda, and hot chocolate available. They might have other items available in cooler weather.

What if it Rains?

There’s an indoor space inside the Seattle boat that is set up with chessboards, checkers, and other fun games. Plus, you can still grab a treat and look out the window!

Or, wear a rain jacket and enjoy the views from the top deck!

Where Should I Park?

Parking on Sundays is FREE! So, you can try your luck at any of the street parking nearby. There were quite a few spots available in the lot West of South Lake Union Park. Just check to see if the pedestrian bridge is down, or you’ll need to walk around the long way.

[irp posts=”7363″ name=”Take a Seattle Argosy Cruise to Kid-Friendly Tillicum Excursion”]

Seattle Ice Cream Cruise Tips for Families

Show up early.

The boat seating is limited to 45 people, I believe. Since you don’t book your tickets ahead of time, it’s first come first served. Arriving 20 minutes early would be good.

For our cruise in August, they turned a few people away who had to wait for the next cruise.

There are 2 restrooms on board. They have an electric foot pedal to flush and the Captain stated that kids have a hard time with them.

So, you might go potty before you go (there are restrooms at the Cafe nearby.)

They don’t have credit card machines, so you’ll need to pay cash or check for your tickets and any treats you’d like.

Check to make sure you have enough before boarding, especially if you’ve promised your kids ice cream!

KNOW WHAT YOU WANT BEFORE YOU ORDER

The line for ice cream gets long and it takes awhile to make the orders (especially the floats.) Don’t be the person who holds up the line debating what you want to order.

It helps them if you already know what you want so they aren’t standing there waiting. And the people behind you in line will appreciate it!

BRING WET WIPES

Maybe it’s just my kids, but the second they start eating ice cream, it’s all over their hands, faces, hair, clothes, etc.

Bring lots of wet wipes to thoroughly scrub them down after their treats. They have garbage cans on board. This will be a lot easier than taking them to the restroom.

The stairs to get up to the top deck are steep. We had our kids turn around and go down them like a ladder. This felt a lot safer.

What Else to Do at Lake Union Park

Lake Union Park is in an awesome location just to hang around with kids. There’s a little beach where you can play in the water. Plus, lots of grassy area to run around!

We love watching the seaplanes take off and land. And of course, watching the boats!

My kids have been obsessed with the little toy boats since they played with them at Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris last year.

We were THRILLED to discover that the Center for Wooden Boats has them available to borrow for a $5 suggested donation at the pond right at South Lake Union Park. Find out more about the pond boat sailing here .

MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND INDUSTRY

The Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI) has been at their Lake Union location for a few years now. It’s focused a lot on Seattle history, from the pioneer days until today!

This is where you’ll find the famous Rainier “R” sign, a Boeing B-1 plane, and more! Kids ages 14 and under are free and MOHAI is free every first Thursday of the month.

Their next traveling exhibit is all about World War I in America (September 1, 2018 – February 10, 2019.) And if you are a genealogy nut like me, you can access their on-site research library to discover photos, books, movies, newspaper clippings, etc.

CHECK OUT OTHER BOATS

The Center for Wooden Boats offers free boat rides every Sunday. It’s also based on a first come first served system.

Sign-ups start at 10am. When we arrived at 10:30am, the line wrapped around the building. They can only accommodate 200 people total, so if you’d like to do this, plan to arrive early to get in line. Or at least, drop off one person to wait in line to sign up. You can find out more here .

If you go in the summer, bring a change of clothes and play a bit at their splash pad! It’s basically just water shooting up from the concrete, but it’s the perfect way to cool off in the summer heat!

Fun with Kids in Seattle

Riding The Sounder Train to Seattle’s International District for a Play Date Take a Seattle Argosy Cruise to Kid-Friendly Tillicum Excursion Spend the Day at Pier 57 in Seattle with Kids 6 Reasons Your Kid Should Ride Seattle’s Monorail 6 Tips for Enjoying the Pacific Science Center with Toddlers

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Thursday 9th of August 2018

This is SO fun! My kids would like this and I don't think it would make me seasick. Plus...ice cream!! :D I'm adding this to my PNW road trip list!

marciecheung

Yes, the boat doesn't really rock or anything! I get motion sick, but didn't feel a thing!

Seattle is such a beautiful spot! I day dream of moving tot he area.

We LOVE it here!

I actually just heard about that but haven't done it yet! I need to add it to my list.

It's really cute and so affordable!

Wednesday 8th of August 2018

Thanks for all of the info. I've actually had this on my radar for a couple of years but, honestly, didn't even know where it was. Ha, ha. Good thing you mentioned it was cash only because would have shown up thinking they would take a card.

Yes! I'm glad they had balloons or we might have missed it!

Diana Tidswell

This sounds like a lot of fun and such a nice place to spend your weekends with your kids and I am sure they will like it.

They really liked seeing the floating homes!

Ice Cream Cruise on Seattle Water Tours

See the sights and sniff the sniffs with your furry BFF on this dog-friendly tour.

Dog-friendly deets: FREE admission, safely sit on your hoomans lap or the fenced-in deck seating in da sun

Hooman features: 45-minute fact-filled cruise around Lake Union, every Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m., ice cream treats for sale onboard (sharing encouraged!)

Note: Open 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sundays from June 20 to Sept. 5

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Ice cream cruise - seattle water tours.

For information on group reservations, private Ice Cream Cruises and our new Bike and Boat, go to  Ice Cream Extras

Informal, fun, family friendly and dog friendly. Ice cream is optional, but highly encouraged! Departing on the hour from Lake Union Park, next to the Museum of History and Industry.  Click here for directions .

Seattle Water Tours

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Seattle Ice Cream Cruise on Lake Union

by Tim Lewis | 0 comments

Are you looking for something fun to do on Sunday? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We have the perfect suggestion for you — hop aboard the Seattle ice cream cruise on Lake Union!

The Seattle ice cream cruise (operated by the Seattle Ferry Service) happens every Sunday March through October, and on Saturday during the summer (June 17-August 26). The cruise launches from South Lake Union Park (near the northeast corner of the Museum of History and Industry). Departures take place between 11am-3pm on the hour. There are no reservations, so show up early to make sure you’re not left behind. Tickets are $18 for adults, $13 for kids 3-12, and $5 for children 2 and under.

NOTE: The price of admission on the Seattle ice cream cruise does NOT include ice cream. That means you have to pay $2-$4 for one of the treats on board (if you want them). We had ice cream sandwiches on our cruise but the captain was really pushing their “famous” chocolate root beer floats. I guess we’ll have to try those next time. The cruise also offers tomato soup,  hot chocolate, and coffee in the non-summer months.

The 45-minute Seattle ice cream cruise is a fun, fully narrated tour around Lake Union. Among other sights, you will see where William Boeing built his first airplane, Dale Chihuly ‘s Lake Union studio, Gas Works Park , and many of the houseboats on Lake Union, including the houseboat from Sleepless in Seattle .

INSIDER TIP: Since the ferry travels around Lake Union in a counter-clockwise direction, you’ll want to sit on right (starboard) side of the boat for the best views. The only time you’ll want to be on the left side is when you make the short trek down the Montlake Cut (Ivar’s Salmon House and Dale Chihuly’s studio are on the left).

Like I mentioned, cruise is narrated (with some funky music mixed in). The captain does a great job of keeping the tour humorous (often yelling “We have ice cream!” at passing boats), but he’s also very informative. There’s so much history on Lake Union that Tove and I didn’t know about (and we’ve lived in this area for much of our lives). It was really fun to get an even better understanding of our area.

If you can’t make the Seattle ice cream cruise on Sunday, the Seattle Ferry Service also offers an hour-long Friday brown bag lunch and Saturday lake cruise during the summer (beginning the first Friday of June and running through the first weekend in September). Tickets are a little more expensive for adults on those cruises ($15 instead of $11), but kids ride for the same price as the Sunday tour.

I’m a firm believer that there’s nothing better than being on the water. Add ice cream, sights and history to the mix, and you have a winning recipe for an awesome Sunday. We recommend the Seattle ice cream cruise to tourists and locals alike. It’s a fun adventure that will send you on your way quickly, so you can run along to the next fun thing in Seattle.

Have you ever been on the Seattle ice cream cruise? What did you think of the tour? We would love to hear from you! Please leave your comments below or connect with us on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . Don’t forget to also check out Seattle Bloggers for more fun things to do and see around the Puget Sound!

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Argosy Cruises Harbor Tour on Elliott Bay

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Sunday Ice Cream Cruise! - Seattle Ferry Service Day Tours

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To the Washington state Seattle ferry employee. Thank you so much Sir. Wish there’s more people... read more

Wonderful view of Seattle would recommend this experience, our driver drove on the other 5 of us... read more

Sunday Ice Cream Cruise!

This is a 45-50 minute tour of the Lake Union floating homes, a peek at Dale Chihuly’s studio, Gas Works Park and the Sleepless in Seattle houseboat. The tour includes narration of old Seattle. Not part of the City Pass offerings currently, but competitively priced tour but does not include the cost of the ice cream or drinks. It was worth the look-see, though.

No better way to see Seattle! Amazing water views, mountains, and boats. We just took a round trip ferry ride as pedestrians and loved it. There's a cafe on board so grab a cup of coffee and a snack, relax and enjoy!

We took two ferry trips just to escape from city roads and see city shores as recommended by friend Nithin Thampi. Thanks to him, we enjoyed both trips. We took our first trip from Seattle to Bainbridge Island and then drove to Kingston and second trip from Kingston to Edmonds. We took car to ferry terminal and purchase ticket sitting inside car itself. We parked car on ship/ferry and stand near deck of ship to see the amazing Seattle city shore including Space needle. very low cost and leisure trip :) :) https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60878-d563102-r420632598-Washington_State_Ferries-Seattle_Washington.html#

Visiting friends on Bainbridge Island, we decided to take the ferry from Seattle. It was very relaxing and enjoyable to chug along the shore. The Seattle skyline from the water is worth the trip in itself. There is a limited snack bar on the ferry and the people were so friendly. Definitely worth the time!

We enjoyed this short but scenic ferry ride from Bainbridge Island to Seattle. The time spent on the ferry offers spectacular views of the Space Needle and the rest of the Seattle skyline. We did NOT have a reservation for this ferry and only had to wait approximately 30 minutes to drive onto the ferry, despite the fact that it was about 5:00 p.m. on a weekday. What a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to travel!

The ferry ride to and from Bainbridge Island is a smooth, comfortable 35 minutes with great views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound and the islands. A great way to travel with your car, on foot, or on your bicycle.

Ice Cream Cruise

Sat 12 feb 2022 - sat 30 apr 2022.

Seattle’s 10 Best Boat Tours for Unmatched Views and Unforgettable Adventures

One of the most unique things about Seattle is its abundance of waterways. Besides its direct connection to the Pacific Ocean, Seattle is surrounded by a bounty of lakes, bays, and islands to explore via ferry, cruise, or boat tour .

With so much to explore, it can be hard to narrow down the best places and ways to see the beauty Seattle has to offer. Below is a list of 10 of the best boat tours and cruises that simultaneously allow guests to take in the views of Seattle’s waters while having a unique and fun time with family and friends.

The 10 Best Boat Tours from Seattle

Here are 10 of our favorite boat tours from Seattle:

• Argosy Cruises : The biggest fleet in the Pacific Northwest
• Boat Tours Seattle : Unique boats available for rental
• Sailing Seattle : 70-foot sailboat rides with a view of downtown
• Seattle’s Tall Ship : Going even bigger! An 85-foot boat that gives tours of Elliott Bay
• Soundview Sunset Cruises : Morning, mid-day, and afternoon cruises of Union Bay and beyond. Soundview has tons of options for seeing Seattle from the water.
• Emerald City Pirates : Pirate-themed cruises!
• Waterways Cruises And Events: Dinner and drink pairing cruises and more
• Seattle Water Tours : Seasonal ice cream cruises
• Steamer Virginia V Cruises : Cruise aboard a historic landmark
• Lake Union Charters & Adventures: Ride a 1926 schooner

1. Argosy Cruises

One of the longest-running boat cruises available in the Seattle area, Argosy Cruises offers cruise tours that explore the beauty and history of the city of Seattle, complete with a full-service bar. Argosy Cruises also boasts the largest fleet in the Pacific Northwest , which in combination with their 70 years of service makes them one of the most trustworthy cruise companies in the state.

Argosy Cruises offers a 1-hour Harbor Cruise and 2-hour Locks Cruise option for passengers to choose from. Their boats can also be reserved for corporate events as well as weddings. Additionally, they also have happy hour cruises that combine the stellar views with tasty drinks and special sales for holidays like the 4th of July.

2. Boat Tours Seattle

With a unique fleet where every boat is different, Boat Tours of Seattle i s spearheaded by a group of United States Coast Guard Captains who are dedicated to using their skills to provide some of the safest and most enjoyable experiences on the water. From 2 hour tours to overnight adventures, Boat Tours Seattle is one of the most unique boat tours available in Seattle.

Each boat has its own special features and pricing. From smaller motor boats to full-blown sail boats, passengers can pick and choose their type of tour and the setting. Boat Tours Seattle has multiple tour packages as well, including rent-by-the-hour tours, special event tours, and overnight adventures. Check out the picture above, which shows their Metlite Boat. As you can tell, it’s a pretty unique experience!

3. Sailing Seattle

Featured in National Geographic, Conde Nast Traveler , Trip Advisor, and more, Sailing Seattle is a sailing-themed boat tour company that allows passengers to enjoy a sailing experience without having to steer or be involved in a guided tour. Hop aboard one of their two 70-foot sailing yachts and enjoy the views without any worries. Each boat is complete with a seating area on the deck, bench seating, and restrooms that guests can utilize while they explore Elliott Bay.

Sailing Seattle is an all-ages experience, including children and infants. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks as well, including alcohol. Passengers can even learn to help sail the boat by simply asking the deckhand or captain, who will then provide instructions. Each route aboard one of their yachts is unique as their routes are determined by wind direction and boat traffic that day. 

4. Seattle’s Tall Ship

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Seattle’s Tall Ship (@seattlestallship)

Offering 3 public sailing tours every day, Seattle’s Tall Ship runs all of its tours aboard the Bay Lady, an 85-foot tall sailing ship that currently resides in Elliott Bay. The ship is equipped with bathrooms, a drink and snack bar, and outdoor seating for guests. Apart from their daily tours, Seattle’s Tall Ship also has private charter tours and sunset sailing tours. 

Run by a skilled captain and crew, guests do not have to worry about steering when aboard the Bay Lady. Guests of all ages are welcome to enjoy one of their daily 2-hour tours or partake in an evening sunset tour complete with delicious drinks. The Bay Lady is available for reservation for private events for up to 6 hours at a time for events like weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, and much more.

5. Soundview Sunset Cruises

Here’s a great choice for boating options! Want to cruise to a University of Washington football game and “sailgate” ( that’s tailgating on a sailboat )? Well, Soundview has sailgate cruises.

They have mansion cruises, morning cruises, mid-day cruises, afternoon cruises, and much more.

Home of the yacht known as Rainbird, Soundview Sunset Cruises showcases the views, landmarks, and history of Lake Union in addition to Portage Bay, Lake Washington, and Seattle Locks. Most famous for their sunset cruise views, they also have morning, mid-day, and afternoon cruises so passengers can enjoy Seattle in all of its beautiful and scenic forms.

In addition to their daily cruises, Soundview Sunset Cruises has holiday cruises, UW sailgate cruises for sporting events, and custom cruises. They even have a boat tour showcasing some of Seattle’s gorgeous mansions. Custom tours can refine their route for specific locations or special occasions. Passengers can also add things to their tour package, such as drinks.

6. Emerald City Pirates

One of the most unique water experiences available in Seattle comes in the form of a fully interactive pirate-themed ship. Known as the Queen Anne’s Revenge, the ship is the home of themed boat tours of the area, treasure hunts for families, and adult only parties, all complete with pirate flags and costumed crew.

Emerald City Pirates is for all ages, even babies. Dogs under 25 pounds are also allowed on board provided they are well-behaved. All tours come with snacks, water, soft drinks, beer, and cider for sale, as well as a ship store full of hats, swords, eyepatches, and more. Passengers can join tours without reservations, but for events like birthday parties or other private boat charters, it is best to make reservations ahead of time. Party cruises can be booked for either families or adults only.

7. Waterways Cruises And Events

From dinner and drink pairing cruises to private events and holiday tours, Waterways Cruises And Events has a boat tour for every occasion. They regularly offer dinner cruises, weekend brunch cruises, and Sunday dinner buffet cruises. All of these cruises are complete with either a buffet or a plated dinner with roughly 2 hours of time on the water, making it a fabulous way to take in the views while spending time with friends or loved ones.

In addition to their regularly hosted tours, there is no shortage of special cruises throughout the year. Holidays like the 4th of July and Father’s Day come with special pricing, events, and food, from brunches and dinners to party cruises. They also have karaoke night cruises and drag brunches for Pride Month and miscellaneous special tasting events for breweries, chocolate and wine pairings, and spirits sampling.

If you’re looking for something to do during Seafair (held in early August), Waterways Cruises is a top option.

8. Seattle Water Tours

Known for their seasonal summer ice cream cruises, Seattle Water Tours takes passengers to historic sites on Lake Union aboard the Fremont Avenue. Throughout the year they offer special event cruises for holidays, sports events, and more. Guests can book the Fremont Avenue for private charters for birthdays, weddings, corporate events, and more.

Seattle Water Tours’ Sunday Ice Cream Cruise is their most popular cruise, which runs from March through October. They also offer it on Saturdays from June to August. Each ice cream cruise is walk-ons only with no reservations or advance tickets available. Every cruise hosts up to 42 passengers and serves ice cream while showcasing local landmarks and history, such as the Boeing Company, a 100-year-old shipyard, the busiest drawbridge in the world, and more.

9. Steamer Virginia V Cruises

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Steamer Virginia V Foundation (@steamervirginiavfoundation)

As the name implies, the Steamer Virginia V Cruises is a historic boat tour aboard the Steamer Virginia V, which is a nearly 100-year-old steam-powered wooden ship. These tours simultaneously serve as a great way for passengers to explore the local area and to learn more about maritime history. It is also a great way to keep one of the most iconic historical ships of Seattle functioning for generations to experience and enjoy.

Passengers can enjoy public cruises, educational tours, and special events aboard the Steamer Virginia V for 9 months out of the whole year. Guests can rent the ship for private charters, like weddings, parties, fundraisers, corporate events, and more, either as a dockside rental or a leisure cruise. Private charters all come with a 3-hour rent time and come with tables, seating, speakers, microphone, projector, and more. Guests can then bring any cutlery, plates, food, and drink as needed for their celebration through Lake Union, Elliott Bay, or the Ballard Locks.

10. Lake Union Charters & Adventures

Lake Union Charters & Adventures has a number of options. There are Lake Union Cruises, private sailings, sailing battles, and even lessons. One big reason to look into Lake Union Charters? They have a 63-foot schooner named the Lavengro, which can accommodate up to 22 people. It’s beautiful and can be chartered for all kinds of sailings ranging from nights out to family events and sunset sails.

Hi, I'm Ashleigh! Welcome to Seattle Travel, my little piece of beautiful PNW. This is home and I'm here to share all my experiences so visitors and locals alike can find the best experiences this part of the country has to offer. I started Seattle Travel in 2012 as a way to journal my experiences and over the years have been encouraged by family and friends to open up my adventures to everyone. I actively seek out the best food, activities, and day trips and give you a local perspective.  The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful areas in the world and my goal is to let you explore it to the fullest. 

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Set Sail: 11 Exciting Boat Experiences for Mini Mariners

All aboard! Do you have a tiny sailor who loves all things marine? A little aquatic aficionado who can’t wait to get out on the waves? Fortunately, we live in a city that has boatloads of places that will thoroughly entertain any water-loving adventurer. From the best boat rides in Seattle to museum exhibits, this on-point navigational tool includes the all the cool places in Seattle for kids who love boats!

Salish Sea Tours

If you haven’t heard of Salish Sea Tours before, it might be because they are brand new! This one-of-a-kind Miner’s Landing waterfront boat touring company is Native-owned and offers an Elliot Bay tour like no other. The narrated tour shares not only the history of Seattle but focuses on its Indigenous people as well. With a fleet of two, 93-foot Native-designed catamarans, creatively called Orca 1 and Orca 2, you and your Littles can take the hour-long tour of the Bay, learn about the city’s history, be captivated by its Duwamish heritage and ride the waves in style. The boats have numerous seating options that accommodate just about anyone. Stadium seating in the front for outside viewing, indoor seating great for snack time or our plethora of rainy days and open deck seating for those beautiful summer afternoons. Plus, two full service bars (with snacks!), parents! It’s a unique and exciting addition to Pier 57, and one that is perfect for even your tiniest seafarers. Get tickets online and don’t forget those jackets. The wind can get a bit chilly out on the water.

Launch Hours: 1:30, 3, 4:30, & 6 p.m. Cost: $30/Adult; $20/Kids (3-11); $27/Senior; Free for kids 2 & under

Pier 57-Miner's Landing 1301 Alaskan Way Seattle, WA 98101 Online: salishseatours.com

Argosy Cruises Blake Island Fast Ferry

While Argosy Cruises are revamping many of their water tours this year, one is still up and running and would make a great day trip for your enthusiastic mariners. Check out the Blake Island Fast Ferry. Departing from Pier 55 nearly every hour, jump aboard their vessel for the 30 minute trip to the 1,127-acre Blake Island State Park to experience the trails, nature life, beaches, clam digging, views and all that this little island has to offer. Stay for a couple hours or make it an overnight excursion by camping ! Blake Island is only accessible by boat and makes for a great day trip away from the hustle and bustle or, better yet, a smart way to occupy kiddos on these long summer days. And you won’t be left wondering how to nosh. Hit up the Longhouse Cafe for eats and treats if exploring sets that belly rumbling. Take a break and make it to Blake, for goodness sake!

Cost: $29/Person; Free for kids 3 & under

1101 Alaskan Way Pier 55, Suite 201 Seattle, WA 98101 206-623-1445 Online: argosycruises.com

Ballard Locks

If watching boats is more your kiddos’ speed, look no further than the Ballard Locks, the busiest locks in the nation! Located just north of the city in the Ballard community and operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, these locks will ooh and aah you little ship lovers. Watch along the railings as boats and ships both large and small pass through. Or bring a blanket and a picnic and sit in the grassy hill adjacent to the Locks as you watch the boats go by. Swing by the visitor center and admin building for further historic facts or stroll the botanical garden while you're there. It is also a great way to watch migrating salmon from June through September as they pass through the salmon ladder of the viewing windows. Not a bad way to spend a day with your nautical nuts.

Hours: Daily, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Cost: Free

3015 N.W. 54th St. Seattle, WA 98107 206-783-7059 Online: ballardlocks.org

Center For Wooden Boats

If the nostalgia of a good ole traditional wooden boat is strong with you and your cadets, Seattle has just the place for you! Check out the Center for Wooden Boats, located on Lake Union. Founders Dick and Colleen Wagner, who had previously been renting out their wooden boats for the past decade, started this hands-on, living museum in 1976 to showcase and educate others about their collection. Now expanded to include the Wagner Education Center, you will be able to see more historic wooden boats than ever. Visit the gallery installations, hanging boat exhibits, restoration projects and art displays while you are there. But that’s not all. Since this is a living museum, you can rent out a wooden boat yourself! Their fleet, from rowing boats, to cats, to sailboats, are rented out for personal use right on Lake Union. ‘Wood’ you like to sail? You bet!

Hours: Weds.-Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Closed Mon. & Tues. Last boat out at 5:45 p.m.

South Lake Union 1010 Valley St. Seattle, WA 98109 206-382-2628 Online: cwb.org

The Electric Boat Company

What’s that? Captain your own boat? Yes, you can! The Electric Boat Company located on Lake Union lets you drive around your very own crew of up to 12 people. Easy to maneuver and navigate, with plenty of seating for all your skippers, these leisurely electric boats are where it’s at for a DIY glide on the water. We recommend the Duffy boats, perfect for a family. The kiddos will be able to check out all manner of boats and ships on the lake, as well as the draw bridge, the floating house community, and all the other quintessential Lake Union sights. Life jackets are complimentary for adults and kids and you can even bring your own food and bevvies while out on the ride. A pro when touring the lake this way is that the Duffy boats can also be fully enclosed and are heated if you book outside the summer months!

Cost: $125/hr. (minimum 2 hours)

2046 Westlake Ave. N., Suite 102 Seattle, WA 98109 206-223-7476 Online: theelectricboatco.com

Maritime Seattle at MOHAI

Anyone who has been to Seattle knows how important our waterways are to our region. Lakes, chilly glacier runoff rivers, the Sound and the Pacific are all within our fingertips. It’s no wonder we have so many little lovers of water ready to learn and explore more! Check out the permanent Maritime Seattle exhibit at the Museum of History and Industry with your aquatic, inquisitive bunch. Located in MOHAI’s Naval Reserve Building, this gallery features old-timey diving equipment, a WWII-era submarine periscope with 360-degree views of Seattle, a Fresnel lens from the Smith Island Lighthouse, a real working ship’s wheel, an engine telegraph system and a tour of many historic ships with interesting tales to tell. You and your gang will leave here with tons of maritime knowledge that you won’t soon "castaway!"

Good to know: Check out MOHAI's newest exhibit Da Vinci-Inventions when you visit.

Hours:  Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs. in Aug., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Cost:  $22/Adult; Free for kids 14 & under

MOHAI 860 Terry Ave. N. Seattle WA 98109 206-324-1126 Online:  mohai.org/exhibit/maritime-seattle

Emerald City Pirates Family Treasure Cruise

Arrr, Matey! Climb aboard for a pirate treasure cruise on the Emerald City Pirates’ ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge ! Your buccaneers can join in this floating, interactive marauder experience while you toil around Lake Union in a pirate ship! You can take in the awesome view of the city skyline, but the real treat is the treasure search, games and the talk-like-a-pirate lessons your kiddos get while on board the hour-long swashbuckling cruise. They also have the chance to try their hand at the water cannons and will get a gift of their choice from the ship’s treasure chest. It’s truly all the fun your little hearties are searching for. You will want to walk the plank to the ship about 30 minutes ahead of time to board. And make time to check out the booty, swag, snacks and drinks at the ship’s store beforehand, too!

Hours:  Sat. & Sun., hours vary Cost:  $32/Adult; $27/Kid (18 mos.-14); $15/Kid (18 mos. & under)

860 Terry Ave. N, Seattle, WA 98109 206-639-8689 Online: emeraldcitypirates.com

Lake Sammamish State Park Boat Rentals

With so many glorious lakes in our PNW region, it is hard to pick just one that is great for kayaking . But Lake Sammamish State Park is one of many worth the mention. If you are hitting up the Eastside and your Littles are eager to hit the waves, check out Lake Sammamish. There is a boat launch with kayak and board rentals at Tibbetts Beach. Get the kiddos jacketed up and send them out into the calm waters of the lake for a great day of paddling. Glide past the swimming area, hit the sand bar or check out the connected salmon creek. Don’t forget to keep your eyes on the sky. There are always bald eagles to be spotted here! Then, once your Littles get oar-arm, hit up the huge playground as well as the large sand beach for some picnic or sandcastle-building time . The concession stand is open now, too. Grab some ice cream, or if everyone is feeling the tummy rumbles, they also serve hot dogs, chicken sausages, nachos and…wait for it….Zeek's pizza! You won’t famish at Lake Sammamish! Full summer day filled with water fun? Check! Just remember your Discover Pass.

Foodie footnote: If a non-concession lunch or dinner is in the plan, hit up the XXX Root Beer Drive-In restaurant a few miles away for a monstrous burger, fries and a root beer float. There are only two of these themed eateries left so you won’t want to miss this novelty. Plus, it’s filled to the brim with groovy, nostalgic decor, making it a fun and unique place worthy of the visit while in the area!

2000 N.W. Sammamish Rd. Issaquah, WA 98027 425-649-4275 Online: parks.state.wa.us/533/Lake-Sammamish

King County Water Taxi

If bigger is better when it comes to boats, consider taking an adventure on one of the King County Water Taxis! Departing from downtown Seattle, there are two trips you can take on the Taxi. Head to either West Seattle or Vashon Island for the day. Departing from Pier 50, the taxis leave just about every hour for the Seacrest Dock in West Seattle, or if you are heading to Vashon to play for the day, the taxi leaves in the morning and evening commute times. These vessels hold 278 people and there is room on board for bicycles if you feel like biking instead of hiking. If a day in West Seattle or Vashon is on your bucket list, your itty bitty cruisers will find this means of getting there totally up their waterway! The online schedule has exact taxi times.

Foodie footnote: About half a mile down Harbor Ave, Salty's on Alki Beach is a must for their famous brunch (on Saturdays and Sundays), lunch or dinner! You get one of the very best views of the Seattle skyline plus award-winning Northwest seafood cuisine (think: crab, lobster, salmon, halibut, clams...you name it!), and it’s absolutely worth a pop over! And, yes, they do have a kids menu if your kiddos prefer to see their sea life in the water as opposed to on their plate!

201 S. Jackson St. KSC-MT-0420 Seattle, WA 98104 206-477-3979 Online: kingcounty.gov/depts/transportation/water-taxi.aspx

Ice Cream Cruise

Claimed to be the “sweetest trip around Lake Union,” the Seattle Water Tours’ 42-passenger Ice Cream Cruise is clearly meant to be enjoyed by your kiddos with ice cream treats in hand. Their ship, the Fremont Avenue , leaves on Sundays, every hour on the hour for a 45-minute trip around the lake. Youngsters can learn about some of the hot spots on Lake Union including the history of Boeing, the floating homes community and a shipyard that has been working for over 100 years. It’s even dog-friendly, if you feel like bringing the pooch! The excursion is on a first-come, first-served basis for cruises on Sunday year-round, and also for select times on Saturdays in the summer. Perfect for your little boaters and your sweet tooth. I scream, you scream, we all scream for cruising with ice cream!

Days & Hours: Sun., year-round sailings every hour, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. summer-only sailings at 11 a.m., noon & 1 p.m. Cost:  $15/Adult; $10/Kids (3-12); $4/Kids (2 & under)

860 Terry Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109 206-422-0036 Online: seattlewatertours.com

Woodmark Waterfront Adventures

Tweens and teens and even brave little teenies, we haven’t forgotten about you! If hitting the waves means taking your kiddos out for a bit more of an audacious ride, you may want to consider looking into Woodmark Waterfront Adventures. Located on Lake Washington at Carillon Point in Kirkland, this boat rental outfit has everything from ski/wakeboard passenger boats to jet skis, and from one and two-seater kayaks to SUP boards. They are all up for grabs! You can captain your own crew on a passenger boat, zoom around with your wild child on a jet ski, or, if you are feeling a sightseeing vibe, they also offer a captained boat to motor you around the scenic lake where you can see all the luxury real estate along the shore. You never know who’s house you may glimpse!

1200 Carillon Point Kirkland, WA 98033 425-999-1784 Online: waterfrontadventures.com

—Alaina Weimer

RELATED STORIES:

Anchors Away! 9 Puget Sound Campsites You Can Easily Boat To

MOHAI’s Newest Exhibit & 5 More Places to Explore in South Lake Union

13 Safe & Scenic Places for Families to Go Kayaking

All Hands on Deck: 13 Houseboats to Rent with Your Crew

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Seattle Water Tours

Private Charters

The Fremont Avenue is available for charter year-round. Up to 42 passengers on Lake Washington, Lake Union and the Ship Canal. We can also take you out through the Ballard locks for a cruise to Elliott Bay.

Contact us to check dates and we can discuss ways to create a great event.

Unforgettable occasions on the water

The Fremont Avenue offers a unique setting for any occasion. We charter for:

Team offsites —get away from the office or shop for a great teambuilding experience

Parties —anniversaries, birthdays or just a gathering of friends and family

Weddings —make it an extra special day floating through the waterways

Memorials —gather to remember those who loved you and loved the water

Events and festivals —boat rides for people attending your waterfront event

Flexible arrangements

We want you to have the best time that you can imagine. We are flexible about departure locations, decorations, catering, music and most any other part of your event. Captain and crew can jump in to help, or stay way in the background. Let’s work together for a great event.

We always allow for a half hour of setup time before your departure at no charge. Depending on our schedule we may be able to provide more setup time. And we always take care of the cleanup.

For views of the interior and exterior spaces of the Fremont Avenue, click here .

We have two-hour minimum for most private charters. Friday and Saturday evenings from June through September we have a three hour minimum. Special events have their own timeframes and pricing.

Charter fees include an hourly rate for the crewed boat, plus docking fees (higher at Lake Union Park) and a gratuity for the hard-working crew. Rates are a bit higher for special events , and we may need to charge extra if we are cruising one-way or meeting your party someplace other than our base at Fisherman’s Terminal or at Lake Union Park. Here are basic rates for 2024.

A 50 percent deposit secures your date, with full payment 30 days from the event date. We do offer a small discount for those paying by cash, check, Zelle or Venmo.

Your catering can consist of anything from sandwiches or pizza all the way to full buffets. We do not have any preferred caterers, and you may use whatever catering service meets your needs. We never charge a commission or corkage.

You can bring your own alcoholic beverages as you get a state banquet permit (a simple online form). We offer a limited beverage service (beer, seltzer, soft drinks) for those looking to simplify their arrangements.

Click here for pictures of the interior, to get a sense of the layout for catering

Decorations and music

We encourage you to decorate the Fremont Avenue, inside and out, for your event, as long as your decorations are easily removed and won’t blow away in the wind.

We have a music system on board that plays both in the cabin and on the upper deck. You can plug in your phone or just send us a playlist and we can run it from our phones. DJs are welcome as long as we can control the volume.

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