Seattle: Tall Sailboat Sunset Harbor Cruise

If you’re looking for a way to see Seattle from a different angle, a sunset cruise on a tall sailboat might just be your ideal choice. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but with hundreds of glowing reviews and a solid reputation, it’s clear this experience appeals to many. Its blend of breathtaking scenery, engaging sailing, and relaxed atmosphere makes it a standout in the city’s activities.

What really draws us in is the chance to watch the sunset over the Olympic Mountains and see the city skyline light up in the fading light. Plus, helping to raise the sails or steering the ship adds a level of participation that makes it feel more than just a cruise. The local drinks onboard, from wine to cold beer, are an added perk that helps you unwind at the perfect time of day.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the weather dependency—as with all outdoor activities, rain or shine, the tour still runs, so packing the right clothes is key. If you’re after a highly structured or family-focused activity, this might not be the best fit, but if you savor laid-back, scenic evenings with a touch of adventure, keep reading.

This cruise seems well-suited for adventurers, couples, or anyone craving a peaceful yet exciting way to cap off a day in Seattle. Whether you’re a sailing newbie or a seasoned maritime enthusiast, the experience promises memorable views and a chance to connect with the water and sky.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Seattle’s skyline and mountain ranges at sunset
• Participatory sailing with opportunities to raise sails or steer
• Relaxing atmosphere with onboard drinks like wine, beer, cider, and champagne
• Convenient location at Pier 66 on Seattle’s waterfront
• Affordable price point at around $80 per person for 2 hours of scenic sailing
• Engaging crew praised for their friendliness and knowledge

Imagine standing on a classic tall ship, feeling the wind in your hair, and watching the city’s lights come alive as the sun dips behind the Olympic Mountains. The entire experience is designed to highlight Seattle’s natural beauty from a uniquely maritime perspective.

Departure Point & Check-In: You’ll meet at the ‘Seattle’s Tall Ship’ ticket booth, located next to Anthony’s Restaurant at Bell Harbor Marina on Pier 66. It’s just a short walk from waterfront attractions. Check in about five minutes before departure, and the crew will walk you down to the boat together. This setup keeps things relaxed and easy to navigate.

Onboard Atmosphere: Once aboard the schooner ‘Bay Lady’, the vibe is laid-back but lively. Expect plenty of friendly chatter, as the crew are known for being approachable, knowledgeable, and fun. The boat itself offers comfortable seating and spacious decks, perfect for taking in the panoramic views.

The Sailing Experience: Unlike ferries or tour boats, this is a traditional sailing vessel, which means you’ll feel the thrill of being powered by the wind. The captain and crew will invite you to help raise the sails or take the wheel if you want—you don’t need prior experience, just a willingness to participate.

Scenic Highlights: As you glide through the harbor, you’ll pass iconic sights like the Space Needle, Smith Tower, and on clear days, Mount Rainier’s snowy peak. The best part is the timing—you’ll see the sky change colors as the sun sets, providing perfect photo opportunities.

Drinks & Snacks: While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, you can purchase a selection of local wine, cold beer, cider, and champagne from the onboard bar. Many reviews mention enjoying a drink or two while soaking in the scenery, which adds to the romantic and relaxed feel.

Weather Considerations: The tour runs rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is important. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, and consider extra layers if you’re sensitive to wind or cooler temperatures at sunset.

At around $80 per person for two hours, this cruise offers a notable value when you consider the stunning views, the chance to actively participate in sailing, and the relaxed ambiance. Travelers often mention the crew’s friendliness and the quality of the experience, making it feel like money well spent.

Reviews from past travelers consistently highlight the excellent combination of scenery, crew professionalism, and the opportunity to enjoy local drinks onboard. For example, one reviewer called it a “fantastic experience,” praising the “beautiful night” and the “great way to see the area’s beauty.” Others appreciated the interactive element, where they got to help with sails or steer the boat, making the experience more memorable than a typical harbor cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Sunset & Mountain Views

The real star of this cruise is the spectacular sunset over the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Many reviews mention the “breathtaking” colors and how the changing light makes for perfect photos. On clear days, Mount Rainier’s snowy peak becomes part of the backdrop, adding a wow factor that’s hard to beat.

The City Skyline

As the sun drops, Seattle’s skyline lights up, creating a dazzling contrast with the twilight. Seeing the Space Needle and downtown lights from the water is a unique perspective that many visitors rave about. One traveler described it as “a lovely way to see the city from a different angle.”

Active Sailing & Crew Interaction

Unlike a typical boat tour, this one invites guests into the sailing process. Raising sails or taking the helm helps you connect with the boat and the wind, transforming the experience from passive to participatory. The crew are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience, especially when helping first-timers.

Drinks & Atmosphere

While not included, the onboard bar offers local wine, beer, cider, and champagne. We noticed reviews mentioning how enjoyable it was to sip a drink while watching the sunset, contributing to a romantic and relaxed vibe. Some guests also found the friendly crew made the whole trip feel welcoming and special.

• Duration: 2 hours, typically in the late afternoon or evening
• Price: $80 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the scenery and participation involved
• Location: Pier 66 on Seattle’s waterfront, easy to reach from central hotels and attractions
• Check-in: Arrive about five minutes early at the ticket booth
• Weather: Rain or shine, so pack weather-appropriate clothing and layers
• What to Bring: Warm clothes, a camera, and a sense of adventure

Note: Food and drinks aren’t included, but you might find it pleasant to bring snacks or purchase drinks onboard. The boat has two restrooms, which is handy for a two-hour trip.

This experience is best suited for adventurers, couples, or small groups looking for a scenic, interactive, and relaxing way to enjoy Seattle’s natural beauty. It’s particularly popular among those who appreciate good views, especially at sunset, and don’t mind the possibility of a cool breeze or wind.

If you’re traveling with children or prefer a more structured, family-friendly activity, this might not be the ideal choice, but for those seeking a romantic, memorable evening in Seattle, it ticks many boxes.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people who haven’t sailed before?
Absolutely. The crew are friendly and helpful, and you don’t need prior sailing experience to participate. They’ll guide you through helping raise the sails or steering.

Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Yes, a selection of local wine, beer, cider, and champagne is available for purchase at the onboard bar.

What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially layers, as it can get windier and cooler at sunset. The tour runs rain or shine, so come prepared.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts about 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery and participate without feeling rushed.

Where is the meeting point?
Check in at the ticket sales booth next to Anthony’s Restaurant at Bell Harbor Marina, Pier 66. You’ll walk to the boat together, about five minutes before departure.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, Pier 66 is accessible by car, and there are parking options nearby, but it’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some flexibility to your plans.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed yet memorable way to see Seattle at sunset, this tall ship cruise is a fantastic pick. The combination of stunning vistas, interactive sailing, and a cozy onboard atmosphere makes it stand out from more conventional harbor tours. It’s especially appealing to travelers who appreciate a bit of adventure and want to soak in the city’s beauty from the water.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking a highly family-oriented or indoors experience, it’s perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic evening with a touch of maritime charm. The reviews clearly show that many guests leave feeling they got more than their money’s worth—and that’s always a good sign.

In the end, this cruise offers a genuine taste of Seattle’s waters, skies, and cityscape, all wrapped into a two-hour adventure that’s both fun and picturesque. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to unwind after a day of sightseeing, it could be just the thing to make your trip memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: