Seattle Cruises 2023/2024

Seattle Travel Guide

Seattle Cruises Things To Do

• 
  Get lost at Pike Place Public Market

  Pike Place Market is a significant public market that opened in 1907. It's one of the oldest farmer's markets that is still running in the whole country! It is most famous for its fish sellers, but there are also stalls filled with local produce, souvenirs, food, arts and crafts, etc. If you get hungry while walking around, there are many different dining spots throughout the market. Honestly, even if you don't plan on purchasing anything, spend at least an hour or two visiting the iconic Pike Place Public Market.

  You Should Know

  The fish market usually isn't open on Sundays, so plan your trip to the market wisely.
• 
  Take a photo at the Gum Wall

  The Gum Wall is exactly what it sounds like: a brick wall completely covered in chewing gum! It's right near Pike Place Public Market in Post Alley, so it's near the more popular spots to visit in downtown Seattle. Though it sounds super gross, it's one of the most-visited attractions in the city. It started back in 1993. People waiting to enter a show at the Post Alley's Market Theater would often just take their gum and stick it right onto the wall. Before long, it turned into the phenomenon that it is most well-known today.

  You Should Know

  The entire wall was scrapped entirely off and cleansed in 2015, which was the first time. Within a few days, citizens started sticking their gum on the wall again!
• 
  Try coffee at the original Starbucks

  The original Starbucks opened up in Seattle in 1992, right near the Pike Place Public Market! It's located in a tiny 1,000-square-foot building, and the sign outside still features the old, original logo. Though it's so tiny, it's one of the most-visited Starbucks locations because of its history. They serve the same coffees that you can find at other Starbucks, but it's more exciting because it's the original location! If you want to try more unique flavors, consider checking out the Starbucks Reserve, another Seattle location.  

  Best Time To Visit

  The line at this Starbucks is always long. You can typically expect to wait at least 20 minutes until you get your order taken. Try to visit either right before lunch or right after lunch to avoid the majority of the crowds.
• 
  Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass

  Chihuly Garden and Glass is an art museum in Seattle that first opened in May 2012. It displays many of Dale Chihuly's delicate and intricate glasswork pieces that truly look mesmerizing to the eye. Dale Chihuly is a Washington native who studied glassmaking at the University of Wisconsin and later went to the Rhode Island School of Design. He became one of the most well-known glass artists, and his work can now be found in over 200 museums around the world. 

  You Should Know

  It takes about 1 to 2 hours to experience the full museum thoroughly, but that can vary.
• 
  See Seattle from above at the Space Needle

  The Seattle Space Needle is 605 feet tall and is home to a fantastic observation deck and restaurant with a breathtaking view. It first opened in 1962 and was created for the World's Fair that year when the theme was space-related. It was completely renovated in 2018. From the top, visitors can view Seattle's downtown area, the mountains, and Puget Sound. It's a can't-miss attraction when visiting Seattle. If you can only visit one spot, check out the Seattle Space Needle!

  You Should Know

  Keep in mind that the last entrance is 45 minutes before the closing time listed for each day. The Seattle Space Needle is open every day of the year but may occasionally have to close for special events.
• 
  Support locals at Ballard Farmers’ Market

  The Ballard Farmers' Market runs year-round in Seattle and is filled with over 100 different stalls and vendors. Many of them sell local produce and other foods, but many vendors also sell complete dishes, such as sandwiches, ramen, and more! The farmers market first opened in 2000 and only sells things produced directly in Washington to help give back to its local workers. It's only open on Sundays, so unfortunately, you might have to miss out on this market if you are visiting during the middle of the week.

  Best Time To Visit

  Because the farmer's market is only open on Sundays, usually for only 5 hours, it's pretty busy no matter what time you visit. You can visit with the least amount of people right when it opens.
• 
  Explore the Museum of Pop Culture

  The Museum of Pop Culture, also commonly referred to as MoPOP by locals, is a museum that was founded in 2000 by Paul Allen, who co-founded Microsoft. Some exhibits are permanent, and some are rotating. Examples of past exhibits include Minecraft: The Exhibition, Body of Work: Tattoo Culture, and Infinite World of Science Fiction. In addition to being filled with some fantastic exhibits, the building itself is a true marvel. The architect was Frank Gehry, and it features some of the most unique architecture in the world. Even if you don't plan on going inside the museum, at least see it from the outside!

  You Should Know

  You can quickly get to the Museum of Pop Culture by using the monorail if you don't have a car! Make sure you grab a map to make the most of your time at the museum.
• 
  Ride the Seattle Great Wheel

  The Seattle Great Wheel is a grand Ferris wheel that opened in 2012. It stands at 175 feet tall and is located right on Pier 57 near Elliot Bay. For a time, it was the biggest Ferris wheel of its kind when it was first built! This is great fun no matter your age, and it's one of the best ways to get some great coastal views of Seattle if you don't have time to visit the Seattle Space Needle. To ensure that you get to go on, make sure to purchase your tickets ahead of time online.

  You Should Know

  The Ferris wheel is opened at different times throughout the week and the year. However, if you can opt to visit after the sun goes down, you'll have some impeccable night city views.
• 
  See the sculptures at Olympic Sculpture Park

  The Olympic Sculpture Park is a free public park that opened in 2007. It covers 9 acres and includes a beach and a beautiful open-air sculpture museum that can't be missed. The nearby Seattle Art Museum owns it. In addition to the outdoor sculptures, this park also gives one of the best views of the coast and the Seattle Space Needle. If you're looking to explore a free outdoor area of Seattle, make sure you stop by Olympic Sculpture Park.

  You Should Know

  There is metered parking available near the park. If you are interested in having a guide for your visit, you can hop on a 60-minute free tour of the entire park and learn about its sculptures and history!
• 
  Check out the Seattle Aquarium

  The Seattle Aquarium is a huge aquarium that opened in 1977. It's right on Pier 59 and is located only a short walk from the Seattle Great Wheel. Plan on spending at least an hour and a half exploring the museum's inside, though this number can vary. There are a wide variety of exhibits inside the museum. Some of their displays include Life of a Drifter, Birds and Shores, Underwater Dome, and Puget Sound Fish. There are also fun shows that you can join in on throughout the aquarium.

  You Should Know

  If you happen to have jackets or baggage with you that you don't want to carry around the aquarium, you can put them into the storage lockers right at the entrance.

Seattle Cruise Packages

• Exploring Seattle

  Seattle, a gem in the Pacific Northwest, is strategically perched between the saltwater Puget Sound to its west and Lake Washington to its east. In the U.S. state of Washington, this city offers a coastal experience unique to the West Coast of North America. It's hard to miss the impressive backdrop of the Cascade and Olympic Mountains, which adds a dramatic silhouette on the horizon.  
  
  This city's geographical positioning is a dream for enthusiasts of the outdoors. The vast waters around Seattle are perfect for all kinds of water sports, from kayaking to sailing. Not far from the city center, several beaches along the Sound offer a quick escape to the sea, fresh air, and relaxation.  
  
  But it's not just about the water. Thanks to the nearby mountain ranges, hiking and skiing are easily accessible activities. The green forests around the city, part of its nickname's inspiration, are ideal for weekend hikes or tranquil woodland walks. Additionally, several well-maintained parks within the city, like the expansive Discovery Park or the iconic Gas Works Park, provide residents and visitors with a green retreat from the urban hustle.   Seattle's landscape, with its combination of water, forests, and mountains, contributes greatly to the city's allure, offering a balance between city life and outdoor accessibility that is hard to find anywhere else.

• The Best Time to Cruise From Seattle

  Cruising from Seattle offers a varied experience depending on the season, thanks to the city's unique climate. Each season brings its own charm and opportunities for different touring activities, making Seattle a versatile destination for cruising enthusiasts.  
  
  Winter (December - February): Cruising from Seattle in winter can be a chilly affair, with temperatures generally ranging from 35 to 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Although snow in the city is rare, the surrounding mountains offer a winter wonderland, perfect for snow sports. The city's rainy weather during this period translates to snow in the mountains, creating picturesque landscapes ideal for cruising excursions.  
  
  Spring (March - May): This season is a beautiful time for cruising from Seattle, as the city begins to dry and temperatures rise to a more comfortable 40 to 60 degrees. Cruising during spring allows you to witness the city's transformation, with blooming flowers and lush greenery, especially at attractions like the Washington Park Arboretum. It's an excellent time for cruising activities that include exploring the city's natural beauty.  
  
  Summer (June - August): Often regarded as the best time for cruising from Seattle, summer brings warm weather with highs in the 70s to low 80s, and minimal rainfall. This season is ideal for cruising activities that showcase Seattle's outdoor lifestyle, such as boat tours on the Puget Sound, visiting bustling outdoor markets, or attending sporting events. Summer cruising promises long days of sunshine and clear skies.   
  
  Autumn (September - November): Cruising from Seattle in autumn offers cooler temperatures, ranging from the high 50s to mid-60s. The fall foliage, particularly in scenic spots like the Japanese Garden, adds a beautiful backdrop to your cruising adventure. With fewer tourists, autumn cruising provides a more peaceful experience of the city's charm.  
  
  For tourists seeking a balance between pleasant weather and manageable crowds, cruising from Seattle in May or September is ideal. These months offer great weather with the added benefit of avoiding the peak summer rush. On the other hand, if you're interested in summer activities and vibrant city life, cruising from Seattle in July and August provides the best conditions, despite being the busiest months. Each season offers a distinct cruising experience from Seattle, with winter and spring presenting quieter and more serene options.  

• Journey through Time: Seattle’s History

  Diving into Seattle's past is like flipping through the pages of an intense history book. You've got everything from ambitious explorers to gold rushes and from massive rebuilds to tech booms. Let's take a stroll through time to see how Seattle became the city we know today.  
  
  Way back in the 1850s, Seattle started as a logging town. The abundance of timber made it the perfect spot for settlers like the Denny Party, who were among the first to call this place home. They established a townsite they named "Seattle," a nod to Chief Si'ahl of the local Duwamish and Suquamish tribes. But it wasn't just about timber; the city's location made it ideal for a seaport, and soon, it became a gateway for trade.  
  
  The real game-changer was the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s. Gold-seekers flocked to Seattle, the main supply point for the miners headed to Alaska. This boom led to a rapid burst of growth, transforming it into a major city. Though the gold rush faded, Seattle's spirit stayed golden, continuing to attract new industries and opportunities.  
  
  But it hasn't all been smooth sailing. Seattle faced a massive fire in 1889 that leveled its entire business district. Instead of giving up, the city rebuilt itself, literally! They raised the street levels and constructed sturdier brick and stone buildings, many of which still stand today as part of the intriguing Underground Tour.  
  
  As you roam around, you'll stumble upon landmarks like the iconic Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operated public farmers' markets in the United States. It's more than a tourist spot; it's a living piece of the city's history.  
  
  And who can skip mentioning the Space Needle? Built for the 1962 World's Fair, it's a symbol known around the globe and a must-visit for a panoramic view of the city's skyline.  
  
  Today's Seattle is a bustling tech hub, home to giants like Amazon and Microsoft, shaping not just the city but the world. But it's not all about the future; Seattle holds tight to its diverse heritage, with its vibrant arts scene, eclectic neighborhoods, and a community that celebrates its rich past.   From its humble beginnings to its current status as a world-renowned city, Seattle's history is a testament to resilience and vision. A visit here is not just a journey through its picturesque surroundings but also through its storied past, something that every corner of the city whispers to those who pass through.

• The Local Seattle Food Scene

  Dive into Seattle's food scene, and you'll find it as diverse as the city itself, serving everything from fresh seafood straight from the Pacific to innovative fusion dishes that redefine culinary boundaries. This city is serious about food, and it shows in the quality and variety on offer.  
  
  Seattle's geography spells a love affair with seafood, and rightfully so. The local gem is the Pacific Northwest salmon, often spotlighted in dishes across eateries, from high-end restaurants to waterfront fish bars. Don't miss the clam chowder or the Dungeness crab, either - both hold iconic status. For these oceanic treats, the Pike Place Market serves not just as a hub for fresh catches but also as a place where you can enjoy cooked seafood while soaking up the market's lively atmosphere.  
  
  For those who seek flavors from around the world, Seattle's restaurants also boast an impressive international repertoire. From hand-rolled sushi in Japantown to authentic pho in Little Saigon, the city is a microcosm of global cuisine. But it's not just about sticking to roots; many local chefs are blending borders, creating fusion foods that marry comfort with innovation.  
  
  Stay tuned for the city's food festivals, too, like the Seattle Street Food Festival, where the best of local food trucks showcase a riot of flavors, or "Taste Washington," which is a must for wine-lovers and gastronomes, highlighting the region's finest in food and drink.  
  
  Finally, the rise of farm-to-table restaurants has marked a return to basics. Places like "The Walrus and the Carpenter" reflect this trend, emphasizing organic, locally sourced ingredients that support sustainable farming practices. It's a conscientious way of eating that's become a real draw for both locals and tourists alike.

• Get Ready for Your Visit to Seattle

  Seattle waits for you: a city alive with innovation, lush green spaces, vibrant culture, and food that narrates its own stories. This corner of the Pacific Northwest isn't just a place on the map but an experience waiting to unfold. Whether it's the stunning views from atop the Space Needle, the hustle and bustle of Pike Place Market, or a tranquil afternoon spent amidst the blooming flowers in its public parks, Seattle promises something special for every traveler.  
  
  Getting here has never been easier, with its well-connected airport welcoming flights from across the globe and various travel packages catering to all budgets and preferences. Plus, the city's visitor-friendly vibe makes every trip a breeze, regardless of whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning travel enthusiast.  
  
  So, what's stopping you? Take the plunge and plan your journey to Seattle. Amidst its rain-kissed streets, a world of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delight awaits your discovery. It's time to make those travel dreams a reality in Seattle. See you there!

Seattle Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What are Seattle cruises?

  Seattle cruises are one of the best ways to explore the world while having your belongings and room travel with you! They're perfect for all types of travelers, including families, couples, and solo travelers. You'll be able to relax on travel days and explore on days that the boat is docked!

• What’s included on a Seattle cruise?

  Each Seattle cruise includes accommodation and dining. However, the options for each of those can vary drastically from cruise to cruise. You'll also have amenities in your room, such as a television, hairdryer, etc. This tends to change depending on which cruise line you book your cruise with.

• What’s the best Seattle cruise?

  Truthfully, no Seattle cruise is better than another. Each cruise is so vastly different from the other because of the length, cities it stops at, and amenities onboard. That's why it's essential to find what Seattle cruise is most perfect for you.

• How much do Seattle cruises cost?

  Seattle cruises have different prices depending on the length and cruise line you opt to book. Some cost as little as $80 a day while others cost upwards of $100 per day. It just depends on which one you book!