Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
Experience Seattle's beauty and maritime history with Argosy Cruises, offering narrated tours of the Emerald City's harbor and scenic waterways.
For over 75 years, Argosy Cruises has been showcasing Seattle from the water, offering locals and visitors alike a unique perspective on the Emerald City [3, 4, 5]. Founded as the Spring Street Water Taxi in 1949, Argosy Cruises has evolved into the Northwest's premier cruise company [5, 7]. Argosy Cruises offers a variety of narrated sightseeing cruises, including the popular Harbor Cruise, a one-hour tour of Elliott Bay that provides stunning views of the Seattle skyline, the working port, and the surrounding Olympic and Cascade Mountains [3, 4, 11]. The Locks Cruise is a two-hour journey that takes passengers through the Ballard Locks, connecting Elliott Bay to Lake Union, offering a glimpse of Seattle's floating homes, fishing vessels, and maritime industry [3, 4]. In addition to its regular cruises, Argosy Cruises hosts private charters, corporate events, and community activities, such as the annual Christmas Ship™ Festival [4, 5, 7]. With a diverse fleet of vessels, Argosy Cruises can accommodate a wide range of events and group sizes [5]. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, Argosy Cruises offers a memorable way to experience the beauty and history of Seattle [4, 17].
Local tips
- Book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and preferred departure time [22].
- Consider the First to Board ticket for priority boarding and the best seats on the boat [10].
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the upper decks can be exposed to the elements [15].
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the Seattle skyline, the Olympic Mountains, and the marine life [11].
- Take advantage of the onboard bar and enjoy a refreshing beverage while taking in the sights [21].
A brief summary to Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront
- 1101 Alaskan Wy Pier 55, #201, Seattle, Seattle Waterfront, Washington, 98101, US
- +1206-623-1445
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From Pike Place Market, walk south along Alaskan Way for approximately 10 minutes. Argosy Cruises departs from Pier 55, which is clearly marked. This is a scenic walk along the waterfront, offering views of Elliott Bay and the Seattle Great Wheel [6].
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Public Transport
Take the Free Waterfront Shuttle to Pier 56, and walk a short distance north to Pier 55 [2, 8, 23]. The shuttle operates daily from 10 AM to 8 PM and arrives every 15-20 minutes [8, 23, 24]. Alternatively, several Metro buses serve the waterfront area [2, 18]. Check the King County Metro website for specific routes and schedules. A single bus fare costs $2.75 [2].
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout Seattle. A ride from downtown hotels to Pier 55 typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.
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Driving
If driving, head towards Seattle Waterfront and look for parking garages near Pier 55 [3, 12]. Parking rates vary, with short-term parking costing $3-$4 per hour [12]. The Pike Place Market parking garage offers an early bird rate of $15 if you enter before 9 AM and exit by 9 PM [25]. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season and special events [12, 26]. Consider using a parking app like SpotHero to reserve a spot in advance [14]. Republic Parking Northwest also offers parking options in the area [20].
