Seattle’s Favorite Sightseeing Floating Homes Cruise – BYOB!

Discover Seattle’s Waterfront Charm on a Private Floating Homes Cruise

The Seattle’s Favorite Sightseeing Floating Homes Cruise by Candere Cruising offers an intimate, personalized way to see the city from the water. For $605.27 per group, up to 6 people can enjoy a 2-hour tour that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks along with a fascinating look at floating homes, including the house from the movie Sleepless in Seattle. This cruise is uniquely flexible, allowing you to customize your itinerary and choose from morning, midday, afternoon, or evening departures—perfect for fitting into any travel schedule.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to bring your own beer or wine. Paired with an informative and friendly guide, the experience offers a relaxed and special way to explore Seattle’s lakeside sights, all from the comfort of a small group. While the cost might seem higher than some group tours, the personalized service and flexible itinerary make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a more private and tailored experience.

Key Points

• Private, small-group tour with a maximum of 6 participants ensures personalized attention.
• Flexible scheduling with options for morning, midday, afternoon, or evening cruises.
• Includes a complimentary first drink—bring your own beer or wine to enjoy throughout the cruise.
• Focus on iconic Seattle sights like the Space Needle, Gas Works Park, University of Washington, and Seattle Great Wheel.
• See floating homes including the famous house from Sleepless in Seattle.
• Informative guides share stories about Seattle’s landmarks, bridges, and maritime history.

Meet at the Heart of Lake Union in South Seattle

The tour departs from 1341 N Northlake Way, a central location in the South Lake Union neighborhood. This area is historically known for its thriving industries and now offers a scenic gateway to the water. The meeting point is easy to access, and the boat features onboard bathrooms, making it comfortable for all participants. Since the tour is rain or shine, the vessel can be enclosed if weather conditions are unfavorable, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of the forecast.

The Cruise Embarks on a Scenic Water Tour of Seattle’s Landmarks

The two-hour cruise begins at the south tip of Lake Union. As the boat moves, the captain—who doubles as the resident bartender—guides you past impressive boats and floating homes, including the famous residence from Sleepless in Seattle. The route takes you from Westlake to Portage Bay, and through the Montlake Cut at the eastern end of the Lake Washington Ship Canal.

Throughout this journey, the guide offers engaging commentary about Seattle’s iconic landmarks. You’ll get views of the Space Needle, Seattle Great Wheel, the Fremont Bridge, and Gas Works Park. On clear days, the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier, which rises over 14,000 feet, provide a stunning backdrop. The tour also passes St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral and the University of Washington campus, both visible from the water.

Up Close Views of Seattle’s Most Famous Landmarks

One of the highlights is the view of the Space Needle from Lake Union, offering a unique perspective that differs from the typical city skyline photos. Gas Works Park, with its industrial aesthetic and panoramic views, is another notable stop. The cruise provides excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunset or night, when the city lights up.

The route also includes a glimpse of a notable church overlooking the lake and city, plus a stadium accessible by boat, where you might catch a game if boat traffic allows. The captain carefully navigates these waters, balancing sightseeing with safety, and may adjust the route if water traffic or weather conditions pose challenges.

The Experience: Personalization and Flexibility

With the ability to customize your route, you can focus on the sights most interesting to your group. Whether you want to spend more time at Gas Works Park or get a better look at floating homes, the guide adapts the itinerary to your preferences. This flexibility is a key advantage over larger, more rigid tours.

The small group size fosters a more relaxed, personal atmosphere, and the informative guides share stories about Seattle’s history, architecture, and neighborhoods. Their friendly and professional demeanor enhances the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Drinks, Snacks, and The Onboard Atmosphere

You are welcome to bring your own beer or wine, adding a casual, at-your-own-pace vibe. The first round of drinks is included in the price, and the onboard captain also serves as the bartender, ready to pour drinks and share stories. Since smoking is prohibited and the boat is equipped with restrooms, the experience remains comfortable and clean.

While food is not provided, you can bring snacks and nonalcoholic beverages. The enclosed boat ensures comfort during rainy weather, and the relaxed environment makes it ideal for celebrating special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays.

The Captain: Knowledgeable, Engaging, and Friendly

The guides and captains are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Reviews highlight captains like David, Kurt, Dillon, and Genevieve as being friendly, witty, and well-informed. They share engaging stories about Seattle’s landmarks and history, making the cruise both fun and educational.

Some reviews mention that the guides are particularly good at explaining the sights and making the experience memorable. The personalized attention and witty commentary create a welcoming atmosphere that many repeat customers appreciate.

Weather Conditions and Booking Tips

The cruise runs rain or shine; the boat can be enclosed to protect guests from the elements. It’s advisable to consult a physician if prone to motion sickness and to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially at Gas Works Park before boarding.

Since the tour is booked on average 39 days in advance, it’s smart to reserve early, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing flexibility in case of weather changes or unforeseen events.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This cruise appeals most to those seeking an intimate, personalized experience of Seattle from the water. It’s ideal for small groups or couples celebrating special occasions, thanks to its private setting and flexible schedule. Wine and beer lovers will appreciate the opportunity to bring their own drinks and relax while taking in the stunning views.

The informative guides, combined with the beautiful scenery, make this a perfect choice for travelers wanting a deeper sense of Seattle’s lakeside neighborhoods and landmarks, away from crowded tourist spots.

The Sum Up: A Unique Way to Experience Seattle’s Lake Union

The Seattle’s Favorite Sightseeing Floating Homes Cruise offers a relaxing, customizable water tour in a small-group setting. The 2-hour journey highlights the city’s most iconic landmarks and floating homes, with the added charm of bringing your own drinks and personalizing the route.

While the price is higher than typical group tours, the personalized service, engaging guides, and scenic views make it a worthwhile option for those craving intimacy and flexibility. This tour suits small groups, couples, or anyone celebrating a special occasion and looking for a more private Seattle experience.

If you love water-based sightseeing, beautiful cityscapes, and friendly guides, this cruise delivers a memorable and personable perspective of Seattle from its lakeside waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own beer or wine to enjoy during the cruise. The first round of drinks is included.

How many people can join the tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience.

What landmarks will I see?
You will see the Space Needle, Gas Works Park, the University of Washington, Seattle Great Wheel, and floating homes including the one from Sleepless in Seattle.

Is the cruise suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. The boat can be enclosed if it rains, maintaining comfort.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at 1341 N Northlake Way in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood.

Is there parking available?
The provided information does not specify parking options, but the meeting location is centrally situated in a neighborhood with accessible parking.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it is advisable to consult a physician if susceptible to motion sickness.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a first drink, the use of the boat, and an informative guide.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance; the tour is canceled if weather conditions are unsafe, with a full refund or alternative date offered.