Boating in Seattle is unbeatable. Whether you're enjoying the stunning views and islands in the Puget Sound or cruising on the city's lakes, the Pacific Northwest is a boater's paradise. There are three primary bodies of water for boating—Puget Sound, Lake Washington, and Lake Union. All offer unique opportunities for boating on the water and mooring your vessel. And with approximately twenty hand-carry boat launches across Seattle, there are plenty of options for kayaking, canoeing, and sailing.
Moreover, as a boat enthusiast, the San Juan Islands, just west of Seattle, are a dream destination for anyone who loves outdoor recreation. Cruising here, you'll often spot orcas, seals, bald eagles, and spectacular views of Mount Rainier. Whether you're an experienced boater or just curious about boating around the Emerald City, this guide is for you.
Seattle Puget Sound Marinas
Seattle is nestled on an isthmus between the saltwater Puget Sound, an inlet of the Pacific Ocean to the west, and Lake Washington to the east. The city is a vibrant maritime hub, so expect to see a wide variety of large boats traveling through its waters. Ferries are common, transporting passengers and their vehicles to various destinations, including Bainbridge Island and Bremerton.
Recreational boating is immensely popular here, with sailboats, yachts, and motorboats navigating the pristine waters. The local marinas are celebrated throughout the Northwest for their top-notch services, stunning vistas, and easy access to the city's attractions.
- Shilshole Bay Marina
- Bell Harbor Marina
- Harbor Island Marina
- Fishermen's Terminal
- Salmon Bay Marina
The San Juan Islands consist of 72 named islands and around 14 full-service marinas. Boaters can explore secluded coves, pristine beaches, and lush forests teeming with wildlife while having access to dockside amenities and charming coastal communities at the marinas.
Lake Washington Marinas
Lake Washington marinas in Seattle are popular hubs for water sports enthusiasts who love boating, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. These marinas cater to a wide range of boat owners, offering moorage for various boat sizes, including sailboats, yachts, and powerboats. Essential services such as fuel docks, pump-out stations, and boat repair facilities are also available, along with boat launch ramps for easy access to the water.
- Carillon Point
- Kirkland Marina
- Newport Yacht Club
- Seattle Boat Company
- Andrews Bay
- Gene Coulon Park
- Leschi Marina
- Harbour Village Marina
- North Lake Marina
- Park Shore Marina
Environmental stewardship is a priority for many of these marinas, with efforts focused on waste management and pollution prevention to maintain the lake's natural beauty and ecological balance.
Seattle Lake Union Marinas
Lake Union is three miles north of downtown Seattle, surrounded by several vibrant neighborhoods, including South Lake Union and Eastlake. The freshwater lake is smaller than its neighbor, Lake Washington, and is home to the region's largest live aboard community—people who live on their boats full-time. Boatworld operates seven marinas on Lake Union that cater to all boat classes, including motorized, sail, kayaks, and canoes. Swiftsure Marina offers uncovered slips from 24' to 50' and kayak storage. Julie's Landing, on the other hand, can accommodate a wide variety of boats, from 20' cruisers to 100' luxury yachts.
- Eagle Harbor Marina
- Cascade Marina
- University Marina
- Diamond Marina
- Julie's Landing
- Westlake Marina
- Swiftsure Marina
Lake Union has several fantastic marinas, but the stunning views from Westlake Marina and its accessible routes in and out make it one of the best locations on the lake.
Best Sightseeing Spots in Seattle by Boat
If you decide to boat from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, you'll get a fantastic view of the Seattle skyline, including iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, the Great Wheel, and various skyscrapers. However, prepare to navigate through Elliott Bay, bustling with ferry traffic, commercial vessels, and other recreational boats.
The island has five marinas, and as you approach, you'll have a spectacular view of Mount Rainier in the distance on a clear day. As if all of this wasn't enough, Bainbridge Island is known for its parks and natural beauty, such as Fay Bainbridge Park and Bloedel Reserve—a spectacular 150-acre forest park with a Japanese garden. The main town of Winslow, a picturesque village with shops, restaurants, and cafes, is close to Eagle Harbor Marina.
Point Defiance Park is home to the only combined Zoo & Aquarium in the Northwest. The journey from Seattle by boat will take you through the beautiful Puget Sound waters. As you approach Point Defiance, you'll pass through the Tacoma Narrows, where you can see the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridges. The urban park paradise is a hot spot for boat enthusiasts; if you need to fuel up, Point Defiance Marina is next to the park.
Seattle Boating and Fishing Guidelines
The Adventure in Boating Handbook for Washington details everything you need to know before you launch your boat into Seattle waters. Here are a few boating law pointers, but it's worth noting that each body of water has additional rules and regulations whether you're boating near the Seattle Harbor, on Lake Union, or on Lake Washington.
Boater Education Card: Boat operators must be 12 years of age or older and must carry a Boaters Education Card, which, unlike a driver's license, never expires.
Life Jackets: Make sure everyone has a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Kids under 13 should wear theirs all the time.
Avoid a BUI: Staying sober while boating is essential for everyone's safety, so enjoy your time on the water responsibly.
Navigation Lights: Remember to turn on your navigation lights from sunset to sunrise and keep them in low visibility to help others see you.
Speed Limits: Watch for speed limits and no-wake zones, especially near shorelines, docks, and other boats, to ensure a smooth ride for everyone.
StorQuest Boat and Recreational Gear Storage
Keep your watercraft in prime condition with StorQuest. Whether you're looking to reclaim garage space or comply with HOA regulations, our boat storage facilities provide the ideal starting point for your next Washington adventure.
If you don't have a boat but still need fishing gear storage or a convenient place to store your paddle board, kiteboard, kayak, or canoe, you can find the right one at StorQuest locations in and around Seattle.