When Can I Take Seafair Ship Tours? Schedule & Tickets

The thrill of exploring the open waters and witnessing the majestic beauty of ships up close is an experience like no other. For those who are eager to embark on a Seafair ship tour, the anticipation can be exhilarating. But before you start planning your nautical adventure, it’s essential to know when you can take Seafair ship tours and how to secure your tickets.

Seafair, a celebration of Seattle’s maritime heritage, typically takes place over a period of several weeks in the summer, culminating in a grand finale of ship tours, parades, and other festivities. The exact dates of Seafair vary from year to year, but it usually begins in late June and runs through early August. During this time, a fleet of majestic ships, including naval vessels, tall ships, and historic boats, dock at Seattle’s waterfront, offering the public a unique opportunity to explore their decks and learn about their rich history.

For those interested in taking a Seafair ship tour, the schedule is usually as follows:

• Ship Tours: The ship tour schedule typically runs from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, with the last tour departing at 3:30 pm. Tours are usually available on weekends, with some weekday tours also offered.
• Parade of Ships: The Parade of Ships, a highlight of the Seafair celebration, usually takes place on a weekday morning, with the exact date and time announced in advance.
• Festival Hours: The Seafair festival grounds are typically open from 10 am to 6 pm, with live music, food vendors, and other activities available throughout the day.

To secure your tickets for a Seafair ship tour, you can follow these steps:

1. Check the Official Seafair Website: Visit the official Seafair website to confirm the schedule and ticket availability for the current year’s events.
2. Purchase Tickets Online: Tickets for Seafair ship tours can be purchased online through the Seafair website or through authorized ticket vendors.
3. Ticket Prices: Ticket prices vary depending on the type of tour and the age of the visitor. Children under 5 years old are usually admitted free, while tickets for children between 5 and 12 years old are discounted. Adult tickets typically range from 10 to 20, depending on the tour.
4. Special Packages: Seafair often offers special packages and promotions, including discounted tickets for seniors, military personnel, and groups.

Some popular types of Seafair ship tours include:

• Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours provide an in-depth look at the ships’ history, architecture, and operational systems.
• Self-Guided Tours: Visitors can explore the ships at their own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of these magnificent vessels.
• Specialty Tours: Seafair may offer specialty tours, such as sunset cruises or behind-the-scenes tours, which provide a unique perspective on the ships and their crews.

In addition to the ship tours, Seafair offers a range of other activities and events, including:

• Live Music: Enjoy live music performances by local and regional artists on the Seafair festival grounds.
• Food Vendors: Savor a variety of cuisines from food vendors offering everything from classic festival fare to gourmet specialties.
• Kids’ Activities: Seafair offers a range of activities for kids, including face painting, crafts, and interactive games.
• Maritime Exhibits: Explore exhibits showcasing Seattle’s rich maritime history and the importance of the maritime industry to the region.

Whether you’re a maritime enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun and unique experience, Seafair ship tours are an unforgettable adventure. So mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and get ready to set sail for an unforgettable experience on the waters of Seattle.