We’re incredibly lucky to live in a coastal state, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a Washingtonian who doesn’t love the ocean (or at least being near it). But have you ever explored our state’s inland waters by boat?

If you’ve walked along the Seattle waterfront, you may have spotted a sign for Argosy Cruises. You may even have wondered if they’re worth it, especially if you’re a local. The answer is a resounding yes, particularly if you decide to try a two-hour Locks Cruise.

Argosy Cruises offers two sightseeing tours, the hour-long Harbor Cruise and the two-hour Locks Cruise.

Jessica Wick The Harbor Cruise always meets at the waterfront, but the Locks Cruise sometimes departs from the AGC Marina in South Lake Union.

The Locks Cruise is definitely the best value, offering twice the sightseeing for only a slightly higher price than the Harbor Cruise.

Argosy Cruises / Facebook The tour is fully narrated, and even if you’ve lived in Washington your entire life, you’re definitely going to learn a few things.

Your route takes you through several popular Seattle neighborhoods and past landmarks like Gas Works Park and the Space Needle.

Argosy Cruises / Facebook The boat also has a full bar with plenty of local beer and wine, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, and tasty snacks for purchase.

Before you know it, you’ll be at the Ballard Locks.

Jessica Wick The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks serve as a barrier between the salt water of Puget Sound and the freshwater beyond.

The Locks are also known as a “boat elevator” – by definition, a lock is a type of water device that helps boats go from one level of water to another.

Argosy Cruises / Facebook And that’s exactly what happens on this cruise. You’ll be lowered 26 feet into the locks, and into the saltwater of the Sound.

The last part of the cruise takes you past crystal clear water so beautiful, you’ll think you’re on an ocean cruise.

Jessica Wick But it won’t be long before you spot the familiar Seattle skyline in the distance.

If you’ve ever been curious about those Argosy Cruise signs, consider this your sign to try it.

Argosy Cruises / Facebook It’s well worth the investment for the scenery alone, but the Locks experience is fantastic (and unique).

Looking for something the whole family can enjoy? The Locks Cruise is a blast for all ages.

Jessica Wick

The Harbor Cruise always meets at the waterfront, but the Locks Cruise sometimes departs from the AGC Marina in South Lake Union.

Argosy Cruises / Facebook

The tour is fully narrated, and even if you’ve lived in Washington your entire life, you’re definitely going to learn a few things.

The boat also has a full bar with plenty of local beer and wine, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, and tasty snacks for purchase.

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks serve as a barrier between the salt water of Puget Sound and the freshwater beyond.

And that’s exactly what happens on this cruise. You’ll be lowered 26 feet into the locks, and into the saltwater of the Sound.

But it won’t be long before you spot the familiar Seattle skyline in the distance.

It’s well worth the investment for the scenery alone, but the Locks experience is fantastic (and unique).

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Address: Argosy Cruises - Lake Union, Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, USAAddress: Argosy Cruises - Seattle Waterfront, 1101 Alaskan Way Pier 55, Suite 201, Seattle, WA 98101, USA