Step aboard a modern sailboat from Shilshole Bay and cross Puget Sound with a USCG-licensed captain. In 3- or 6-hour private charters you'll see mountains, seals and the Seattle waterfront while learning basic sailing if you choose.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A bow cuts through cool, silvery water as seagulls wheel overhead and the Seattle skyline slides into view — that’s the first impression on a private skippered charter from Shilshole Bay. Guests step aboard modern 32–46 ft sailboats with a licensed captain at the helm; no prior sailing experience is required. The Sound pushes and gives beneath the keel, and the captain translates currents and wind into a smooth, purposeful passage.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required — able to board a docked vessel and move safely on deck; most tasks handled by crew.
Wildlife
History
Puget Sound has been a lifeway for Indigenous peoples for thousands of years and later became a hub for fishing, shipbuilding and regional trade that shaped Seattle’s waterfront communities.
Conservation
Keep distance from marine mammals, avoid feeding wildlife and follow captain guidance — increased boat traffic can stress animals and spread invasive species, so use eco-friendly practices.
Reserve your spot on the Private Skippered Charters in Puget Sound today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for changing conditions
Bring a windproof shell and an insulating midlayer — the air on the water stays cool even on sunny days.
Protect against sun and glare
Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses and a brimmed hat reduce glare from the water and prolonged sun exposure.
Manage motion sensitivity
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive medication or use acupressure bands before departure.
Bring a camera and binoculars
A small binocular and a camera with a zoom help you spot seals, eagles and distant mountain peaks.
Windproof jacket
Blocks spray and wind; essential for cold or breezy conditions.
Non-slip deck shoes
Provide traction and protect feet on wet decks.
Polarized sunglasses
Reduce glare and improve water visibility for wildlife and shoreline features.
summer
Binoculars
Helps spot distant wildlife and scan coastal features.