Discover the thrill of navigating through the Ballard Locks with Windworks Sailing & Powerboating. This hands-on water activity offers a blend of education and excitement in Seattle’s iconic waterway.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
No prior fitness required, but participants should be comfortable on a boat
Wildlife
History
The Ballard Locks were completed in 1917 and remain a vital part of Seattle’s maritime history.
Conservation
Windworks promotes eco-friendly boating practices, emphasizing minimal environmental impact and water preservation.
Windworks Sailing & Powerboating
Discover the thrill of navigating through the Ballard Locks with Windworks Sailing & Powerboating. This hands-on water activity offers a blend of education and excitement in Seattle’s iconic waterway.
Windworks Sailing & Powerboating in Seattle, Washington offers a variety of hands-on sailing and powerboating experiences across Puget Sound.
The organization runs day sails, two-hour introductory outings, weekend and multi-day certification courses, skills clinics, flotillas, and seasonal events. Short experiences include the Intro-to-Sail two-hour cruise led by a USCG Captain/Instructor, and TGIF Sunset Sails on 30'–46' sailboats with a six-person limit for semi-private evenings. Practical skills clinics include Anchoring & Crew Overboard practice with on-water drills and role rotations.
Certification-focused programs include the US Sailing Basic Keelboat Series (three-day instruction with certified instructors) and the US Sailing Cruising to Bareboat five-day course that prepares participants for bareboat skipper certification. Powerboating options include a Powerboat Conversion class to train certified members on the Camano 31 trawler Clifford, taught by instructor Margaret Pommert, and a two-day US Basic Powerboat Cruising Series that leads to an international US Powerboating certification.
Community and event offerings feature the Founders Cup - Capri Race Finale and the Southern Crossing Flotilla, a four-day fall excursion in South Puget Sound. Each program emphasizes on-water practice, instructor guidance, small-group formats, and real-world seamanship skills to build competence and enjoyment on Puget Sound.
Location
Seattle, WA
Operating on Puget Sound waters
Certifications
US Sailing & US Powerboating
Courses that lead to formal certification
Signature Vessel
Clifford (Camano 31)
Used in Powerboat Conversion class
Trips Offered
11 trips
Range from 2-hour to multi-day courses
Reserve a spot for a day sail, clinic, or US Sailing/Powerboating course — small groups, expert instructors, real on-water training.
Arrive early for a clear schedule
Starting early ensures you get the full hands-on experience without large crowds.
Wear non-slip, weather-appropriate clothing
Dress for water-based activities and variable weather conditions to stay comfortable and safe.
Bring a waterproof camera or smartphone
Capture the unique moments of your lock transit journey with waterproof gear.
Listen for safety briefings
Pay close attention to instructor instructions to maximize safety during the trip.
Non-slip boat shoes
Important for safety when moving around on deck.
Rain jacket
Protects against sudden changes in weather while on the water.
spring; fall; winter
Sunglasses with retainer
Prevents eyewear from being lost overboard.
Hat or cap
Offers sun protection and keeps the sun out of your eyes.