New Year Cruises in Seattle

Seattle is very ritualistic as far as celebrating the New Year is concerned. There are annual events that are held each year on New Year’s Eve to bid adieu to the year going out and ring in the one that is coming in.

The crowded parties that the Top House of the Seattle Space Needle hosts may not be your cup of tea. Or perhaps you have done it too many times, and are looking for a change. If yes, then you can try out the cruising options that Seattle offers for the occasion.

The experience will leave you awestruck, but in a soothing sort of way. Whether you make reservations for a cozy company or for a crowd of friends, the experience you shall have is surely going to be unforgettable.

Floating on the Lake Union – yachts or houseboats or cruise ships or paddleboats: The Lake Union looks like a glamorous dolled up bride on the New Year’s Eve dotted with a line of houseboats, yachts and other cruise ships that are lit up beautifully for the occasion. The kind of boat you want to cruise in is all on you – there are paddlewheel boats for the more athletic kinds, the houseboats for an intimate house party, the luxurious yachts and cruise ships for the crowded party feel. The length of the cruise could vary between two hours to extended hours in the morning depending on the package you make reservations for. Whatever, you choose; the experience will be a perfect union of amazing views, good food, friendly laughs, intimate dancing, foot-tapping music, and popping of champagne. Most of these boats would stop near the Space Needle to let the visitors enjoy the Space Needle Fireworks Show.

Dining and Drinking: From gourmet Northwest cuisine to handcrafted cocktails, from a six course sit down dinner to an appetizers only nibbling, you can have it all in the cruises, depending on the package that you opt for. Unless unlimited beverage option is mentioned, be prepared to pay extra for additional consumption. Included or not, do not miss the opportunity of toasting on a bubbly as you get starry eyed while watching the Space Needle Fireworks and say cheers to the New Year. Some cruises include only the tour and may be a complimentary glass of champagne, and in that case any additional purchases should be paid for.

Entertainment: Seattle boasts of being one of the most culturally inclined cities. Live performances are not unlikely in cruises. Party favors are also offered, sometimes at an additional cost.

Dancing and DJ Night: No New Year’s party is complete without dancing. Most cruises would have a DJ taking care so that you have the right foot tapping experience.

Tips for Hassle Free Enjoyment: Some of these cruises are family friendly, while others are 21+ only. As such, you should get the right information and then make reservations according to your requirements. You should dress in a business casual unless otherwise stated (in case of black tie events or theme or costume parties). Be prepared to pay for port fees, sales tax, gratuity and departure fees in addition to what you have paid at the time of reservations, unless specifically stated that these fees are included in the price of the tickets. If you have any seating preference (window, upper deck etc), or any food allergies or requirements, that should be mentioned at the time of reservations. Be aware that the ships would be too crowded and may not have enough seating unless pre-booked.

Some Popular Cruising Itineraries