Puget Sound is one of the most beautiful boating destinations in the country.
It stretches from Olympia in the south to Bellingham near the Canadian border and is home to miles of protected waterways and scenic shorelines that give boaters everything they could ever want during a day on the water.
What makes Puget Sound even more special is the variety. You can spend one day cruising past Seattle’s skyline and ferry traffic before anchoring in a peaceful cove surrounded by forests and wildlife the next day.
You’ll never get bored boating in Puget Sound because every part of it is different. This guide will take you through the region, helping you make the most of your days on the water.
Boating Conditions and What to Expect
Before heading out, you should know that Puget Sound is in the ocean, so it has strong currents and water levels can change quickly.
Tides move in and out throughout the day, so you’ll need tide charts and current tables to safely navigate. The Sound is generally protected from open-ocean swells, but the weather can change quickly, and fog, wind, and rain can cause issues if you aren’t careful.
There are ferries everywhere throughout the Sound, and they always have the right of way, so you’ll need to be aware of them and the rules on the water. You should also learn about environmental regulations that are in place to protect marine habitats.
As long as you are up to date on the laws and aware of conditions, you should have a good time no matter where you travel in Puget Sound.
Urban Views and Easy Day Trips Around Seattle
Seattle is one of the most popular boating areas in Puget Sound because of the city views. From Lake Union and Elliott Bay, boaters can enjoy views of the skyline, the Space Needle, and Mount Rainier on clear days.
The area is full of marinas, fuel docks, and waterfront amenities, too, making it ideal for day trips and social cruising.
Seattle also serves as a starting point for nearby destinations like Bainbridge Island and Blake Island, if you want to travel a bit further. Keep in mind that the area around Seattle gets really busy in the summer, so you’ll need to be aware of other boats as you navigate.
Exploring the South Sound in Tacoma and Olympia
If you aren’t into the boat traffic around Seattle, Tacoma provides a quieter alternative and serves as a gateway to the South Sound.
The city is located on Commencement Bay and provides access to calmer waterways and sheltered coves that make for great summertime destinations. The area is perfect for cruising and fishing, with nearby destinations including Vashon Island and the Key Peninsula.
Olympia is at the southern end of Puget Sound and gives boaters a more relaxing experience with plenty of nature.
The South Sound is known for winding inlets and peaceful anchorages, making it especially popular with smaller powerboats. Wildlife sightings are common in this area, too, and careful chart reading is important due to tidal influence and variable depths.
Northern Routes and Extended Cruising in Everett and Bellingham
Everett is a popular starting point for boaters heading toward the San Juan Islands. However, it’s important to remember that this trip takes you through exposed waters with strong currents, so you don’t want to try them alone if you’re inexperienced.
Bellingham is near the Canadian border, and its surrounding area has some of the most scenic cruising grounds in the region. You’ll be immediately surrounded by beautiful views of forested shorelines and rolling mountains from the water, offering a breathtaking experience.
Boaters entering Canadian waters will need to be aware of customs requirements and have all required documentation ready if they are stopped.
Enjoy Puget Sound
Puget Sound offers boating experiences for every interest and skill level. However, you’ll need the right boat to make the most of your time on the water.
Take the time to research various boat types to see what’s available within your budget. Boat Country ideally located on the Snohomish River with easy access to some of the best boating areas of Puget Sound offers new and used boats, as well as, trailers, motors and boating accessories.
From there, you can check out their great selection of new or used boats and then can get out and enjoy everything Puget Sound and its scenic waterways have to offer.
Former airline pilot Marco Giannini has explored 80-plus countries and now designs immersive, budget-savvy itineraries. He joined us in 2024 to share packing lists, cultural etiquette, and eco-friendly lodging picks that turn dream trips into doable plans. Between flights, Marco mentors student aviators, maps coastal cycling routes, and brews Italian espresso for fellow travelers at community hostels during layovers worldwide.
