Christmas Ship™ Festival
Guests cruise aboard the festive Spirit of Seattle, decorated with hundreds of sparkling white lights. The voyage features live holiday music from an onboard choir that is broadcast to passengers and communities gathered on shore. Visitors can take in the sights from heated indoor decks or open outdoor areas, enjoy a reading of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas from Santa, and purchase holiday snacks and drinks from the full-service bar.
What to Expect
Holiday cruise featuring live choral music and Santa on the water.
Event Details
Duration
The Christmas Ship™ experience includes a 1.5-hour cruise.
Food & Drink
The onboard full-service bar offers festive cocktails, local wine and beer, non-alcoholic drinks, and holiday snacks; some meals can be pre-ordered during online checkout up to 10 days before departure.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-music fans
Vibe
Festive and scenic
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: The page promotes 2pm, 7pm, and 8pm sailings. Opening Night lists 5pm and 8pm sailings; Parade of Boats lists the 8pm sailing only; Grand Finale lists 2pm, 5pm, and 8pm sailings.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive with plenty of time to park and board; the boarding ramp is pulled up promptly at the scheduled departure.
- Wear warm, comfortable layers and flat shoes with tread, since docks and boat decks can become slippery.
- Leave outside food and drinks behind; onboard purchases are available, and pre-ordered meals must be placed by 10 days before departure.
- Choose a 2pm, 7pm, or 8pm sailing to save $3 per adult ticket; 2pm sailings also include Cookies with Santa and a coloring surprise for kids.
- Consider an 8pm sailing for Jolly Hour's discounted drink menu, available only on non-special-event sailings.
Special Events & Promotions
- A 21+ Follow Boat is available as a separate experience; it includes trivia and chances to win giveaways.
- Opening Night is November 27, with first sailings from Pier 55.
- Santa leads the Opening Night dock countdown and ship lighting.
- A holiday raffle with prizes is offered onboard on Opening Night.
- The Dickens Carolers perform onboard on Opening Night.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the cruise?
The Christmas Ship experience includes a 1.5-hour cruise to a waterfront community.
What happens onboard?
A community choir performs holiday music, and Santa reads “’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
Is there anything for children?
Youth and children can enjoy Cookies with Santa and a coloring surprise on afternoon sailings.
What food and drinks are available?
There is a full-service bar with festive cocktails, local wine and beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. Outside food and beverages are not allowed.
What happens if it rains?
Sailings go rain or shine. A cruise is cancelled only if the mayor or governor declares a state of emergency.
More Christmas Events near Kirkland
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.