Best Marinas in Seattle to Dock (and Host) Your Boat
Last Updated on October 13, 2025 by Boatsetter Team
Seattle isn’t just the Emerald City — it’s the gateway to some of the most spectacular boating in the Pacific Northwest. From Lake Union to Puget Sound, this region offers calm freshwater cruising, open-water adventure, and a thriving maritime community.
For Boatsetter owners, Seattle is an ideal market — consistent guest demand, strong tourism traffic, and a culture built around life on the water. Finding the right marina is the key to turning that opportunity into success.
Why Your Marina Choice Matters
Seattle’s boating season never truly ends — but where you dock affects everything from bookings to boat care. The right marina helps you:
- Stay connected to prime pickup points near downtown or major lakes.
- Reduce maintenance and refueling time between trips.
- Attract more guests with easy parking and waterfront access.
- Join a community of captains, local hosts, and passionate boaters.
Whether you host fishing trips, sailing charters, or sightseeing cruises, the right slip can anchor your business year-round.
Top Marinas in Seattle for Boatsetter Owners
1. Elliott Bay Marina
Location: Magnolia, near Smith Cove
Why It’s Great for Owners: One of the largest and most scenic marinas in the Pacific Northwest, Elliott Bay offers sweeping views of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier. Its protected harbor and full-service amenities make it ideal for larger vessels and captained charters.
Amenities: 1,200 slips, fuel dock, pump-out, Wi-Fi, 24-hour security, restaurants, and repair facilities.
Owner Insight: Guests love starting here for Puget Sound day trips and sunset cruises. Bonus: it’s close to Ballard Locks for easy freshwater transitions.
2. Lake Union Piers / Fishermen’s Terminal
Location: Northwest Lake Union / Ballard area
Why It’s Great for Owners: Centrally located with direct access to both freshwater lakes and saltwater via the Ballard Locks — perfect for versatile charter itineraries.
Amenities: Fuel, power, storage, parking, restaurants, and nearby marine services.
Owner Insight: A favorite among captains offering harbor cruises, Lake Union photo tours, and private event charters.
3. Shilshole Bay Marina
Location: Ballard, facing Puget Sound
Why It’s Great for Owners: Shilshole is a Pacific Northwest classic — ideal for larger boats, sail charters, and longer-term stays. Its protected breakwater and deep-water slips make it a go-to for year-round docking.
Amenities: 1,400 slips, fuel dock, showers, laundry, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour security.
Owner Insight: Perfect for Boatsetter owners offering multi-day charters or adventure sailing into the San Juan Islands.
4. Chandler’s Cove Marina (Lake Union)
Location: South Lake Union
Why It’s Great for Owners: High visibility and proximity to downtown attractions make this an ideal spot for sightseeing and sunset charter operations.
Amenities: Slips for vessels up to 80 ft, dockside power, pump-out, and guest parking.
Owner Insight: Tourists love departing from South Lake Union — it’s one of the most requested charter launch points on Boatsetter Seattle.
5. Harbor Island Marina
Location: Duwamish River, near West Seattle Bridge
Why It’s Great for Owners: A quieter, more industrial marina offering lower rates with easy access to Puget Sound.
Amenities: Covered slips, fuel dock nearby, storage, and gated security.
Owner Insight: Ideal for fishing boats, workboats, and owners who value privacy and convenience.
6. Bell Harbor Marina
Location: Downtown Seattle Waterfront, Pier 66
Why It’s Great for Owners: The only marina right in the heart of downtown Seattle. Walking distance to Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, it’s unbeatable for transient charters and high-end experiences.
Amenities: 70 slips (up to 150 ft), shore power, pump-out, Wi-Fi, and concierge-style service.
Owner Insight: Perfect for luxury and event-based charters. Summer weekends here book out months in advance.
7. Lake Washington Marinas (Kirkland & Leschi)
Location: East and South Lake Washington
Why It’s Great for Owners: Easy freshwater cruising and a relaxed atmosphere — ideal for smaller boats or captains offering private lake tours.
Amenities: Slip rentals, fuel, electricity, restrooms, and nearby restaurants.
Owner Insight: A great place to target local Seattle residents looking for calm-water boating experiences or lessons.
Tips for Seattle Boatsetter Owners
- Check your charter permissions. Some marinas limit commercial operations — verify with your dockmaster before hosting guests.
- Promote your location. Mention your marina name in your Boatsetter listing for search visibility.
- Seasonal strategy: Book long-term slips early — Seattle’s spring and summer demand grows fast.
- Stay connected. Seattle’s marina network is tight-knit; joining dock events and boating associations can drive referrals.
- Weather-ready maintenance: Seattle’s mild winters still bring rain and moisture — use covered storage or dehumidifiers to protect interiors.
The Business of Boating in Seattle
Seattle’s boating market is one of the strongest on the West Coast. Boatsetter data shows growing demand for:
- Captain-led trips: Up 50% YoY as guests seek local expertise.
- Fishing and sailing experiences: Increasingly popular among travelers and corporate groups.
- Shorter charters (2–4 hours): Perfect for locals booking spontaneous getaways.
As more guests look to explore the Pacific Northwest by water, Seattle Boatsetter owners are perfectly positioned to turn their slips into income — while sharing their love of the region’s waters.
Find the Right Marina — and Start Hosting
From the skyline views of Elliott Bay to the calm waters of Lake Union, Seattle offers a marina for every kind of boat and every kind of host.
Choosing the right one sets your business up for success — giving you the flexibility to launch charters, welcome guests, and enjoy the best of boating in the Pacific Northwest.
Ready to earn from your slip? Start hosting today at Boatsetter.com/list-your-boat.
