5 Magical Christmas Ships In Seattle

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by experiencing the magic of Christmas ships in Seattle? For over 70 years, the Christmas Ship Parade has been a beloved Seattle tradition, delighting audiences of all ages with its dazzling display of lights, music, and holiday cheer.

What are Christmas Ships?

The Christmas ships are a fleet of festively decorated boats that sail along the Puget Sound and surrounding lakes, spreading holiday joy to communities throughout the Seattle area. Each ship is transformed into a floating winter wonderland, featuring thousands of twinkling lights, garlands, and other decorations. On board, carolers and musicians perform festive tunes, adding to the merriment of the season.

History of the Christmas Ship Parade

The Christmas Ship Parade has its roots in the 1940s, when a single sailboat owner, Paul Larson, began decorating his vessel with lights and sailing around Lake Washington to spread holiday cheer. Over the years, more boat owners joined in, and the parade grew in popularity. Today, the Christmas Ship Parade is a beloved Seattle tradition, featuring over 60 boats and attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators each year.

5 Magical Christmas Ships in Seattle

Here are 5 of the most magical Christmas ships in Seattle:

1. The Spirit of Seattle

The Spirit of Seattle is one of the largest and most iconic Christmas ships in the parade. This 86-foot yacht is decked out in over 100,000 lights and features a talented cast of carolers and musicians performing festive tunes.

2. The Royal Argosy

The Royal Argosy is a majestic ship that offers a unique holiday experience. With its elegant decorations and live music performances, this ship is a must-see during the Christmas Ship Parade.

3. The Santa Ship

The Santa Ship is a favorite among families, featuring a jolly old elf himself, Santa Claus. Kids of all ages will delight in meeting Santa and receiving a special holiday treat.

4. The Christmas Magic Ship

The Christmas Magic Ship is a stunning vessel featuring a dazzling display of lights and decorations. On board, carolers and musicians perform a wide range of holiday classics and modern tunes.

5. The Reindeer Ship

The Reindeer Ship is a fun and festive vessel featuring a team of reindeer friends, including Rudolph and his pals. This ship is a great option for families with young children who love the magic of the holiday season.

How to Experience the Christmas Ship Parade

There are several ways to experience the Christmas Ship Parade in Seattle:

• On-Shore Viewing: Find a spot along the parade route, such as Gas Works Park or Lake Union Park, to watch the ships sail by.
• On-Board Cruises: Book a cruise on one of the Christmas ships to experience the magic up close.
• Private Boat Charters: Charter a private boat to follow the parade and enjoy a unique holiday experience.

Tips and Tricks for Visiting the Christmas Ship Parade

Here are some tips and tricks for visiting the Christmas Ship Parade:

• Dress Warmly: It can get chilly along the parade route, so dress warmly and bring blankets to stay cozy.
• Arrive Early: Get to your viewing spot early to secure a good spot and avoid crowds.
• Bring Hot Cocoa: Keep warm and toasty with a thermos of hot cocoa or coffee.

Conclusion

The Christmas Ship Parade is a beloved Seattle tradition that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. With its dazzling display of lights, music, and holiday cheer, this magical event is a must-see during the holiday season. Whether you choose to watch from the shore or experience the magic on board, the Christmas Ship Parade is an event you won't want to miss.

We hope you've enjoyed this article about the magical Christmas ships in Seattle. Share your favorite holiday traditions and experiences in the comments below!