Rendezvous South Sound

Gig Harbor Cruise

Join Seattle Boat Company for a guided group cruise through the Ballard Locks and down Puget Sound to the picturesque Gig Harbor. This year’s rendezvous takes a slightly different shape. Instead of a single hosted venue, the day invites you to explore one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic waterfront towns at your own pace.

Seattle Boat Company will lead the way, provide navigation guidance, and coordinate a relaxed afternoon gathering before the convoy home.

It’s a day built around beautiful South Sound boating, good company and a destination to remember.

Get in Touch

Details

When: 

Friday, June 19, 2026

9:00 AM - 7:00 PM

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Who:

Seattle Boat Company customers who enjoy:

  • Exploring new cruising destinations
  • Meeting fellow boaters
  • Experiencing Puget Sound together

Whether this is your first group cruise or one of many, the Seattle Boat Company team will be there to help guide the day.

What:

Our expert team leads a guided convoy departing from SkyLaunch Lake Union. We handle weather, timing, and tide-based route variations, so you can focus on enjoying the ride.

Example Schedule 

9:15 AM  |  Depart from Lake Union SkyLaunch Marina

11:15 AM  |  Estimated arrival in Gig Harbor

 

Time TBD  |  Group reception, games, prizes & happy hour

 

Time TBD |  Self-guided exploration of Gig Harbor (South Sound Cruise Guide provided)

 

Time TBD  |  Convoy regroup & Harbor Tour

4:15 PM  |  Depart Gig Harbor

 

6:45 PM  |  Return to Lake Union SkyLaunch Marina

 

Event Cost

Cost: $175 per adult, $65 for kids

Cost Includes:

  • Guided Convoy & Locks Navigation
  • Dockside Breakfast & Coffee
  • Reception & Happy Hour
  • Scavenger Hunt & Prizes
  • Harbor Tour

Rendezvous South Sound Welcome Bag that may include:

  • Seattle Boat Company gear
  • Event apparel
  • Partner giveaways
  • Watersports and boating accessories
  • Surprise items from brands like YETI and Big Swell

Additional prizes and drawings will be part of the afternoon gathering.

The Experience

Seattle Boat Company staff will lead the convoy through the Ballard Locks and down Puget Sound, making the journey effortless for everyone in the group.

Before the event, participants will receive a South Sound Cruise Guide from Seattle Boat Company including:

  • Lock navigation tips
  • Dining recommendations
  • Suggested exploration map
  • Scavenger hunt details

Our goal is to make the trip feel simple, supported, and easy to enjoy.

 

Explore Gig Harbor

After arriving, guests are invited to enjoy Gig Harbor at their own pace.

 

Known for its protected harbor, working waterfront, and charming downtown, Gig Harbor offers a great mix of waterfront dining, local shops, and scenic walking paths.

 

Seattle Boat Company will provide a curated list of recommended stops, including:

 

  • Waterfront restaurants
  • Harbor viewpoints
  • Local boutiques

A suggested map and exploration guide will be shared ahead of the event.

Hosted Events & Activities

7 Seas Brewing Meetup

The group will reconnect for a casual happy hour gathering.

 

  • Turn in scavenger hunt entries
  • Connect with fellow Seattle Boat Company boaters
  • Enjoy fun prizes and giveaways

Gig Harbor Scavenger Hunt

For those who enjoy a little adventure, we’ll host a harbor scavenger hunt designed to highlight the character and landmarks of Gig Harbor. Participants can complete clues while exploring town throughout the afternoon.

 

Prizes will be awarded during the group meetup later in the day.

 

Joining us? Let us know you're coming!

 

Rendezvous South Sound FAQ

Need more information?

Can FunShare Members Join?

Absolutely - and we can't wait to have you!

Every year we have boats ready for our FunShare members who wish to attend our Rendezvous events. You are responsible for registration fees and fuel.

Please email funshare@seattleboat.com to arrange your boat. 

Note: There are limited boats for our FunShare members and they're offered on a first-come-first-served basis so please register early to secure your boat!

Is this event for new boaters?

Experienced and new boaters join us for Sea to Tee every year! We will assist new boaters on navigating the Locks. The guided convoy is a great way to earn some sea legs. Please let our team know if there are specific areas you'd like additional instruction or assistance on - we're here to help!

What is the Cancellation Policy?

We know life has unexpected changes and are happy to refund your registration fees if you cancel within 48 hours of the event.

How do I become a Sponsor?

Thank you for considering sponsorship! We have several sponsor opportunities available. Please email sgrim@seattleboat.com for sponsorship details!

What equipment is suggested for this trip?

As with any excursion, ensure you have all safety gear on board and properly fitted life vests for each of the people aboard your boat.

Comfort items:

  • Snacks
  • Beverages
  • Sunscreen
  • Hats / sunglasses

Travel Gear:

Is this trip for new boaters?

Yes - absolutely! New and experienced boaters alike join us every year for our Rendezvous Convoys!

The guided convoy is a great way to earn your sea legs navigating the locks and the various waterways with our expert team. We are here to teach you the ropes so you are empowered to continue to explore our beautiful waterways on your own.

Do I have to join the convoy or can I go on ahead on my own?

You are welcome to go ahead on your own or make arrangements to stay overnight based on your schedule and preference. The convoy is a courtesy to those who enjoy the spirit and comradery of a caravan or who may be new to navigating the route.  

What Happened to Island Rendezvous?

Island Rendezvous remains a favorite tradition for many Seattle Boat Company boaters. After listening to feedback from past participants, we’ve decided to introduce new destination events every other year to keep the calendar fresh and give our community new places to explore together.

This year, that means heading south for our South Sound Rendezvous in Gig Harbor.

For those who love the San Juans, Island Rendezvous will return in Summer 2027, and we look forward to bringing that experience back.

In the meantime, if you’re planning a trip north, our team is always happy to help with route planning, destination suggestions, and cruising guidance for the San Juan Islands or anywhere else in the region.

We’re here to help make boating simple, supported, and enjoyable.

 

How Should I Prepare for Rendezvous South Sound?

Preparation

Before the event, participants will receive a South Sound Cruise Guide from Seattle Boat Company including:

  • Route map and cruising guidance
  • Lock navigation tips
  • Gig Harbor entry notes
  • Dining recommendations
  • Suggested exploration map
  • Scavenger hunt details

Our goal is to make the trip feel simple, supported, and easy to enjoy.