If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to enjoy Seattle this June, head to the Center for Wooden Boats on Lake Union for Free Boating Day on Sunday, June 14. Now in its fifth year, this popular community event is a great way to kick off summer on the water. The best part: all of the daytime events and activities are completely free.
From 12:30 to 8 p.m., visitors can enjoy free one-hour rentals of human-powered boats like kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and peapods. Experienced sailors can also take out sailboats for free with an active Yellow Card, while beginners can try earning one through a skills test with an instructor. Families will find plenty of onshore activities too, including toy boat building, knot-tying activities, woodworking demonstrations, pond boat displays, and even a Wooden Boat Storytime at 2 p.m. Admission to the museum and its newest exhibits is also free throughout the event.
One of the biggest highlights of the day is the seasonal Sunday Public Sail, which runs from 1 to 5 p.m. This year’s theme is an “International Soccer Celebration” in honor of the World Cup. Volunteer skippers take guests on free 45-minute rides around Lake Union aboard a variety of unique boats, including schooners, steamboats, yachts, and electric boats. Sign-ups begin at 1 p.m. outside the Wagner Education Center, and spots are first come, first served so arrive early! Not everyone in line is guaranteed a time slot. If you miss out, upcoming Sunday Public Sail dates for this year are July 26, August 30, and September 27.
After a full day on the waterfront, ages 21+ can continue the fun at Beers in the Boathouse from 5 to 8 p.m. This ticketed evening event includes dinner, drinks, music, and beautiful Lake Union views inside the historic floating boathouse.
Visitors can also take free tours of the historic Western Flyer all weekend long. Built in 1937, the famous vessel carried author John Steinbeck on his 1940 Gulf of California expedition and now serves as a floating marine science and education platform. It’s visiting Lake Union for free public tours for one weekend only! Head to the West Wall in South Lake Union Park between 12:30 and 4:00 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday to check it out.
Find more info about Free Boating Day and this weekend’s additional events on the Center’s website.
