Your Guide to Seattle Boats Afloat Show
The SEATTLE Edit 2026
September 17–20, 2026
Each September, South Lake Union becomes the center of Pacific Northwest boating.
Presented by the Northwest Yacht Brokers Association, the Boats Afloat Show is the largest floating boat show on the West Coast, bringing more than 150 yachts and boats to the Lake Union Piers across four days of in-water displays, private tours and waterfront gatherings.
Whether you are visiting to explore your next yacht, meet with brokers and builders or simply spend time on the water, there is more to the show than the docks alone.
Here is our guide to experiencing the Boats Afloat Show in 2026.
Begin at Lake union piers
The show runs along the piers at South Lake Union, with powerboats, cruisers, day boats and long-range yachts displayed in the water rather than on land.
The show is extensive, so review the boat list before arriving and arrange private appointments in advance. Leave room in your schedule for the unexpected… some of the best conversations happen while walking the docks.
Explore South Lake Union
The show sits within one of Seattle’s most walkable waterfront neighborhoods. Between appointments, the surrounding blocks offer coffee, lunch and a quick reset without leaving the area.
Rather than rushing the full fleet in a single pass, give yourself time. A half day at the docks with a proper break in between allows for meaningful tours and real conversations with brokers.
Private Yacht Tour
The Boats Afloat Show is a rare chance to compare a broad selection of yachts in one location. Step aboard, examine layouts and speak directly with the brokers and builders who know each boat.
For serious buyers, private appointments provide the best experience. Your Worth Avenue broker can coordinate access, organize a focused schedule and arrange sea trials when available.
Walk the Waterfront
Between tours, take time to walk the Lake Union shoreline. The path along the piers connects the show to Lake Union Park, the seaplane terminal and the neighborhood’s restaurants and cafes.
Early mornings are the quietest, before the docks fill. Stop for coffee, watch the seaplanes come and go and take in the skyline across the water.
Dining During The Fall Seattle Boats Afloat Show
Tables near the water fill quickly during show weekend. Confirm lunches and dinners in advance, particularly for larger groups.
Daniel's Broiler
A Lake Union institution set directly on the water at Fairview, with floor-to-ceiling views over the marina. The closest upscale dinner to the show docks.
The White Swan Public House
Casual oysters, chowder and fish on the water at 1001 Fairview... a short walk from the piers and one of the easiest lunches during show days.
Bar Harbor
A Maine-themed spot known for lobster rolls and chowder, walkable from the show at Fairview and Republican.
The Butcher's Table
A polished steakhouse focused on American and Japanese Wagyu, with a quieter dining room downstairs and a livelier bar above.
Canlis
Seattle's landmark dining room, overlooking Lake Union from the south slope of Queen Anne. A destination experience that books well ahead.
Westward
Across the lake on the north shore, with Adirondack chairs, a beach and one of the best skyline views in the city. Reachable by boat or a short drive.
Aerlume
An open-kitchen dining room near the downtown waterfront with sunset views over Elliott Bay... a strong choice for an evening away from Lake Union.
Duke's Seafood
Harborside dining with a raw bar, a broad menu and live music daily. A relaxed, social setting right on the water.
Luxury hotels
Where to stay during the Seattle Boats Afloat Show
THE Moxy Downtown Seattle
The West Coast’s first Moxy, a 146-room boutique hotel a short walk from the piers. Design-forward and energetic, with a lobby Bar Moxy offers a welcome cocktail upon check-in.
Choose The Moxy for: A stylish, design-led stay in the heart of the neighborhood, steps from the docks.
1 Hotel
A nature-forward, design-led hotel steps from the show, with a restaurant, rooftop bar and Space Needle views. The most convenient luxury base for show weekend.
Choose 1 Hotel for: Sustainable luxury and rooftop views, steps from the show.
OTHER THINGS TO DO DURING THE seattle boats afloat show
Beyond the Show
Fly Over Lake Union
Kenmore Air runs scenic seaplane flights that lift off from Lake Union, just north of the show, for aerial views of the city, the lake and Puget Sound. A short flight is an easy add between appointments... and a memorable outing for clients or family.
Explore Lake Union Park
Adjacent to the show, Lake Union Park is home to the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) and The Center for Wooden Boats, where you can tour classic vessels and take a free boat ride on weekends. A relaxed way to spend an hour without leaving the waterfront.
Spend an evening on CHECKED OUT
Step off the docks for a private tour aboard CHECKED OUT, a 65' Pacific Mariner, out on Lake Union. Take in the skyline, the seaplanes overhead and the show from the water. A relaxed setting for clients, friends or family... and a firsthand look at life aboard between appointments.
ITINERARY
A perfect SHOW day
Morning: Start with coffee in South Lake Union before your first scheduled tours at the Lake Union Piers.
Lunch: Take a waterfront table at The White Swan or Bar Harbor, both a short walk from the show.
Afternoon: Continue through the fleet, then step next door to Lake Union Park, MOHAI or The Center for Wooden Boats.
Early evening: Return to your hotel to recharge and change for dinner.
Dinner: Choose Daniel’s Broiler or Canlis for a polished evening, The Butcher’s Table for steak, or Aerlume for a sunset table on Elliott Bay.
CONTACT US
Experience Seattle With Worth Avenue Yachts
Meet the Worth Avenue Yachts team in Seattle, WA for private yacht tours, market insight and personalized guidance throughout the show.
Whether you are considering a yacht for sale, exploring new construction or planning your next private yacht vacation, our team can help you make the most of your time in Cannes.
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