City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus and Locks or Harbour Cruise

When it comes to exploring a city as vibrant and diverse as Seattle, finding a way that combines convenience, flexibility, and a taste of everything is key. The City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus and Locks or Harbour Cruise offers just that—giving travelers the chance to see major sights from land and sea, all at their own pace. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, through detailed reviews and information, we can paint a clear picture of what to expect.

There are three standout reasons why this tour might appeal to you: the flexibility of hop-on, hop-off buses, the insight provided by knowledgeable guides, and scenic boat excursions that showcase Seattle from a different perspective. The inclusion of audio guides and optional cruises enriches the experience, making it more than just a bus ride.

That said, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The tour’s 80-minute duration is quite short for covering everything in depth, and additional costs like food, drinks, or attraction entries aren’t included. It’s best suited for visitors who want a well-rounded overview without committing to multiple days or expensive attraction tickets.

If you’re someone who appreciates a flexible schedule, loves scenic views, and values guided commentary, this tour could be a great fit. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive orientation of downtown Seattle and beyond.

Good To Know

• Flexible tickets: Options for 24/48-hour bus passes and additional cruises, allowing you to tailor your experience.
• Scenic routes and major sights: Stops near iconic spots like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Amazon Spheres.
• Informative guides: Audio guides in English and knowledgeable staff enhance your understanding of the city.
• Optional cruises: Choose between Locks Cruise or Harbour Cruise to add a water-based perspective.
• Walking tour included: Downloadable audio-guided walk through Pioneer Square helps explore Seattle’s early days.
• Limited included extras: Food, drinks, and attraction entries are not covered, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Ease of Booking and Ticket Flexibility

The tour’s 24 or 48-hour hop-on hop-off model is a major plus, letting you explore Seattle at your own speed. The mobile ticket system means quick access via your smartphone, and vouchers are valid for a full year, adding to the convenience. Whether you’re in town for a quick layover or a longer stay, you can fit this into your schedule.

What the Itinerary Covers

The route hits many of Seattle’s must-see spots, starting from 8 Broad St, home to the iconic Space Needle and Seattle Center. From there, stops near the Pier 66 Cruise Terminal and Pier 55 provide easy access to boat excursions. The route also includes historic districts like Chinatown and Pioneer Square, giving travelers a glimpse into Seattle’s past.

Particularly noteworthy is the stop at Seattle Sky View Observatory, where you can enjoy sweeping city views. The tour also takes you to the Seattle Central Library, a modern architectural marvel, and Pike Place Market, a lively hub for local produce and artisanal goods.

What to Expect at Each Stop

• The Space Needle & Seattle Center: Expect great photo ops and a chance to explore if you wish to stay longer.
• Pier 66 & Pier 55: These spots serve as gateways to water adventures, with the cruise terminals nearby. If you booked the Locks Cruise, you’ll depart from Pier 55 at 10:30 am, giving you a scenic one-way trip through the locks.
• Pioneer & Occidental Square: Perfect for a quick walk through Seattle’s historic heart, with plenty of local eateries and some interesting stories from guides.
• Chinatown Gate & Panama Hotel: Dive into Seattle’s multicultural roots, with informative commentary on the historical significance.
• Seattle Art Museum & Amazon Spheres: For art lovers and fans of modern architecture, these spots are highlights that enrich your understanding of the city’s cultural scene.
• Pike Place Market & Original Starbucks: It’s hard not to be drawn into the lively bustle here, especially as you watch fishmongers toss seafood or explore local crafts.

The Water Cruises

The Locks Cruise is a half-day adventure, departing from Pier 55 every day at 10:30 am. It’s a great way to see the famous Seattle Locks and learn about the city’s maritime history, with some reviewers noting it’s a highlight of their trip. One traveler said, “In hindsight, I should have done the Locks, as it was a fascinating experience that added a lot to my understanding of Seattle’s connection to the water.”

The Harbour Cruise, available with the 1 or 2-day tickets, offers panoramic views from the water, giving a different perspective on Seattle’s skyline and waterfront. You can schedule your cruise when you redeem your voucher at the ticket booth, and the ticket remains valid for five days, allowing flexibility.

Guides and Audio Content

A standout feature is the audio guide in English that accompanies the bus ride. Reviewers have praised the guides for their knowledge and helpfulness, describing them as friendly and engaging. The audio-guided walking tour of Pioneer Square is another thoughtful addition, with images displayed on your smartphone to help contextualize historical objects and landmarks.

Practicalities and Considerations

The 80-minute bus ride is well-paced, with departures every 30 minutes from the first stop at 10 am until 4 pm. While this is convenient, it does mean you’ll want to plan your day around these time slots if you’re interested in the water cruises or longer exploration.

Since food and drinks aren’t included, consider bringing snacks or planning meals near your stops. Also, with no hotel pickup or drop-off, you’ll need to make your own way to and from the stops, which are near public transit.

Price and Value Analysis

At $94 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it does bundle several key experiences and transportation into one package. For travelers seeking a rundown, this could be a solid investment, especially considering the flexibility of tickets spanning from one to two days.

The inclusion of audio-guided walking tours and scenic boat rides adds value, particularly for those who enjoy multi-modal sightseeing. However, if you’re after in-depth exploration of specific attractions, additional entry fees or separate tours might be necessary.

Real-World Insights from Reviewers

Based on actual reviews, guides are frequently praised for their helpfulness and knowledge. One traveler appreciated the helpful bus drivers, noting, “Great way to get around Seattle with ease, especially on hot days and walking too much!” Another mentioned that, “The added boat tour of Elliott Bay was fun, though I wish I’d booked the Locks cruise too,” highlighting that the cruise options are a valuable addition.

Some review comments also pointed out that the tour’s duration is short, so if you want to fully explore each attraction, you might need to spend extra time on your own after the tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Seattle’s main sights without the hassle of navigating public transportation or booking multiple tickets. It’s also great for those who prefer a flexible schedule and enjoy combining land and water views.

If you’re traveling on a budget, be aware that additional costs for attractions or meals aren’t included, but the overall value comes from the convenience and guided insights. Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and scenic boat rides will likely find this tour both enjoyable and informative.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

If your goal is an in-depth exploration of specific attractions like the Seattle Aquarium or Museum of Pop Culture, you’ll probably need additional tickets or tours. Similarly, those with limited mobility should check accessibility options at each stop, as walking between some points may be involved.

Final Thoughts

The City Sightseeing Seattle HOHO Bus and Cruise offers a practical way to cover a lot of ground in a single day, balancing land and sea experiences with the ease of hop-on, hop-off flexibility. With friendly guides, scenic routes, and the choice of water excursions, it provides a solid introduction to the city for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.

While it doesn’t include entry to attractions or meals, the tour’s highlights—like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and scenic cruises—are iconic enough to make it a memorable part of your Seattle trip. For travelers who enjoy guided commentary and the freedom to explore on their own terms, this tour hits a nice sweet spot.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as it’s a relaxed sightseeing experience accessible by public transit stops.

Can I use the vouchers on any day?
Yes, your vouchers are valid for 12 months and can be used on any day within that period, based on availability.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
No, it does not include hotel transfers; you’ll need to get to the stops independently.

Are the boat tours included in the price?
Yes, if you select the Locks or Harbour Cruise options, these are included with your ticket.

How long do the bus and cruise tours take?
The bus ride lasts about 80 minutes, with cruises lasting around 1 hour, depending on your chosen option.

What are the departure times?
Buses depart approximately every 30 minutes from 10 am to 4 pm, with the Locks Cruise departing daily at 10:30 am.

Is the audio guide available in different languages?
No, the audio guide is in English, but it is detailed and informative.

Can I hop off and explore at my own pace?
Absolutely, the hop-on hop-off format allows you to disembark at any designated stop and reboard later.

Are tickets transferable or refundable?
Yes, tickets are mobile or printed and can be canceled with a full refund if done more than 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps some snacks. Also, don’t forget your smartphone or headphones for the audio guides.

Concluding, if you want a balanced, flexible way to get a broad sense of Seattle’s top sights—land and water—the City Sightseeing HOHO Bus and Cruise tour offers a good mix. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy guided commentary and scenic water views, making it a practical choice for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a city overview without the hassle.