The maritime industry is one of Seattle’s most important industries, and the city’s ports are some of the busiest in the world. On a Hiram Chittenden Locks Cruise, you’ll learn about Seattle’s history and the fishing and shipping trades; better still, you’ll actually experience what many of the fishing boats do, being literally “locked” in the connection from the salt water of Puget Sound to the fresh water of Lake Union. There are snacks and drinks for sale on the cruise, and the spectacular view will allow for postcard-worthy shots of the Seattle skyline. You’ll go past the coveted houseboat communities, and your guide will surely point out which boat was used in Sleepless in Seattle as Tom Hanks’ home. But the big moment is when your boat comes to a standstill – you hear the lockdown, then fresh water is sent churning in as you are floated up to lake level, and vice versa on the return when fresh water is drained to sink the boat to salt water. It’s all very loud and misty; come on deck if you don’t mind getting wet. In summer, you may even see wild salmon jumping to and fro. Scenic cruises of Lake Union and Lake Washington are also available; those and the Hiram Chittenden Locks cruises are offered during both day and evening year round.