IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE MAGIC OF THE WIND AND THE BEAUTY OF PUGET SOUND.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE MAGIC OF THE WIND AND THE BEAUTY OF PUGET SOUND.
Take a turn at the helm, give a hand trimming the sheets, or simply sit back and enjoy the journey. From the moment you step aboard, Upbeat and her crew are here to make sure you have a memorable experience.
Whether you want to get away for an afternoon, a full day, a weekend, or more, we’re at your disposal—the waters of Puget Sound are yours to navigate. Come aboard, and we’re on our way to any destination you and your guests would like to explore. Check out our Gallery page to view recent photos of the Upbeat Sailing experience.
It’s just you, your guests (up to 6 people total), and your adventure. You design a trip of your choosing wherever and whenever you want. You may bring your own food, drinks, and music to enhance your trip. Sight-see, lend a hand and learn some sailing skills, or relax and take in the sunset—it’s up to you.
MAX SIX GUESTS ON ALL TRIPS
Sailing with Upbeat is more affordable than you think. Our group prices for the half-day sail range from $400 for two guests up to $700 for six. Make a full day of it for only a little more. Make your reservation, arrive on the dock at Shilshole Bay Marina, and in minutes you’re on the way to a memorable adventure.
With plenty of room in the cockpit, on deck or below deck, you and your guests will find sailing on Upbeat comfortable and safe. Relax and take in the view—our experienced crew know the waters and our boat is fully insured and fitted with all required safety equipment. Upbeat is examined annually by the USCG for safety and regulatory compliance.
WHAT ABOUT SEATTLE WEATHER?
Seattle is famously rainy, but many people don't realize how seasonal this is. Summers are typically dry and often quite glorious. However, even on an 80+ degree day if the wind picks up, it can be quite cool on the water.
HOW SHOULD I DRESS?
Dress in layers! Be ready for possible changes in the weather and for the cooling effect of the wind blowing over the cool Puget Sound water. We recommend that our guests bring a fleece layer or two and a windproof (preferably shower proof) jacket. Even if there is zero likelihood of rain, we could still get some spray when sailing. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are a good idea; reflection off the water increases your exposure, and the cooling effect of the breeze may make you think that you are not at risk when you are. It is still possible to get sun burned even on overcast days. Or get tan.
WHAT KIND OF SHOES SHOULD I WEAR?
You will want to be as surefooted as possible when Upbeat heels and moves with the waves. Please wear comfortable, supportive soft soled shoes; tennis shoes work well. High heels, platforms and flip-flops are not at all suitable. We strongly recommend closed toed footwear; a moving sailboat offers so many chances to stub your toes—OUCH!
HOW ACTIVE DO I NEED TO BE?
A sailboat is a dynamic environment. You need to be mobile, but you don't need to be a top athlete. If you can do things like climb a few steep steps or stand while riding a bus, you should be fine on a sailboat. If you have concerns about whether sailing on Upbeat would be manageable for you, please call us.
WHAT ABOUT SEASICKNESS?
Sailing on Puget Sound is not like sailing in the ocean, and most people are not affected by seasickness at all. We just don't get the large scale motion that tends to set a lot of people off. If you know you are susceptible and get sick easily on fairground rides or in the car, you probably already have a medication or other method of addressing the problem, and it should work for you. However, If you do unexpectedly start feeling a bit green, tell us right away. There are things we could have you do to feel better, such as steer the boat.
WILL THE BOAT HEEL?
Yes! It's all part of the fun. Heeling is when the boat leans due to the force of the wind on the sails as it drives the boat forward. Some people find it unnerving at first, but it is a normal part of sailing, and the boat is designed to do it. Upbeat will heel, but there is no risk of capsizing (i.e. tipping over)—there are over 8,000 pounds of lead keel below the boat to prevent that. Also, if the angle of heel starts to make anyone anxious, we can easily tone things down a bit. If we don't pick up on your discomfort, please let us know!
CAN I HELP SAIL THE BOAT?
We really want you to have fun and enjoy your time on Upbeat, and if you just want to chill out, relax and go along for the ride, we are happy to let you do that. However, we find that most people get a lot more out of the experience if they take an active part in in the sailing. We will show you what to do and when, and we will be sure to demonstrate the proper techniques to make sure you stay safe. We don't require that you have any previous sailing experience. Many guests have so much fun that they leave wanting to come back, or to learn the art of sailing for themselves.
WILL IT BE SAFE?
Like many active outdoor pursuits, sailing on Puget Sound can never be entirely predictable or completely risk free. However, we want you to know that we regard the safety of our guests as our most important responsibility. To do this effectively, we need your co-operation. We request that you wear a personal flotation device when asked, refrain from becoming intoxicated and follow our instructions on the proper and safe way to do things. We will always be happy to explain the reasons. If you are not sure what you should or shouldn't do, please ask. If you are at all uncomfortable with anything that we ask you to do, make sure to tell us. We want you to be safe and feel safe too.
Call us to book your reservation, and get started on your Puget Sound adventure!