Washington State’s liveaboard scene is where waterfront dreams come alive – think morning coffee with mountain views and neighbors who actually get your floating lifestyle. Finding the best liveaboard marinas in Washington state isn’t just about slip availability, though. Moorage runs anywhere from $6.50 to $15+ per foot, and some spots have waitlists longer than your boat. After 25 years of marina life, I’m sharing the real scoop: which marinas welcome liveaboards, where you can dock tomorrow, the coolest communities from Seattle sophistication to small-town vibes, and all the perks that make this lifestyle absolutely worth it.
Table of Contents
- Shilshole Bay Marina – Seattle
- Fishermen’s Terminal – Seattle (Ballard)
- Port Orchard Marina – Kitsap Peninsula
- Cap Sante Marina – Anacortes
- Everett Marina – Everett
- Tacoma’s Foss Harbor Marina – Tacoma
- Poulsbo Marina – Liberty Bay
- Port of Bellingham – Bellingham
- La Conner Marina – Skagit County
- Your Perfect Marina Match Awaits
- FAQs – Best Liveaboard Marinas in Washington State
Shilshole Bay Marina – Seattle
Shilshole Bay Marina boasts the largest liveaboard community on the West Coast, making it the ultimate destination for Seattle boaters. Located in Ballard’s maritime district with direct Puget Sound access, this floating city houses over 1,400 monthly and live-aboard moorage customers. The Port of Seattle operates a maximum of 300 slips for liveaboard moorage, creating an incredibly competitive market.
The marina’s location is pure magic. You’re literally 20 minutes from downtown Seattle, yet when you step onto your dock, you’re surrounded by spectacular sunsets and Olympic Mountain views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous. The Shilshole Liveaboard Assoc. (SLA) acts as the representative of our liveaboard community on issues that are a concern to the membership, like: marina security, the Liveaboard Agreement with the Port, and community participation.
Key Features:
- Largest liveaboard community on the west coast with 300 dedicated slips
- Massive slip variety accommodating boats from kayaks to megayachts up to 250 feet
- Protected breakwater with a 4,000-foot breakwater protection
- Full-service amenities including on-site boatyard, fuel dock, and marine services
- Urban convenience with Ballard’s restaurants, breweries, and West Marine within walking distance
- Strong community organization with active Shilshole Liveaboard Association
- Direct Puget Sound access – no locks or bridges to navigate
- 24-hour security and Port of Seattle Police support
Cons: Extremely long waitlist (5+ years), competitive liveaboard market, higher cost of living in Seattle area, moorage rate increases with a recent 5% bump, limited availability due to 95% occupancy rate.
Fishermen’s Terminal – Seattle (Ballard)
Fishermen’s Terminal is the Homeport to the North Pacific Fishing Fleet, creating an authentic maritime atmosphere that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere. While liveaboard moorage is not officially available, this working waterfront offers a unique glimpse into Seattle’s commercial fishing heritage that draws recreational boaters seeking genuine maritime culture.
Located in Ballard just east of the famous locks, Fishermen’s Terminal on Seattle’s Salmon Bay has served as the home port for the Puget Sound-based fishing fleet since it opened in 1914. You’ll find yourself surrounded by crab fishing boats here, including a couple from Deadliest Catch, creating an atmosphere that’s part working harbor, part maritime museum.
Key Features:
- Authentic working waterfront with an active commercial fishing fleet
- Historic significance as home port for the Puget Sound-based fishing fleet since 1914
- Deadliest Catch connection with several featured vessels based here
- Ballard location with easy access to trendy neighborhood amenities
- Fishermen’s Memorial honoring more than 670 local commercial fishermen and women who have been lost at sea
- On-site dining, including Chinook’s and Bay Café, with harbor views
- Fresh seafood market with direct-from-boat purchases available
Cons: No liveaboard permits available, primarily commercial focus, limited recreational amenities, conflict between the moorage needs of the fishing fleet and pleasure boaters, and an industrial atmosphere may not suit all boaters.
Related: 10 Best Liveaboard Marinas in Florida
Port Orchard Marina – Kitsap Peninsula
Port Orchard Marina delivers small-town charm with big-time convenience, making it a hidden gem for boaters seeking affordable moorage without sacrificing access to Seattle. Unfortunately, at this time, we do not have liveaboard status available at the main Port Orchard Marina, but Port Orchard Railway Marina offers affordable moorage year-round from $6.50 per foot per month. Liveaboards accepted.
Located on the pristine waters of Puget Sound, the Port Orchard Marina delivers easy access to boating locations from Olympia, Tacoma, Seattle, and to the San Juan Islands and beyond. The town’s walkable downtown and friendly community atmosphere make this an ideal base for boaters who want that authentic Pacific Northwest experience without the urban hustle.
Key Features:
- Affordable moorage rates starting at $6.50 per foot per month
- Small-town charm with walkable, friendly, small-town charm
- Strategic location with easy ferry access to Seattle and Bremerton
- Protected waters in a beautiful Puget Sound setting
- Activity float with covered space, including BBQs & heaters for group activities
- Full amenities, including power up to 100 amp service
- Guest moorage available for visitors
Cons: Limited liveaboard availability at the main marina, requires ferry travel to reach Seattle, smaller community with fewer urban amenities, weather-dependent ferry service, limited marine services compared to larger marinas.
Cap Sante Marina – Anacortes
Cap Sante is one of the top three most popular marinas (rated by Marina Moorgae nights) in the state. It is considered the homeport of the San Juan Islands, making it the perfect launching pad for Pacific Northwest adventures. Cap Sante Marina now offers Liveaboard Moorage for boats with a registered length of 32′ or more, with a program limited to 100 vessels.
Located in Anacortes, known as the gateway to the San Juan Islands, this marina puts you at the epicenter of some of the world’s best cruising grounds. Often used as a provisioning & supplies jumping-off point for cruising to the islands and further north, Cap Sante offers the perfect blend of community and adventure.
Key Features:
- San Juan Islands gateway with prime access to world-class cruising
- Limited liveaboard program with a maximum of 100 liveaboard vessels
- 32-foot minimum for liveaboard status ensures quality community
- Protected harbor location in Fidalgo Bay
- Full marine services with multiple boatyards and suppliers nearby
- Customs office conveniently located next to the harbormaster
- Provisioning hub for extended cruising adventures
Cons: Limited to boats 32+ feet for liveaboard status, competitive demand for limited spots, background check requirements, seasonal congestion during peak cruising months, and higher costs due to prime location.
Everett Marina – Everett
Everett Marina stands as one of the largest public marinas on the West Coast, offering exceptional value for boaters seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities. Located at the Port of Everett, this massive facility provides extensive slip availability and competitive rates that make it attractive for budget-conscious liveaboards.
The marina’s location offers easy access to both Puget Sound cruising grounds and the Snohomish River system, creating diverse boating opportunities right from your doorstep. With downtown Everett undergoing significant revitalization, marina residents enjoy growing dining and entertainment options within walking distance.
Key Features:
- One of the largest public marinas on the West Coast
- Affordable moorage rates significantly lower than Seattle marinas
- Extensive slip availability reduces waitlist concerns
- Puget Sound access plus Snohomish River exploration
- Commuter-friendly location with train service to Seattle
- Full amenities including fuel dock, pump-out, and marine services
- Revitalizing downtown with a growing restaurant and entertainment scene
Cons: Industrial setting lacks scenic appeal, limited liveaboard community atmosphere, commute required for Seattle access, fewer high-end amenities compared to private marinas, ongoing construction and development noise.
Tacoma’s Foss Harbor Marina – Tacoma
Foss Harbor Marina has earned its reputation as the South Sound’s premier liveaboard destination, combining community spirit with scenic Commencement Bay views. This well-established marina attracts boaters who appreciate Tacoma’s emerging cultural scene and more affordable cost of living compared to Seattle.
The marina’s protected location and strong community atmosphere create an ideal environment for full-time boaters. With downtown Tacoma’s renaissance bringing new restaurants, museums, and entertainment venues, marina residents enjoy urban amenities without Seattle’s premium prices.
Key Features:
- South Sound’s premier liveaboard destination
- Strong community atmosphere with active resident participation
- Protected Commencement Bay location with mountain views
- Downtown Tacoma access to museums, restaurants, and cultural venues
- Affordable alternative to Seattle-area marinas
- Full marine services, including boatyard and fuel dock
- Light rail connection to Seattle for commuting
Cons: Limited slip availability with waitlists, industrial surroundings, less prestigious address than Seattle locations, weather can be grayer than northern locations, and ongoing urban development creates construction noise.
Related: 10 Best Liveaboard Marinas in California
Poulsbo Marina – Liberty Bay
Poulsbo Marina captures the essence of Scandinavian charm while delivering modern marina amenities in one of Puget Sound’s most picturesque settings. Known as “Little Norway,” Poulsbo offers a unique cultural experience that sets it apart from typical Pacific Northwest marina towns.
The marina’s protected Liberty Bay location provides excellent year-round boating conditions, while the town’s walkable downtown, filled with Scandinavian shops, bakeries, and restaurants, creates a European village atmosphere that residents cherish.
Key Features:
- Scandinavian cultural charm with a unique “Little Norway” atmosphere
- Protected Liberty Bay location with excellent holding
- Walkable downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions
- Community events, including Viking festivals and cultural celebrations
- Scenic mountain views across Liberty Bay
- Full marina services with fuel dock and marine supplies
- Small-town safety and friendly community atmosphere
Cons: Limited slip availability, higher costs due to desirable location, tourist crowds during summer festivals, limited nightlife and urban amenities, ferry-dependent access to major employment centers.
Port of Bellingham – Bellingham
Port of Bellingham serves as Northern Washington’s boating hub, offering affordable moorage with excellent access to both the San Juan Islands and Canadian waters. The marina’s strategic location makes it ideal for boaters who prioritize cruising access over urban amenities.
Bellingham’s college town atmosphere, combined with its proximity to outdoor recreation and international waters, creates a unique lifestyle opportunity for liveaboards who value adventure and affordability over metropolitan conveniences.
Key Features:
- Northern Washington hub with premium cruising access
- Affordable moorage rates below Seattle-area pricing
- Canadian border proximity for international cruising
- Strong cruising community with experienced Pacific Northwest boaters
- Bellingham Bay protection in all weather conditions
- College town atmosphere with a young, active community
- Outdoor recreation access to hiking, skiing, and wilderness areas
Cons: Limited urban amenities, weather can be challenging in winter, distance from major employment centers, customs procedures for Canadian travel, college town can be transient, and fewer high-end services.
La Conner Marina – Skagit County
La Conner Marina offers peaceful living in one of Washington’s most charming small towns, surrounded by the scenic Skagit Valley‘s agricultural beauty. This protected marina provides a gateway to San Juan Islands cruising while maintaining a distinctly rural, artistic community atmosphere.
The town’s rich history as an artists’ colony continues today, with galleries, studios, and cultural events creating a sophisticated small-town experience that appeals to creative types and those seeking tranquil waterfront living.
Key Features:
- Protected Skagit River location with excellent shelter
- Charming small-town atmosphere with artistic community
- Skagit Valley gateway to the tulip fields and agricultural tourism
- San Juan Islands access via the Swinomish Channel
- Historic downtown with galleries, antique shops, and restaurants
- Peaceful rural setting away from urban congestion
- Affordable moorage with small-town pricing
Cons: Very limited slip availability, seasonal tourism crowds, limited employment opportunities, distance from urban amenities, shallow water restrictions for larger vessels, and winter weather isolation.
Your Perfect Marina Match Awaits
Choosing the best liveaboard marina in Washington State comes down to matching your lifestyle priorities. Urban dwellers will love Seattle’s Shilshole Bay (the largest west coast liveaboard community) or Elliott Bay’s luxury amenities. Budget-conscious boaters should explore Port Orchard’s $6.50/foot rates or Everett’s affordable Puget Sound access. Adventure seekers will thrive at Cap Sante Marina’s San Juan Islands gateway or Bellingham’s proximity to the Canadian border. From morning lattes in Ballard to peaceful Kitsap Peninsula coves, Washington’s diverse marina scene offers floating communities where your liveaboard dreams become reality.
FAQs – Best Liveaboard Marinas in Washington State
What is the largest marina in Washington state?
Shilshole Bay Marina in Seattle is Washington’s largest marina, with over 1,400 slips and the biggest liveaboard community on the West Coast. Operated by the Port of Seattle, it features everything from 28-foot sailboats to 250-foot megayachts. The marina’s massive size, combined with its prime Ballard location and direct Puget Sound access, makes it the undisputed king of Washington marinas.
Can you live on a boat in Seattle, Washington?
Yes, you can live on a boat in Seattle through designated liveaboard programs at select marinas. Shilshole Bay Marina offers 300 liveaboard slips (with a 5+ year waitlist), while Elliott Bay Marina has 40 spots for vessels 32+ feet. Not all Seattle marinas allow liveaboards, though – Fishermen’s Terminal, for example, doesn’t permit full-time residents due to its commercial fishing focus.
