The whole lake shows up for Opening Day. Show up right.
Your boat, our captain, flat rate. Event dates are the first to fill — request yours early.
Opening Day is Seattle boating's high holiday: crew races down the Montlake Cut in the morning, the yacht club parade after, and a raft-up party that stretches for miles.
The Cut is closed to through-traffic during the races and the log boom fills early. We plan the timing, hold your spot, handle the tight-quarters chaos, and drive home while the party winds down on deck.
How the day runs
Boom spot strategy
Watch the Windermere Cup from the log boom lining the Cut — arrival time decides your view, and we'll be honest about what dawn gets you versus 9 AM.
Parade and raft-up
After the races the parade rolls through and Portage Bay turns into one giant raft. We tie, fender, and manage neighbors.
First-of-season shakedown
Opening Day is many boats' first run since October. We do a systems check before the big day — or book a New Owner Orientation in April and be ready.
Opening Day questions
When is Opening Day of boating season in Seattle?
The first Saturday of May, every year — Windermere Cup crew races in the morning through the Montlake Cut, then the Seattle Yacht Club boat parade.
Can any boat watch from the log boom?
Yes, spots on the boom lining the Cut are first-come and free — which is why they're gone by early morning. Arrive at dawn for boom-front.