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55 minutes
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Kenmore Air
Kenmore Air
4.5
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About
Taking a seaplane flight is a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience & Kenmore Air makes it easy to enjoy the unique thrill of flying off Lake Union & soaring over one of the most beautiful areas in the world. Our 20-minute narrated Seattle Scenic Flight Tour leaves several times a day. Or take an incredible 90-minute scenic flight Volcano Tour from Seattle's Boeing Field that flies you around Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens 2-mile wide crater getting you up close and personal. And our full day whale watching tour (March-October) from Seattle to the San Juan Islands is unforgettable: hop on a seaplane from downtown Seattle in the morning, take a 3-hour naturalist-led boat tour looking for whales, sea lions & bald eagles, then return to Seattle in the late afternoon. Kenmore Air also has daily scheduled flights between downtown Seattle & the San Juan Islands, Victoria BC, or Vancouver BC. We also have seasonal flights to the BC Inside Passage fishing & boating!
Seattle, United States
Features animals
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2023
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4.5
565 reviews
Excellent
487
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21
CHIA
6 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
I had a great and fantastic first discovery flight with kenmore air harbor during my first layover in Seattle! Being an airline cabin crew myself, it is certainly a pleasant experience to spend some exciting layover itinerary to try out sea plane flying! The passion for aviation is in my blood and It is indeed my honor to have the first seaplane experience with Kenmore air! The place is superb, professional flight instructors and great wonderful customer service! Definitely would love to be back for more! I enjoyed the instruction and facilitation given to me by my instructor Mr Ryan Anderson. Do keep a look out for him if you have any intention of learning how to fly a seaplane! Thank you Kenmore air harbor and a professional great knowledgeable and friendly instructor Mr Ryan Anderson!
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
So great to have you out with flight instruction duing your layover. We're incredibly blessed to have such a talented crew. Hope to see you again during your next Seattle visit!
Written 2 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bill C
Glendale, CA2 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Had 3 flights cancelled in 2 Days. They tried to refund through a future travel voucher. No thank you.
Written 4 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bill -
We're incredibly sorry your flights were canceled. The only thing we value more than customer satisfaction is customer safety. All flights are weather-dependent and may be canceled due to poor visibility or high winds. If your flight is canceled due to weather, we offer a full refund through the same process in which you paid.
It's our goal to provide the best possible experience and we're always looking for opportunities to improve. We would appreciate an opportunity to review your concerns more closely. Please contact our management team directly at 425.482.2243 or via customerservice@kenmoreair.com. We look forward to talking with you in more detail.
Written 11 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stephen455
Haworth, NJ26 contributions
Fun way to get from Seattle to Victoria.
The plane held 7 people, plus the pilot. It left from Lake Union in downtown Seattle and landed in Victoria Harbor.
Boarding was simple. The only unexpected thing was the weight restrictions on luggage. I had a roller board and a backpack (37 lbs) they charge $1 per pound over 25lbs.
The trip took 40 minutes and the views were awesome. I would totally do it again.
The plane held 7 people, plus the pilot. It left from Lake Union in downtown Seattle and landed in Victoria Harbor.
Boarding was simple. The only unexpected thing was the weight restrictions on luggage. I had a roller board and a backpack (37 lbs) they charge $1 per pound over 25lbs.
The trip took 40 minutes and the views were awesome. I would totally do it again.
Written 31 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jaskel08
California234 contributions
Jul 2023
We booked a flight from Boeing Field to Friday Harbor and back. Very convenient since they included a shuttle to Boeing from SeaTac airport and back. Everything was relatively on time. Staff was friendly and helpful. Using Kenmore was much more convenient than using the ferries….. which can be unreliable.
That said….. some things to keep in mind:
1) They are strict with weight of luggage……. especially on seaplanes.
2) In general, their planes are more sensitive to weather issues as opposed to traditional passenger planes……. especially the seaplane. Dependability was crucial for me which is why I chose a wheeled plane.
3) Call and ask questions. I didn’t know about the weight requirements, weather issues, shuttles until I called and asked a bunch of questions.
4) Also, we are talking about small propellor planes. They can be tight in space and be a little bumpy.
In other words, know what you’re getting yourself into, and know the risks before committing. That said, I would definitely use them again.
That said….. some things to keep in mind:
1) They are strict with weight of luggage……. especially on seaplanes.
2) In general, their planes are more sensitive to weather issues as opposed to traditional passenger planes……. especially the seaplane. Dependability was crucial for me which is why I chose a wheeled plane.
3) Call and ask questions. I didn’t know about the weight requirements, weather issues, shuttles until I called and asked a bunch of questions.
4) Also, we are talking about small propellor planes. They can be tight in space and be a little bumpy.
In other words, know what you’re getting yourself into, and know the risks before committing. That said, I would definitely use them again.
Written 19 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
thefuzzy
United States65 contributions
Jun 2023 • Couples
Kenmore got us from Lake Washington to Dent Island and back.
We had a lot of weight of baggage and while I didn’t like paying extra for it, they worked with us and were reasonable about how much they charged us for it. I am thankful on how they handled it and a grateful that they got us and all our stuff to the destination and back.
Moreover I am extremely grateful that they did not cancel our flight. Given the poor weather conditions, they chose to wait it out instead of cancelling. I wasn’t happy about a 2 hour delay but I am extremely thankful that they did not cancel and ultimately got us to our destination.
Kenmore treated us. Helped us with all our bags on and off the flight and got us to the destination safely.
We had a great experience with Kenmore.
We had a lot of weight of baggage and while I didn’t like paying extra for it, they worked with us and were reasonable about how much they charged us for it. I am thankful on how they handled it and a grateful that they got us and all our stuff to the destination and back.
Moreover I am extremely grateful that they did not cancel our flight. Given the poor weather conditions, they chose to wait it out instead of cancelling. I wasn’t happy about a 2 hour delay but I am extremely thankful that they did not cancel and ultimately got us to our destination.
Kenmore treated us. Helped us with all our bags on and off the flight and got us to the destination safely.
We had a great experience with Kenmore.
Written 2 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bradon R
1 contribution
Jun 2023
Booked flights for a weekend trip from Seattle to Victoria. First, just days before the trip they change the return flight location from Lake Union to Lake Washington without explanation. We had planned to drive to the Lake Union terminal and leave our car there for the weekend so that we would have it easily accessible when we get back. We don't have access to anything at the Lake Washington terminal so we request they help by providing transport to our car at Lake Union (our departing terminal). They say no and offer run-around excuses as to why they couldn't. Next they cancel our outbound flight 15 minutes before closing the day before. We call immediately to try to change our plans, maybe a different flight or cancel our booking and take the Clipper instead. We sit on hold for 10 minutes before they pick up the phone, mutter "Jesus Christ" and hang up. At that point, the office is closed so we can't get ahold of anyone anymore. Now we have a canceled outbound flight, non-refundable $1,300 hotel booking, and can't get ahold of anyone. They do not give one fart about their customers. Never again.
Written 17 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FiftyFifty5050
Montgomery, UK860 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
I bought my other half a gift voucher with Kenmore Air for Christmas 2021, because we were spending the holiday with our family in Seattle. Unfortunately snow stopped play and we couldn't take advantage of the voucher; but Kenmore honour their vouchers, which never go out of date, so we were able to use it on our second trip this spring.
We did originally book to fly back from San Juan Island but, again, the weather was against us and, although Kenmore were happy to transfer us to a standard, rather than seaplane, flight, my other half really wanted to experience a seaplane, or float plane as they seem to be called here.
Kenmore quickly refunded us our San Juan flight costs and we went in to rebook.
At this stage, I should say that if you are interested in planes, then a personal visit to the headquarters in Kenmore is well worth it. Hangers where work is being carried out, a lovely admin building, with small shop containing - you've guessed it - flight related gifts and souvenirs, and just so many beautiful planes both out of and on the water.
The lovely girls on Reception helped us choose another flight and we went for the scenic flight around Seattle, leaving from their base on Union Lake. Easy to get to via public transport and, again, a good space with a more limited shop, waiting room, restrooms etc.
Our pilot Brian was good humoured and friendly (happy to pose for pictures afterwards) and we were fortunate to just have ourselves and one other couple on board. We donned headphones, which had a running commentary on them, as we flew around Seattle, seeing all the major landmarks.
This was a bucket list experience for both of us, so it was always going to be a real thrill and I am quite unashamed in waxing lyrical about it.
However, the professionalism and efficiency of Kenmore, their willingness and determination to help us fulfil our dream cannot be underestimated and was much appreciated.
We did originally book to fly back from San Juan Island but, again, the weather was against us and, although Kenmore were happy to transfer us to a standard, rather than seaplane, flight, my other half really wanted to experience a seaplane, or float plane as they seem to be called here.
Kenmore quickly refunded us our San Juan flight costs and we went in to rebook.
At this stage, I should say that if you are interested in planes, then a personal visit to the headquarters in Kenmore is well worth it. Hangers where work is being carried out, a lovely admin building, with small shop containing - you've guessed it - flight related gifts and souvenirs, and just so many beautiful planes both out of and on the water.
The lovely girls on Reception helped us choose another flight and we went for the scenic flight around Seattle, leaving from their base on Union Lake. Easy to get to via public transport and, again, a good space with a more limited shop, waiting room, restrooms etc.
Our pilot Brian was good humoured and friendly (happy to pose for pictures afterwards) and we were fortunate to just have ourselves and one other couple on board. We donned headphones, which had a running commentary on them, as we flew around Seattle, seeing all the major landmarks.
This was a bucket list experience for both of us, so it was always going to be a real thrill and I am quite unashamed in waxing lyrical about it.
However, the professionalism and efficiency of Kenmore, their willingness and determination to help us fulfil our dream cannot be underestimated and was much appreciated.
Written 20 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael
Antwerp, Belgium1 contribution
Apr 2023 • Couples
Lovely scenic tour above Seattle by seaplane, flying above all the main landmarks. A big thank you to the lovely and professional crew. Highly recommend this tour.
Written 19 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dana B
6 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
Flight was canceled twice and then stranded us in roche harbor, we have nowhere to stay and no luggage.will never do this again.
Written 10 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dana -
Our top priority is always our passenger's safety. Our seaplane fleet, which departs from Roche Harbor, flies using VFR (Visual Flight Rules). Due to heavy smoke that reduced visibility, we were forced to cancel all seaplane service on the day of your flight.
In addition to working with you to reschedule your trip on a wheeled plane, we also offered to pay for both your Uber ride from Roche Harbor to the Friday Harbor Airport and from Paine Field to Kenmore where you could retrieve your car. After taking the rescheduled flight to Paine Field, you opted to Uber home and then back to Kenmore the following day.
We are still willing to fulfill the commitment we made of paying for two Uber trips. Please contact our management team directly at 425.482.2243 or via feedback@kenmoreair.com to arrange compensation for these two rides.
Written 20 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
coreymm
Somerville, MA3 contributions
Sep 2022
We have had 4 fabulous beautiful flights from Lake Union to Rosario and, of course,
we value Kenmore Air’s safety policy and realize they have no control over the weather.
They do have control, however over their communication with
passengers! It was a foggy morning. They did call ONCE to say the 8:58 am flight would be one hour late. We still thought we could make our 3:30pm flight out of Seatac to Boston. Little did we know that it would be another 3.5 hours ( a total of 4.5 hrs late) … each time we called to inquire they gave us a false promise and by the time we realized that we were going to miss our flight and called airlines for a later flight ( which had had available seats earlier) to Boston, there were no longer any available seats. So we had to get a hotel room in Seattle and fly the next day. The people who were all waiting on the dock with us all posed the same question: “Why don’t they TEXT us with regular updates???!!!Airlines have been TEXTING passengers with reliable updates for years now. Passengers need to be able to make alternate travel plans in a timely fashion…. especially getting off an island where there are no timely alternatives. All of these added expenses plus one whole travel day delay could have been avoided if Kenmore Air had communicated with us in a timely fashion. Reliable TEXT or phone call would have made all the difference.
we value Kenmore Air’s safety policy and realize they have no control over the weather.
They do have control, however over their communication with
passengers! It was a foggy morning. They did call ONCE to say the 8:58 am flight would be one hour late. We still thought we could make our 3:30pm flight out of Seatac to Boston. Little did we know that it would be another 3.5 hours ( a total of 4.5 hrs late) … each time we called to inquire they gave us a false promise and by the time we realized that we were going to miss our flight and called airlines for a later flight ( which had had available seats earlier) to Boston, there were no longer any available seats. So we had to get a hotel room in Seattle and fly the next day. The people who were all waiting on the dock with us all posed the same question: “Why don’t they TEXT us with regular updates???!!!Airlines have been TEXTING passengers with reliable updates for years now. Passengers need to be able to make alternate travel plans in a timely fashion…. especially getting off an island where there are no timely alternatives. All of these added expenses plus one whole travel day delay could have been avoided if Kenmore Air had communicated with us in a timely fashion. Reliable TEXT or phone call would have made all the difference.
Written 1 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is there only 1 flight per day from Seattle to Lopez Island? We are flying into Seattle on 9/11 and prefer not have to book a hotel room.
Thank you!!!!!
Christine T
Thornton, CO181 contributions
Sorry, I have no idea. You will have to reach out to Kenmore Air directly
Discount tickets
Lapster2011
Jacksonville, FL1,543 contributions
Frequent flyers can buy a block of 10 tickets through their Quicktix program. Comes out to be a 17% discount.
AZElle
10 contributions
Hi. I'm flying from Friday Harbor to SeaTac shuttle. Do I need to make a reservation with that shuttle company or is it part of my booked flight? And can you tell me how long it takes from from the shuttle area to SeaTac proper? Thanks!
Connie D
Farmington, UT105 contributions
The reservation with Kenmore included the shuttle to SeaTac, it only takes about 10 minutes to go from one place to another. You do have to be careful that you next flight is not too close to when the Kenmore air flight lands as you have to go through security again.
Diana B
Orlando, FL22 contributions
I’m nervous about flying on any plane. Is this going to be scarier?
ricoman1
Chehalis, WA90 contributions
As Rocky M stated,its one of the most spectacular flying experiences and the scenery is beautiful...flight was not scary at all,and except for the louder engines,if you just enjoy the scenery,before you know it you will be landing and wish you could stay up longer...Of course "scary" is in the mind of the beholder... :-) I've done small "Bush" planes on dirt runways in Africa....that was scary.....Flight on Kenmore....not scary at all.
I had a horrible experience! Would never fly back on this airline! It’s Better to take the Ferry! The employees were also very rude and did not want to answer any of our questions. They just cancelled our flight without any accommodations to help us. We had four kids with us and this was a horrible experience that I will make sure no one experiences again.
ricoman1
Chehalis, WA90 contributions
LOL...would you of rather they took off in bad weather and you arrived sick,scared to death,or not at all......We had a similar experience,it was touch and go due to weather,but they did finally decide to take off.....They have signs up and disclaimer on site that flights CAN and WILL be canceled due to weather or mechanical problems.....so as I see it,EVERY flight is a crap shoot with our crazy weather,but sure they dont want to cancel and lose money just like the customer doesnt want a canceled trip...its a bummer for sure when that happens...But its really not Kenmore Air's fault...
Girlskout
Los Angeles, CA102 contributions
Is it safe? I read about a crash not that long ago in the San Juan Islands, which is exactly where we're going. I'm a very nervous flier.
Hetzel
Dubai, United Arab Emirates52 contributions
it is extremely safe and professional company and the flying goes very smooth...I am.not familiar with the crash you are referring to but the company portrays a highly skilled team. I am in aviation myself and must say I felt safe at all times.
jimntrey
St. Augustine, FL
flights to mayne island? cost and schedule?
timinorlando
Orlando, Florida92 contributions
I was unable to find the info on their website, so you might want to call them. I suspect that a seaplane will be the only option.
low274
Columbia, MD110 contributions
Flying Kenmore Air from Seattle to Victoria in August. Wondering how big the plane will be - how many does it sit?
Todd Banks
Kenmore, WA3 contributions
Great question! We'll either fly the de Havilland Beaver (seats up to 6 passengers) or the de Havilland Otter (seats up to 10 passengers). Which plane is determined by need (how many tickets are booked), so it's not determined in advance.
KanesP
Seattle, Washington11 contributions
is it best to take an early morning or later flight for weather conditions? in April?
Todd Banks
Kenmore, WA3 contributions
While fog isn't as common in April as it is in January or February, an afternoon flight gives you the best chance for any potential early morning fog to have burnt off.
KanesP
Seattle, Washington11 contributions
is parking at the Lake Union location safe to leave your car? what is the availability?
Also how far in advance should you buy your tickets for an April flight to Victoria?
nelsongassman
Panama City, FL717 contributions
You can do it on the day of