Creating Extraordinary Memories in a Remarkable Space

Charters and Private Events

The Virginia V is available for charter as a venue for weddings, holiday parties, office events, birthdays, anniversaries, and other intimate celebrations. Whether you are celebrating dockside at our homeport on Lake Union or treating your guests to an tour of Lake Washington and Puget Sound, this historic ship provides the perfect setting. The ship's long history and all-wood construction add instant charm. The size creates intimacy for any celebration. Excursions provide stunning views of Seattle's skyline and surrounding neighborhoods that are sure to make a lasting impression. Check out the our Wedding Photo Gallery and Virginia V Facebook Page for more photos.

Put some steam into your event plans for 2022!
The ship will be finished with its extensive restoration by July 2022.
Now's the perfect time to begin planning your fall or holiday season charter or dockside rental.

Ship Capacity 

• 140 passengers, (including caterers and other vendors) can be accommodated for casual events in good weather.
• 85 - 90 can be seated in the main (indoor) passenger salon.  This is the recommended maximum guest count for an on-board wedding or an off-season event.

Charter Rates

• See our Virginia V Charter Information 2022 - current as of 3-23-22 for rates and details.
• This document details our organization's Covid-19 policy current as of November 2021.  All charter and rental clients need to agree to compliance with this policy before signing their contract.
• For details about dockside rentals or other questions, please inquire at charter@virginiav.org.
• Discounts: Members of the Foundation receive discounts on charter fees if they pay by check.

Chartered Excursions

Our general itinerary after departing from our South Lake Union homeport includes 3 hours cruising Lake Union and Lake Washington. You will meet with the VIRGINIA V staff in advance to discuss any special requests, including timing and stopping locations for wedding ceremonies and memorial services.

• Departures from other docks may be arranged with prior approval. Additional docking fees, deadhead transit hourly rates to/from South Lake Union apply.
• Cruises through the Ballard Locks into Elliott Bay are available. Additional hourly rates apply.

Standard Provisions

Charter contract standard time is 3 hours, including:

• Mutually agreed upon set up time
• ½ hour to board passendaers
• 3 hours underway (total cruise time)

Tables and chairs

• 130 white folding chairs
• 4’ rounds that seat six (17 available)
• 6’ buffet tables (3 available)
• 6’ narrow buffet tables (2 available)
• 2’ guest book table (1 available)
• bistro tables (4 available)

Audio/Visual Equipment on aboard

• 5-CD changer
• mp3 hook-up
• tuner
• speakers
• PA system
• hand-held, corded microphone
• projector and screen are available.
• For dancing, a professional PA system is recommended.

Special Notes

• Linens, plates, glasses, cutlery, etc., are the responsibility of the charterer. They are NOT included and are usually arranged through your caterer.
• If you choose to use tables or chairs or a sound system other than what the Virginia V provides, rental of those items is the responsibility of the charterer.