Why a Boat Wedding Might Be the Unexpected Washington Wedding Venue of Your Dreams

When you think of a wedding venue, what comes to mind first? A rustic barn? A grand ballroom? Maybe even a charming garden? While those spaces are all beautiful and timeless, what if I told you that some of the most unforgettable weddings I’ve photographed have taken place somewhere a little more… unexpected? Let me introduce you to one of my favorite hidden gems: a boat wedding aboard the historic Steamer Virginia V!

Yup, you read that right, a boat wedding! And not just any boat, but the beautifully preserved Virginia V Steamship, docked in South Lake Union. This isn’t just a quirky spot; it’s a deeply romantic and unique Washington wedding venue, full of history, charm, and just the right amount of sea breeze.

Why a Boat Wedding?!

Planning an intimate wedding (I’m talking under 75 guests) gives you the chance to think outside the box. Instead of defaulting to a standard venue, this is your chance to be bold, get creative, and make a serious impact. A boat wedding offers an experience, not just a setting. It’s a floating celebration where every part of the day becomes a memory: from guests boarding the ship, to the gentle rocking of the ceremony, to toasts made against the backdrop of the Seattle skyline.

And yes, this ship actually departs and cruises during the event! You get to tie the knot while gliding through the waters of Lake Union, which is a whole vibe in itself.

Washington Wedding Venue: The Steamer Virginia V Foundation

The Virginia V Steamship is the last operational example of the “Mosquito Fleet”—a group of steamships that once connected communities around Puget Sound. It’s lovingly maintained by the Steamer Virginia V Foundation and is now a registered National Historic Landmark. So not only are you hosting a boat wedding, you’re also stepping into a piece of Pacific Northwest history.

There’s something really special about being on a boat where so many stories have unfolded before yours. It brings an extra layer of meaning and intimacy to your day, and it’s one that your guests will never forget.

A Unique Wedding Day on the Water: Space, Style & Transformation

One of the things I loved most about photographing this boat wedding was how incredibly well the space was used. While the Virginia V is more compact than your average venue, every nook and cranny was transformed with intention:

Main Deck: This was the ceremony space, framed with gorgeous florals and natural light. With the ship docked, guests arrived and settled in as if they were stepping into a different era.
Lower Indoor Level: The reception took place here, and WOW—it was truly stunning! Chandeliers and carefully chosen chairs elevated the space, and florals were used everywhere to create an upscale, romantic space. I used my flash here (thank you, moody Seattle skies) and bounced it off the ceiling to keep everything feeling cozy and soft.
Upper Deck: This was perfect for mingling, sipping cocktails, and enjoying panoramic views of the water and city skyline. Guests loved having that moment to breathe in the fresh air and soak up the scenery.
Lowest Deck: I snuck down here for some portraits and creative shots—it’s quieter, more intimate, and gave us a totally different look without ever having to leave the venue.

Florals played a HUGE role in bringing this space to life. Whether it was wrapped around the railings, cascading down ceremony arches, or sitting in bud vases on tables, every floral detail added richness and elegance to the overall vibe. If there’s one tip I can give you for your boat wedding (or honestly, any intimate venue), it’s this: florals are high impact.

Why Intimate Doesn’t Mean Simple!

Just because you’re not inviting 200 people doesn’t mean you have to scale back your vision. Small weddings can still feel grand, thoughtful, and luxurious—you just get to focus your budget and energy on what actually matters to you. Want to invest in floral installations that completely transform your space? DO IT. Thinking about a dress with a dramatic train that will sweep across the deck like it was made for it? YES PLEASE.

An intimate guest count means you can be more intentional with your choices. And when you choose a space like the Virginia V Steamship, you’re starting with a venue that already has character and story, so you’re halfway to an unforgettable experience.

The Vendor Dream Team

The success of this wedding hinged on an incredible team of vendors who understood how to make a smaller space feel like a dream:

Florals: Styled with layers of texture, color, and placement. These were not just bouquets—they were full-blown installations that changed how the ship felt from top to bottom.
Furniture + Decor: Chairs and chandeliers that added elegance without overpowering the history of the ship. It was a balance of old-world charm and modern romance.
Planning + Coordination: Having a team that understands how to work within the unique layout of a boat made all the difference. Flow matters in smaller venues—and they nailed it.

Unexpected Venues Make the Best Memories

Let’s be honest, anyone can rent a ballroom. But when you choose a wedding venue that surprises your guests and immerses them in an experience, you’re giving them something to remember forever. A boat wedding isn’t just a logistical twist—it’s a full-on story. One that unfolds as you cruise through the water, toast under the stars, and dance in a space that once carried commuters instead of flower girls.

So if you’re planning a wedding in Washington and searching for a truly unforgettable Washington wedding venue, don’t overlook the power of the unexpected. The Steamer Virginia V Foundation offers not just a location, but an adventure—and I am so here for it!

Seattle Wedding Photographer | Photography by EH

Whether you’re dreaming up your own boat wedding or exploring unique options for your intimate celebration, I’d love to help you document every moment. As a Seattle wedding photographer who’s obsessed with storytelling, connection, and creative spaces, I bring the same energy whether we’re on a mountain, in a desert, or sailing across Lake Union.

Fill out my contact form and let’s start planning your unique wedding! Looking forward to creating something incredible with you!

Vendors:

Venue: @steamervirginiavfoundation

Planner: @penniesevents

Stationery and Styling: @honest.calligraphy

Photographer: Photography by EH

Videographer: @eyeofcinera

BTS Content: @contentbychristina

HMUA: @michellewight.hmu

Florist: @sansgrande

Rentals: @grandeventrentals

Cake: @cascadiacakedesign