Kenmore Air, in collaboration with the Puyallup Tribe of Indians, announces the return of its seasonal seaplane service from Tacoma’s Ruston Way waterfront, running June 4 through Sept. 8, 2026. The flights feature the popular South Sound scenic flight tour as well as fast, schedule service connections to the San Juan Islands and Victoria, BC.
New for 2026, Kenmore Air will also introduce direct Seattle-Tacoma connection flights, a simple, time-saving link between Seattle and the South Sound. These flights are designed for travelers who want a unique bucket list travel experience and is ideal for city date nights, travel to sports games and matches with an overnight stay or in-person work meetings without the long drive.
“From the start, this partnership has been about making the region feel closer—more connected, more accessible,” said David Gudgel, president of Kenmore Air. “This season, we’re bringing that same spirit to both sides of the Sound: summer getaways from Tacoma, plus a new, easy way to move between Seattle and Tacoma during the peak of summer activity.”
The Puyallup Tribal Council said the seasonal return reflects the strength of the partnership and the Tribe’s ongoing work to welcome visitors to the waterfront while supporting regional travel and economic opportunity.
“This service continues to create connections between communities, destinations, people and the South Sound waterfront,” Tribal Council said. “We’re proud to build on this partnership and the opportunity it brings to our region.”
2026 Seaplane Flights & Fares (June 4–Sept. 8)
From Tacoma’s Ruston Way, Kenmore Air offers a uniquely Northwest takeoff with water below, mountains ahead, and island harbors within easy reach. Scheduled destination flight times are far faster than driving or taking a ferry, turning what can be an all-day travel puzzle into a simple, scenic start to the trip.
- South Sound Scenic Flight (25 minutes): fares start at $99 per person.
- San Juan Islands (Various Destinations): fares start at $249 per person, one-way, arriving in the San Juans in approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Victoria, BC (Inner Harbour): fares start at $257 per person, one-way, arriving in just under two hours.
Wings + Woven Package
For locals looking to turn a South Sound scenic flight into a full outing will want to check out the Wings + Woven package, a ready-made Tacoma adventure day, fun date idea, gift, or special-occasion celebration. The package includes the South Sound Scenic Flight plus a voucher good for one beverage of choice and one appetizer of choice at Woven, located directly beside the seaplane dock. Guests can settle in on Woven’s waterfront patio for happy hour after their flight or stay for a full meal. $135 per person (available as an add-on when booking online or by calling Kenmore Air reservations).
