Picture this: you have a child who is begging to go to Disneyland, not for the rides or Mickey-eared pretzel, but because they yearn to meet their favorite princess. At a minimum, making this dream come true requires a plane ride, an overpriced hotel room, park tickets, and the mental strength of Mulan fighting off the Huns.
Now picture this: you spend $75 per person for a leisurely 2-hour cruise that sets sail from your own backyard. A delectable, on-theme dessert buffet is included with the ticket price, as is their greatest wish, one-on-one time with 14 princesses. There are unlimited meet-and-greets, incredible views of Lake Washington, and open-air dance parties.
(Image: Candice McMillan / Seattle’s Child)
The Princess and the Ferry
We may not talk about Bruno, but we certainly should be talking about the Royal Argosy Princess Cruise Ball, the best-kept secret of the Pacific Neverland. It’s an annual event hosted by The Painted Palace, a local, family-owned business with a venue in Bellevue. They are perhaps best known for their trained performers, who bring the non-Disney-affiliated character magic to birthday parties and private events across the Seattle area. The next Royal Argosy Princess Cruise Ball sets sail on April 25, 2026, with three departure times throughout the day.
As the mother of a one such daughter whose backpack, bookshelf, and bedroom walls are covered in princesses, I felt like I had unearthed a cheat code two years ago when I took my then-4-year-old aboard for the first time. After carefully considering her extensive wardrobe of play dresses, she chose the Rapunzel gown, topped off with her matching Pascal cutie cuff. To say she felt beautiful was an understatement, and the joy of wearing the ensemble in public amongst kids who shared her sentiment was a priceless start to the day.
(Image: Candice McMillan / Seattle’s Child)
As we arrived at the dock, the Spirit of Seattle loomed overhead. Other families began to line up, decked out in princess gear or whatever made them feel beautiful. To kick off the “Royal Shellabration,” over a dozen princesses line the edge of the boat’s upper deck, waving streamers as they dance to the music playing. It sets the tone for the magical two hours ahead.
Encanto-ed to Meet You
The first order of business is learning the boat’s layout and meeting any and all princesses for a private conversation and photo opportunity. The characters spread themselves out over the first and second levels, speaking with guests for as long as each patron needs. Have your camera ready to take all the photos and videos you desire.
Enjoying the buffet is the next order of business, once the meet-and-greets have been completed to your satisfaction. They won’t be offering a full-course meal, but there is a darling dessert spread that is surprisingly on-theme and features a range of items. The treats are nut-free, with gluten-free options available upon request. (It would behoove every child to eat a substantial meal before boarding to avoid a nasty sugar crash.)
(Image: Candice McMillan / Seattle’s Child)
After 30-45 minutes, the princesses gather the tiny patrons around and perform songs from their films. As the princesses took the stage our first year attending, I was anxious for what was to follow, but every performer was incredible. These women not only look and play the part of their princess, but many of them can sing the part as well!
The return to dock is made all the more exciting by a dance party that spreads throughout the boat, from the lower level to the upper, uncovered deck. We’ve had good weather both years, and the sunshine and fresh air invigorated their rooftop rave.
(Image: Candice McMillan / Seattle’s Child)
Wishing You a Well-Planned Excursion
There is a real sense of urgency that springs to your chest whenever Disneyland is called to mind. Waiting in lines. Beating others to the booking. While that reflex is certainly valid, there should be no concern when it comes to the Royal Argosy Cruise Ball. The Painted Palace books the event at 75% capacity. Though it may initially seem like an overwhelming number of families have lined up at the dock, there will be more than enough time for every guest to meet with every princess on the boat.
The event will happen rain or shine, and while clear skies are always the preference, there is enough indoor space and access to large windows that a rainy day would not dampen anyone’s experience. Arriving 15 minutes early and preparing your tickets in advance are helpful.
But the rule of the day is laughter, excitement, and fun. We will be attending again this year, and for all the years that she wants to indulge in it. These years are short; their interests mature far too quickly. Cheers to retaining some of the childlike wonder for something as pure as a princess party.
(Image: Candice McMillan / Seattle’s Child)
Let it… Know What to Expect
- Recommended Age: All ages; anyone over 12 months requires a paid ticket
- Date: April 25, 2026, with sails setting at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.
- Location: Carillon Point – 4100 Carillon Point Kirkland, WA 98033
- Runtime: 2 hours per session
- Cost: $75 per person
- Parking: The cruise begins at Carillon Point, which offers a large, paid parking garage. It can hypothetically fill up, as it is a public garage, but in the two years we’ve attended, it has never been full.
- Who: The Painted Palace guarantees that fan favorites Elsa, Anna, Mirabel, Ariel, and Moana will be on board. The rest are subject to scheduling, but in the past, we’ve met Aurora, Cinderella, Mulan, Jasmine, Snow White, Rapunzel, Merida, Belle, Princess Sofia, and Raya.
