Lively Conversations. Big Ideas. Unforgettable Stories.

Dynamic panels have long been a crowd favorite at the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival—and this year, we’ve lined up six you won’t want to miss. From Cruising on Sunshine to our showcase event, Keepers of the Fleet: Historic Panel, these sessions bring together experts, adventurers, and legends for conversations that will spark your imagination and fuel your passion for the sea.

1. Cruising on Sunshine – Moderated by Alex Borton 
   A presentation and panel discussion on the past, present, and future of solar-electric boating. Panelists include solar-electric boat designers, builders, and owners with thousands of miles of solar-powered cruising.
   Panelists: Ed Pauley, Eileen Pauley, Joe Grez, Matt Mortensen, Brandon Davis 
   Saturday, 1 PM, Innovation Stage
   
2. Wharram Women: Past, Present, and Future
   Three remarkable women. One legendary legacy. From Hanneke Boon—designing and building Wharrams for over 50 years—to solo sailor Kiana Weltzien, to next-generation builder Angie Richard, this powerhouse panel dives into the untold stories of the women who have shaped, sailed, and carried forward the Wharram tradition. Past, present, and what’s next—don’t miss it
   Panelists: Hanneke Boon, Angie Richard, and Kiana Weltzein
   Saturday, 2:30 PM, Cruising Stage
   
3. Yacht Designer Panel – Moderated by John Harris
   Designs That Inspire: Yacht Designers in Conversation
   Join moderator John Harris as he brings together leading yacht designers for a lively discussion on the art, craft, and innovation shaping boats today. From classic lines to cutting-edge performance, this panel dives into what makes a design timeless—and how the next generation is pushing boundaries on the water.
   Panelists: John Harris, Hanneke Boon, and More
   Friday, 2:45 PM, Cruising Stage
   
4. Keepers of the Fleet: International Shipwrights Panel – Moderated by Martin Mills
   Meet the master shipwrights preserving some of the world’s most iconic vessels—from the HMS Victory to the Charles W. Morgan and Star of India. In this rare gathering, hear the stories, challenges, and triumphs of those keeping maritime history alive, plank by plank.
   Panelists: Blaise Holly, Haven Boatworks; Graham McKay, Lowell’s Boat Shop; Walt Ansel, Mystic Seaport; James Davis, San Diego Maritime Museum; Harold Burnham, Burnham Boatbuilding; Clem Mollier, HMS Victory; Pat Mahon, Lady Washington
   Friday, 4:30 PM, Cruising & Technical stage
   
5. Keepers of the Fleet: PNW Marine Trades – Moderated by Heather Johnson
   This panel brings together seasoned and emerging wooden boat builders to explore what it means to be a steward of maritime craft. From handed-down techniques to evolving tools, these builders carry the knowledge, responsibility, and quiet pride of keeping the fleet alive. Join us for a conversation about legacy, care, and the human hands that keep these vessels and traditions afloat.
   Panelists: Jo Abeli, Emma Gunn, Ginny Wilson
   Friday, 1:15 PM,  Cruising Stage
   
6. The Trades: Day in the Life – Moderated by Heather Johnson 
   This panel invites a diverse group of local tradespeople to share the rhythms, rituals, and realities of their daily work. Expect honest talk about calluses and craftsmanship, mornings in the yard, and the small victories that make the hard days worth it. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at working life on the waterfront, from the bench, the bilge, and the soul.
   Panelists: Callie Dobbs, Sean Rankins, Jen Takaki
   Saturday, 1 PM, Cruising Stage