Accessibility

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events and activities that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to participate. To request an accommodation or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact access@nwmaritime.org, or call 360 385 3628 x137.

Accessible Parking & Dropoff
We have a limited number of designated parking spots for those with disabled parking permits directly adjacent to the main entrance to the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival, in the parking lot on Monroe Street between Water Street and Jefferson Street. Cars dropping off passengers with wheelchairs or other mobility aids can pull into this lot for dropoff as well. If you are arriving via ferry or another form of public transportation, Jefferson Transit’s free downtown shuttle includes accessible buses.

Getting Around Festival
Festival grounds are flat and relatively easily navigable by wheelchairs and other mobility devices, though the ground surface varies and includes pavement, wood flooring and decking, brick, gravel, grass, sand, and floating docks. Access to the docks is via sloped ramps; the angle varies depending on the height of the tide. The ramps will be at their shallowest slope in the afternoons this year, when the tide is highest. The Technical & Cruising stages on the 2nd floor of Northwest Maritime Center can be accessed via an elevator (51×59” cab with 35” entry) in the breezeway between the Chandlery Education Building (red) and the Weissblum Heritage Building (yellow).

Restrooms
Accessible restrooms upstairs in the NWM building, accessed via an elevator. These bathrooms have changing tables. Accessible sani-cans can be found throughout the festival grounds. Please use the restroom that best aligns with your gender identity.

Mobility Device Rental
The local organization ECHHO offers free wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, and other mobility aids to assist anyone who calls for a rental. Rentals must be arranged in advance, and ECHHO is only open on weekdays. Visit their website to learn more.

Hearing & Vision
Many of our presentations are amplified, but if you want to sit close to the front to hear better or see better, please approach the presenter or a volunteer before the presentation for help finding a seat!

Helpers
Attendees who need assistance during Festival can request free admission for a companion, attendant, aid, or interpreter to accompany them at any ticket sale area. Service animals that are trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities are welcome at Wooden Boat Festival. Pets are not allowed. Please check in at Will Call to get a wristband for your service animal’s collar.

For information about our COVID policies, click here. We welcome suggestions for ways to improve access to the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival—please get in touch! Contact us at access@nwmaritime.org.