Explore the Blue: Marine Science at Wooden Boat Festival

The Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival isn’t just about beautiful boats—it’s also a deep dive into the wonders of our marine world! From deep-sea exploration to hands-on citizen science, you’ll discover what makes our marine environment so extraordinary.

Must-See Presentations

Ocean Watch with Schmidt Ocean Institute
Sunday, 9:30 AM, Technical Stage
Don’t miss this film screening from one of the world’s most respected marine research organizations.

Schmidt Ocean Institute: Ship to Shore
Friday, 9 AM, Cruising Stage
With a live ship-to-shore video call direct from their research vessel in Uruguay!

The World of Seabirds
Sunday, 11 AM, Cruising & Technical stage
Internationally renowned seabird expert and artist Peter Harrison offers a rare and riveting look into the lives of oceanic birds.

Sailors for the Sea – powered by Oceana

Join boaters, regattas, and boating events from around the world as they race to restore the world’s oceans by becoming a green boater! All weekend long, this inspiring group will be sharing best practices for clean boating. Catch them at their booth or on the Innovation Stage for their presentation.

Marine Science & Stewardship Stage

Hosted by Jefferson County Marine Resources Committee and Port Townsend Marine Science Center, this stage is packed with fascinating talks and demonstrations from marine scientists, researchers, and citizen science leaders.

Learn about everything from invasive green crabs to abalone restoration, from derelict vessel cleanup to the mysterious lives of puffins, harbor porpoises, and orcas.

Featured Topics Include:

• Live plankton demos with Lee and Brad Bebout
• Red tide toxin management in shellfish
• Hands-on crab ID and Molt Search with Betsy Carlson
• Deep sea mining and marine mammal ID
• Olympia oyster and eelgrass restoration
• The Elwha River dam removal and its ocean impact
• Orcas, puffins, and more!

Whether you’re a science buff, ocean lover, or just curious, you’ll find something to spark your curiosity and deepen your connection to our marine world.