Nigel Calder Returns for In-Person Workshops

Practical, in-depth training in diesel engines and marine electrical systems for boat owners.

For decades, Nigel Calder has been one of the most trusted voices in marine systems—helping boat owners understand, maintain, and troubleshoot the systems they rely on. His books and teaching have guided countless sailors toward greater confidence and self-sufficiency on the water.

Nigel is returning to the 2026 Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival to offer a series of in-depth, in-person workshops focused on two of the most critical—and often most challenging—areas for boat owners: diesel engines and electrical systems.

These are not lectures. They are practical, skills-based sessions designed to help you understand how your systems work, identify problems, and take action when something goes wrong.

Whether you’re preparing for extended cruising or simply want to feel more capable aboard your own boat, these workshops offer knowledge you’ll use again and again.

Each session is offered as a standalone workshop, with the option to take a full-day series for a deeper dive into either diesel or electrical systems.

What you’ll learn:

• How to maintain diesel engines
• How to troubleshoot and fix common diesel engine problems
• How to identify and fix common electrical issues
• How to troubleshoot electrical systems with a focus on using a multimeter
• In general, how to avoid costly and preventable engine and electrical failures