A celebration of wood on water, the PT Wooden Boat Festival is a weekend of fun for all ages!
The 2015 Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival runs from September 11 through 13, from 9 am to midnight on Friday and Saturday, and from 9 am to 5 pm on Sunday. Live music, kids’ activities, spectacular vessels and captivating speakers fill the weekend. There are opportunities to get out on the water rowing, paddling and sailing. The weekend ends with the awe-inspiring “Sail By” at 3 pm Sunday, where vessels of all sizes and shapes pour out of the harbor and pass in front of the Festival.
This year’s Festival features more than 250 wooden vessels, plus dozens of indoor and outdoor presentations and demonstrations. Legends of the sailing and boating world come to share their talents and knowledge with thousands of wooden boat enthusiasts. There are renowned adventurers and boaters at every turn: in the classroom, on the boats, in the food court and on the dance floor.
There is a Kids’ Cove complete with carousel, kids’ boatbuilding, and crafts. There are plays on the North Star Stage and Marine Science Center activities daily, and a Pirate Treasure Hunt on Sunday. If you’d like to get out on the water, try a stand up paddleboard, row a kayak or a historic longboat, and go for a boat tour on Martha J. This year there’s a paddleboard pool on land for anyone that has always wanted to try it without having to fall into freezing water. Kids are welcome!
Regattas and races fill the weekend. Enjoy rowing races and model boat races. The NW Schooner Cup held on Saturday at 3pm is majesty on the water. When you’re ready for a break from viewing beautiful boats, the Balcony Wine Bar has a stunning view of the harbor and the new Merchant Saloon ship out at The Point is a charming place to watch the races and catch a cool breeze and local brew. From your shady seat in Bar Harbor you can enjoy three days of live music on the Main Stage, which is where the outdoor dances are held on Friday and Saturday nights. Hungry? The food court is filled with delicious fare.
Over 50 vendors will share their wares. See the latest kits for building your own paddleboard, kayak or wooden boat, and visit new and old favorites for repair and maintenance. Stroll down Artist Way to take in handmade crafts, clothing and jewelry.
For the weekend’s schedule and more information about additional activities during the festival, go to www.woodenboat.org.
(WBF photo by Mark Saran)