Northwest Maritime Center

Northwest Maritime Center Review

The myriad traditions and trades of the Pacific Northwest's seafaring history are explained here, specifically citing the importance of Port Townsend as one of only three Victorian-era seaports on the country's register of National Historic Sites. It's the core of the Point Hudson district and the center of operations for the Wooden Boat Foundation, which stages the annual Wooden Boat Festival early each September. The center has interactive exhibits, hands-on sailing training, boatbuilding workshops, a wood shop, and a pilot house where you can test navigational tools. The boardwalk, pier, and sandy beach that front the buildings are laced with marine life, and are the perfect points to launch a kayak or watch sloops and schooners gliding along the coast. The chandlery features a variety of nautical gifts and gear, from brass fittings and rigging supplies to galley wares, illustrated knot books, and boats-in-a-bottle. In a well-lighted back corner overlooking the bay, Velocity Coffee Bar sells espresso and baked goods from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.