Recreational boating season starts this weekend, with large numbers of boats expected on Puget Sound waters. Find out from Port of Seattle and recreational boating officials how to stay safe while doing your part to share the waters with Southern Resident Killer Whales and other marine mammals.
“The first Saturday in May marks the Opening Day of boating here in the Pacific Northwest. Shores will be lined with spectators, boats will be decorated and parading through the Montlake Cut, and friends and families will be gathered onshore and aboard their vessels to celebrate the beginning of the best season for boaters,” said George Harris, President and CEO of the Northwest Marine Trade Association. “We urge all boaters to know and observe all safety requirements while on the water. Boat operators born after Jan. 1, 1955, are required to carry a Boater Education Card from Washington State Parks.”
“In preparation for boating season, I urge the public to learn how to operate your vessel safely to protect yourself, your passengers, and the whales with which we have the privilege to share these waters,” said Seattle Port Commissioner Fred Felleman. “The bottom line is if you see a whale, remember the 3 S’s: Speed, Space and Sound—Slow down, give them Space and turn off your depth Sounder, if it’s safe to do so. You can learn how to minimize your impacts on whales at BeWhaleWise.org. And even if you don’t have a boat, you can still watch whales from the shore.”
The Port of Seattle welcomes guest cruisers throughout boating season and hosts events during the year that are open to the public to enjoy Port facilities and experience the Seattle waterfront:
- Shilshole Boatfest — June 3: Shilshole Bay Marina invites the public to the marina to get out on a boat; learn how to get into boating, about boating safety and environmental practices; and to celebrate the Ballard Community. Enjoy boat rides, kids’ activities, maritime exhibitors, food trucks, and more.
- Bell Harbor Rendezvous — June 17-18: The Pacific Northwest Fleet of the Classic Yacht Association in conjunction with the Port of Seattle will once again host the Bell Harbor Marina Rendezvous. Over thirty classic motor yachts, many of them built prior to World War II, will welcome visitors throughout Father's Day weekend. The public is invited to the Bell Harbor Marina docks to view the classic yachts between 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturday and Sunday.
- Fishermen’s Fall Festival — The Festival celebrates the return of the North Pacific fishing fleet to the terminal, works to increase the public’s knowledge of the importance of the fishing industry, and helps raise money for the Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial Foundation. The Festival provides families with a fun and educational outing on the waterfront as well as an opportunity to learn more about seafood.
About the Port of Seattle
Founded in 1911 by a vote of the people as a special purpose government, the Port of Seattle’s mission is to promote economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.
The Port owns and operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Fishermen’s Terminal — home of the North Pacific fishing fleet — and public marinas. The Port also owns two cruise ship terminals, a grain terminal, real estate assets, and marine cargo terminals through its partnership in the Northwest Seaport Alliance.
Port operations help support nearly 200,000 jobs and $7 billion in wages throughout the region. Over the next 15 years, the Port’s Century Agenda seeks to create an additional 100,000 jobs through economic growth while becoming the nation’s leading green and energy-efficient port. Learn more at the Port’s website.
About Northwest Marine Trade Association
Founded in 1947, the Northwest Marine Trade Association (NMTA) is the country’s largest regional marine trade association representing more than 600 marine businesses, from sportfishing charters to superyacht builders, and everything in between. Members include boat dealers and brokers, marinas, boatyards, manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers of boating accessories and services. NMTA produces the West Coast’s largest boat show, the Seattle Boat Show, and the Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show, May 18-20, 2023.
Contact
Peter McGraw | Port of Seattle Media Officer
(206) 787-3446 | mcgraw.p@portseattle.org
