
Port Townsend Boat Haven & Shipyard
A working marine hub showcasing skilled craftsmanship, classic wooden boats, and vibrant shipyard activity on the Salish Sea.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views of boats & activity

Port Townsend Boat Haven & Shipyard
Best Time
Best views of boats & activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A working marine hub showcasing skilled craftsmanship, classic wooden boats, and vibrant shipyard activity on the Salish Sea.
"A superb resource full of every marine trade imaginable, highly recommended!"

🚢 Admire the Craftsmanship
See impressive wooden boat restorations and active shipyard work. A true maritime enthusiast's dream!
☀️ Enjoy Waterfront Strolls
Walk along the marina for great views and to see a variety of boats. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Classic Wooden Boats
Throughout the Boat Haven
Marvel at beautifully restored wooden vessels, a testament to maritime heritage and skilled craftsmanship.

Active Shipyard Operations
Shipyard area
Witness the impressive work of shipwrights and marine tradespeople at this full-service boatyard.

Waterfront Views & Marine Activity
Marina promenade
Enjoy scenic views of the Puget Sound and observe the constant flow of boats in and out of the harbor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Boat Haven
Understanding the Boat Haven's Role
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Admire the Craftsmanship
See impressive wooden boat restorations and active shipyard work. A true maritime enthusiast's dream!
☀️ Enjoy Waterfront Strolls
Walk along the marina for great views and to see a variety of boats. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
🎉 Check for Events
The Boatyard BBQ and Wooden Boat Festival are popular events. Plan ahead for these!
🤿 Explore Nearby Wrecks
Scuba divers can explore the wreck of the Ranger just off Boat Haven Marina.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Admire the Craftsmanship
See impressive wooden boat restorations and active shipyard work. A true maritime enthusiast's dream!
☀️ Enjoy Waterfront Strolls
Walk along the marina for great views and to see a variety of boats. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
🎉 Check for Events
The Boatyard BBQ and Wooden Boat Festival are popular events. Plan ahead for these!
🤿 Explore Nearby Wrecks
Scuba divers can explore the wreck of the Ranger just off Boat Haven Marina.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Port Townsend Boat Haven for its well-run marina, friendly and professional staff, and impressive array of marine trades. It's a superb resource for boaters and a fascinating place to observe maritime craftsmanship. Some note that while it's a working facility, the charm of the old boatyard is largely gone, replaced by modern infrastructure.
"I hold mixed feelings for this place. The old funky boatyard was a childhood home. All that remains now is a parking lot and loo."
Daniel “카산제” Arthur
"A well run marina with plenty of amenities, great views, and a friendly and helpful staff. And a full boatyard with Travel-lifts."
Jennifer Silva Redmond
"This is a great boat yard and I appreciated their attention to detail and professionalism in terms of sling arm placement, rigging clearance, and helping maneuver into the lift. Really pleasant and easy to deal with."
Andrey Yurovsky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Port Townsend Boat Haven is accessible by car via Highway 101. If coming from the Seattle area, you can take a ferry to Bainbridge Island or Kingston and then drive. Some visitors use ferries from Coupeville to Port Townsend, but check schedules and reservation availability as they can fill up.
Yes, there is parking available at the Boat Haven, which is convenient for visitors and boat owners.
Public transport options to Port Townsend are limited. While there are bus services, they may not directly serve the Boat Haven. Driving is generally the most convenient way to access the area.
From Seattle, you can drive to the Seattle Ferry Terminal and take a ferry to Bainbridge Island, then drive to Port Townsend. Alternatively, you can drive north and take the ferry from Edmonds to Kingston, then drive.
If you're considering ferry travel, standby can be an option, but it's not guaranteed. It's highly recommended to check ferry schedules and reservation availability well in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to walk around the public areas of Port Townsend Boat Haven and admire the boats does not require tickets. Entry is free for visitors.
The Boat Haven is a working marina and shipyard, generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific office hours for the Port of Port Townsend may vary, but the marina itself is active throughout the day.
The Boatyard BBQ is a special event, and while it's a celebration for the marine trades, there might be associated costs for food and drink. It's best to check the Port of Port Townsend's event calendar for specific details closer to the date.
While you can observe shipyard activities from public areas, formal tours of the working shipyard may not be regularly offered. However, the sheer presence of the operations is a highlight in itself.
As it's a working marine facility, visitors should be mindful of safety. Stick to designated public walkways and be aware of active operations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll see a diverse range of vessels, including classic wooden sailboats and motorboats, modern yachts, fishing vessels, and workboats undergoing maintenance or restoration.
The shipyard is a hub for numerous marine trades, including boat building, repair, restoration, rigging, welding, and foundry services.
Absolutely! The variety of boats, the working shipyard, and the waterfront scenery offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Capture the details of wooden boats or the scale of the shipyard.
While it's a fascinating place, it's a working industrial area. Supervision is key for children. Some find it less 'kid-friendly' due to its nature, but the sights and sounds can be captivating.
The Wreck of the Ranger is a popular dive site located just off Boat Haven Marina, offering an underwater exploration opportunity for experienced divers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Port Townsend itself has a charming downtown area with numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a variety of cuisines. You can also find places to grab a bite near the marina.
While there might not be dedicated restaurants directly within the Boat Haven, you can certainly bring a picnic to enjoy with the waterfront views. The nearby town offers more dining options.
Port Townsend offers a range of dining experiences, from casual seafood shacks and cafes to more upscale restaurants featuring local ingredients.
During special events like the Boatyard BBQ, food vendors are typically present, offering a variety of treats and meals for attendees.
Yes, there are grocery stores in the town of Port Townsend where you can purchase supplies if you plan to have a picnic or prepare your own meals.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire marina offers great views. Focus on the details of the wooden boats, the working shipyard, and the scenic waterfront. Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light.
You can photograph the boats and the general shipyard activity from public areas. Capturing the skilled work of the shipwrights adds a dynamic element to your photos.
Look for the intricate joinery on wooden boats, the textures of weathered wood and metal, and the interplay of light and shadow in the shipyard. The 'Reliance' restoration is a notable subject.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) provide soft, warm light that enhances the textures and colors of the boats and the shipyard. Midday can be harsh but still offers opportunities for dramatic shots.
Drone usage is subject to regulations. Always check local FAA and Port of Port Townsend rules regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a special event like the Boatyard BBQ, which often has a more festive and family-friendly atmosphere. Always emphasize safety and supervision, ensuring children stay in designated public areas and are aware of their surroundings in this active marine environment.
⚓ Maritime Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Don't miss the chance to witness the active shipyard operations. It’s a rare opportunity to see a full-service boatyard in action, showcasing a wide array of marine trades. If you're a diver, the nearby Wreck of the Ranger offers an underwater historical adventure. Attending events like the Wooden Boat Festival, if your visit coincides, is an absolute must.
📸 Photographers
Look for unique angles and details – the intricate joinery of a wooden hull, the reflections in the water, or the silhouettes of boats against the sky. The working shipyard itself, with its cranes and equipment, offers a more industrial aesthetic that can be powerfully captured. Remember to be respectful of the working environment and any private vessels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Maritime Craftsmanship
Visitors can observe the daily operations, from haul-outs using impressive Travel-lifts to the intricate work of repair and maintenance. It’s a place where the past and present of boating converge, offering a unique glimpse into a traditional industry that continues to thrive. The community spirit is palpable, especially during events like the annual Boatyard BBQ, which celebrates the marine trades and brings people together.
Whether you're a seasoned sailor, a history buff, or simply curious about the world of boats, the Boat Haven offers a compelling experience. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of wooden boats and the dedication of those who keep these maritime traditions alive. The nearby wreck of the Ranger also adds an adventurous element for scuba enthusiasts.
Navigating the Marina and Surrounding Waters
Beyond the marina itself, the waters surrounding Port Townsend are rich with marine life and offer opportunities for exploration. Divers can explore the Wreck of the Ranger, a site known for its underwater biodiversity, including various fish species and invertebrates.
For those arriving by ferry, it's important to note that reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times, as ferries can fill up quickly. Standby options exist but are not guaranteed. Planning your ferry travel in advance is crucial for a smooth journey to Port Townsend.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit