Schedule Of Events

May 13, 2025

9 am - 11 am : PNW Marine Weather with Phyllis Woolwine

Whether it’s sailors griping about lack of wind, or powerboaters fearing steep and dangerous seas - the conditions in the Pacific Northwest present special challenges, due to the complexity of the many weather systems that interact in this region. Captain Phyllis Woolwine, owns Shearwater University, Maritime Education. Speaking from 50 years of experience on the Salish Sea & Inside Passage, and 10 years providing custom training for boaters of all types in these waters, she will provide a highly practical, science based, and interactive seminar on Pacific Northwest Marine Weather: What makes PNW marine weather so complex - and how can we make sense of it?Strategies to ensure that sailors get wind, powerboaters avoid dangerous seas, and all boaters use knowledge & strategies to stay safe, and advantage our crazy conditions. Best apps for marine weather - and the best ways to use them

1pm - 3pm : MANEUVERING & DOCKING STRATEGIES

Captain Phyllis Woolwine, owner of Shearwater University - Maritime Education, will introduce the physics of boat maneuvering. Many of these concepts will apply to all types of boats. She will also discuss specifics of controlling single engine vessels, including strategic use of prop wash, momentum, inertia, and rotation. With these physics in mind, she will go over optimum docking approaches, as well as strategies for maintaining full control of the vessel anywhere in the marina, in any conditions. Captain Woolwine will also cover the concepts of using dynamic springlines for full control of the boat at the dock - leaving and returning.

11:15 am - 1:15 pm : Marine Electrical Basics with Jen King and Monica Riess
Discover the fundamentals of marine electrical systems, covering essential topics such as Ohm's Law, multimeters, AC and DC components, and basic wiring and circuit protection standards. Explore the various types of batteries, their applications, and proper charging techniques. Additionally, learn effective troubleshooting methods for common electrical problems and valuable maintenance tips to keep your boat's electrical system running smoothly.

1:30 - 2:30 pm : The Virtues of Trawler Simplicity with John Clayman

Everyone touts the virtues of simplicity, but nowadays this idea is rarely achieved. A veteran cruiser under both sail and power with countless sea miles, John Clayman brings decades of experience in the design, construction, and marketing of cruising boats to Seaton Yachts. As president at Seaton, Clayman wrestles with the conundrum of complexity versus simplicity on a regular basis. This talk follows the debate down through the decades from Beebe’s design of the original PASSAGEMAKER to the trawlers of today. If you are considering buying a new boat or refitting your old one, this is the seminar to develop a healthy mindset and maybe even save a few bucks.

2:45-4pm : Journey to Alaska - Favorite Routes and Anchorages

Ross Tennant has travelled the Inside Passage for the past 10 years, travelling many routes and participating in flotillas to Alaska as the owner of NW Explorations. In this interactive slideshow, Ross will share his extensive knowledge of the Inside Passage, share some of his favorite places to stop, and inspire you to take your own remarkable journey to Alaska. Ross Tennant has more than 25 years of experience operating sail and power pleasure boats. Insights from his explorations of the Inside Passage, from Puget Sound up to Southeast Alaska, will provide invaluable local knowledge of the region’s most beautiful and challenging cruising grounds.

May 14, 2025

9 am - 11 am : Navigating the New Charting Environment with Phyllis Woolwine

NOAA has been "Sunsetting" Raster Navigation Charts over the last several years, and now most of these traditional charts are no longer updated. What most boaters don't understand is that NOAA has not retired PAPER charts. They've actually made them better than ever. Captain Phyllis Woolwine of Shearwater University will provide highly relevant practices for using electronic and paper charts together, focusing on the most powerful applications of both for skilled piloting on the Salish Sea and anywhere in the world. Bring your tablet or laptop, as we'll be doing hands-on learning experiences.

11:15 am - 1:15 pm : Alternative Electrical Systems to Expand your Time on the Water Jen King and Monica Reiss

This course explores sustainable power generation technologies that can extend a boat owner's time on the water. Students will gain a fundamental understanding of solar panels, hydrogenerators, and wind generators as applied to marine environments. Topics include an introduction to renewable energy sources on boats, basic principles of their operation and tips for installation and use on various vessel types and different types of battery storage.

1:30 pm - 2:30 pm : Unique Features of Trawlers with Wayne Goldman

In this detailed presentation, we dive into the unique characteristics that make trawlers the go-to vessels for long-range cruising and liveaboard lifestyles. Trawlers are renowned for their fuel-efficient displacement hulls, which allow for steady, economical cruising over extended distances. Their spacious living areas and full beam designs provide ample room and comfort, making them ideal for spending long periods at sea. The talk highlights trawlers’ extended fuel and water capacity, which supports longer voyages without frequent refueling stops. In addition, their large storage areas make them perfect for carrying provisions and gear, adding to their practicality for extended cruising. We also delve into the reliability of single engine setups commonly found in trawlers, explaining how they offer fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance, and are often paired with backup power solutions like wing engines or hydraulic drives with a larger generators. The sturdy construction of trawlers make them well-suited for handling rough sea conditions, ensuring safety and stability on the water. Finally, the presentation covers pilothouse and flybridge designs, which offer enhanced visibility and functionality, making trawlers adaptable for both bluewater cruising and coastal exploration. Attendees will leave with a comprehensive understanding of why trawlers are ideal for long-term, liveaboard adventures and what features set them apart in the world of cruising vessels

3 - 5 pm : Dialing In your Trawler with Jeff Merrill

Over thirty years working with cruising clients and through his experiences on hundreds of trawlers, yacht broker Jeff Merrill has amassed a collection of good ideas that will help take some of the guesswork out of tracking various systems and equipment onboard your trawler. These are effective techniques that trawler owners are using to better monitor their vessels and they apply to most power cruising boats. It helps your awareness if you are observant and use quick reference reminders. Simple tips, like marking lines on your engine mounts, lines for tracking needles on analog gauges, color coding your anchor chain and many other common-sense tips make this an engaging and informative session.

May 15, 2025

9 am - 11 am : Tides and Currents: Science and Survival with Phyllis Woolwine

No place in the world has the range and complexity of tides and currents like the Salish Sea. Captain Phyllis Woolwine of Shearwater University guides you through the hazards to a place where you can make sense of them and plan mitigating procedures for optimizing the safety and enjoyment of your vessel and crew. 

10 -11 am : Innovation at the Helm: Nimbus & Volvo Penta’s Long History and Partnership in Technolog

This seminar combines a classroom session with an on-water demonstration to showcase the long-standing innovation and intertwined history between Volvo Penta and Nimbus. Led by the Nimbus Boats USA team, we’ll break down the technology behind Volvo Penta’s Assisted Docking from a manufacturer’s perspective, giving you an inside look at how the system enhances control, precision, and confidence at the helm. The seminar concludes on the dock with a live demonstration, where you’ll see the system in action on the new Nimbus 495 Flybridge.

11:15 am - 2:15 pm : Trawler Buying Tips moderated by Jeff Merrill

There is a lot you can do to prepare to make sure you are ready when you find the right trawler to purchase. The goal of this seminar is to provide trawler buyers with important information you should be aware of up front to maximize your boat purchasing success. Matt Maynard, CPYB is a past president of the NYBA (Northwest Yacht Brokers Association) and will discuss the importance of choosing a qualified broker to guide you through the buying process. Cindy Lewis from Sterling Associates will provide professional advice on marine financing. John Posey from Total Dollar will review the elements of a good cruising insurance policy. Marine attorneys, Todd Lochner and Gregory Singer will be able to cover title, taxes, contracts, and other legal issues to consider. Jim Merrick is a SAMS accredited surveyor who will review how to choose the right surveyor and what to expect during the prepurchase survey. Jeff Merrill, CPYB (Trawlerfest veteran presenter for over 20 years) will moderate the discussion and try to keep the panelists and audience on track so that when we wrap up you will have some great background on the trawler buying process. 

2 - 3 pm : Stabilizer Systems, which technology is better and why with Raffa Invrea from CMC Marine

Comparison of electric fins’ and gyros’ performance on board leisure boats over 40’, both underway and at anchor, when used independently and even combined. Based on a real study recently performed by an independent marine surveyor/engineering company, as commissioned by a boat builder who needed to choose what to adopt and how to best invest their equipment budget. 

2:15- 5:15 pm : Maritime Medical Emergency Management Lecture with Dr Robert Leviton

So, you’ve learned how to survey your boat, understand the basic stuff of marine weather forecasting, navigate the waterways, and anchoring your vessel, only to descend into the engine room, slip, striking your head, opening a gash in your scalp, bleeding miserably, your memory fading, only to notice your leg is askew in a painful manner what do you do next?

Join Dr. Robert Leviton and learn how to manage these and many other Maritime Medical Emergencies as you will learn about how to contact medical assistance, prepare for helicopter evacuation, organize your First Aid Kit, understand, and treat lacerations, concussion, shock, fractures, allergic reactions and more. With 30 + years practicing Emergency Medicine, Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine at NY Medical College, and medical director for US Sailing Disabled Sailing Regattas, Dr. Leviton will share countless stories and much needed practical information to survive the most common emergencies and be on your way to complete your journey.

During this presentation participants will gain in depth understanding of the following: Allergic Reactions, Burns, Choking, Concussion, Contusions, Lacerations, and Wound Care, Dehydration, Drowning and Near Drowning, Fractured Bones, Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion, and Heat Stroke, Hypothermia, Marine Bites and Stings, Nosebleeds, Seasickness, Strain and Sprains

2:30- 4:30 pm : Selecting the Right Equipment for your New or Used Trawler

This seminar is focused on understanding and selecting the best equipment for your trawler. Wayne Goldman and Dylan Hildebrand, from Selene Americas, share their extensive industry expertise, they will guide attendees through critical systems, including solar panels, lithium batteries, generators, electronics, fuel systems, electrical setups, watermakers, stabilizers, thrusters and more. This session will help you make informed decisions to ensure your vessel is equipped for safety, efficiency, and long-term cruising success. Whether you're purchasing your first trawler or upgrading an existing one, this is a must-attend seminar for any serious cruiser!

May 16, 2025

9 am - 11 am : Docking: Two People, One Line, Any Conditions, Full Control with Phyllis Woolwine

Docking with dynamic springlines has become a lost art - with tragic results in marinas all around the world, not the least in the Pacific Northwest. Captain Phyllis Woolwine is leading a charge to bring these powerful skills & strategies back. Captain Wooly specializes in training boaters of all types to use springlines for maximum safety and control of their boat leaving and returning to the dock - every time, in any conditions, with just two people. This seminar introduces the physics of the core springline strategy we apply on all boats, every time, no matter the boat type or scenario. In additionto this course - Informal dockside demonstrations will happen each day on the main dock, at the Shearwater University slip right off the pier (between the ramps).

9 am - 1 pm : Maritime Medical Emergency Management : Hands-On Suture and Splinting Skills and Techniques with Dr Robert Levito

Your crewmate is bleeding, and compression alone is not stopping the hemorrhage, what do you do? During this session sailors will learn how to clean wounds while draping and prepping the injury, then learn how to hold and use surgical instruments, when to apply steri-strips, skin staples, or skin glue, and wound closure techniques from simple interrupted sutures to the vertical and horizontal mattress techniques. Following this hands-on session, we’ll continue with the basics of splinting skills and techniques applying elastic bandages, short arm and leg splints, buddy taping fingers and toes, and stabilizing complex long bone fractures. Sterile Technique, Draping and Prepping, Anesthesia Considerations, Suture and Needle Selection, Instrument Use, Steri-Strips, Skin Glue, Wound Closure Techniques, Simple Interrupted, Simple Running, Running Locking, Horizontal Mattress, Vertical Mattress, Corner Stitch, Figure of 8 Stitch, Staplers and Removal, Two Handed Hand Tying with Left & Right, Splinting Skills and Techniques, Ace Elastic Bandage Wrap, Short Arm/Volar Splint, Thumb Spica Splint,Ulnar Gutter Splint, Short Leg/Posterior Splint

11:15 am - 1:15 pm : What To Look for Before You Call a Surveyor with Jim Merrick

So, you want to buy a boat? What you should look for before making an offer and hiring a marine surveyor. A dream of the perfect cruising boat can be crushed when it's surveyed, but some of this deal-killers could have been detected early were it not for the fact that buying a boat is rarely a rational decision; we are often lead by our hearts. Buyers can slow down and take a look at the boat with the rose-colored glasses off. We will cover how to inspect hoses, valves, wiring mistakes, and signs of structural damage. There will be many photos of examples of what to look for.

12pm - 1 pm : Stabilization for Trawler Yachts & More with Patrick Noor from DMS Dynamic Marine Systems

Dynamic Marine Systems (DMS Holland) are specialists in stabilization and roll reduction systems for Motor Yachts. This Trawlerfest Stuart presentation will give background into the company and its products and explain how DMS aims to provide the best stabilization solution for all motor and trawler yacht designs

1- 2 pm : Bluewater Boats that are Good for Loopers, Too with John Clayman

Would-be cruisers often ask, “What do I need to look for in a boat for The Great Loop,” as if maybe they didn’t intent to cruise anywhere else. And maybe some do not. The Loop is a magnificent adventure, usually with land to starboard and port, but there are plenty of boats that do a great job on inland waters that can also go offshore and even cross an ocean. The Great Loop is a magnificent adventure in and of itself, but there are affordable boats that can do both the Erie Canal and the Atlantic Ocean in comfort and safety. John Clayman, president of Seaton Yachts with tens of thousands of ocean miles under his belt, will review the particular requirements for Great Looping and for more strenuous cruising. He will provide examples of dual-purpose vessels for every budget. Donning his yacht broker cap, Clayman will also discuss how to find and purchase the best boat for your needs. There will be ample time to respond to questions about design, construction, surveys and the purchase process.

1:30 pm - 3 pm : Foreign Flagging with Maritime Attorneys Todd Lochner and Greg Singer

What is Foreign Flagging? Foreign flagging refers to the registration of a yacht in a foreign country – most frequently the Marshall Islands or Cayman Islands – for buyers who intend to use their yacht in the U.S. but do not intend to permanently import the yacht. It should only be considered by owners who intend to take their yacht to a foreign port at least once a year. Foreign flagging is generally available to yachts longer than 12 meters (39 feet).

Duties, Tariffs and State Taxes. One of the strongest advantages to foreign flagging for a yacht owner is exemption from import duties, tariffs, and state vessel taxes. If a yacht is flagged in one of the roughly thirty countries which are eligible for a U.S. cruising permit, and if the yacht obtains and maintains a U.S. cruising permit, the yacht may be entitled to exemption of these duties, tariffs, and taxes. This is a fact-specific exemption so it is very important for a buyer to consult maritime counsel to determine if they will be able to take advantage of it.

Cruising Permit Requirements. Cruising permits for foreign flagged yachts are typically issued for a 1-year duration, and then must be renewed. The largest practical consideration for renewing the cruising permit is that the yacht must leave the United States for at least seven days and clear in to a foreign port. Upon arrival back on the United States, another 1-year cruising permit is issued. For this reason, foreign flagging is only a viable option for yacht owners who intend to cruise to a foreign country at least once a year. Canada and the Bahamas are typically the most convenient foreign destinations for this purpose. Insurance and Mortgages. Most yacht insurance carriers and yacht lenders have no issue with insuring or lending for a vessel with a foreign flag, provided it is a reputable flag – for example the Marshall Islands, Cayman Islands, or any of the British “Red Ensign” group of countries. Foreign flagging can offer a broader range of options for insurance or financing, as it allows an owner to take advantage of alternatives outside the U.S. market. In any case, an owner interested in foreign flagging their yacht should speak with their insurance broker or lender to confirm the options available to them if they proceed.

Restrictions. An important restriction on foreign flagged yachts cruising the U.S. under a cruising permit, is that the yacht may not carry passengers for hire within the U.S. For this reason, foreign flagging is typically not suitable for an owner who intends to charter their yacht in U.S. waters. Foreign flagged yachts also face certain restrictions on selling the yacht to U.S. citizens while the yacht is in the U.S. In order to accomplish such a sale, the yacht must typically go at least 12 miles offshore for closing, unless the buyer wishes to pay the import duty and tariff upon sale. For these reasons, working with a yacht broker and a maritime lawyer experienced in offshore closings is highly recommended when selling a foreign flagged yacht in the U.S.

Washington State Specific Considerations. For foreign flagged yachts cruising Washington State for extended periods, there are two additional requirements for owners to be aware of. The first is that the owner must obtain a vessel visitor permit if the yacht stays in Washington State waters for more than 60 days. The second is that yachts must obtain a state pilotage exemption permit, to avoid the requirement of having a pilot on board while navigating Puget Sound. Both permits are relatively easy to obtain at minimal cost (several hundred dollars total), but it is important to obtain these permits to remain 100% compliant while cruising Washington State. Most other states do not have such requirements for foreign flagged yachts.

In short, foreign flagging can be an attractive option for yacht owners facing high import duties and tariffs, and who do not intend to permanently import their yacht into the United States. Whether this is a good option is a highly fact-specific determination, and so we would strongly recommend any potential buyer interested in foreign flagging to consult with a maritime attorney.

3-5 pm : Marine Electronic Navigation

This seminar covers the fundamentals of marine navigation and explores how modern technologies enhance voyage planning and safety. Key topics include the use of Multi-Function Displays, Radar, AIS, and other essential marine electronics that facilitate safe navigation from point A to point B. Additionally, we will discuss the ideal electronics systems, comparing computer-based navigation with larger marine electronics installations, to help you choose the best setup for your needs.

3 pm – 5 pm : Ask the Experts Moderated by Jeff Merrill

In this “town hall” event, our panel of veteran cruisers will field audience questions on a wide-range of topics, sea stories always resulting. Jeff Merrill, CPYB, the moderator, is a yacht broker, author and trawler specialist with thousands of cruising miles. Wayne Goldman has a profound passion for yachts and unwavering commitment to excellence. Wayne represents Selene Yachts Americas. Phyllis Woolwine is a Master Mariner and Maritime Educator. Phyllis brings her passion and a lifetime of experience in boating, education, and natural science to her work, at Shearwater University. Phyllis specializes in custom Certification instruction on boats of all types and sizes. Eric Bescoby is a Nordhavn 40 full time cruiser who has completed the Big U (Seattle to Maine - and back) with an engineering background and joy for sharing his experiences from a life afloat. Matt Maynard, CPYB, is a past president of the NYBA (Northwest Yacht Brokers Association) and has been an active boater and yacht broker for most of his life. Bud LeMieux is an Anacortes local who is a world renown boat builder. Bud helped the Kessler’s build their Delta, Zopilote and also was a founder of Northern Marine, building their first hull for Bruce and Joan Kessler, Spirit of Zopilote.

May 17, 2025

9 am - 11 am : Knothing But Knots ! with Phyllis Woolwine

You are not alone! The ratio between boaters and those skilled with tying the right knot, for the right purpose, the right way is perhaps 100 to 1. Captain Phyllis Woolwine has a cure! More than the many "how to" lessons and YouTubes you've learned (and forgotten) from in the past, Captain Wooly shares knot tying learning methods that you will KNOT forget. And for each one you will learn powerful applications for the knot. This is a hands-on workshop, so roll up your sleeves! The number and assortment of knots we will do will be decided by the interests of the group.

11:30 am - 1:30 pm : In the boating glossary, the Big U refers to the u-shaped route that takes cruisers from Alaska to Maine (and vice-versa).

It’s no crossing an ocean exactly, but it is an 8,000 nm journey that leads vessels through two oceans and the Panama Canal for starters, not exactly an itinerary for the casual boater. While others seek to explore Europe and Asia to get their fill of history and geography, Eric Bescoby opted to do a deep dive of his own back yard in his Nordhavn 40. It was done almost by accident, the result of Bescoby’s “what’s next?” approach once he’d completed one cruising ground, and then another. In this program he’ll cover: The Decision, The Numbers, The Route and stops, Crew, Favorites and otherwise, Big adventures Challenges, The aftermath

11:15-12:15 pm : Navigating Your New Trawler Purchase: Build, Payment Terms, Taxes, and Tariffs with Wayne Goldman from Selene Yachts America

A Comprehensive Guide with Wayne Goldman from Selene Yachts Americas
Join us as we illuminate the path to understanding the intricacies of the new trawler yacht purchase process. This talk offers invaluable insights into many facets of purchasing a new trawler, from identifying your specific needs and setting a suitable budget to navigating negotiations with dealers and salespeople. Learn how to effectively inspect and evaluate trawlers, understand the nuances of contracts and payment terms and plan for the responsibilities of trawler ownership. Covering the process, from selecting the right size and options to taking delivery and conducting sea trials, this talk equips you with the knowledge needed to confidently make informed decisions aligned with your boating goals.

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm : FINANCING AND INSURING YOUR DREAM BOAT with Total Dollar & Sterling Associates

What you need to know about financing and insuring your boat. The requirements lenders will have, for insurance and financing. What you want to have to protect yourself on insurance and financing. Finance programs that fit your needs

Date : May 13-17, 2025

Location :

Cap Sante Marina,

1019 Q Avenue

Anacortes, WA 98221

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