PORT TOWNSEND — Large boats can inspire awe and admiration, but a show Saturday will demonstrate how good things can arrive in small packages.
“The whole small-boat renewal is something that is happening around the world,” said Marty Loken, organizer of Pocket Yacht Palooza, which will take place at the Northwest Maritime Center, 431 Water St.
“It is similar to the small-house trend, where people are looking for something nice that is affordable and comfortable,” Loken said.
The boats will be on display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, followed by a potluck.
The event is free to all participants, whether they want to show off their craft or just observe, Loken said.
The event, in its fourth year, is a celebration of small-boat design, showcasing a wide variety of watercraft — wood, fiberglass, rowing, paddling, sailing and even a few small, traditional motorboats, Loken said.
“There is an increased interest in small boats,” Loken said.
“People are getting more practical, and they are finding that larger boats are too much to handle, with the moorage, storage, insurance and maintenance.”
On Sunday, small boats that were on display Saturday can go out on the “Palooza Crooza” around Indian and Marrowstone islands.
Those participating can join the event for up to four days; they can easily return to Port Townsend at any time during the cruise.
Aside from showing off the small boats, the event will host four participants in the Race to Alaska, showing off their boats and talking about their voyage from Port Townsend to Ketchikan, Alaska, in June and July.
The first solo finisher in the Race to Alaska, Roger Mann, along with participants Mike Higgins, John Stradtman and Simeon Baldwin will be available at 11:30 a.m. in what Loken called “a press conference for the public.”
Small boat designer John Welsford will give the keynote address at 7 p.m. Saturday in the meeting room on the maritime center’s second floor.
Welford will discuss his plans for a voyage worthy of a pocket cruiser that will be “a sobering challenge,” as well as the subject of a documentary feature film.
Those who want to display their boats are asked to contact Bob Miller at rmiller43@gmail.com.
Those who want to participate in the Palooza Crooza should contact Marty Loken at Norseboater22@gmail.com.
For further information go to www.pocketyachters.com.
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.