Curious About Cruising Under Power? TrawlerFest Returns to Anacortes This May

TrawlerFest draws a wide range of new and pre-owned vessels ready for long-range cruising, from compact explorers to luxury passagemakers. Courtesy of TrawlerFest

For sailors who’ve ever daydreamed about swapping the rig and sails for twin diesels and a comfy pilothouse, TrawlerFest—returning to Anacortes, Washington, May 13–17—just might be the place to start exploring the trawler lifestyle.

Hosted by our sister publication Passagemaker, and held in conjunction with the Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show, TrawlerFest blends an in-water boat show with an impressive lineup of educational seminars. More than 200 new and pre-owned cruising boats will be on display, along with marine gear, services, and plenty of knowledgeable folks who know what it takes to go the distance under power.

Well-attended seminars offer expert insights on everything from navigation and maintenance to medical emergencies at sea. Courtesy of TrawlerFest

But for Cruising World readers, it’s the seminar schedule that truly shines. Whether you’re a lifelong sailor curious about passagemaking on a different kind of hull, or you’re already thinking about your next chapter afloat, the sessions offer valuable, hands-on knowledge for every kind of cruiser.

Highlights include:

• “Tides and Currents: Science and Survival” with Phyllis Woolwine—a seminar any navigator will appreciate.
  
• “Maneuvering & Docking Strategies” and “Boat Handling on the Water”—great for those transitioning from sailing to power.
  
• “Trawler Buying Tips” moderated by veteran broker Jeff Merrill.
  
• “Stabilizer Systems: Which Technology is Better and Why” with Raffa Invrea of CMC Marine—because no one likes an uncomfortable ride.
  
• “What To Look for Before You Call a Surveyor” with marine surveyor Jim Merrick—smart advice whether you’re boat shopping or prepping for sale.
  
• And “Maritime Medical Emergency Management” with Dr. Robert Leviton—an especially relevant session for offshore-minded cruisers.

Many trawlers are designed for easy handling and comfort at sea—perfect for sailors transitioning to life under power.

The seminar series runs May 13–17 at Seafarer Memorial Park, while the boat show at Cap Sante Marina opens May 15 and runs through May 17 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily). Seminar tickets include same-day access to the boat show, and general admission is just $15 per day, or $20 for a three-day pass. Military discounts are available on-site, and kids 17 and under are free.

The long-range cruising lifestyle doesn’t have to end when the sails come down—just ask the many sailors who’ve made the switch. Courtesy of TrawlerFest

Whether you’re actively boat shopping or just starting to imagine life without the mainsail, TrawlerFest offers a welcoming, information-rich environment to learn, compare, and connect with fellow cruisers.

>> Click here to view the full seminar schedule and register

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