[ NAUTICAL NEWS + NOTES ]
M AK I N G WAV E S BY RANDY WOODS
[ SUMMER FEST REDUX ]
Partial Return of Seafair Will Still Be Muted Shiver me timbers! Seafair (seafair.org) will be returning to the Seattle area this summer, but don’t expect much cannon fire from the pirates. There will still be quite a few lingering limitations or cancellations of large public events from the region’s pandemic restrictions. First the bad news: This year, organizers said there will be no live performances of the HomeStreet Bank Cup hydroplane races, the July 4th fireworks at Gas Works Park, the Milk Carton Derby at Green Lake, or the Blue Angels air show. This is all terribly disappointing to anyone who loves the annual traditions of the citywide maritime festival. But the good news is that some events will still happen, partially in person and partially online.
For example, those interested in the Milk Carton Derby are encouraged to create their floating contraptions at home and enter them online for a chance to win prizes. The hydroplane races and air show will also be simulated online, with boat drivers competing from home and Blue Angel pilots available for interviews with fans. The Seafair Triathlon (July 25) will be held in limited fashion on a course in Sammamish State Park, while the 5K Torchlight Run (July 31) can be done virtually or in-person. From Aug. 2-6, Fleet Week will be virtual, but it will include more than 100 maritime-related activities online. The Torchlight Parade series, to be held in July and August, will be an expansion of last year’s modified version, featuring Seafair caravans that will move through various neighborhoods each week through a nomination process.
[ THIS MONTH’S MEET-UPS ]
News for July Rendezvous After a long 2020 hiatus, the best summer parties of the year are returning from pandemic lockdowns. Here are some of the most prominent rendezvous this month. Covid caveat: Be sure to check ahead on all rendezvous websites for updates on any last-minute restrictions, roll-backs, or cancellations due to pandemic protocols. July 9-15 Salish 100 Multiple destinations around the Sound This weeklong “roaming rendezvous” allows all kinds of boats to join in and involves trips of 10-16 nautical miles per day with overnight stops in seven ports, from Olympia to Port Townsend, Washington. More Details: nwmaritime.org/salish100
July 15-18 Chris Craft Rendezvous Port Orchard Marina, Port Orchard Chris Craft owners and their families are welcome to join for four days of fun, camaraderie, and an appreciation of classic boats. Between 60 and 80 boats are expected to attend, so please visit the website for the latest details and availability. More Details: portofbremerton.org/chris-craft-annual-rendezvous July 16-18 Signature Yachts All Fleet Rendezvous Port of Poulsbo Marina, Poulsbo Starting with cocktails, appetizers, and socializing on Friday evening, the weekend’s activities consist of a Captain’s meeting, educational events, afternoon sailing, and the infamous “CSR Marine Bow Thruster Blender,” topped off with blueberry pancakes on Sunday. More Details: Contact info@signature-yachts.com for more information, or call 206.284.9004
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