The Center for Wooden Boats

Mission

The Center for Wooden Boats promotes northwest maritime heritage through education, interpretation and hands-on experience in building, maintaining and using historic small craft.

Description

The Center for Wooden Boats (CWB) is a hands-on maritime museum where visitors, members, and volunteers learn skills, teach classes, support programs, and care for the boats themselves. In 2026, we celebrate 50 years of this work, connecting people to the Pacific Northwest’s maritime heritage in the heart of Seattle and on Camano Island. Through classes, workshops, and on-the-water experiences, we create a gathering place where people connect with history, the water, and one another, all while having a great time.

For five decades, wooden boats have been our way of bringing people together. They are tools for learning, connection, and community. We are committed to keeping access open and barrier-free, offering free entry and programs supported by “pay-what-you-can” options so that anyone can participate.

Your support provides the unrestricted funding that keeps this work going. It allows us to restore historic boats, teach youth to sail, and continue welcoming people onto the water, ensuring that the next 50 years are just as impactful as the first.

Recognition

ALEX M. DUNNE — President
Co-Founder, Locomotive Partners LLC
Board Nominated 2024

BOB PERKINS — Vice President
Residential Remodeling, CB Construction
Board Nominated 2024

KATE SUSKI — Treasurer
Vice President of Real Estate Development, Ryan Companies US, Inc
Board Nominated 2022

WALTER PLIMPTON — Secretary
Retired Airline Pilot
Board Nominated 2005

CLAY GUSTAVES
Land Representative, Williams
Board Nominated 2018

ROB CORSER, AIA — President Emeritus
Associate Professor, Department of Architecture, University of Washington
Board Nominated 2021

ELSIE HULSIZER
Author, Photographer, and Environmental Professional
Board Nominated 2009

JOHNNY OHTA
Counselor, UDYC and YouthCare Orion Center
Board Nominated 2015

RANDOLPH URMSTON
Attorney, Private Practice
Board Nominated 2019

JOHN L. BROWN
Category Leader, Amazon.com
Board Nominated 2021

SAGE STARGROVE
Board Nominated 2026