The Seattle Boat Show starts Friday and there’s a new lineup of FREE educational seminars for boaters of all stripes to enjoy—150, to be exact!

With seminars on favorite destinations, safety, technology, cruising, fishing and more, this year’s show promises something for everyone ready to level up their nautical knowledge. The show runs from January 31 through February 8, 2025, and all seminars and panels will take place at the Lumen Field Event Center location.

For a full list of seminars, visit SeattleBoatShow.com/seminars. Here are some of the seminars that we’re looking forward to…

First Aid Afloat: Practical Tips for Every Boater by John Taussig

1:00 p.m. Friday, January 31: Stage #1

Learn how to handle common injuries and illnesses on the water, and discover the must-have items and utility for a well-equipped marine first aid kit. Be prepared for any situation with practical demonstrations and expert advice.

Cruising Today: Panel Discussion by Sarah and Will Curry

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 1: Stage #1

Learn, laugh, and be inspired with active sailors/adventurers. Topics will include modern communications to heavy weather to life changing landfalls, and much more. 

Preparing Your Sailboat for a Multi-Year Cruise by Gio and Julie Cappelli

1:00 p.m. Sunday, February 2: Stage #1

Learn how to keep water out, people in, and sails full. They’ll cover key vessel systems, priority refit upgrades, and outfitting tips to ensure years of successful cruising.

Solar Power for Your Boat by Mike Reese

3:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 4: Stage #1

An informative discussion covering the types and sizing of solar panels, mounting solutions for sailboats and powerboats, proper wiring techniques, and integrating solar panels into your boat’s electrical system.

Engine Inspections and Surveys by Meredith Anderson

2:15 p.m. Wednesday, February 5: Stage #2

48° North columnist Meredith Anderson will walk you through what to check when buying a new vessel with a diesel engine, including what you do and don’t want to see. 

Dungeness Crabbing Curriculum by Thomas Nelson

3:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 5: Stage #3

Learn how to catch the quintessential Pacific Northwest dinner! This seminar will run you through the times, tides, baits, depths, lines, pots and gear that will have you getting “crabby” in no time.

Staying Connected to the Internet While Cruising by Doug Miller

4:15 p.m. Thursday, February 6: Stage #2

Sifting through the many options for staying connected including long term cost, power consumption, antenna placement, data plans, and more. This seminar will look at the pros and cons of some of the most popular solutions and provide tips for building the best setup for your boat and crew.

Circumnavigating the Olympic Peninsula by Jordan Hanssen

5:15 p.m. Thursday, February 6: Stage #2

Hear captivating stories about exploring the beautiful marine waterways of Puget Sound by rowboat. Discover the hidden gems and breathtaking sights you can experience right in your own backyard, all from the unique perspective of a rower. Adventure awaits, close to home!

Cruising the Inside Passage from B.C. to Alaska by Wendy Hinman

2:00 p.m. Friday, February 7: Stage #1

Get a taste for the possibilities and how to make the most of the time you have to enjoy the glaciers, waterfalls, and hot springs; as well as wildlife including whales, bears, otters and more; and a native culture like no other place offers. 

Experience the Magic of Haida Gwaii by Ken Parker

12:00 p.m. Saturday, February 8: Stage #1

Hear insights and stories on the rich culture and history of the Haida Nation, along with practical tips, tricks, and stories about the incredible wildlife and the amazing people who call Haida Gwaii home.

Small Boat Adventure Curious? 

Gig Harbor Boat Works has some of the more unique adventure-ready offerings at the boat show. Each afternoon of the show, the knowledgeable crew will offer demos showing attendees how to rig Gig Harbor’s sloop and lug rigged sailing vessels, and use their sliding rowing seats in booth West Hall #37 (check ghboats.com for the schedule). If smaller boat cruising appeals to you, these demos will get you one step closer.