Spanning 3,000 miles of Washington State’s saltwater shoreline, the Maritime Washington National Heritage Area celebrates our state’s unique and diverse water-based cultures. This heritage area builds partnerships to support our coastal communities in maintaining and sharing their water-based stories and resources.
We’re here to help preserve and interpret Washington’s maritime heritage. We do that by:
Connecting you with maritime stories and experiences.
Supporting those who steward and interpret our water-based heritage.
Advocating for maritime resources, practices, and ways of life.
Working Waterfronts: Marine Fluid Systems – A Forgotten Backstory
Marine Fluid Systems is a family shipyard business, but few are aware that the site has operated continuously for more…
Sail Port Townsend: Partner Profile
Sail Port Townsend is a sailing charter and sailing school that works to make the water more accessible to everyone….
Ten Maritime Heritage Activities in Port Townsend
There’s no lack of maritime activities in Port Townsend! Follow our free itinerary for ten ways to explore this port…
On Native Shores
Since time immemorial, Native people have flourished—and continue to thrive—along Washington’s coastline, developing technologies, cultures, and lifeways that are deeply rooted in and shaped by this unique place. Explore our Maritime Mapper to find places where you can learn about the first people of this region directly from Tribes.
Where are we located?
The Maritime Washington National Heritage Area includes 3,000 miles of saltwater shoreline stretching north from Grays Harbor through Puget Sound to the Canadian border. Ranging from remote wilderness coasts to bustling ports and downtown skyscrapers, these dynamic shorelines connect a rich mix of communities, stories, and experiences.
