The historic Western Flyer, chartered by John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts in 1940, now serves as a working research vessel and floating classroom, sparking curiosity through the intersection of marine science and the arts.
Visit the Western Flyer in the Pacific Northwest This Spring
In 2026, the Western Flyer will travel north along the Pacific coast, returning to the waters where it was built, worked, and restored.
This voyage reconnects the vessel with its roots—while bringing hands-on ocean science programs to students and communities across Oregon and Washington.
Meet sea critters and celebrate science in Charleston
Oregon News, University of Oregon, April 30, 2026View Full ArticleThe historic fishing vessel Western Flyer will return to Port Townsend this spring for a week-long schedule of student programs and community events
48° North Sailing Magazine, April 29, 2026View Full ArticleNew Research from the Gulf of California
April 29, 2026This week, Western Flyer Foundation scientists are presenting new findings from the 2025 Gulf of California expedition, where cutting-edge eDNA sampling revealed more than 50 fish families across 500 kilometers of ocean.
View Full ArticleWestern Flyer in Newport: Student Programs, Public Tours, and Waterfront Events
April 28, 2026Press Release: The Western Flyer will be in Newport, Oregon, May 15–22 for a week of student programs, free public tours, and community events.
View Full ArticleHistoric Western Flyer Brings Student Programs and Community Events to Charleston and Coos Bay
April 28, 2026Press Release: The Western Flyer will visit Charleston and Coos Bay, Oregon, for a week of student programs, free public tours, and community events.
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