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.
Steinbeck boat returns for public tours, educational expedition
Staff, The Leader, April 15, 2026The historic fishing vessel Western Flyer will return this spring to Port Townsend, where it underwent a multiyear restoration, for a week-long schedule of student programs and a free community event.
View Full ArticleDan Haifley, Ocean Currents | Good, nerdy fun at Whalefest Monterey this weekend
Santa Cruise Sentinel, April 09, 2026This weekend you’ll get to enjoy the stories and cool stuff many of them have to share by visiting Whalefest Monterey at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
View Full ArticleWestern Flyer Returning to Port Townsend for Student Programs and Community Events
April 01, 2026Press Release - The historic fishing vessel Western Flyer will return this spring to Port Townsend, where it underwent a multi-year restoration, for a week-long schedule of student programs and community events.
View Full ArticleA Day at the Dock: The Student Field Trip Experience
March 30, 2026In this reflection, Education Manager Rials Christensen captures the unique energy of a Western Flyer field trip—from the excitement of younger students discovering the story of John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts, to high school students grappling with deeper questions about science, history, and identity.
View Full ArticleJoin the Western Flyer in the Gulf of California
March 12, 2026In spring 2027, the Western Flyer will return to Mexico’s Gulf of California for a two-month research and education expedition, continuing a tradition of exploration that began with John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts in 1940.
View Full ArticleThe Western Flyer Returns to the Pacific Northwest
March 11, 2026The Western Flyer will travel north this spring to bring hands-on ocean science programs, research opportunities, and community events to coastal communities across Oregon and Washington.
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