FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Newport, OR — May 15–22, 2026
The historic vessel Western Flyer will arrive in Newport this May as part of a multi-week Pacific Northwest expedition, bringing hands-on ocean science programs to students and a series of public events to the community.
Built in Tacoma in 1937 and made famous by John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts during their 1940 expedition to the Gulf of California, the Western Flyer now serves as a working research vessel and floating classroom.
During its time in Newport, the vessel will host student programs in partnership with local educators and marine science organizations, offering participants the opportunity to collect real-time ocean data, observe marine life, and learn alongside scientists and mariners.
Community Events
Sunday, May 17 — Hatfield Marine Science Center (Visitor Center)
Free public event featuring tours of the docked Western Flyer, screenings of the award-winning film, We Simply Liked It, and a talk with Q&A about the Western Flyer’s history and work today.
Events take place throughout the day, including vessel tours from 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM (Dock J, Recreational Marina).
Wednesday, May 20 — Pacific Maritime Heritage Center (ticketed)
An evening of film and conversation featuring The Western Flyer with Nick Offerman and a panel on cooperative fisheries science with local scientists and fishermen.
Panel moderated by Jack Barth (Oregon State University).
Advance tickets recommended.
“The Western Flyer offers a rare opportunity for students and the public to engage directly with ocean science and the vessel’s scientific legacy,” said Jack Barth, professor at Oregon State University and a member of the Western Flyer Foundation’s board of directors. “It brings hands-on learning to the waterfront and connects people to the ocean through firsthand experience.”
The Pacific Northwest expedition is designed as a pilot program, with the goal of establishing a recurring voyage connecting students, scientists, and coastal communities across the region. Additional stops on this expedition include Charleston and Coos Bay, Oregon, and Port Townsend, WA.
More information:
View the full schedule and event details, including ticketed programs:
www.westernflyer.org/PNW2026
About the Western Flyer Foundation
The Western Flyer Foundation operates the historic 1937 vessel Western Flyer as a working research vessel and floating classroom. Made famous by John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts during their 1940 expedition to the Gulf of California, the vessel now supports ocean science, education, and programs that connect science, history, and the arts.
Media Contact:
Sherry Flumerfelt
Western Flyer Foundation
sherry@westernflyer.org
(831) 220-8047