Advocacy Corner – By The Numbers: Washington Boating at a Glance

By the Numbers: Washington Boating at a GlanceJay Jennings, NMTA VP and Director of Government Affairs is a columnist for Nautical Northwest magazine Washington’s recreational boating industry is a major economic force, far more than a seasonal pastime. New statewide economic data shows the sector generates $8.1 billion annually, supporting 23,207 jobs and 1,280 businesses […]

Register Now for 2026 NMTA Annual Meeting

Join us June 17 for the NMTA Annual Meeting as we celebrate a year of progress and recognize the members and partners who help us preserve and grow recreational boating in the Pacific Northwest. Gather at Queen City Yacht Club for a relaxed evening of food, drinks, and connection, and hear from President & CEO George Harris […]

Northwest Maritime Apprenticeship Lunch & Learn, April 1

NMTA is pleased to co-host a Lunch & Learn with the Working Waterfront Coalition on April 1! This is a great opportunity for maritime employers and prospective trainees to learn more about the unique, state-approved Marine Tech Apprenticeship Program.See the flyer below for more details.

HB 2199 Signed Into Law: Ports Gain Tools to Remove Problem Vessels

On Monday, March 9, HB 2199 was signed into law, giving ports the ability to remove problem vessels from the water more quickly, while ensuring proper notification of the legal owner. This legislation was developed through a collaborative effort by Kitsap County Ports, county officials, and the Department of Natural Resources. We commend Rep. Adison Richards, the […]

Dates Set for 2026 Northwest Marina & Boatyard Conference

Mark your calendars! This year, the conference kicks off with an opening reception on Tuesday night and continues all day Wednesday and Thursday, concluding before the weekend instead of on Friday. Join marina and boatyard professionals from across the region for education, industry insights, and valuable networking opportunities. Questions? Contact jay@nmta.net.

Board Elections: Self-Nominate by April 4

The NMTA Board of Trustees, comprised of 13 members, provides governance and long-term strategic oversight for the association, setting priorities and direction that staff execute throughout the year. If you’re ready to play a leadership role in shaping the future of our industry, we encourage you to consider running in the upcoming May Board election. […]

NMTA Visits Zhao Marine in Weihai, China

NMTA’s Director of Communications, Karsten McIntosh, recently conducted the association’s first-ever China member visit in Weihai, China, touring the facilities of Zhao Marine. As the second-largest producer of inflatable boats in the world, Zhao Marine manufactures for many of the industry’s leading global brands — including NMTA members — and serves as a major manufacturing partner […]

Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show Application Now Available, Due March 31

​​The Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show returns May 14 – 16, once again featuring Trawlerfest educational seminars alongside the in-water display. This year’s program will offer 20+ in-depth classes delivered over five consecutive days beginning two days prior to opening day and continuing throughout the show.Presented in partnership with the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce, the Port […]

Strong Turnout at the 79th Seattle Boat Show

Total attendance at the 2026 Seattle Boat Show (January 30 – February 7) at Lumen Field Event Center and Bell Harbor Marina was 33,199. Attendance at Lumen Field Event Center totaled 32,521, representing a 15.5% increase over 2025 and a 3.3% increase over the three-year average. Bell Harbor Marina welcomed 6,902 attendees, a 12.7% increase over 2025, though 10.0% below the three-year […]