2025 Northwest Marina & Boatyard Conference
October 9 – 10 | La Conner, WA
Join industry leaders, innovators, and forward-thinking professionals for a transformative event designed to inspire, educate, and connect.
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EARLY BIRD discount! Register by September 5 for $390. After that, registration jumps to $450!
Discover the latest trends, tools, and strategies shaping the future of marina & boatyard operations at this year’s conference. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting out, this year’s event will feature a refreshed program jam-packed with expert insights, networking opportunities, and actionable takeaways in a charming new location – La Conner, WA. Don’t miss your chance to connect with industry leaders and elevate your marina to the next level.
Why Attend?
- Engage with peers: Connect with marina managers, boatyard operators, and top industry suppliers during dedicated networking sessions.
- Expert-led sessions: Learn from dynamic speakers covering essential topics like marine electrical systems, superyacht commerce, moorage rate strategies, and cutting-edge construction techniques.
- Legal guidance: Receive critical advice on workplace safety, wage and hour laws, and employment best practices to minimize risks and ensure compliance.
- Valuable Prizes, Takeaways, and Take-homes
- Picturesque location: Experience the collaborative spirit of the conference in La Conner, one of the Pacific Northwest’s hidden gems.
We’ve confirmed expert speakers addressing essential topics like:
- National marine electrical systems and codes
- Superyacht commerce in the PNW
- Moorage rate trends and supply-demand dynamics
- Innovative products to grow your business
- Legal guidance on workplace safety, wage and hour laws, and employment best practices
2025 Program Coming Soon. View 2024 Program HERE.
Confirmed Speakers Include:
Kate Anderson is the Marketing and Media Coordinator at the Port of Everett, where she combines over a decade of maritime experience with a passion for boating to lead media relations, marina marketing, and public affairs. Her background includes roles at Elliott Bay Marina, Roche Harbor Marina, the Northwest Marine Trade Association, and Dockwa, where she honed her skills in marketing, events, and industry advocacy. An avid boater and angler, Kate’s personal connection to the water enhances her work, making her a valuable voice in the marine community. She also serves on the RCO Boating Facilities Advisory Committee and the RBAW Board of Directors.
Dan Berlin is a Principal Scientist at Anchor QEA and has been supporting shoreline cleanup and restoration projects in Puget Sound for 25 years. He is the founder of the Washington Association of Mitigation Banks and specializes in advance mitigation and mitigation bank planning, environmental permitting, contaminated shoreline cleanup, and managing the design and construction of complex cleanup, redevelopment, and restoration projects in the United States and Canada. Dan has a Master’s Degree in wetland science from Duke University.
Chris Dolan is the Vice President of Sales and Design at Marina Electrical Equipment (MEE) in Williamsburg, Virginia, where he has worked in marina electrical design and product manufacturing since 2000. A frequent speaker at industry conferences, he contributed to the marina electrical chapter of the ASCE Manual No. 50. Chris also serves on the board of the Association of Marina Industries and is a member of the NFPA 303 Committee, which establishes fire protection and electrical safety standards for marinas and boatyards.
Dennis Halpin is the General Manager of Elliott Bay Marina and a dedicated member of NMTA and Superyacht Northwest. With over eight years of leadership at Elliott Bay Marina, Dennis brings a deep understanding of superyacht operations and marina management across the Pacific Northwest. He works closely with yacht managers, owners, captains, and crew to deliver exceptional service and support—from complex short-term moorage goals to long-term vessel stays—ensuring a seamless experience for visiting superyachts. Under his direction, Elliott Bay Marina is dedicated to solidifying its reputation as a premier facility for large vessels. Through his work, Dennis continues to champion the growth of the superyacht sector and strengthen the Pacific Northwest’s presence on the global yachting map.
Bruce Hayne is the Executive Director of Boating BC Association; a trade association with 300 industry members representing the recreational boating industry and owners of the Vancouver International Boat Show. Bruce sits on several industry boards including RCMSAR and the Canadian Marine Retailers Association. Prior to Boating BC, Bruce owned and operated a marketing and advertising agency for many years before merging with Thornley Creative to create thornleyHAYNE Creative as well as serving 7 years on City Council in Surrey BC.
Dena Horton joined the PNWA team in September 2019. She brings significant federal and regional experience and a deep knowledge of the issues and projects in PNWA’s portfolio, having served as Senator Maria Cantwell’s Southwest Washington Outreach Director for over five years. Horton was also a project manager for over seven years for PNWA member Normandeau Associates, and served as a district representative for former Congressman Brian Baird for over four years.
Horton earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Gonzaga University, and completed master’s degree coursework in Public Affairs at Washington State University – Vancouver. She is also a General George C. Marshall Public Leadership Award Recipient, graduate of Leadership Clark County, and has a long record of volunteer service in her community. Horton lives in Vancouver, Wash.
Konrad Kalpen is a corporate attorney at Cairncross & Hempelmann, where he is part of the Corporate Finance, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Business Transactions team, advising businesses through a unique blend of legal, public relations, and public policy expertise. His passion for business began as a teen when he co-founded a chain of bicycle shops with his father, inspiring his path into corporate law as the business expanded across industries and states. Since then, he has provided legal counsel to professional sports teams, national non-profits, and Fortune 500 companies. Prior to joining the firm, he interned at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, working on internal and international policy issues.
Kristina Maritcsak is a member of Cairncross & Hempelmann’s Employment team, where she focuses on employment law, DEI, risk management, regulatory compliance, privacy, and investigations on behalf of employers. With an analytical and candid approach, she helps clients identify risk areas and implement strategies that align compliance with business goals to enhance competitiveness. Kristina is also active in the community, serving on several nonprofit boards, including the Mother Attorneys Mentoring Association of Seattle (MAMA Seattle), and has founded groups supporting women in business and grassroots social initiatives.
Ryan Rabatin is a maritime executive with over 24 years of global experience in shipping and yachting. He began at the Marshall Islands Registry, where he helped grow the yacht fleet and led key regulatory and development initiatives. Now a Partner at Dayboard Yacht Solutions, he manages superyachts and builds tech-driven systems. Based in the Pacific Northwest, he also chairs Superyacht Northwest, promoting the region as a premier yachting destination. Ryan holds degrees in International Business and Public Policy and enjoys the outdoors with his wife and two daughters.
Paul Sorensen is a principal with BST Associates. 
Paul founded BST in 1986, following 10 years of consulting with major architecture & engineering firms. He holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of Washington. Paul was chairman of the board of the Northwest Marine Trade Association for the past two fiscal years.
BST has assisted public and private clients with economic and financial analysis of waterfront and other development projects. His ability to deliver useful analyses, both on time and on budget, has given BST a solid reputation in the industry.
Arriving by boat?
La Conner Marina
Swinomish Yacht Club
HOTEL INFO
The La Conner Inn
Please call The La Conner Inn at 360-466-3101 to make your reservation. You must reference NW Marina & Boatyard Conference for group rates.
If you prefer to book online, please follow the group booking link for discounted group rates.–> La Conner Inn Group Booking
(If the booking link gets lost in translation- here’s the long link)
La Conner Channel Lodge
Please call La Conner Channel Lodge at 360-466-1500 to make your reservation. You must reference NW Marina & Boatyard Conference for group rates.
If you prefer to book online, please follow the group booking link for discounted group rates.–> Channel Lodge Group Booking
Please be aware that the group block and discounted rates expire 9/8/2025, book early for best availability!
All stays include a continental breakfast served daily from 7-10 AM. Parking for one vehicle & WIFI are complimentary.
Check-in Time: 4 PM Check-out time: 11 AM.
Interested in showcasing your brand or products?
Interest in sponsorships and exhibit space is increasing, fueled by positive feedback from our 2024 conference and my recent recruiting trip to the Association of Marina Industries (AMI) Conference in Fort Lauderdale. This uptick in interest underscores the need to secure your spot quickly. You should expect timely topics from experts, including familiar and new material. Before finalizing the program, I welcome your suggestions for topics and speakers.
Exhibitor space at Maple Hall in La Conner is limited. The standard exhibitor price this year is $1600 and includes:
- 20-25 minutes on the program
- Approximately 5×8 exhibitor space
- One attendee during conference sessions/meals
- Recognition in the program
- We hope you will also join us for evening events
While our standard sponsorship opportunities are filling up, we are open to considering any custom proposals you may have. We value your unique contributions and look forward to hearing from you!
Contact Jay Jennings for details on how you can engage with our vibrant community of attendees.
Here’s a potential way to spend a delightful day exploring La Conner, WA, a charming town brimming with character and scenic beauty – the perfect setting for the upcoming 2025 NW Marina and Boatyard Conference (October 8 – 10)!
Imagine starting your day at Maple Hall, the vibrant hub where the conference program will unfold. It offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern sophistication, setting the tone for an inspiring visit. From there, picture yourself strolling through the picturesque streets, perhaps stopping by the cozy La Conner Channel Inn or the inviting La Conner Lodge. Each offers a warm welcome and a wonderful glimpse into the town’s renowned hospitality.
When hunger strikes, why not enjoy a delicious bite at the Firehall Bar and Grill? Later, you could savor relaxing coffee moments at one of the local quaint cafes, or perhaps indulge in some delightful wine tastings that showcase the region’s rich flavors. To unwind, envision a leisurely wander along the stunning waterfront boardwalk, tracing the edge of the Swinomish Channel. The breathtaking views and tranquil waters create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful afternoon.
Don’t forget to explore the town’s unique yarn shops, which add a creative touch and make La Conner a truly special place to visit. It’s an idyllic destination that couples are sure to love. Consider a stay in one of the charming inns – your spouse will undoubtedly enjoy the quaint, welcoming vibe as much as you will.
Get ready to experience this wonderful town for yourself when you arrive for the conference!
