The 28th annual Bell Harbor Rendezvous is set for June 14-15, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Bell Harbor Marina in Seattle.
Hosted by the Classic Yacht Association and the Port of Seattle, this event is more than just a showcase of vintage vessels; it is a vibrant celebration of maritime history and craftsmanship.
This year’s theme honors yachts that served in World War II, with a marquee class spotlighting these historic vessels.
Among those participating in the 2025 event is Air Snipe, a 110-foot wooden-hulled subchaser built in 1943 by Mathis Yacht Co.
Originally designated as SC-1068, Air Snipe played a crucial role in the U.S. Navy during the war, sailing to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, after traveling through the Panama Canal.
The yacht operated in the Aleutian Islands before being redeployed to the South Pacific, where she earned a battle star for her service during the invasions of Kwajalein and Majuro Atolls.
Post-war, Air Snipe was stationed in Seattle alongside the U.S. Coast Guard.
Renamed WAVR-465, it later transitioned to private ownership before serving as a commercial tug for Boyer Towing until the mid-1990s.
Following the passing of Kent Halvorsen, who restored her and entrusted her to the care of the Air Snipe Foundation, she will grace the docks of Bell Harbor once again this June.
In addition to Air Snipe, Blue Peter—another significant vessel—will also be showcased.
Launched in 1928 from Lake Union Drydock, this 96-foot fantail motor yacht also has a storied past.
Semaphore, an icon of Seattle, served in the U.S. Army during World War II and has been a cornerstone of private and charter services ever since.
Carmelita, a 70-foot yacht launched in 1935, is celebrating its 90th birthday.
Notably, it has remained in the hands of the same family for its entire life, symbolizing the enduring legacy of family traditions intertwined with maritime history.
Faun, another gem from the lineup, is a 36-foot Standardized Cruiser built in 1926 by the Blanchard Boat Company.
Originally priced at $6,000, this vessel boasts luxurious features and craftsmanship that have allowed her to endure the test of time.
Powered by a 1947 Chrysler Crown engine, Faun cruises comfortably at 8.5 knots, and its hull is constructed from striking Alaska red and yellow cedar.
Significant restorations have kept this classic in peak condition, enhancing her appeal to admirers and boat enthusiasts.
Faun has garnered awards for its classic beauty and has been featured in various publications, solidifying its status in the realm of historic boats.
Another notable vessel, Gyrfalcon, built in 1941, has a unique backstory related to its mission of charting the Alaskan coastline during a time of impending conflict.
Designed by naval architect H.C. Hanson and commissioned by the U.S. War Department, Gyrfalcon, formerly known as Patton, was part of a two-ship project focused on surveying the coastline.
She served until decommissioning in 1967 and has since remained a remarkable piece of maritime history.
Mitlite, a 58-foot yacht constructed in 1933 by Foss Shipyard, has its own unique narrative.
Originally built to support the local workforce during the Great Depression, Mitlite stands out as the only yacht ever created by the Foss Launch and Tug Company.
Riptide, a 55-foot yacht from 1939, has an expansive history, starting as Howard Johnson’s private yacht before serving during WWII on Lake Erie and eventually transforming into a showboat and television star in Hollywood.
Finally, Seven Bells, a 43-foot vessel built in 1929 by the Stephens Brothers, showcases the continued legacy of classic yachts.
Having served as an anti-submarine net tender during the war, this yacht has also undergone significant restorations to keep it seaworthy for another generation of boating enthusiasts.
Each of these yachts features a wealth of history, storytelling, and craftsmanship.
Visitors to the Bell Harbor Rendezvous can expect to enjoy walking along the docks, talking to the passionate yachtsmen and women who have meticulously preserved these magnificent vessels, and absorbing the evocative stories behind each unique yacht.
The event is free and open to the public, making it accessible for families and nautical aficionados alike.
Mark your calendars for this annual tradition that conveniently aligns with Father’s Day weekend, and prepare to be inspired by the beauty and craftsmanship of classic yachts at Bell Harbor Marina.
As a special invitation, attendees are encouraged to subscribe to Pier to Pier for updates on Seattle’s vibrant waterfront.
This year’s rendezvous promises to blend history, community, and a celebration of maritime heritage against the stunning backdrop of Seattle’s coastline.
image source from：https://www.portseattle.org/blog/celebration-nautical-heritage-28th-annual-bell-harbor-rendezvous
