The Ninth Annual Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival Brings Maritime Magic to Life
There’s something undeniably enchanting about the sight of a wooden boat gliding across the harbor — its gleaming varnish, timeless silhouette, and the silent suggestion of a thousand stories held within its hull. This June, the Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival invites you to step into that enchantment — and into the pages of your favorite sea-bound tales.
On June 13–14, 2025, the Balboa Yacht Club will once again become the epicenter of classic maritime charm as it hosts the ninth annual celebration of wooden vessels and the stories they’ve carried — both fictional and true. This year’s theme, “Stories of the Sea: Wooden Boats in Film & Fiction,” brings a narrative twist to the festival, honoring the cinematic and literary legends that have inspired generations to dream of the sea.
Whether it was Treasure Island’s Jim Hawkins navigating the high seas, the haunted majesty of the Black Pearl, or the unforgettable journey of The Boys in the Boat, these tales are woven into the festival’s heart — and reflected in every polished plank and brass fitting.
The weekend sets sail with a glamorous Premiere Night on Friday, June 13. Picture a red-carpet affair, harbor style. Think vintage Hollywood meets coastal elegance — complete with signature cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, cinematic tunes, and an exclusive dockside preview of the festival’s featured vessels.
This one-night-only event also includes a live auction offering high-seas-inspired experiences, with all proceeds benefiting the ALS Foundation, youth sailing programs, and scholarships for young shipwrights at the Northwest School of Boat Building — a nod to festival founder Ralph Rodheim’s legacy.
Tickets are $95 (advance purchase required, limited to 300 guests). Evening event — exact time listed on the festival website.
Come Saturday, it’s all hands on deck. The harbor transforms into a living museum, featuring over 30 wooden boats — each with its own tale to tell. From legendary Hollywood vessels to historic racing shells, it’s a haven for maritime lovers, storytellers, and anyone in search of a perfect day by the bay.
Here’s what’s in store: talks by celebrated authors and maritime historians, the “Cruising with Legends” photo exhibit, the Wooden Boat Walk of Fame honoring cinematic maritime icons, and the debut of wooden rowing vessels, including vintage shells from The Boys in the Boat, on display in collaboration with the Newport Beach Aquatic Center.
General admission is $15. The Wild Goose Cruise is $65 and includes festival admission.
Make a weekend of it with exclusive hotel packages from Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, just minutes from the festival. Book through the festival site for insider deals and upgrades.
Tickets went on sale April 1 at www.newportbeachwoodenboatfestival.com. Pro tip: Premiere Night always sells out. Secure your spot early.
Proudly presented by Whittier Trust and hosted by the Balboa Yacht Club, this year’s event is also made possible by the City of Newport Beach, County of Orange, and Visit Newport Beach. Whether you’re a maritime purist, a weekend wanderer, or just a lover of great stories, the ninth annual Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival promises to stir your soul and spark your imagination.