Step into the legacy of maritime exploration with this one-day class focused on the iconic longboats used by Northwest Maritime for on-water education. These 26-foot open boats are faithful replicas of the longboats used by Captain George Vancouver during his 18th-century charting of the Pacific Northwest. Built by the Northwest School of Wooden BoatBuilding, they bring together craftsmanship, history, and hands-on learning. You’ll explore the history of the original longboats, how they were used for exploration, transport, and survival, and how their legacy continues today through experiential maritime programs. We’ll also take a close look at their construction, traditional design, and what makes these boats seaworthy and durable. You’ll learn the practical side, too, including routine care, preventative maintenance, and best practices for safely operating these boats with students aboard. Whether you’re a volunteer, educator, maritime history buff, or just a lover of well-built wooden boats, this class offers a unique look at how the past continues to shape hands-on education today. Expect plenty of questions, stories, and time to get up close with the boats and their gear. Students under 18 who want to participate must be accompanied by a chaperone. Youth accompanied by a chaperone only need to pay one tuition fee.