PORT TOWNSEND — Seattle-based Cruise West has named Port Townsend a port of call for its Spirit of Endeavor, the result of the city’s historic downtown walking tours, quaintness and pedestrian friendliness.
The white 217-foot-long, 102-passenger cruise vessel will be tying up at City Dock downtown for three Fridays, beginning April 14, said Jefferson County Historical Society officials.
The historical society is contracting with Cruise West to provide historic walking tours in which four guides dressed as historic Port Townsend figures will entertain and educate passengers.
Karen Kuest, Cruise West programs manager, said Port Townsend was chosen over La Conner because it is on the historic register, is charming and quaint, and has a lot to offer to pedestrian traffic.
“We just wanted something that has something to offer year-round, and with kayaking options,” said Kuest, who grew up in Sequim.
Marsha Moratti, Jefferson County Museum coordinator, and Historical Society Director Bill Tennent tackled the two-year contract with Cruise West, which will pay for the tour-guide “interpreters” out of passenger fees. The fees go to the museum’s ongoing operations.
