Walk the Working Waterfront returns to downtown Portland, Maine for its 9th season on Saturday, June 8th, 2024 from 12 PM – 3:30 PM.
A fun and interactive way to explore the rich maritime culture and history of Portland, Maine, Walk the Working Waterfront is designed to promote awareness of the critical importance of the city’s working waterfront infrastructure. From Becky’s Diner to the Maine State Pier, attendees are encouraged to explore the protected piers and wharves of Commercial Street, tour Coast Guard vessels or the City fireboat, and chat with commercial fishers and experts on aquaculture, sea level rise, seafood quality analysis, and more to gain a deeper understanding of the role that this industry plays in the local community.
Please find below a rundown on a select few events happening for WTWW2024. For a better understanding of the event in its entirety review the 2024 Event Map.
Meet the Fishermen
Merrill’s Wharf
Curious about what it’s like to go to sea aboard a commercial fishing vessel? Allow Ian Mayo of Maine Fisheries, take you on a journey through his experiences as a commercial fisherman and share how important it is to take care of your ship and gear. With many incredible stories to tell, Ian will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
One of the highlights of the event will be the opportunity to see one of Ian’s nets in action as it is hung using his company’s crane. This is an excellent chance to witness the equipment and techniques used by commercial fishermen while at sea.
Tour Coast Guard Vessels
Wright’s Wharf
Visitors of all ages can step aboard the U.S. Coast Guard vessel to learn more about the important work that the Coast Guard does to protect our waters and stay safe while on the ocean. Families can have fun learning together!
The Northern New England sector of the Coast Guard’s area of responsibility covers over 5,000 miles of coastline and 11,000 square nautical miles of water, executing operational missions from Maine, New Hampshire, and Northeastern New York. Come aboard to see firsthand how the Coast Guard carries out their vital mission.
Learn All About Seafood
Along the walk, there are many opportunities to learn more about our local marine industry and sample seafood products, purchase snacks, and stay hydrated with cold water available at the Eimskip water station. Don’t miss Portland’s iconic Harbor Fish Market on Custom House Wharf! Dating back to the 1800s, Harbor Fish Market is a Portland waterfront landmark and the perfect authentic fish market experience with a large variety of fish and other seafood, much of which is caught or farmed in the Gulf of Maine.
Nearby, the Gulf of Maine Research Institute is opening its doors and outdoor lawn and inviting folks to interact with their experts on aquaculture, sea level rise, seafood quality analysis and more! Visitors can participate in a virtual trap sorting exercise in their renowned Cohen Center for Interactive Learning and experience an oyster-filled touch tank. There is something for everyone.
Inform the Future
Find posted signs along Commercial Street inviting you to share your pictures and observations on the weather, water level, and impact concerns associated with localized coastal flooding. As part of GMRI’s Coastal Flooding Community Science Project, this data will inform and prioritize future decisions to support coastal community resilience planning. Help your community gather data around high tides and storms, anytime, all year long!
Participating Businesses
Curious to see which businesses and organizations are participating in this year’s events? Check out the list below:
… and more!
Find the full list available online.
Walk the Working Waterfront is open to everyone and free to attend. There are scheduled elements that may require purchase of tickets or pre-registration. This is a rain or shine event.