Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival 2026

*Additional ticket purchase required for this paid workshop. Purchase workshop tickets here


How well do you really know your engine?
For most boat owners, diesel engines are essential—but often a bit of a mystery. And when something goes wrong, that uncertainty can turn into stress quickly.
Nigel Calder has spent decades helping boaters change that.
In this workshop, Nigel starts with core maintenance tasks every boat owner can (and should) understand and be able to perform. From routine care to knowing what not to attempt, you’ll gain a clear, practical understanding of the systems that keep your engine running reliably.
This is about building confidence. The kind that comes from knowing what you’re looking at, what matters, and how to take care of it properly.
Whether you’re new to diesel engines or looking to deepen your understanding, this is foundational knowledge you’ll use again and again.
This workshop is the first of two complementary diesel sessions on Thursday. Each can be taken independently, but together they provide a deeper understanding of diesel engines.

*Additional ticket purchase required for this paid workshop. Purchase workshop tickets here


When your engine fails—especially far from help—what do you do?
For many boaters, the answer is uncertainty. For those with the right knowledge, it’s often: figure it out and get moving again.
Nigel Calder has spent decades helping boat owners do exactly that.
In this workshop, Nigel breaks down how diesel engines work—and how to diagnose the most common problems you’re likely to encounter. From overheating and loss of power to strange vibrations, smoke, or an engine that simply won’t start, you’ll learn how to identify what’s going wrong and what to do about it.
You don’t need to be a mechanic. With a clear understanding of core systems and a few practical techniques—including simple multimeter tests—you can troubleshoot most issues you’ll face on the water.
Over the years, Nigel has heard from countless sailors who were able to get themselves back up and running in remote places thanks to this knowledge.
This workshop is designed to give you that same confidence.
Whether you’re preparing for extended cruising or simply want to better understand your boat, this is practical knowledge you can carry with you—wherever you go.
This workshop is the second of two complementary diesel sessions on Thursday. Each can be taken independently, but together they provide a deeper understanding of diesel engines.