Vessel activity across Puget Sound slowed this week, even as passenger arrivals continued to climb. While market shifts and global tariffs cast a long shadow, our team is focused on delivering new tools, building momentum for key events, and celebrating the maritime moments that bring our community together.
Vessel Arrivals: Dips Across Most Sectors
Vessel arrivals fell 11% this week (65 → 58 vessels), led by steep drops in:
- Container traffic: down 31%
- Vehicle Carrier traffic: down 29%
Passenger traffic increased by 17% (12 → 14 vessels) as cruise season continues
Berth arrivals dropped 15% (71 → 60), with sharp declines at:
- March Point: down 42%
- Port Angeles: 0 arrivals (down from 2)
- Everett and Aberdeen: each down 2 → 1
Bright spot: Cherry Point climbed +50%
Operational & Tech Updates
AIS Network: Ellis tower is currently receiving repairs.
New Port Directory: We’re working to launching an online Port Directory, set to replace the discontinued Port Handbook. Expect a preview at our Annual Member Meeting in September.
Upcoming Events
Annual Member Meeting
September 11, 2025, Ballard Elks Lodge, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Join us for updates on vessel trends, AIS infrastructure, policy priorities, and a look at what’s ahead in 2026. Lunch is included, parking is free, and we’ll be honoring Rep. Julia Reed with our first-ever Legislator of the Year Award. A private Q&A will follow the program. Learn more and RSVP now.
National Harbor Safety Conference
March 24–25, 2026, Bell Harbor Conference Center, Seattle
The Puget Sound Harbor Safety Committee is proud to host the 2026 National Harbor Safety Conference, with administration by the Marine Exchange. We’ll be welcoming hundreds of industry leaders from across North America for two days of panels, keynotes, networking, and local maritime insight. Learn more & sign up to receive updates.
Sponsorship opportunities available — prospectus coming this week. Contact us if you are interested.
Tariff Watch
The Trump administration announced sweeping new tariffs that could sharply impact Pacific Northwest trade:
- 35% tariffs on most Canadian goods, effective August 1.
- 50% tariffs on copper, also starting August 1, under a Section 232 national security claim. Copper is the world’s most important industrial metal.
- Tariff letters sent to several countries (including Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Philippines), warning of 20–50% duties. Some tariffs were reduced.
- Tariffs on European Union goods are expected soon; details pending as negotiations continue.
With cargo demand already vulnerable, these moves may strain pricing, volume, and long-range booking decisions for regional shippers and terminals.
Community Highlight: The Eagle In Seattle
This week, we welcomed the USCGC Eagle — known as “America’s Tall Ship” — to Puget Sound. A floating symbol of maritime tradition and Coast Guard training, the Eagle welcomed the public for tours and brough some much needed joy to the maritime community.
I had the opportunity to board her during docking, and it was a powerful reminder of what makes this industry so inspiring. Thank you to Captain and crew for hosting us and opening up your ship to passengers. Wishing everyone aboard the EAGLE a safe voyage home after completing their port calls in Canada.
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