West Marine Closing Port Townsend Location
As part of the national bankruptcy, the Port Townsend marine community will feel its loss.
PORT TOWNSEND, WA — The boating community in Port Townsend is losing a primary source for recreational marine supplies. West Marine’s store at 2428 Washington Street is officially on the list of 59 locations slated for closure as part of the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring.
The closures, confirmed in court documents filed June 1 with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, represent roughly one in four of the retailer’s locations. Washington state is losing five stores, including the Port Townsend branch, as well as locations in Bellingham, Bremerton, Everett and Spokane.
For local boaters, the loss leaves a significant gap in the market. The Port Townsend West Marine was a reliable source for emergency repairs and specific parts, though it had received mixed reviews in recent years. Some customers noted that while the staff was friendly and the location was convenient, prices were often higher than online alternatives, and stock availability could be inconsistent.
What remains for local boaters
With the West Marine closure imminent, Port Townsend still has a few niche options for maritime needs, though none offer the full-service inventory of the major marine retailer.
Admiral Ship Supply: Located at 305 10th Street in the heart of the Port Townsend Shipyard, this is perhaps the most direct local alternative. Advertising that they provide "almost everything a boater needs to refurbish their boat," Admiral Ship Supply has been in business since 1992. They stock a significant amount of Fisheries Supply merchandise, acting as a local distributor for the Seattle-based giant.
Marine Thrift (NWMC Boatyard): Located in the boatyard, this thrift store is a treasure hunt. While hours are limited and stock is inconsistent by nature, it is a favorite for finding new or gently used items at a fraction of the retail cost.
A major alternative in Seattle
For serious marine projects or specific parts not found locally, Fisheries Supply in Seattle remains the regional heavyweight. Located at 1900 N. Northlake Way, this family-owned business has operated since 1928 and is considered a true competitor to West Marine. They maintain a massive 36,000-square-foot warehouse with over 100,000 products in stock and offer a robust online store with worldwide shipping.
The future of West Marine
While the Port Townsend closure is a done deal, the company warns that more closures could be on the horizon. The consulting agreement with Hilco Merchant Resources was written assuming 95 stores might close in total, suggesting a second list of closures is possible. Liquidation sales are expected to run through late September of this year.
