The Past
In September 2001, Peter and Jan Whiting were sailing home from Chatterbox Falls in Desolation Sound aboard their 46' sailboat, Integrity, when a cold, stormy day inspired them to consider another way to cruise. Shivering in the cockpit, Peter imagined a new reality—standing at the helm of a warm pilothouse trawler, slippers on, coffee in hand. A lifelong sailor, the thought of switching to power felt like betrayal. But the idea stuck.
That moment sparked a shift that would become both a personal and professional turning point. Already active in yacht brokerage and charter, the Whitings began exploring trawlers—not just for themselves, but as a potential new line to represent. While researching builders, they came across a Chinese shipyard looking for U.S. dealers. A few weeks later, they were in Shekou, China, signing a dealer agreement and ordering their first trawler.
Not long after, engineer Jon Allsop joined the team, bringing deep design knowledge and innovative systems thinking. During a visit to the shipyard, he and Peter spotted a hull mold with potential. Over coffee at the Nan Hai Hotel, they sketched what became the Integrity 496, a 52' raised pilothouse trawler. With the help of yacht designer John Anderson, their napkin sketch became a real design—and eventually, seven boats.
When the shipyard was sold, the Whitings decided to bring production stateside. Partnering with a local Anacortes manufacturer, they launched their first U.S.-built model in 2007. Two years later, the Northwest 50 debuted at Trawler Fest, where it won “People’s Choice” among more than 60 boats.
Naval architect Steve Seaton joined in 2008 to help refine the product and shape the next generation of trawlers. As the market shifted toward larger expedition yachts, the team evolved again, using a flexible model that allowed them to design in-house and build through select global shipyards.
Drawing on thousands of miles aboard their own boats and years of customer feedback, the Whitings adopted the “3 R” design philosophy: the right hull form, made from the right material, for the right application. For coastal cruising, that meant FRP hulls reinforced with Kevlar. For ocean passages, steel remained the safest option.
Today, Northwest Yachts continues to design and build high-quality, long-range cruisers in partnership with trusted China shipyards—each selected for their ability to deliver exceptional craftsmanship and value. What began as a cold daydream in Desolation Sound became a bold reinvention—and a life’s work.
Fast Forward
Designed For Your Life - Built For Adventure.
In recent years, amid economic challenges, Peter and Jan Whiting have often been asked why they continue in the yacht business. Their answer is simple: “Because we love it.” That passion—present from the very beginning—continues to drive everything they do.
For the Whitings, the greatest satisfaction comes from collaborating with clients to build truly special boats. Each project is treated as a unique work of nautical art, not just another order. Many of their yachts are still owned by the original buyers, a testament to both the quality of the build and the lasting relationships they’ve formed. Hearing stories from those owners—about adventures, compliments received, and the joy of cruising—continues to fuel their love for the work.
The team around them shares that same commitment. Naval architect Steve Seaton remains an invaluable partner, known for turning big ideas into beautiful, functional designs. Linn Jennings, Director of Manufacturing Operations, brings expert-level oversight to every build. Larry Clark manages quality control at shipyards in Asia, while Martin Snyder leads Northwest Yachts' brand development as part of Seattle Yachts.
As of fall 2024, the company is actively building the Northwest 55 and offers models ranging from 52 to 58 feet. For Peter and Jan, the mission is clear: as long as there are people seeking something exceptional—yachts that break from the norm and reflect the highest standards—they’ll be there to build them.
