Remote-Controlled Boats and Ships Take Over North Oregon Coast Musuem in June

Published 06/01/26 at 5:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Astoria, Oregon) - Remember those days of goofing around and twiddling little remote control toys, like cars – or maybe boats, if you were lucky?

They are back at one north Oregon coast history hotspot: and in full form.

Remote-controlled boats and ships will return to the Columbia River Maritime Museum campus on June 27 as the museum and the Portland Model Power Boat Association host the second annual Boats at the Barbey event.

The program runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Warnock Commons and the Model Boat Pond, where powered model vessels will navigate a course throughout the afternoon. Visitors to this part of the Oregon coast will also have limited opportunities for hands-on operating time.

More action is inside. Within the Barbey Maritime Center itself, builders will display their models and talk with guests about construction techniques and how to get started in the hobby. The Sam Johnson Woodworking Shop will be open for demonstrations, and crafts and activities will be available for all ages. From 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., participants can pilot the museum’s Springer Tugboat Fleet through a designated course.

Club members will bring a wide range of models, from military ships to pleasure craft.

“These models range from kits to scratch builds and many of them will navigate the pond throughout the day,” said the museum. Featured vessels include the Titanic, USS Arizona, Criss Craft, Delta Marine designs, U.S. Coast Guard 44- and 47-footers, and multiple Springer Tugs.

The Portland Model Power Boat Association, which typically hosts floats in the Tualatin and Tigard area, is working to expand community involvement and attract new members. The group’s full schedule is available at portlandmodelpowerboatassociation.org.

The event will be held at 2042 Marine Drive in Astoria. Contact information for organizers includes Education Director Katy Menne at the Columbia River Maritime Museum (503-741-7056) and the museum’s main line at 503-325-2323.

Also:Astoria Column Will Celebrate 100 Years of Being an Oregon Coast Icon in July

Centennial events planned for 2026 will highlight the Astoria Column’s legacy and invite new audiences to engage with Astoria’s past. A multicultural community celebration will feature entertainment, food, arts and crafts, and local heritage groups. A rededication ceremony will also take place at the base of the Column, with additional events scheduled throughout the year.

Look for the massive party in July.

Centennial Celebration - July 18th. 11 am - 4 pm.

Astoria Column Rededication - July 18th. 2 pm

Hotels in Astoria - Where to eat - Astoria Maps and Virtual Tours

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