Old ships found no longer useful for sea travel often become time&rsquo;s causalities, but occasionally one finds a new life, as is the case for the Widgeon II.
Its new role as a cooking school at Tutka Bay offers a renewed life for the World War II troop carrier that also served many years as a crabber. The school is operated by the renowned chef and lodge owner, Kirsten Dixon, whose name many might recall on her cook books filled with both stories and recipes inspired through the hospitality of operating lodges for more than 25 years. Located on a lagoon across from Tutka Bay Lodge, the boat was moored to shore during a high tide by the previous owner, who then built a two-story wooden structure onto the deck. With some added renovations by the new owners, Carl and Kirsten Dixon, the Widgeon II is now a rustic outpost adapted for cooking classes, large enough for 12 guests per day, and special events. 