Newport Exhibition Group, owners and producers of the Newport International Boat Show, announced the activities and amenities for those planning to attend its expanded 48th annual Show Sept. 13-16.
Set along Newport Harbor, the show will include dozens of manufacturers debuting for the first time in the United States.
The show’s 2018 charitable partner, U.S. Power Squadrons – America’s Boating Club, will lend its expertise in marine education by offering free seminars on weather and boating technology.
The organization, which is known for its courses that enhance a boater’s knowledge and skills while emphasizing fun on the water, will offer five free, hour-long seminars several times each day. Seminars are located at the Newport Blues Café, across the street from the boat show entrance. Click here for course schedule and registration.
Confident Captain’s At The Helm program will provide hands-on training courses for new boaters or those wanting to improve their skills and confidence level. Several sail and powerboat courses are available throughout the weekend.
Visitors can embark on a sailing excursion aboard the educational 200-foot Tall Ship SSV Oliver Hazard Perry from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on all show days, organizers said in a statement.
The ship, docked at Fort Adams State Park, will offer deck tours on Sept. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The show’s annual Newport for New Products Awards Program will feature a line-up of new boats and products making their U.S. or world premiere. Products will feature the NFNP decal and burgees for easy identification.
Thursday visitors will have the opportunity to cast their vote online for the NFNP People’s Choice Award. One voter will be selected at random to win a $250 American Express Gift Card. Overall NFNP winners will be announced on Friday morning in the categories of: best new sailboat, powerboat and best new products for navigation and safety. The Edson Star Award, also announced on Friday morning, will honor exhibitors with the best displays.
The Newport Brokerage Boat Show, held concurrently with the Newport International Boat Show, will feature more than 100 vessels from 60 to 185 feet this year. Continuous water shuttle service connects the shows by water.
Jerome Rand will tell his “Sailing into Oblivion” story on Sept. 15 — his 271-day, single-handed voyage around the world on his 32 foot Westsail, Mighty Sparrow. Rand is a Michigan native and Bitter End Yacht Club’s watersports director. His presentation is free to show attendees. Rand will also be available for a daily meet and greet and rum tasting at the Bitter End Rambler from 5-6 p.m. on The Bohlin Patio.
On-site concessions have been relocated to North Commercial Wharf near the Show office. Food options include Boss Man Burgers & Fries, The Newport Lobster Shack and The Pizza Gourmet. In addition, Flat Waves Food Shack will be serving up tacos and acai bowls on The Bohlin Patio.
The show will offer face painting, singing and balloon art from Sailor Donna during the weekend.
