Newport Boat Show General Info.

[Bob4203]

My wife's folks live in Providence, RI so we thought we would head up from Atlanta, GA and go to the Newport Boat Show this September. Having never visited this show before I am seeking general information about the show set up. I have been to Newport several times and have to wonder just where they set it up and control access, especially if it takes over the wharf area. We figured the best time to attend would be on friday (13th) to help avoid the big weekend crowds. Does it pay to park away and take the water taxi in? Anything about the show that is a "must see" as a sailor?

Thanks

Bob
Catalina 30
Lake Lanier, GA

 

[Scott T-Bird]

Sue and I are going again this year since we had a good time last year, and we will spend a little more time in the area. The Friday show was pretty crowded last year. Parking seems to be far more problematic if you think you want to look for a space nearby ... more difficult even than Annapolis. We parked at a beach parking lot that was set up for the show with busses into town. At night, we found parking in the residential streets, but with fairly long walks (uphill on the way out after dinner and drinks) back to the car. If there is a water taxi that works for you, use it. The show pretty much sprawls across the wharfs ... access is simply controlled with fencing. It isn't much different than Annapolis in that regard.

I think you will have to scout-out any must see activities or sights on your own based on your own tastes. There are too many pubs and restaurants to mention. I am definitely going to sign up for a sail on one of the 12-metres that are set up for tourists. Sue loved the Cliff Walk but we limited our time for that last year, so we are going to do more of it this year. We are also going to bring our bikes. We plan to spend a few days doing some recreational activities. One day of the show is plenty for us so we will do that on Friday.

 

[Bob4203]

Thanks Scott.

We have been to Newport many times and will save the tourist stuff for another time. I was more concerned about wharf access and the huge sprawl. We were at the America's Cup races last year in Newport when the Cup boats were doing the racing circuit for demo, which was a sight to see. They ran a water taxi from the Fort over to town so we will check that out again.

Should be one hell of a show and were looking very forward to it.

Bob