sailboat rides in newport rhode island

Come Along and Sail Awa y

Private sailing charters | newport, ri, 401.236.5005, sailing in newport - an experience you'll never forget.

It's Almost

The warm weather is right around the corner! We will be officially sailing on April 1st!  Book your sail early to guarantee your preferred date.

We can't wait to have you aboard.

Embark on an exclusive maritime adventure ... Reserve a private yacht charter with McCurdy Sailing in the enchanting setting of Newport, Rhode Island. Unwind and savor the experience as you set sail aboar d our 36' sloop , ' Hurrah '. Let our licensed, seasoned, and exceptionally knowledgeable Captain guide you through a captivating sailing tour of the east passage of Narragansett Bay, where a tapestry of historically significant and breathtaking landmarks aw aits.

Marvel at the former Kennedy estate, Hammersmith Farm , Clingstone , and the iconic Rose Island Lighthouse , each steeped in its own unique history. Whether you choose to take the helm or simply relish the journey, your voyage will weave through Newport Harbor, renowned as the sailing capital of the world. Witness the majestic beauty of numerous sailboats, mega yachts, distinctive racing vessels, and historic America's Cup sailboats dotting the shimmering waters.

'Hurrah' offers comfortable seating for up to 6 adults in the cockpit, complete with a bimini and dodger for those seeking shade. For the ultimate thrill, venture to the bow and immerse yourself in the invigorating salt air and spray. Enhance your experience by bringing along a picnic lunch, champagne, or any refreshments of your choice.

Let McCurdy Sailing curate a memorable and personalized journey where the allure of Narragansett Bay's landmarks meets the luxury of a private yacht charter in the heart of Newport's maritime splendor.

Downtown Pickup Location - Step Right on from the dock. Our pickup location is now right in Downtown Newport  at Perrotti Park !  Meet your Captain right at the Harbor Shuttle & Ferry Landing Gazebo.  Easy parking at the  Visitor's Center or simply walk right from town!  A hop, skip & a jump from the   Marriott and Brenton Hotels.    Step right on the boat from the dock for easy, quick access.

2024 calendar now available.

Pick Up Here

Reserve Now. Sail Later.

B ook earl y to guarantee your preferred date and time.  

What People Are Saying

NANCY BREEN

This was the first time I did a private charter instead of a group sail on a larger boat. I do not think I will ever go back to buying tickets for a group sail.

RONALD WATANABE

We had such a wonderful time on this 2-hour sail with Captain Dave! It was the highlight of our trip to Newport! We highly recommend it!

PETE & JESS

Absolutely the best experience. Dave was hands down the most amazing captain and made the entire experience so memorable. Do yourself a favor and book a ride with McCurdy's.

Sailing Charters For All Occasions

bachelor/bachelorette Sail The best place to celebrate this momentous occasion is together with friends on the water! 

DAY Sail We will sail to the mouth of the East Passage of Narragansett Bay and venture into Mackerel Cove

Team Building  

Corporate sailing is one of the best team building exercises you will ever engage in.

Similar to a corporate environment, when sailing, teammates need to constantly adapt to face-paced change.  Perfect for small teams to hone their communication skills!

Call us for pricing and additional information.

Engagement/Wedding Sail Choose the wind, sea and sun to propose to the love of your life.  Get married aboard our Sailboat, Hurrah by our ordained Captain.  Head to a romantic cove or stay in Newport Harbor for your ceremony. 

Sunset Sail Let the heat of the day drain away, all while enjoying the cool evening breeze on Narragansett Bay.

Sail of Remembrance

Celebrate the life of your loved one. An intimate ceremony is performed onboard.

"To reach a port we must sail, sometimes with the wind, and sometimes against it. But we must not drift or lie at anchor." OLIVER WENDALL HOMES, SR.  

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Private Charters

Up to 6 guests, sailing in newport since 2011, sail lyra or wren starting april 19, 2024, book before 04/18/24 for any scheduled sail and save $25 enter code pre24, media & reviews.

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Round out your stay, world-class sailing in newport, sightseeing and history.

Sailing in Newport Rhode Island’s waters is world-class and is a wonderful way to experience this beautiful and historic area. Aboard one of our two boats, you can enjoy one of our custom private day sail charters. Tour Newport Harbor, with its classic and mega-yachts and picturesque surroundings before venturing onto Narragansett Bay. Cruise along rocky shorelines, see charming lighthouses, take in the impressive mansions, and more… Splash your feet, sail the boat or relax with your group over a tasty beverage.

Our two sailboats are icons of the Newport Sailing fleet and of Narragansett Bay. Lyra is our 44-foot Reliance sailboat and Wren is our 35-foot Allied Seabreeze. With a capacity of up to 6 guests each, both boats sail on daily charters from Newport RI, beginning mid-April through the end of October. We offer private 90-minute, two-hour, three-hour, half and full-day sailing charters. From tours and advanced sailing instruction to proposals or a romantic evening on the the water, experience for yourself why Newport is the sailing capital of the Americas. On Watch Sailing is proudly a Newport RI “Traveler’s Choice” on Trip Advisor and is highly rated on Google. Take a peek below and check out our original reviews by following the links.

Captain Green

Our 2.0 hour early afternoon charter of the Lyra with Green met every expectation in terms of seamanship and engagement…

On Watch Sailing

Definitely book

Definitly book your sailing experience with this company. Don’t even hesitate. We booked day of for an afternoon 1.5 hr sail…

Captain Sam

5-star experience!

Fantastic sail with Captain Sam at On Watch Sailing! They came recommended as the best place to charter a private sail in Newport, and did not disappoint…

Fantastic day

Captain Green was the perfect guide, story teller and seaman… Very knowledgeable of the area, historic vessels on the water, local culture and personalities…

Repeat Guests

Our 4th trip

Our 4th trip with Captain Green and his 1st mate Simon on Lyra. My wife and I had a wonderful time making more memories together and this time we have a video done by Captain Green…

Sailing on Wren

Sailing on Wren was the best part of our week long trip to Newport. Captain Sam was so accommodating with our requests as well as an amazing sailor. We were even able to watch the Ocean One race…

EXPLORE RHODE ISLAND FOR THE DAY

PRIVATE BOAT CHARTERS

Cruise newport.

Generations Charters offers unique private charters in and around Newport that let you decide on how you want to spend your day out on the water with spectacular views. Take a tour of the historic Newport mansions or explore the unique coastline of Aquidneck Island lighthouse cruise. You tell us what your perfect day out on the water would be, and we’ll make it special. Don’t forget we do specialize in Sunset Cruises ! Are you here on vacation and would love a sunset cruise around Newport RI? We can make that happen. Hit that Book now button or give us a call directly even if you are hanging out at a Newport beach !

Generations Charters offers unique private charters in and around Newport that let you decide on how you want to spend your day out on the water with spectacular views. Take a tour of the historic Newport mansions or explore the unique coastline of Aquidneck Island lighthouse cruise. You tell us what your perfect day out on the water would be, and we’ll make it special. Don’t forget we do specialize in Sunset Cruises ! Are you here on vacation and would love a sunset cruise around Newport RI? We can make that happen. Hit that Book now button or give us a call directly even if you are hanging out at a Newport beach!

DESTINATION PACKAGES

Choosing your own destination or on-the-water experience is one of the many perks when chartering your own private charter . Check out Newport Harbor and Jamestown, moor up and go for a swim at Third Beach, or enjoy a historic mansion tour from the water. Take a look at our package tours. We would love to have you enjoy one of our champagne sunset sails. If you are on a Newport Vacation connect with us to get you on a sunset sail. Are you looking for a corporate outings? Hop aboard one of our charters. Newport RI is the Sailing Capital of the world! Contact us to book

Choosing your own destination or on-the-water experience is one of the many perks when chartering your own private charter. Check out Newport Harbor and Jamestown, moor up and go for a swim at Third Beach, or enjoy a historic mansion tour from the water. Take a look at our package tours. We would love to have you enjoy one of our champagne sunset sails. If you are on a Newport Vacation connect with us to get you on a sunset sail. Are you looking for a corporate outings? Hop aboard one of our charters. Newport RI is the Sailing Capital of the world!

Castle Hill Lighthouse

Downtown Newport From the Water

Newport Mansions & Cliff Walk

OUR VESSELS

“Cool Change” and “Change Up”, center console regulators known for their legendary smooth ride, are available for 2 hour, half-day and full-day charters. Cruise the harbor or blast off to a private beach in complete comfort. Our forward seating is perfect for catching some rays, socializing with cocktails, and coastal sightseeing on a private cruise. Private sailing charters is our business. Come experience a once in a lifetime sailing experience with Cruise Newport on the Narragansett bay!

“Cool Change” and “Change Up”, center console regulators known for their legendary smooth ride, are available for 2 hour, half-day and full-day charters. Cruise the Narragansett Bay or blast off to a private beach in complete comfort. Our forward seating is perfect for catching some rays, socializing with cocktails, and coastal sightseeing on a private cruise. Private sailing charters is our business. Come experience a once in a lifetime sailing experience with Cruise Newport!

Sunset Cruise Newport RI

Are you currently here on vacation or just want to enjoy the Newport ocean? Why not book your next private charter and watch the sunset ? Give us a call today to book your next outing on the waters!

FOLLOW US @cruisenewportri

Browse by Boat

• Schooner Adirondack II (4)
• Schooner Madeleine (3)
• Sloop Eleanor (3)
• Yacht Rum Runner (2)

Browse by Theme

• Cocktail Sailing (3)
• Day Sailing (5)
• Morning Mimosa Sailing (3)
• Motor Yacht Boat Tours (2)
• Romantic Sails (3)
• Sailing (6)
• Sightseeing Boat Tours (8)
• Special Events (2)
• Sunset Sail (3)

Day Sailing

Buy Tickets Now   Call to order 401-847-0000

Join us for some Newport Day Sailing! Newport, RI, is known as the “Sailing Capital of the World”. What better way to experience this than to sail aboard a classic boat through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. Take to the water to do your sightseeing cruise and sail through the afternoon. Step aboard the Schooner Adirondack II, Schooner Madeleine  or the Sloop Eleanor for an exhilarating Newport day sail to soak in the sun and sip on Champagne. The Schooner Adirondack II and Madeleine are classic sailing boats, and provide a comfortable, safe, high-performance sailing experience. With their roomy deck space and large cockpits, Adirondack II & Madeleine can accommodate up to 49 to 57 passengers. Their size, comfort and classic lines make these the perfect boats for leisurely day sails on Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. Sloop Eleanor is certified for 24 passengers which creates an intimate sailing experience for your sightseeing cruise. Whichever boat you are on, you are sure to experience sailing in a way like never before. So grab your hats and join us for some Newport Day Sailing! 

Lighthouse and Coastal Tour

This is the best Newport sightseeing boat tour in town! Join us for a 75-minute narrated tour aboard our motor yacht the Rum Runner II. Rum Runner II is a classic motor yacht similar to the rum running boats of the 1920’s. She is a beautiful boat that will help you explore Newport’s coastal waterfront. Sit back and enjoy as our knowledgeable and informative crew provide narration about scenic estates, the Castle Hill Lighthouse, naval history, as well as Newport’s rich and famous! One of the best things to do in town is this Newport sightseeing boat tour as it is a top rated tour by many! Don’t hesitate to bring an extra layer because weather conditions can change rapidly and temperatures are lower on the water than on shore. Sunscreen and a hat are suggested when sitting on deck. Don’t forget to bring a camera! If you want to be guaranteed a seat on board, please reserve ahead – particularly on weekends. Enjoy a beverage on board after purchasing tickets at our booth before your trip. This cruise is not BYOB.

Classic Afternoon Sail on Schooner Adirondack II

Join us for a Newport Day Sail aboard the classic schooner Adirondack II. Our classic afternoon sails are the perfect way to see the sights of Rhode Island. Experience Newport like you never have on a sail aboard one of our classic sailing yachts. A smooth, gentle sailing Schooner with some speediness to boot, offers a comfortable ride that is brisk and invigorating. Within minutes of leaving the dock, you’ll forget the distractions of life on land, as you experience the joy of a leisurely sailing cruise.  (Alcoholic drinks range from $6-$7) 

Morning Mimosa Sail aboard Schooner Adirondack II

Join us for a Newport Morning Mimosa Sail aboard the Schooner Adirondack II! Rise and shine, you’re in Newport, RI. Start your day with a brisk, invigorating sail aboard one of our classic sailing yachts! Feel free to bring a brunch on this early day sail – our crew completes your experience with perfectly poured Mimosas! Your first Mimosa is available for $3! Mimosa Morning Sails are the perfect way to see the sights of Rhode Island before hitting the beach or the many shops of Thames Street. 

Morning Mimosa Cruise aboard Schooner Madeleine

Rise and shine you are in Newport RI and this is the best way to start your day! Join us for a Newport Morning Mimosa cruise aboard the Schooner Madeleine!  This morning cruise is a brisk, invigorating sail aboard our most elegant classic sailing yachts! This Newport morning mimosa cruise is perfect for a group of friends to get out on the water together.  Take in all the sights this waterfront has to offer and create a lasting memory. We encourage you to bring your own brunch on this early day cruise.  Our crew completes your experience with perfectly poured Mimosas! Your first Mimosa is available for $3! Mimosa Morning Sails are one of the best things to do in Newport RI to start your day off before you hit the beach or the many shops of Thames Street. 

Classic Afternoon Sail on Schooner Madeleine

Join us for a Newport afternoon day sail aboard the classic schooner Madeleine. Our classic afternoon sails are the perfect way to see the sights of Rhode Island. Experience Newport like you never have on a sail aboard one of our classic sailing yachts. A smooth, gentle sailing Schooner with some speediness to boot, offers a comfortable ride that is brisk and invigorating. Within minutes of leaving the dock, you’ll forget the distractions of life on land, as you experience the joy of a leisurely sailing cruise.  This is truly one of the best things to do in Newport RI while you are visiting town.  Enjoy the sunshine and let our professional and hospitable crew cater to you! Whether you are in town for the day or all week long, make sure to grab tickets for this epic sailing experience in Narragansett Bay. This Newport afternoon day sail is an experience that is sure to last a lifetime. (Alcoholic drinks range from $6-$7) 

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST

See our calendar of events, private yacht charters.

Sail out into Newport Harbor and impress your guests. Step aboard the legendary Schooner Adirondack II or Sloop Eleanor for a private charter. These yachts are perfect for Corporate outings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, and more. Read more »

PUBLIC EVENTS

Sail out into NY Harbor and impress your guests. Step aboard one of our classic vessels for a private charter. These yachts are perfect for Corporate outings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Weddings, Team Building and more. Read more »

• Private Yacht Charters
• Ticketed Cruises
• Schooner Adirondack II
• Sloop Eleanor
• Press/Video
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• Contact / Directions
• Our Newport Location
• All Locations
• Information/Rates
• Terms and Conditions
• Private Sunset Sails
• Bachelorette and Bachelor Parties
• Press Contact Form
• Live Dock Cam
• Private Charters: 401-318-9728
• Tickets: 401-847-0000

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Newport Sailing

School & tours.

Newport's Finest Since 1971

Call or Email

(401) 848-2266, [email protected].

Experience Newport the way it should be seen: Under Sail

Join us for a Sailing Tour of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay,  and view all the famous points of interest. We at Newport Sailing would like to introduce you to the very finest in Sailing Tours and Instruction. For over 50 years, we have introduced to thousands of people the thrill of “pure” sailing in Newport, Rhode Island, the “Sailing Capital of the World”! Enjoy delightful narrated Sailing Tour, Team Building Event, Custom Sailing Experience or Learn to Sail.

What Makes Us Special

 As a local family owned company since 1965, we pride ourselves in the personal feel of our tours and instructions and love sharing the beauty of Newport and the thrill of sailing with everyone who sets sail with our crew.

Experienced Local Crew

For over 50+ years, Newport Sailing School and Tours has been providing the finest sailing instruction and tours 

ASA Certified

We are proud to be Certified by the American Sailing Association, and to offer ASA keelboat instruction courses.

Unforgettable Scenery

Discover spectacular Newport Harbor, Castle Hill, Jamestown, Hammersmith Farm, Clingstone, and breathtaking sunsets.

What Our Customers Say:

"We had an amazing time sailing the sunset with our captain, Mike. He was a very experienced sailor and a knowledgeable person about the area...Definitely a must do when in the area!

Newport Sailing School is a great place to learn to sail or see the harbor. Mike took excellent care of our son’s safety and ensured he had the knowledge to become certified. An amazing experience!

My family of five had a great private sail today. Mike was friendly and expert. We learned a lot about sailing and about Newport history and landmarks... Highly recommend Mike and Newport Sailing.

Welcome Aboard

Sailing Cruises Departing every 90 minutes from beautiful Goat Island Marina in downtown Newport, RI, next to Newport Harbor Island Resort.

Free parking at our kiosk located at Dock A5, Goat Island Marina, 5 Marina Plaza, Newport, RI 02840.

5 Marina Plaza, Goat Island Marina, Dock A5, Newport, RI 02840

Free Parking is available here at our Kiosk.

Contact Our Crew

[email protected] | 4 01-848-2266

Newport Harbor Tour

2024 Cruise Tickets On Sale Now

Gift Certificates

Choose From our Boat Tour Options

Experience the America’s Cup

Sail aboard a 12-Meter class yacht

Private Cruises Aboard Camelot

An Intimate Luxury Experience

Gansett Cruises

Cruise with quality.

Gansett Cruises offers 60-75 minute narrated harbor tours, sunset cruises and customizable private charters on Narragansett Bay. Cruise in comfort as you enjoy a scenic tour of Newport and Jamestown on our classic motor yacht. Complimentary Rhode Island specialty and cash bar with a selection of wine, beer, and signature cocktails. This summer Gansett Cruises is celebrating nearly two decades on the water!

Newport's Best Harbor Cruise

Gansett Cruises breaks away from the typical rushed harbor boat tour to offer a quiet, relaxing, and delightful cruise of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay’s East Passage. Our guides are enthused to share their homeport’s legends and rich history.

Event Packages & Group Charters

Gansett is available for private charters for weddings, corporate outings, motor coach groups, cruise ship groups, and special events. Call or email for details.

Located on Bowen's Wharf

We are located in the heart of downtown Newport, Rhode Island, just steps from many dining and shopping options. Gansett departs for harbor cruises daily (weather permitting) May thru October from the historic Bowen’s Wharf ferry landing. Join us!

Trip Advisor Reviews

Don’t just take our word for it.

The best tour of our 18-day New England tour. An awesome trip with a very professional team giving out a very funny and fact-filled voice commentary.

October, 2023

From the Galley

“a taste of rhode island”.

Every Gansett cruise offers select refreshments with a unique Rhode Island flair, including Del’s Frozen Lemonade and Stuffed Quahogs or breaded local clams called “Stuffies”. Gansett also features a cash bar serving a selection of locally brewed beers, regional wines, signature cocktails and RI based Yacht Club Soda. In addition, seasonal offerings such as hot cider, hot cocoa and seasonal beer may be available. Ask your crew about today’s specials!

Morning Cruise

— includes complimentary —

Afternoon Cruise

Del’s Frozen Lemonade

Evening Cruise

Drink ticket.

Beer, wine, cocktail, or mocktail

All Cruises & Tours

— amenities —

Beer, wine, and soft drinks

Stuffed Quahog Clams

ITS TIME FOR YOU

TO RELAX & ENJOY THE VIEW

Check out our america’s cup 12 meters.

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Hotels with Pools

Hotels on the Water

Unique places to stay, james beard semi finalists, must-try lobster rolls, top spots for vegan food, spring break in newport, all things spring, march must-do's, best of 2024, top spring events, on-going gallery exhibits, guide to parking, first timer's guide, top 12 things to do.

newport harbor tours

From their days as a commercial whaling port to playing a critical role during the China trade to Newport’s historic position as a leading Colonial Era sea port, our harbors have many tales to tell. In Newport, experience a tour on a sleek America’s Cup yacht, on an  authentic lobster boat , a Prohibition Era hooch smuggler, schooners, cruising yachts,  sailboats  and more.

JUMP TO HARBOR TOUR LISTINGS

• Spring on The Coast
• Ocean Drive
• Free Things To Do
• Beaches, Sailing + Water Sports
• Farms + Orchards
• Arts + Museums
• Featured Attractions
• Top 10 Things To Do
• Outdoor Recreation
• Mansions + Historic Sites
• Entertainment + Nightlife
• Spa + Wellness

featured tours

These listings offer some of the best experiences throughout The Classic Coast.

Top 12 Things to Do in Newport

When you're not sure where to start, head to one (or all) of our 12 favorite spots.

National Historic Landmarks

Unparalleled history lingers around every corner here in Newport.

Explore Cliff Walk

Craving serenity? Newport's enchanting 3.5-mile Cliff Walk is the perfect place for your moment of peace.

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Best spring events.

Newport in 2024

THE 5 BEST Newport Boat Tours

Boat tours in newport.

• Boat Rentals
• Gear Rentals
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Hammersmith Farm
• Classic Cruises of Newport
• Fort Adams State Park
• Newport Harbor Light
• Gansett Cruises
• Castle Hill Lighthouse
• Narraganset bay
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI

2. Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat

3. Newport Sunset Sail on Classic Sailboat

4. Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport

5. Newport Sightseeing Day Sailing Experience on Schooner Adirondack

6. Newport Sunset Sail on Schooner Adirondack

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

Boston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran

Boston Harbor Brunch Cruise

90 Minute Seal Watching Tour from Wickford

Sunset Cruise

Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor

Boston Day Tour by Ferry: Salem Witch Trials Past to Present

Narrated Boat Tours

Boston Harbor Sunset Sail Tour

Boston Signature Dinner Cruise

Twilight River Cruises

2 Hour Sailing Tour of Vineyard Haven Harbor and Sound

Private sailing trips around Fishers island from New London, CT

Haunted Boat Tours

Father's Day Boat Rides

Providence Architecture Boat Tour

Boat Tour of Green Jacket Shoal

Brews Cruise with Narragansett Beer

6 Hour Sailing Tour of Vineyard Haven Harbor and Sound

3 Hour Sailing Tour of Vineyard Haven Harbor and Sound

Private Yacht Charter in The Hamptons, Montauk or Sag Harbor

90-Minute Boston Harbor Sunset Sightseeing Cruise

• Afternoon Grand Tour | Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI
• Newport Sunset Sail on Classic Sailboat
• Newport Afternoon Sightseeing Sail on Classic Sailboat
• Morning Mimosa Sightseeing Sail on Schooner Madeleine in Newport
• Newport Sightseeing Boat Tour aboard Rum Runner II
• Antique Yacht Collection
• Sail on Hope San
• On Watch Sailing
• Newport Classic Cruises
• Sightsailing of Newport
• Schooner Madeleine
• Island Style Parasail
• America's Cup Charters