Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you come aboard, from parking and weather to what to wear and what's included.
What should we bring and wear?
Bring appropriate gear for going out on the water. In the spring and fall, we recommend a lightweight jacket and a pair of pants. In the summer, unless it’s really hot, you’ll want a jacket or sweatshirt for sunset sails.
Please refrain from wearing black-soled or shoes that leave black marks. They tend to leave marks on our decks and require extra cleaning by our crew. Soft-soled shoes, sneakers, or sandals are fine. If you wear high heels you may need to go barefoot.
If you’re sailing during the day, bring sunblock (not tanning oil which makes the decks slippery), and wear a hat. And if it looks like rain, bring a rain jacket!
Lastly, don’t forget a camera, and your sense of adventure!
What about the weather?
Our sails run in light to moderately inclement weather. Keep in mind that we will sail in cloudy, cool or overcast conditions, in light to medium fog and on and off sprinkles. Don’t worry, we won’t send you out in heavy persistent rain, thick fog, high winds or if threatening weather appears imminent.
Unfortunately we can’t guarantee you a postcard picture-perfect sunset and we won’t cancel a “sunset sail” just because it’s overcast.
If the weather looks questionable, we’ll check the radar before we leave and if it looks like it’s going to start pouring and rain for most of the sail, we will cancel. If it looks like there might be an occasional light sprinkle, we’ll go! Bring your sense of adventure! We have ponchos available in case of a pop-up shower.
There is an old saying in New England that “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute, it will change!” For instance, some days it may be pouring in the morning only to be beautiful in the afternoon, or pour all day only to stop just before our sunset sail. And there have been days where the chance of rain is 80% and it never rains in Newport! Therefore, we don’t call off our trips when we see a five day forecast that calls for “a chance of thundershowers.”
The timing and path of thunderstorms is very hard to predict, therefore a decision to cancel a sail because of a thunderstorm watch is typically only made 30 minutes before departure.
If we cancel your sail due to adverse weather conditions, you will receive a 100% refund, can elect to reschedule, or receive a gift certificate for a future trip.
The final decision to sail resides with us. If you’ve purchased a ticket and decide not to show up because of the weather and the boat sails, your ticket or charter will not be refundable.
Over the years, we have had many enjoyable trips in less than spectacular conditions. We think this policy is fair and appreciate your cooperation.
What's our cancellation/refund policy?
Cancelling Tickets & Charters:
Public Sails: Tickets aboard public sails are only valid for the date and time purchased. Tickets may be cancelled and a 100% refund issued, providing you cancel at least 5 days prior to departure. If you cancel less than 5 days before your departure you will receive no refund.
Private Charters: Charters are valid only for the date and time purchased. Charters may be cancelled and a 100% refund issued, if you cancel at least 10 days before your sail. If you cancel less than 10 days before departure, no refunds will be issued.
Weather: If we cancel your sail due to adverse weather conditions, you will receive a 100% refund, can choose to reschedule, or receive a gift certificate for a future trip. See our FAQ answer above about weather.
The final decision to sail resides with us. If you’ve purchased a ticket or booked a charter and decide not to show up because of the weather and the boat sails, your tickets or charter is non-refundable.
Where are you located?
We’re located on Bowen’s Wharf, an 18th-century wharf and pedestrian thoroughfare. You cannot drive onto Bowen’s Wharf; you need to park and walk onto it.
Bowen’s Wharf is on America’s Cup Avenue. A good address to put into your GPS is 49 America’s Cup Ave which is the address for The Newport Hotel which is next to Bowen’s Wharf.
Once you’re at 49 America’s Cup Ave., you will see the Seamen Church Institute. Just past the Institute, look for the very tall flagpole with all sorts of colorful flags on it. Walk to that flagpole, follow the bricks onto the wharf, and at the foot of the small parking lot you will see our small house and big blue awning which says Sightsailing! Easy!
What will we see on the sail?
On al our sails, you’ll sail through Newport Harbor, into Narragansett Bay and past some of the most iconic sights in Rhode Island — Hammersmith Farm, Clingstone, Fort Adams, and the legendary yachts that have defined Newport’s sailing heritage for over a century. You’ll get great views of the Pell Bridge and the shoreline of Newport and Jamestown, RI. It makes for a spectacular backdrop to any celebration.
Where do we park?
If you’re driving, there is a small parking lot at Bowen’s Wharf just past 49 America’s Cup Ave that holds about 20 cars. It’s first-come, first-served, and fills up fast.
The largest and least expensive parking garage in Newport is at 23 America’s Cup Ave. The lot is less than a 1/4 mile or about an 8-minute walk from Bowens Wharf.
There is also a large city lot on Mary Street which is less than a 5 minute walk from us.
The Mooring restaurant located at 1 Sayers Wharf, on America’s Cup Ave has a large parking lot that is close by, and there are many other lots and meters along Thames St and America’s Cup Ave.
Keep in mind that there are often major events occurring on weekends in Newport, traffic can be heavy, and it can take longer than expected to get into town and find a place to park. If you’re coming on a weekend, give yourself plenty of extra time.
See our Downtown Newport Parking Map or The Ultimate Guide to Parking in Newport.
When do tickets for public sails go on sale?
Tickets for Public Sails on Aquidneck go on sale 21 days before departure.
Private Charters on a Aquidneck and Sightsailer may be booked at any time by filling out a Private Charter Inquiry form online. Starlight dates and times are posted on our booking calendar and may be booked online at any time.
Once tickets for public sails go on sale for Aquidneck, the dates and times appear in the Book Online section. If you don’t see a boat’s schedule for the season in the Book Online section, look in the Schedules & Rates menu on the website.
What is the best time of day to sail?
In the summer, the prevailing wind in Newport is from the Southwest. It tends to be light in the morning, increase by late morning, build all afternoon, then moderate, and sometimes die close to sunset. Morning sails are generally gentle, afternoon sails exhilarating, and sunset sails relaxing. So when’s the best time to sail? We think the afternoon when the wind tends to be best.
If a cold front has just come through, the wind will be strongest in the morning. This is more typical in the fall. If you see a flag flying straight out there is plenty of wind to sail. Sightsailer and Starlight sail in the slightest of breezes. Aquidneck generally needs around 10 mph of wind to sail. Keep in mind that unfortunately, we cannot control the wind. While we strive to sail as much as possible, if the wind dies or is too light to sail, we’ll probably start and run the motor so you can at least see the sights!
What are our policies for large groups on public sails?
Group Discount:
For groups of 10 or more, enjoy a discount of $2.50 off per ticket when you purchase all tickets under one name. A 15% crew gratuity is added to your total ticket cost and collected at check-out. Please note that any attempt to bypass these policies may result in ticket cancellation. You can book online with the discount applied automatically.
Seating & Boarding:
Our boat features open seating. To ensure your group can sit together, try to be near the front or middle of the boarding line, which typically starts forming about 20 minutes before departure. Groups boarding later might not be able to sit together.
Ticket Sales & Charter Requirements:
Public Sails: Tickets are available 21 days before departure. Group tickets are not sold more than 21 days in advance.
Large Groups Over 23: If your group exceeds 23 people, a private charter is required. For more details, please fill out our Private Charter Inquiry Form.
Public Sail Guidelines:
On public sails, we maintain a family-friendly environment. Therefore, we ask that you do not bring large or roll-on coolers, cases of beer, extensive food spreads, Bluetooth speakers, or any party props. If you’re looking for a sail where you can enjoy food, drinks, music, and more, a private charter might be the better choice for your group.
Can we bring our dog aboard?
No, dogs are not allowed on board. This includes emotional support dogs. Certified service dogs are allowed but only aboard Aquidneck. Certified service dogs are dogs that perform a demonstrable task. No dogs of any type are allowed on Starlight or Sightsailer. Rhode Island law prohibits misrepresentation of service animals.
Newport Day Sail FAQ's
How long is a Newport Day Sail?
Daysails on Aquidneck are approximately 1 3/4 hours, Sightsailer daysails on Sightsailer are 1 1/2 hours, and daysails on Starlight are two hours.
Which boats run Day Sails?
Day Sails are available aboard the Aquidneck, the Sightsailer, and the Starlight. Each vessel accommodates a different group size and offers a slightly different experience on the water. Check the schedule to see what is running on your date.
What is the Discover Sailing cruise?
The Discover Sailing cruise runs aboard the Sightsailer on select days and is designed for guests who want a more hands-on introduction to sailing. The crew walks you through the basics and encourages participation throughout. No experience is needed.
Do I need sailing experience?
Not at all. Every sail is led by an experienced captain and crew who handle all aspects of sailing. Guests are invited to participate as much or as little as they like.
Are children welcome?
Children over the age of 6 are welcome on Aquidneck. Children over the age of 10 are welcome on Sightsailer and Starlight.
Where do the sails depart from?
All sails depart from Bowen’s Wharf, 32 Bowens Wharf, Newport, Rhode Island, in the heart of the historic waterfront.
Should I book in advance?
Yes. Day Sails sell out regularly during peak season, especially on weekends. We recommend booking as soon as your dates are confirmed.
Company Outing FAQ's
Which boats are available for company outings?
Schooner Aquidneck (max 49 guests, approx. 1 hr 45 min sail) and Sightsailer (max 13 guests, approx. 1 hr 30 min sail) are our two primary vessels for corporate charters. For groups of more than 23 guests, we require chartering Aquidneck to ensure an exclusively private experience for your team.
Do my guests need sailing experience?
Not at all. Our crew handles everything. Guests who want to take the helm or help with the sails are always welcome — and guests who prefer to simply enjoy the ride are equally well looked after.
Can we bring food and drinks aboard?
Yes, and it is easy to arrange. We offer yacht charter menus from excellent local Newport caterers, and area liquor stores can deliver directly to the dock at no additional cost. Beer, wine, champagne, and seltzers are permitted; however, hard liquor is not. Our crew will handle all loading, setup, and cleanup before and after the sail.
How large can our group be?
The Aquidneck accommodates up to 49 guests. For smaller groups of up to 13, the Sightsailer is available. Groups exceeding 23 guests will be required to charter the Aquidneck exclusively. Contact us to discuss options for very large company events.
Where do charters depart from?
All charters depart from 32 Bowen’s Wharf in Newport, RI — a historic waterfront location in the heart of downtown, with easy access to hotels, restaurants, and parking.
How do I book a company sailing charter in Newport?
Fill out our Private Charter Inquiry Form. Let us know your group size, preferred dates, and any catering needs and we will take it from there.
Wedding Charter FAQ's
Which vessel is best for a wedding charter?
Most couples choose the Schooner Aquidneck, which accommodates up to 49 guests and offers the most space for a celebration on the water. For smaller, more intimate events, just the wedding party, for instance, the Starlight (up to 6 guests, 2-hour sail) or the Sightsailer (up to 13 guests, 1.5-hour sail) are also available. We can help you choose based on your group size and vision.
Can we hold a wedding ceremony on the boat?
Yes. Onboard wedding ceremonies are available, and wedding officiants can be arranged upon request. Contact Us to discuss the details of planning a ceremony at sea.
Can we bring food and drinks aboard for our wedding charter?
Absolutely. Food and beverages can be easily arranged through our local catering partners, who offer yacht charter menus specifically tailored for events like this. Beer, wine, champagne, and canned cocktails are permitted; however, hard liquor is not. Our crew handles all loading, setup, and cleanup, so you and your guests can focus entirely on the occasion.
What types of wedding events work on a charter?
A wide range: onboard ceremonies, welcome receptions for out-of-town guests, rehearsal dinner celebrations, private sails for the wedding party, and post-wedding brunch cruises are all popular. Many couples use Sightsailing for more than one event across their wedding weekend.
Is a daytime or sunset charter better for a wedding?
Both are exceptional. Daytime charters offer full visibility of Newport Harbor and the coastline, ideal for photography and for guests who want to take in the full scenery. Sunset charters offer a dramatic, golden-hour backdrop over Narragansett Bay that is genuinely hard to describe until you’ve seen it. See our Schedule & Rates page for current departure times.
How do I book a Newport wedding charter?
Submit a Private Charter Inquiry Form on our website. We recommend reaching out early — summer and early fall wedding weekends book well in advance.
Engagement Sail FAQ's
Which boat is right for a proposal — Starlight or Sightsailer?
It depends on what you’re envisioning. Starlight is our intimate O’Day 34 yacht — designed for just the two of you and your captain. It’s the ideal choice if you want a private, secluded proposal with no other guests around. Sightsailer is our 46-foot sailboat and accommodates up to 13 guests — perfect if you want close friends or family there to celebrate the moment with you.
Can I book Starlight directly online?
Yes. Starlight can be booked online now through our booking page. For Sightsailer, please complete a Private Charter Inquiry form and we’ll be in touch with availability and details.
Can we bring food and drinks aboard?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to bring your own beverages (just no hard liquor) and a small picnic to make the experience your own. This is your charter, personalize it however you would like!
Can I take the helm during the sail?
Yes. On Starlight, you’re welcome to take the wheel and steer if you’d like that to be part of the moment. Your captain will be there to guide you, and there’s no experience required.
Where does the sail depart from?
All charters depart from Bowen’s Wharf in Newport, RI — right in the heart of the waterfront district, steps from downtown Newport’s hotels and restaurants.
Do I need sailing experience for an engagement charter?
Not at all. Your captain handles all the seamanship. You’re free to relax, take in the scenery, and focus on the moment you’ve been planning.
What is the route for an engagement sail?
You’ll sail out through Newport’s iconic harbor, into Narragansett Bay, and along the Ocean Drive coastline — some of the most beautiful water in New England. The exact sail depends on wind and conditions, but the scenery is spectacular in every direction.
Special Occasion Charter FAQ's
What kind of special occasions work on a sailing charter?
Nearly any celebration works beautifully on the water. Birthday parties and milestone birthdays are among our most popular charters, as are graduation celebrations, retirement parties, anniversary sails, and family reunions. If you are looking for a Newport party venue that stands completely apart from everything else, this is it.
How many guests can join a special occasion charter?
It depends on the vessel. Our fleet accommodates groups from an intimate gathering of just a few guests up to 49 aboard Schooner Aquidneck. Visit our Fleet page to find the right fit for your group size, or contact us and we’ll help you choose.
Can we bring food and drinks for our celebration?
Yes, food and a good drink may be easily arranged. We’re happy to point you toward local catering options and liquor stores who can deliver directly to the dock. Our crew handles the loading, setup, and cleanup so your party can focus entirely on celebrating.
How do I book a special occasion charter in Newport?
Fill out the Private Charter Inquiry form on our website. Let us know your occasion, your group size, and your preferred dates and we will help you put together the right experience.