Newport International Boat Show

The Newport International Boat Show will open its gates Thursday for its 54th annual event, kicking off the 2025 boat show season with four days of displays spanning more than 17 acres in downtown Newport.

The show runs Sept. 11-14 at the Newport Yachting Center, featuring new sailboats and powerboats across six connecting show sites, including some making their U.S. debut. Visitors can browse hundreds of marine products, services and accessories both on the water and on land.

Educational opportunities include the popular Cruiser’s Classroom at the Hammetts entrance, offering hands-on training on topics from boating safety to maintenance and fishing. New this year is BoatClass, powered by Freedom Boat Club, providing on-the-water training by appointment.

The Newport for New Products program returns to showcase brand-new boat models and innovative marine products. Industry experts will judge entries on opening day, with awards announced Friday.

“We can’t wait to welcome visitors to another incredible Show in just a matter of hours,” said Jocelyn Emory, director of strategy for the Newport International Boat Show. “Whether shopping for a new boat, if you need some boating wear or accessories, or just looking for a great way to spend the day on or near the water, this is going to be a Show for the record books.”

Tickets are available at newportboatshow.com. Preview Day tickets cost $42 Thursday, while general admission is $32 for one day Friday through Sunday. Two-day passes range from $54-65. Children under 10 enter free with an adult.

Military families, veterans and Newport County residents receive discounted $20 tickets Sunday with ID at kiosk row.

VIP Windward Lounge tickets cost $275 and must be purchased in advance for ages 18 and older.

Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

The 2022 show generated $26.1 million in economic impact for the local economy, according to organizers.

Ryan Belmore is the owner and publisher of What's Up Newp. He took over the publication in 2012 and has grown it into a three-time Rhode Island Monthly Best Local News Blog (2018, 2019, 2020). He was named LION Publishers Member of the Year in 2020 and received the Dominique Award from the Arts & Cultural Society of Newport County the same year. He has been awarded grants for investigative and community journalism, and continues to coach and mentor new local news publications nationwide. Ryan...