Hafen
Newport

OVERVIEW

Sail through Narragansett Bay on a 12-metre-class yacht that competed in an America’s Cup race and lend the crew a hand if you choose. As you prepare to cast off, the captain will describe the yacht’s illustrious history in the prestigious America’s Cup sailing competition. The vessel will have been restored to the highest level of aesthetics, historical integrity and performance to ensure the ultimate experience. You will be encouraged to help raise the sails as you head out through Newport Harbor. If you wish to participate more fully, the crew will assign you a sailing position and instruct you on exactly what to do. Hands-on sailing experience isn’t necessary, just a desire to be in the heart of the action. Regardless, your time onboard will be exhilarating as the massive sail area can drive your premier racing class boat to speeds as high as twelve knots.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Sail a 12-metre-class boat that once competed in either the America’s Cup or America’s Cup Trial Series.
• Participate hands-on if you wish or simply come along for the exhilarating ride.
• Learn about the history of your racing vessel and the America’s Cup competition.
• Admire the views of Narragansett Bay and you race through its waters.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

With mansions representing more than 250 years of social and architectural history, this tour combines all the highlights of the Newport scenic drive tour with a visit to one of the grand mansions. Passing through the historic colonial section, your scenic drive will take you along the world famous Ocean Drive where you’ll have spectacular views of Newport’s rocky coastline. Continuing to Bellevue Avenue, immerse yourself in a world of wealth and power as it existed at the dawn of the 20th century with a visit to one of the grand summer villas that defined the era known as the ‘Age of Beauty’.

Depending on local conditions, you’ll tour either the Elms or Rosecliff, both of which represent the height of gracious living and entertaining by America’s elite. Imagine yourself at a fabulous party in a magnificent ballroom or perhaps at a fairy tale dinner as your personal headset audio guide offers insight into the life and artifacts of this fascinating time in American history.

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Newport, many of them iconic attractions that define the city. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie expert guide will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Newport, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include:
• Bowen’s Wharf
• Thames Street
• Brenton Point State Park
• Cliff Walk
• Long Wharf Mall

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Newport.
• Follow tips from your selfie expert guide to ensure the very best pictures.
• Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings.
• Pose on the Cliff Walk trail with the Atlantic Ocean crashing in the background.
• Wander down historical Thames Street and around bustling Bowen’s Wharf.
• Enjoy free time for shopping at Long Wharf Mall.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Be sure your phone or camera is fully charged.

OVERVIEW

See Newport’s main attractions at your own pace by riding around town in a motor coach that allows you to get on and off whenever you please at the places that sound most intriguing. The vehicles will make continuous loops around Newport, following a route with 8 stops. As you approach each attraction, you will hear enlightening commentary about it so you can decide if it is one of the three that you will have time to visit. If not, just continue on to the next attraction. If there is an entrance fee, simply present your Attraction Pass and the charge will be waived. You might hop off for a tour of Gilded Age mansions such as Rosecliff, The Breakers and The Elms. If you enjoy browsing museums, there are top-notch ones with extraordinary collections devoted to sailing, art and the history of Newport. The International Tennis Hall of Fame is another fine option.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride around Newport in a motor coach and stop at attractions that sound appealing.
• Stay as long as you like at each attraction to enhance your understanding of it.
• Board another motor coach when you are ready and ride it to another attraction.
• Choose from a variety of well-known attractions as the motor coach loops around town.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at some of the Newport mansions featured in the HBO series “The Gilded Age” and come away with an insider’s understanding of this extraordinary time period. The guide will describe many of the fabulously wealthy people who lived in Newport in the late 1800s as you walk through their opulent “cottages.” While visiting The Elms – the summer residence of coal baron Edward Julius Berwind – you will notice that it was modeled after an 18th-century French château and decorated accordingly. Now a National Historic Landmark, it was constructed with non-combustible materials and featured the very latest technology. You will also browse The Breakers, the Vanderbilt family’s 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo. It too is a National Historic Landmark. As money was no object in its construction, Thomas Edison was hired to build its power station. The home also has more than 300 windows, many with commanding ocean views.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy a narrated drive through colonial Newport featuring the spectacular coastline along 10-mile Ocean Drive, as well as a guided cruise of Newport's picturesque and historic harbor onboard a classic wooden motor vessel. Your narrated drive along the 10-mile Ocean Drive offers spectacular views of Newport's rugged southern coastline as well as a promenade down famed Bellevue Avenue to view fabulous summer cottages of the rich, past and present. Drive through the town's colonial section, Trinity Church and Redwood Library. You'll also catch a glimpse of the Gothic-influenced Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church, where Jacqueline Bouvier wed Senator John F. Kennedy in 1953. Then, you’ll transfer from your coach for a scenic harbor cruise to experience the spirit and feeling of the Vanderbilt lifestyle aboard a beautifully restored classic wooden vessel. During your relaxing 1 1/4-hour harbor tour you’ll learn all about Newport. As you ply the calm waters of this picturesque and historic harbor your guide points out the major landmarks close to the shoreline of The City by the Sea.

OVERVIEW

Visit a family-owned farm that also produces premium wines and sample some of the year’s best releases. Greenvale Vineyards lies along the Sakonnet River and offers spectacular views of the surrounding pastoral landscape, but it is their exceptional product that sets this winery apart. While touring the vineyard, you will learn about the land’s historic preservation, the sixth generation of the family that operates the winery and how the grapes are grown free of herbicides, hand-harvested and processed using traditional means. Greenvale only produces a small quantity of wine that beautifully reflects the unique terroir, which is heavily influenced by the vineyard’s proximity to the ocean. The exact wines for the tasting will be chosen upon your arrival, but they may include a Bordeaux-style red, a Chardonnay varietal or a white blend made with Cayuga and Vidal Blanc grapes. The winery also makes an outstanding vermouth fortified with brandy.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Tour the vineyards of a family-owned-and-operated winery on the Sakonnet River.
• Enjoy scenic views while learning how the grapes are grown, harvested and processed.
• Savor a tasting of representative wines in the cellar of Greenvale Vineyards.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy a scenic harbor cruise to Rose Island where you'll have an opportunity to visit the fully restored lighthouse, see the remains of the 200-year old Ft. Hamilton and learn about the island’s role as an important wildlife refuge and bird sanctuary. En route to Rose Island, enjoy a scenic harbor cruise of Narragansett Bay. Your Captain will share with you the 350-year history of Newport, rich in maritime heritage, past and present.

First lit in 1870, the lighthouse was fully restored and is an inspiring example of classic American maritime architecture. A visit to this living museum offers insight into a bygone way of life. You'll have an opportunity to explore the station from the windmill to the cellar cistern and learn about the works and pastimes of lighthouse families through their own possessions and photographs.

Join your naturalist guide for a leisurely walk of the island. Due to its strategic location, Rose Island has an interesting history dating back to the Revolutionary War. Today, it plays an important role as a wildlife refuge and home to a number of migrating birds including Little Blue Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Great and Snowy Egret and Glossy Ibis.

Sail a sleek schooner around beautiful Narragansett Bay, admiring the coastal homes and landmarks, while learning about Newport’s fascinating history.

A short walk from the pier brings you to Bowen’s Wharf, where you will board the Adirondack II, an elegant 80-foot schooner with mahogany trim and teak decks. Although built in 1999, the vessel looks similar to a turn-of-the-century schooner, but equipped with today’s technology.

Once you settle in, off you will go; reaching speeds of up to 10 knots if the conditions permit. You can expect a lively, immensely comfortable ride around Narragansett Bay, made even more enjoyable with a mimosa cocktail or another beverage in hand.

As you sail through Newport Harbor, you will pass imposing Fort Adams, America’s largest coastal fortification and a National Historic Landmark. It’s quite the sight and especially intriguing once you learn its history, starting in colonial times.

The captain and crew will regale you with stories about Newport, the famous people that have resided here, and the landmarks that dot the shore. The Victorian-style home at Hammersmith Farm is one of the most renowned residences, as it was the childhood home of Jacqueline Bouvier and the site of the reception for her 1953 wedding to John Fitzgerald Kennedy.

The bay island due west of Newport is Goat Island, named for the goats that residents once pastured there. As you sail back to the pier, you may spot its lighthouse, built on the island’s breakwater in 1842.

Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt (1794-1877) established the family fortune in steamships and later in the New York Central Railroad. As the industrial revolution reached its zenith in the late 19th century, the Vanderbilts soon became the wealthiest family in America and chose Newport as their summer playground. Learn about the family empire and visit two of the grandest villas ever built in the United States. Completed in 1892, Marble House was modeled after the Petit Trianon at Versailles and took nearly four years to build with a total cost exceeding $11 million dollars. Enjoy the stories of the elaborate parties of the gilded age and Alva Vanderbilt as you tour the public rooms and grounds of Marble House. Next, visit the grandest of Newport's summer ‘cottages’, the Breakers was inspired by the 16th century palaces of Genoa and Turin. Completed in 1895, the mansion is situated on a 13 acre estate overlooking a spectacular view of the rugged Atlantic coastline.

Experience the splendid coast and mansions of Newport on-foot during a picturesque, half-day walking tour of this historic city.

Cliff Walk

Depart the pier for a short transfer to start the Cliff Walk trail. Upon arrival, begin your guided stroll along a portion of the spectacular Cliff Walk trail. With New England's rocky shore and crashing surf on one side and Newport's most extravagant mansions on the other, the Cliff Walk remains one of the top attractions in Newport.

The Breakers

Next, proceed for a guided tour of the Breakers, commissioned by tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt II, Chairman and President of the New York Central Railroad. One of Newport's most elegant mansions, the Breakers was inspired by the 16th-century palaces of Genoa and Turin. This 70-room, Italian Renaissance-style villa was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, who directed an international team of craftsmen and artisans. Completed in 1895, the mansion is situated on a 13-acre estate overlooking a spectacular view of the rugged Atlantic Coastline.

At the conclusion of your tour, stop by the gift shop before commencing the short transfer back to the pier.

Marvel at the Colonial charm and architecture of one of North America's oldest cities during this delightful walking tour of Newport.  

Newport Walking Tour

Depart the pier for a scenic, 1.5-hour guided stroll through Newport. One of America's oldest cities, Newport also has the distinction of retaining more original Colonial-era buildings than any other. Stroll through the heart of Newport's National Historic Landmarks District, and learn how this long-neglected neighbourhood became a model for historic preservation. With the help of tobacco heiress Doris Duke, who personally financed much of the restoration, the Historic District is now home to more than 80 fully-restored Colonial homes.

Historic Sites

Along the way, pass by architect Peter Harrison's Brick Market Museum, the Old Colony House, White Horse Tavern, Quaker Meeting House, and Touro Synagogue. The oldest synagogue in the country, it is one of many sites visited by Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Return to the pier via the square where Hollywood producer-director Stephen Spielberg filmed Amistad in 1997; it is among the city's most picturesque landmarks.

Explore the rich history and splendid architecture of Newport during this picturesque sightseeing excursion through the 'City by the Sea'.

Colonial Section

Depart the pier in a coach for the scenic drive through Newport. Along the way, explore the historic district, which features fine examples of colonial, Federal, and Victorian homes, many of which are designated as National Historic Sites. Other historic landmarks to be seen include Trinity Church, Redwood Library, and the Gothic Church of Saint Mary's, where Jacqueline Bouvier married Senator John F. Kennedy.

Ocean Drive

Next, your drive continues along the world-famous, ten-mile (16-kilometre) Ocean Drive, a coastal road that is renowned for the rugged beauty of its spectacular coastline.

Bellevue Avenue

From here, proceed to Bellevue Avenue, where wealthy industrialists of early-20th-century society built their grand 'summer cottages'. Pass by the opulent mansions of the Vanderbilts, Astors and Morgans, many of which have been beautifully preserved by the Newport Preservation Society.

Your tour concludes with a drive back to the pier.

Explore sustainable and delicious pond-to-plate oysters of Rhode Island with a voyage out to a farm in Potter Pond followed by a tasting at one of the area's best oyster bars.

Panoramic Drive, South Kingston, Matunuck Oyster Farm

Depart the pier and head to the southwest corner of Rhode Island to the village of South Kingston.  Here you find the small empire of Perry Raso. Perry started digging littleneck clams in Point Judith Pond when he was 12 years old. He grew up harvesting shellfish, eel trapping, bull-raking clams, and scuba diving for steamers. Graduating from University of Rhode Island with a bachelors and master's degree, Perry has studied aquaculture and fisheries technology. In 2002 he founded Matunuck Oyster Farm, followed by the Oyster Bar and in 2015, his Organic Vegetable Farm was certified adding farm-to-table to his restaurant.  

Boat Cruise, Oyster Farm

Upon arrival, board the open-air m/v Keara vessel and cruise out to seven-acre aquatic oyster farm to see the crustaceans in various stages of development. Along the way learn about sustainable aquaculture and fisheries on a global and a local scale. Your guide offers insight on the farm and how shellfish are cultivated in local waters as baskets are pulled up to inspect the oysters.  

Oyster Tasting

Returning to the shore, adjourn to the Oyster Bar to sample a few of the delicious mollusks accompanied by a glass of sparkling wine. Refreshed, fortified, and with a full understanding of the Rhode Island oyster industry, begin the return the pier.

Sail away aboard the Adirondack II, an 80-foot schooner and enjoy the lovely coastline surrounding Newport Harbour. Newport has played host to some of the world's major sailing events and is often referred to as the sailing yacht capital of the world.

Adirondack II Sailing Schooner

Your guide will meet you at the pier for a short approximate 15-20 minute walk to Bowen's Wharf, where you'll step aboard the Adirondack II, an impressive 80-foot sailing schooner. Sit back and relax amongst the mahogany trim and teak decks as your crew raise the sails and you set off. Admire the surrounding scenery as you head through Newport Harbour, passing by Fort Adams and down the east passage of Narragansett Bay as far as Castle Hill Inne, before turning around and sailing back. Look out for interesting landmarks such as Hammersmith Farm, the former Summer White House of John F Kennedy. Your Captain and crew will regale you with stories and historical facts of the area.

During your sail, a glass of Mimosa, wine or beer will be served.

At the conclusion of the sail take a short walk back to the ship to re-join the ship.

Explore the opulent lifestyle of the Vanderbilts, once the wealthiest family in America, during this picturesque, half-day excursion to their former 'summer cottages'.

Scenic Newport Tour & Ocean Drive

Depart the pier for the scenic drive along Thames & Wellington streets and past Fort Adams, then along the world-famous Ocean Drive for spectacular views of Newport's rocky coastline. Along the way, pass by the grand villas of the powerful men and influential women who made Newport America's leading resort, and a centre of the arts and architecture.

The Breakers

Located on 13 acres of land overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this 70-room mansion with its original furnishings is the most opulent of the Preservation Society buildings. The work of skilled European craftsmen is evident throughout The Breakers, and features fine Baroque ornamentation, high-relief carvings, magnificent mosaic ceilings and parquet floors. Following your audio tour, some time is made to browse the gift shop (time permitting) before continuing on to the Marble House.

Marble House

Completed in 1892 at a cost of $11 million and built of white marble with four Corinthian entrance columns, this Neo-classical masterpiece is the most impressive of the 'summer cottages' on famed Bellevue Avenue. There is marble throughout the mansion, and its furnishings are predominantly Louis XIV- and XV-style pieces that are original to the house. On the east lawn stands the replica of a classic, 12th-century Chinese temple. (Please be advised that The Elms will be visited instead of the Marble House on November 1, 2022.)

Your tour concludes with the drive back to the pier.