Your Guide to Newport International Boat Show
The Newport Edit 2026
September 17–20, 2026
Each September, Newport marks the start of the fall boat show season. The Newport International Boat Show spans more than 17 acres across seven connecting sites in the city’s historic downtown, bringing together new powerboats, sailboats and U.S. debuts alongside hundreds of marine products, services and in-water demonstrations.
Whether you are visiting to explore your next yacht, meet with builders and brokers or simply take in Newport in the fall, there is far more to the weekend than the show itself.
Here is our guide to experiencing the Newport International Boat Show in 2026.
Begin at yachting center
The Newport Yachting Center on Commercial Wharf is the heart of the show and the main entry point. This is where you will find the largest in-water displays, the newest launches and many of the leading builders, brokers and marine specialists.
The show is spread across the downtown waterfront, so review the exhibitor and boat list before arriving and arrange appointments in advance. Leave room for unexpected discoveries… some of the best finds happen while walking the docks.
Walk the Wharf's
The show connects across seven sites, including Bowen’s Wharf, Bannister’s Wharf, Perry Mill Wharf, Oldport Marine and ‘Below-Deck’ at Hammetts. Each has its own character, from in-water yacht displays to marine gear, services and food vendors.
Rather than rushing the full show in one pass, give yourself time to move between the wharves. This allows for meaningful yacht tours, conversations and a proper look at the vessels that interest you most.
Private Yacht Tour
The Newport show offers the chance to compare a broad selection of yachts in one destination. Step aboard, review layouts, speak with builder representatives and see the differences between models in person.
For serious buyers, private appointments provide the best experience. Your Worth Avenue Yachts broker can coordinate access, organize a focused schedule and arrange sea trials when available.
Explore Historic Newport
Between appointments, take time to walk Newport’s historic downtown. Thames Street, America’s Cup Avenue and the surrounding wharves are lined with restaurants, boutiques and harbor views, all within walking distance of the show.
Early mornings are especially pleasant, before the docks and streets fill. Stop for coffee, walk the waterfront and watch the harbor come to life as the show opens.
Dining During the Newport Boat Show
Reservations during show weekend can be difficult to secure. Confirm lunches, dinners and transportation well in advance, particularly for larger groups.
The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar
At the center of the show, with harbor views, a raw bar and New England seafood. One of Newport's most reliable waterfront tables and steps from the docks.
22 Bowen's Wine Bar & Grille
Newport's certified Angus steakhouse, with a strong raw bar, an extensive wine list and some of the best waterfront views in town.
The Black Pearl
A Newport institution known for its clam chowder, the classic Commodore's Room and a waterside patio right on the harbor.
Flora at Gardiner House
Mediterranean dining with sweeping harbor views inside Newport's newest boutique hotel. Polished but relaxed, with a lively bar.
Luke's lobster
A walk-up window on Bowen's Wharf serving Maine-style lobster, crab and shrimp rolls alongside award-winning New England clam chowder… a quick, casual stop between show appointments.
Diego's
A spirited waterfront spot for Mexican fusion, with scratch-made tacos, house tortillas and signature margaritas.
Castle Hill Inn
The Lawn overlooking Castle Hill Lighthouse and Narragansett Bay is Newport's best sunset setting, with fine dining and local seafood inside. Allow travel time from downtown.
The Landing
Harborside dining with a raw bar, a broad menu and live music daily. A relaxed, social setting right on the water.
Clarke Cooke House
A Bannister's Wharf institution and a longtime heartbeat of Newport, the Clarke Cooke House pairs Chef Ted Gidley's Mediterranean-influenced American cuisine and a full sushi bar with the harborside porches and Sky Bar above.
the reef
Set dockside on Howard Wharf, The Reef serves globe-spanning fare inspired by the ports sailors travel to… a raw bar, seafood platters, sushi-leaning shares and a full harborside drink program.
Luxury hotels
Where to stay during the Newport International boat show
Castle Hill Inn
A secluded waterfront retreat on 40 acres at the tip of the peninsula, away from the downtown activity. The choice for guests who prefer to step back from the show at the end of the day. Plan transportation into town in advance.
Choose Castle Hill Inn for: Privacy, resort surroundings and a destination experience beyond the show.
THE VANDERBUILT
A five-star property in a restored 1909 mansion, a short walk from the waterfront. Full-service amenities, a rooftop and a central location put the show and downtown at your door.
Choose The Vanderbilt for: A Gilded Age mansion with a rooftop terrace, spa and pool, a short walk from the show.
OTHER THINGS TO DO DURING THE Newport International Boat Show
Beyond the Show
Tour the Newport Mansions
The Breakers, The Elms, Marble House and Rosecliff offer a look at Newport's Gilded Age history, all minutes from downtown and easy to fit between appointments.
Drive Ocean Drive
The ten-mile scenic loop passes Brenton Point, open coastline and some of Newport's most striking waterfront, ending near Castle Hill for sunset.
Spend an evening on the water
A private charter on Narragansett Bay offers views of the harbor, the Newport Bridge and the coastline, and a quieter setting for clients, friends or family.
ITINERARY
A perfect SHOW day
Morning: Begin early with breakfast downtown before your first appointments at the Newport Yachting Center.
Lunch: Reserve a harborside table at The Mooring or The Landing.
Afternoon: Continue across the wharves for in-water displays, brokerage yachts and marine gear.
Early evening: Return to your hotel to recharge and change for dinner.
Dinner: Choose 22 Bowen’s or Flora for a polished evening, Diego’s or Fluke for something livelier, or Castle Hill Inn for a sunset dinner away from downtown.
CONTACT US
Experience NEWPORT With Worth Avenue Yachts
Meet the Worth Avenue Yachts team in Newport, RI for private yacht tours, market insight and personalized guidance throughout the show.
Whether you are considering a yacht for sale, exploring new construction or planning your next private yacht vacation, our team can help you make the most of your time in Cannes.
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