Newport, RI and local questions can be asked here.

[Rick02809]

Hey, if you are planning a cruise to Newport, RI next summer, and if you are lucky enough to be in town between June 23 and July 1, you can catch a glimpse of the America's Cup World Series Regatta. Although these races are not the official America's Cup races, these are the preliminary races, surely somethign that Newport has missed since the 1980's.

 

I remember watching the "Cup" races when I was younger, It was a wonderful time, especially watching cutting edge yachts as well as the worlds best sailors.

 

Here is a link to the races

http://www.americascup.com/en/Latest/News/2011/8/AMERICAS-CUP-WORLD-SERIES-TO-BE-HELD-IN-NEWPORT-RI/

 

Rick

[chris2597]

What is the cost for the bus to the entrance to Cliffwalk, closest to The Breakers? Or to the entrance that is most favorable?

[SailBadtheSinner]

Adult fares are $2.00; one day passes are $6.00 - http://www.ripta.com/schedules/fares.php

 

You would take a route #67 bus to the Breakers or Cliff Walk. Unfortunately there is no scheduled bus that goes to the start of CW. The best places to enter CW would be the street that borders the Breakers on the south, Ruggles Ave, or Narragansett Ave at the intersection with Ochre Point Ave which is about 4 blocks before the Breakers.

 

There is a very basic route map here with the schedule for the route #67 bus: http://www.ripta.com/schedules/schedules.php

 

 

SBtS

 

 

[ep1080]

Hi, other than Breakers( which everyone seem to say is the best), which

other mansion would you go to Our cruise arrive on Fri, so I think

Kingscote and one other one ( I forgot the name ) is closed on weeday,

I think most people said either Marble House or Rosecliff, which one would

you choose, or you would choose something else.

Actually, I would really want to go to Green Topiarty, but I heard there is

no way I can get there if I do not have a car which I do not plan to drive

there, is that correct.

AFter seeing 2 mansions. what else would you do? Walk the Cliff walk

or go back to the pier area to look at something ?

Is Museum of Illustration open on FRiday ?

Thanks for your input

[SailBadtheSinner]

For mansions, I would do Breakers, Marble House and Doris Duke's Mansion at Rough Point.

 

I would include a walk on the northern end of Cliff Walk.

 

The Green Topiary is located in Portsmouth, RI, about 9 miles from the tender dock. Some form of transportation is needed to get there - car rental, taxi or bus. A route #60 RIPTA bus goes close to the Green Topiary but would require walking less than a mile from the bus route to get to the Green Topiary. I would estimate it to be about a 30 minute ride. I really can not help you more with this.

 

For the Museum of Illustration http://www.americanillustration.org/ , it is only open for a guided tour on Friday at 3:00pm.

 

 

 

SBtS

 

 

[ep1080]

Hi, I was wondering if this Doris Duke mansion is separte from Newport

Mansions. If so, what is the internet site.

Thanks so much for all the info

[SailBadtheSinner]

site: http://www.newportrestoration.org/visit/rough_point/

 

 

SBtS

[ep1080]

Does the #67 bus takes you here

[SailBadtheSinner]

Yes, you would use the #67 bus to get to Rough Point. Depending what season you are visiting in, RP is on the summer route otherwise the route ends before RP and you would have to walk about .2 mile.

 

 

SBtS

[ep1080]

I really appreciate your help in this

[Rick02809]

Anyone stopping in Newport over June 23, July 1 2012 The America's Cup World series races are being held. The races were held in Newport for 50 years until the cup was lost in the 80's.

 

If you are in the area, head to Ft. Adams.

 

America's Cup World Series on the Horizon

We've put together everything you need to know about the America's Cup World Series, going on from June 26 to July 1 at Fort Adams.

 

In less than a week, thousands of sailing enthusiasts will flock to the America's Cup Village at Fort Adams to watch nine teams compete in the last stop of the America's Cup World Series races. The circuit of regattas is the culmination of a year's worth of work from Newport and the entire state of Rhode Island.

 

“It's a team effort, but we have been working with literally hundreds of people to prepare for various festivities,” Discover Newport CEO Evan Smith said. “One of the real wow factors here is seeing the transformation of Fort Adams. I'm really jazzed for everyone to see it.”

 

For several months, crews have turned Fort Adams into a state-of-the-art home base for the teams and spectators.

 

This year, nine crews from seven countries will be competing, including Artemis Racing (Sweden), China Team, Emirates Team New Zealand, Energy Team (France), two boats from Luna Rossa Challenge (Italy), two boats from Oracle Team USA and Team Korea.

 

Racing begins daily at 2 p.m. and ends around 5 p.m. from June 29 to July 1. Racing begins at noon on June 28.

 

Unofficial training and practice days will be held from June 23 to June 27, which will be free to the public.

 

The Sail Newport Youth Challenge Regatta will precede the ACWS with racing between Rose Island and Goat Island on June 23 and 24.

 

Narragansett Bay will not be shut down during the World Series, however, an Official Safety Zone will be created by 1:30 p.m. during each race day. Boaters on the west and north sides of the race will be directed by “Follow Me” boats during and between races.

 

Smith encouraged not only tourists to come out and watch the races, but for locals to enjoy the event as well.

 

“If you miss this, you really missed something special. One of the great advantages of living here is that world class events come right to your door step.”

 

Where to watch the races

Racing will take place inside Narragansett, in direct view from Fort Adams and the ACWS Village. Spectators are recommended to watch the races from Fort Adams, not only for optimal racing views, but to also enjoy the public entertainment and activities.

 

The East Passage of Narragansett Bay will remain open to recreational boaters wishing to enter or exit the bay via a small corridor. Spectator boats are allowed, but the host committee recommends that due to fast speeds and the layout of the course, Fort Adams is the best place to watch the races.

 

Parking and Admission

Parking will be $10 from Saturday, June 22, to Wednesday, June 27. From Thursday, June 28, to Monday, July 1, parking will be $20.

 

Newport police will direct traffic to remote parking lots, once off the bridge and into city designated parking locations. Lots will be $20. Shuttle services will be available from remote lots during official race days (June 28 to July 1) only. Shuttles will drop passengers off in downtown Newport near water shuttle service sites. There will be no land shuttle to Fort Adams.

 

Water shuttle service will be available from Perotti Park Ferry/Harbor Shuttle Docks and Oldport Marina at Bowen's Wharf and will be $10 round trip. Conanicut Marine in Jamestown will also offer a shuttle service for $18 roundtrip.

 

Admission will be free from June 23 to 27. Admission will be $10 from June 28-July 31. Tickets can be purchased online, at the Newport Gateway Visitor's Center, or at the gate. Children under 12 are free.

 

Non-Race Day Activities – June 23 through June 27

Food courts, entertainment and Exploration Zone showcasing ocean exploration, marine trades, education and recreational boating

 

Visit the Moët & Chandon Champagne Tent.

 

Check out the Official ACWS Merchandise Tent featuring caps, t-shirts, fleece, thermal jackets, novelty items.

 

Stop by the Louis Vuitton Exhibit.

 

Visit the Napa Valley Vintners Wine Tent.

 

Tour of historic Fort Adams, including the restored casemates and listening tunnels are extremely interesting (tickets are available for purchase at the Fort Adams Visitors Center and the Newport Gateway Visitor’s Center).

 

Dos and Don'ts for Fort Adams:

--------------------------------

Don't

 

Pack a cooler. Food will be available at the Fort.

 

Bring alcoholic beverages. These will also be for sale.

 

Bring your pets.

----------------------------------

Do

 

Bring a chair or blanket.

 

Do explore and take a tour of the Fort.

 

Do enjoy the races and entertainment!

 

Welcoming the ACWS this Friday

On Friday, June 22, Newport will host several events in celebration of the America's Cup World Series commencing the next day. All events are free and open to the public.

 

Navy Band Northeast at Washington Square, 6 to 7 p.m.

 

The Bit Players at the International Yacht Restoration School, 7:30 to 8:15 p.m.

 

Outdoor screening of America’s Cup Then and Now with live narration and commentary by Gary Jobson, Queen Anne Square, dusk/8:45 to 10 p.m

 

 

Info provided by the local Patch dot com website

[HLR]

Question about Cell Phone use on the ship...when off shore in Newport.

 

When anchored off shore are you too far from the shore to get a "real" signal and not be charged roaming or International charges? [Verizon]

 

Does that question make sense? Anyone know?

 

HLR

[Starry Eyes]

In many other ports I have gotten a signal on the ship. I can tell from my phone display whether I am getting a land antenna or cellular at sea (which should be turned off in port anyway). with so many boaters, I would think Newport would try to place an antenna for the boats and yachts...sure hope so..

[mtsnd1900]

Should not be charged roaming - you will have shore nearly all around you. Even Block Island will be a few miles behind you, which does not charge roaming. In any event, check the status bars on your phone.

[HLR]

Great!

Here's hoping Verizon is "my friend"! Meeting relatives in Newport and since we are tendering timing is at the Seas whim!

 

HLR

[StarSander]

How far is the Rum Runner II boat from the cruise ship drop off? Can you walk or do you have to take transportation? Thank you

[SailBadtheSinner]

How far is the Rum Runner II boat from the cruise ship drop off? Can you walk or do you have to take transportation? Thank you

 

Rum Runner II is located at Bannister Wharf which is about a 5-7 minute walk from the tender dock. As you leave the tender dock walk to the avenue that is the east border of the tender dock area and turn south (right) onto Americas Cup Ave and follow the sidewalk. Bannister Wharf will be on your right.

 

 

SBtS

[love2cruisegal]

I see this thread has been going on for a long time - I'm glad it's back. We are doing Canada/New England end of Sept. and were planning to do a couple of the mansions and cliff walk on our own, so glad to read all this extra and many suggestions. Sounds like we'll have a great time. Also the restaurants recommended sound wonderful. We should have a great day in Newport.

 

Thank you!

[Rick02809]

Great!

Here's hoping Verizon is "my friend"! Meeting relatives in Newport and since we are tendering timing is at the Seas whim!

 

HLR

 

Verizon will be your friend... great coverage in Newport:) If you pull up a map of Newport, RI you will see the Pell Newport Bridge. The cruise ships dock south of the bridge in the harbor south of Rose Island and north of Brenton Cove. the Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint etc coverage in the area covers all of the harbor. The tender shouldn't be a problem in port with the weather, it's a quick 10 minutes to the wharf from the ship. Enjoy this place which we call home.

Edited July 7, 2012 by Rick02809

[Rick02809]

How far is the Rum Runner II boat from the cruise ship drop off? Can you walk or do you have to take transportation? Thank you

 

If the Rum Runner II is sold out, I STRONGLY suggest in taking a harbor trip on the 72 foot Schooner Madeline. It departs from Bannister's wharf next to the Rum Runner. The Rum Runner is a power boat, while the Madeline is a sailboat.

 

TripAdvisor rates the Madeline 4.5 out of 5 and its rated 5th out of 27 attractions in Newport.

 

I live in the area, and have been on the Madeline twice. The crew offers complimentary champagne and beer, they are very friendly and point out points of interest in Newport (House on the Rocks, Hammersmith Farms where John Kennedy spent his summers, etc).

 

If you are going to tour Newport Harbor, I'd recommend the Madeline over the Rum Runner just because personally I love being on the water, and the sounds of the sails lufting in the wind give you the quintessential Newport Sailing experience. Save your money and get tickets from the Madeline directly. if you Google "Classic cruises of Newport " you can get contact info on both the Rum Runner and Madeline at the bottom of the webpage as they are operated by the same company. :D

Edited July 7, 2012 by Rick02809
grammar error

[hollon]

Rick, thanks so much for offering advice. If I were to ask you (what NOT to miss), what would it be? I haven't done any research YET, but thought I'd ask you first. We are outdoors people and like history, but really game for anything. thanks

[cruzrbachoua]

My husband and I are doing the cliffwalk on our own and have seen several comments about poison ivy being prevelant along the walk.....my question: is the poison ivy leaves/plants etc in the walkway istself or more off on the sides in bushes and what not? We would stick to the path area but I do know it gets gravely and rocky in some areas just not sure where we may run into the poison ivy and would hate to end our cruise that way...any help would be great. Thanks

[feebee]

hope this reply is not too late. I did the part of cliffwalk that starts near the Breakers and walked all the way to the southern end. I didn't notice any poison ivy and in fact some park workers were busy trimming and neatening up the hedges on either side the day I was there. In general the path seemed very open until the very end with no vines or anything growing into the space you would be walking.

[cruzrbachoua]

hope this reply is not too late. I did the part of cliffwalk that starts near the Breakers and walked all the way to the southern end. I didn't notice any poison ivy and in fact some park workers were busy trimming and neatening up the hedges on either side the day I was there. In general the path seemed very open until the very end with no vines or anything growing into the space you would be walking.

 

Great thanks. Did you walk the rough point down to Ledge road? We are hoping we have time to do it all since we need to make sure we make it back to our ships tender

[feebee]

cruzr I walked from the Breakers to the bitter end, a bit past the beach and Ledge Rd. Ended up on Coggleshall Ave. somehow. Took maybe 2.5 hours but that included a lot of gazing out to sea, taking pictures, and poking around in tidal pools. I was able to take my time because the ship was in port until 8 that night, so no great rush to get through it.