Setting Sail in Newport

The sun was just beginning to dip below the horizon as I found myself racing through the charming streets of Newport, Rhode Island. My wife and I had driven up from New Jersey, eager to experience the Newport Sailboat Tour that had been the talk of the town. The drive was long, and we were cutting it close, but the promise of a sunset sail on the iconic Narragansett Bay was too tempting to resist.

As we navigated the quaint streets, we relied heavily on the directions provided to find the right path to the dock. It felt like a scene straight out of a reality TV show, with us sprinting past landmarks and asking for directions from friendly locals. Just as we reached the dock, the crew was about to pull away the stairs. With a bit of pleading and a lot of luck, we managed to board just in time.

Aboard the Schooner Madeleine

Once on board the Schooner Madeleine, the stress of the journey melted away. The classic sailboat was a beauty, her sails billowing in the gentle breeze as we set off into the bay. The crew, a lively and welcoming bunch, offered us a selection of drinks. I opted for a cold beer, the perfect companion for a warm summer evening on the water.

As the sails were hoisted, the boat leaned into the wind, skimming across the water with a grace that only a seasoned sailor could appreciate. The crew moved with practiced ease, their camaraderie evident in every task they performed. Hunter, one of the crew members, shared stories of his lifelong love for the sea and offered us some local dining tips for after the sail.

The Magic of Narragansett Bay

The sail around Narragansett Bay was nothing short of magical. The historic lighthouses and grand mansions that lined the shore were a testament to Newport’s rich maritime history. As we glided past Fort Adams State Park and the majestic Newport Bridge, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the ocean, a feeling that has always guided my travels.

The crew’s approach to the tour was refreshingly personal. Instead of a scripted narration, they engaged with each passenger, sharing anecdotes and answering questions. It was a reminder of the simple joys of human connection, something that often gets lost in the hustle of modern travel.

As the sun set and the sail came to an end, I felt a sense of gratitude for the experience. The Newport Sailboat Tour was more than just a sightseeing trip; it was a journey into the heart of a community that lives and breathes the sea. For anyone visiting Newport, this sail is a must-do, a chance to see the world from a different perspective and to feel the wind in your hair as you glide across the water.