Wind in Your Sails: Navigating Newport’s Top Sailing Regattas, Races and Events

Renowned for its rich maritime history, stunning waterfront locale, and world-class sailing events, Newport offers something to every Hammetts Hotel guest—whether avid sailor, casual spectator, or maritime novice. From the historic Newport Bermuda Race to the lively Sail Newport Youth Challenge, Newport’s sailing events bring together sailors from around the globe to compete in some of the world’s most picturesque settings. But even for those not interested in getting their feet actually wet—this Newport sailing guide is your ultimate resource for navigating the city’s races, regattas, and sailing events.

America’s Cup Hall of Fame: The Ultimate Honor in Sailing

The 2025 America’s Cup Hall of Fame Challenge, taking place in October, will feature elite teams racing aboard historic 12-meter yachts, including Columbia, Weatherly, Nefertiti, and American Eagle. This prestigious event—held in Narragansett Bay—honors the legacy of America’s Cup racing all while supporting the Herreshoff Marine Museum’s STEM Education Program, which provides scholarships for aspiring sailors. 

Newport Bermuda Race: A Classic Test of Endurance

One of the crown jewels of Newport’s sailing calendar is the Newport Bermuda Race, a historic competition held since 1906. The prestigious offshore race spans 635 nautical miles from Newport to Bermuda, and is a true test of endurance, with participants battling the elements on the open sea while navigating through the Gulf Stream. The biennial race famously requires a combination of expert sailing skills, meticulous preparation, and teamwork. Best of all for Hammetts Hotel guests, every other June, spectators can enjoy watching the boats prepare in Newport’s harbor before they set off into the Atlantic. 

Newport Yacht Races: Competing in Style

On the just-as-exciting-but-more-accessible front, the Newport Yacht Races are a series of races held throughout the year that showcase some of the best yacht racing in the Northeast. The Newport Yacht Club, one of the hosts, provides more detailed information on race schedules, including the annual Newport to Bermuda Race, the Newport to Annapolis Race, and various local regattas. 

Sail Newport Youth Challenge: Encouraging the Next Generation of Sailors

The annual Sail Newport Youth Challenge, held in the heart of Newport’s harbor, lets young sailors showcase their skills and passion for sailing. The challenge is a vital part of Newport’s mission to promote sailing as a sport and a community activity for people of all ages, and features opportunities for mentorship, camaraderie, and healthy competition. The Sail Newport website provides information on the event’s schedule, registration, and how you can get involved.

The Newport Boat Show: A Must-Attend 

Held annually each September, the Newport International Boat Show is one of the premier boat shows in the United States, showcasing the latest in boating technology, luxury yachts, and nautical gear.

Don’t have boat ownership on your vision board? The show is not just for buyers—visitors can enjoy live demonstrations, check out new boat models, and rub shoulders with boating industry big wigs. 

Newport Races Schedule: Mark Your Calendar

Here is a snapshot of some of the year’s key sailing events in Newport:

• Newport Bermuda Race – Held every other year in June, the next race is set for June 2026 
• Newport Yacht Races – Take place throughout the year, including the Newport to Bermuda Race (mid-June) and Newport to Annapolis Race (early June). 
• Sail Newport Youth Challenge – Typically held in late summer or early fall. 
• Newport International Boat Show – Every September. 

For a full Newport races schedule and the latest regatta guide to Newport, check the Discover Newport website.

Experience Newport’s Sailing Legacy

Newport’s maritime legacy is a big part of the city’s charm, and there’s no better way to experience this rich history than by staying at Hammetts Hotel and attending one of the many sailing events in Newport. From the legendary Newport Bermuda Race to the more relaxed Sail Newport Youth Challenge, Newport’s regattas and races cater to sailors of all levels. So, mark your calendars, plan your visit, and sail into Newport’s world of racing and regattas!