Newport, Rhode Island is a very active harbour. From a 12 meter challenge (there must be at least six countries represented), junior sailors out racing in 25 knot winds, along with a Norwegian cruise line anchored about a half mile away from us. The downtown core is hoping with millions of people roaming the streets and attractions.
Our first three days in Newport, we were berthed at the Naval Yachting Centre. A lovely facility with lots of activities. When we first arrived the Special Olympics were just heading out for their weekly sail on Rhode 19’s. Sailing courses consisted of ground school and on the water. Each berth had a dock locker for storage, which I believe is a great idea.
We are in our second day of heavy winds from Helene. To keep costs down we were leaving the Naval Centre to anchor in the downtown core. That way we could take in the water activities and enjoy our next two days on a different scale. Newport has been a rather expensive stop as all the facilities are here. West Marine where we purchased a new solenoid valve for the propane stove, Bluewater Charts picked up the Leeward Island charts and Yanmar dealer. Just a few to mention…I won’t go into all the attractions and shops. We have hoofed a number of miles in the last three days…Last night I treated my feet to a lovely foot bath.
Ted and I visited the Museum of Yachting, which housed many trophies and treasures from the American Cup and BOC Challenges Hall of Fame.
How to get out of a difficult berth with 35 knot winds. The wind was blowing us into the dock and once we go astern it pushes us into not only the dock but another boat. Therefore, Ted took his fishing rod with a half filled bottle of water. From across the water he casted the bottle towards me at the stern of the boat. I in turn tied a sheet to the fishing line, where Ted than reeled the line into him. This allowed us to self slip from the dock behind us as we winched the line in and pulling the boat out of the berth. The engine is on but not in gear. We didn’t touch the dock, or the boat next to us. The ride to downtown was not as easy with gusts to 35 knots making 2.5 Knots towards the inner harbour. Once inside the wind dropped to a mere 25 knots.
While visiting Newport we took advantage of some views by going to the Internation Yacht Restoration School. The Beetle Cats seems to be the wooden boat of choice for the students training projects. Once restored these boats go for sale as high as $11,500 US. The Seamen Church Institute is mission for sea men and women, where we are at present updating our blog. This is a lovely facility and operates from donations.
The best part of cruising is the number of interesting people you meet along the way.
Next stop....Long Island Sound!
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