The Best Boat Rentals in Newport

Most private charters in Newport run about $200 to $400 per hour for smaller powerboats and sailboats, while larger premium yachts typically start around $600 per hour and can exceed $1,500 per hour in peak summer. Sunset cruises of two hours often land between $400 and $1,000, half-day outings between $800 and $2,000, and full-day trips from roughly $1,500 to $4,000+ depending on size, season, and amenities. Captained trips generally include the professional captain and required safety gear; fuel, docking or pickup fees, taxes, cleaning, and gratuity are commonly extra and shown in each listing before you pay.

You’ll find classic sailboats, center consoles and other sport boats, downeast-style cruisers, cabin cruisers, luxury motor yachts, catamarans for groups, and larger inspected vessels for events. Many options are geared to sightseeing, sunset cruising, swimming coves, or fishing, so you can match the boat style to your plan and group size.

Both are available. Many visitors choose a captained charter so the local pro handles navigation, docking, and itinerary while you relax. Experienced boaters can book self-operated (bareboat) rentals on select boats, subject to the owner’s approval and proof of skills and credentials. If you prefer to drive, expect a brief dockside orientation and plan to follow the owner’s insurance and safety requirements.

Common pickup points include the downtown wharves along America’s Cup Avenue such as Bowen’s Wharf and Bannister’s Wharf, the Goat Island Marina area, and city-managed spots like Perrotti Park and the Ann Street Pier. Many larger yachts stage from Newport Yachting Center or Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard, and sightseeing departures also use Fort Adams State Park’s Alofsin Pier. Your exact meeting point is confirmed after booking and is chosen for tide, traffic, and convenience.

Typical routes take you past the Claiborne Pell (Newport) Bridge, Rose Island Lighthouse, the Goat Island (Newport Harbor) Light, and the walls of historic Fort Adams. Longer cruises often run along Ocean Drive toward Castle Hill Lighthouse, with views of elegant waterfront estates, mega‑yachts on their moorings, and the Jamestown shoreline. On calmer days, captains may point out local landmarks like Clingstone, the famous “house on the rock,” and favorite swim coves.

If you book a captained charter, you do not need a boating license. For self-operated powerboats, Rhode Island requires a boating safety education certificate for operators born on or after January 1, 1986; personal watercraft always require a recognized boater card, regardless of age. Visitors may use a NASBLA‑approved card from their home state. Owners will verify any required credentials during the booking process.

Yes. Families are welcome on most private charters. Every vessel carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all passengers, and Rhode Island requires children under 13 to wear a life jacket while underway unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin. Let the captain know the ages and approximate weights of children so properly sized jackets are ready. Strollers and car seats can usually be stowed, and infants count toward the boat’s passenger limit.

Most private charters are BYO for snacks and beverages, and many captains can recommend local spots near the docks for easy pickup before you board. Policies on alcohol, glass, coolers, and red wine vary by boat; check your listing and keep everything spill‑friendly. Several boats can arrange catered platters with advance notice if you prefer to show up to a stocked galley.

Many captains welcome well‑behaved dogs on private charters with advance approval, especially on open‑deck boats. Bring a leash, a small towel, and water bowl; non‑slip booties are helpful on hot or wet decks. For everyone’s comfort, let the owner know your pet’s size and temperament when you send your booking request.

Captains monitor the marine forecast and will not operate in unsafe conditions. If conditions are marginal, many will recommend rescheduling or adjusting the route and timing for a smoother ride. Each Getmyboat listing has its own cancellation policy, and weather decisions typically follow that policy; if the captain deems it unsafe, you can expect a refund or a new date. You’ll see the exact terms at checkout.

Absolutely. Newport is built for celebrations on the water, from laid‑back sunset sails to yacht outings with onboard music and catering. Tell the owner your headcount, vibe, and any must‑haves (decor, photo stops, swimming) so they can match you to an appropriate vessel. Most non‑inspected boats carry up to 6–12 guests; larger inspected vessels can host bigger groups, and availability is best when you book well in advance for summer weekends.

Peak boating season runs from late May through September, with the warmest, busiest stretch from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Late summer sunsets are gorgeous, while September often brings some of the year’s best wind and fewer crowds. Major boating dates to plan around include Memorial Day weekend, July 4th fireworks over the harbor, and Labor Day. Newport’s signature events also impact availability—Newport Folk Festival (typically the last weekend of July), Newport Jazz Festival (often the first weekend of August), and the Newport International Boat Show in mid‑September. For the smoothest experience, choose weekday departures or morning starts for calmer water and easier parking, and secure popular summer dates a few weeks to a few months ahead.

Two‑hour harbor and sunset cruises are perfect for first‑timers and quick celebrations. Half‑day charters add time to reach Ocean Drive, Castle Hill, or Jamestown’s shoreline and fit in a swim stop. Full days allow for relaxed sightseeing across Narragansett Bay, a dock‑and‑dine break, or time under sail. Your captain will tailor the route to the day’s wind, tide, and your group’s preferences.

Yes. A favorite add‑on is a stop at Rose Island to photograph the lighthouse when schedules permit, and fall‑through‑spring visitors can join seal‑watching cruises that depart from downtown and pass Rose Island and the bridge. Many summer charters will also swing by Castle Hill Lighthouse and the storied “house on the rock,” Clingstone, for memorable photos. Ask your captain what’s best for the season and sea state when you book.