Newport International Boat Show Next Week

A sure sign that summer is winding down and fall is beginning in the Northeast has to be the appearance in Newport, RI of the annual Newport International Boat Show, running this year from September 15 through 18. I have to admit that I have been attending NIBS since 1974 when it was held under a single tent on the grass at Forth Adamas and there were maybe 15 boats in the water. Now one of the biggest boat shows in the country, NIBS has something for everyone who loves boats. Spanning about 15 acres of Newport waterfront and sporting six giant tents, the show is a true happening with dozens of sailboats and scores of power boats from inflatable outboards to mega yachts. Every major brand of boat as well as gear and equipment is represented and most exhibitors offer great boat-show discounts on in-show sales. If you are shopping for anything nautical, you’ll find here. But, aside from the show, Newport itself is a huge attraction as one of America’s oldest cities and home to the Mansions of Bellevue Ave., the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the two excellent car museums, the new Sailing Hall of Fame and America’s Cup Museum and dozens of excellent restaurants. And then there is Newport Harbor itself, which in September is host to a world-class collection of sailing and power yachts worthy of much ogling.  You may come to Newport for the boat show but you’ll stay a while to soak up the Newport scene. Hope to see you there.