News & Events

By Tuesday, it was heating up at the four-day (June 23-26) Newport Charter Yacht Show, not only because of record-setting high temperatures that had moved into New England but also because it was the day set aside for the Show’s annual Chef’s Competition, a highlight of several crew contests designed to showcase the talents of those who are the backbone of luxury charter yacht experiences.

The Newport Charter Yacht Show is the only trade event of its kind in the Northeast, meaning it’s a valuable tool for connecting luxury charter yachts, their agents, owners, captains and crews with those in the business of brokering unparalleled on-water vacations for discriminating clients.

On Friday, October 11, the local yachting community is invited to Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard to race and/or spectate at the Shipyard’s annual “Pumpkin Regatta” to raise funds for The Confetti Foundation in Middletown, RI from 4:00-7:00pm. Food from Wally’s Wieners will be served along with beverages thanks to sponsors RC Marine Electric, SKYLINK Tek, Newport Yacht Builders, Casey’s Oil & Propane, al fresco Composites, Itchiban Yacht Painters, Hallam's Marine Service, and Newport Rigging Group.

Started more than twelve years ago, the Shipyard Pumpkin Regatta is an annual tradition and fund-raiser with all proceeds given to a different organization each year. Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard employees organize the annual event by painting three fiberglass pumpkins, setting up food and beverages for all to enjoy, and asking local companies to donate items for a silent auction. “Our annual Pumpkin Regatta is a favorite event for our yacht captains and crew who enjoy the camaraderie of racing against each other for the fastest time in our bright orange pumpkins,” said Michael Millerick, General Manager of Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard.

Even with a history that spans almost four decades, the annual Newport Charter Yacht Show appears young and vigorous every time it returns to Newport, R.I.’s famed waterfront. The industry event, held Sunday, June 23 through Wednesday, June 26 featured 15 luxury motor and sailing yachts from lengths in the mid 60-foot range, such as the 64’ M/Y Gem (represented by Nicholson Yachts), to greater than 100 feet, including the 168’ M/Y Acta (Edmiston).

When the Newport Charter Yacht Show comes around each year, it’s a sign that summer in New England is in full swing. And on Sunday, June 23rd, when 15+ luxury yachts move onto the docks at Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard (the Show’s producer and owner), it will further indicate that yacht charter professionals – including agents, owners, brokers, and captains – are at the ready to make the most of four days at the northeast’s only such show of its kind.