In a show of support for grassroots sailing, the Newport International Boat Show (NIBS) has announced a $5,000 donation to Sail Newport, one of the largest public sailing centers in the U.S. The gift was presented during Waterfront Day at Fort Adams State Park on May 31, part of a broader partnership between the boat show and World Boating Day to connect more people—especially youth—with experiences on the water.
Held on a breezy Saturday along Newport Harbor, the free community event welcomed visitors of all ages to try sailing, explore the waterfront, and learn about local opportunities to get involved. NIBS’ contribution will help fund Sail Newport’s year-round sailing programs, including school outreach, youth regattas, and affordable learn-to-sail opportunities for the public.
“Every year, we make our most concerted efforts to give back to the community, and this year, we’re taking it to another level,” said Jocelyn Emory, Director of Strategy for the Newport International Boat Show. “Through initiatives like Waterfront Day and Girls AdventureSail Day, we’re not only giving back but also helping to build a vibrant future for both the marine industry and our entire region.”
Founded in 1983, Sail Newport is a nonprofit dedicated to providing accessible sailing for all, operating out of Fort Adams. The organization offers programs for beginners to advanced sailors, hosts regattas, and runs one of the country’s most dynamic youth sailing programs. A signature initiative, the Pell School Science & Sailing Program, provides sailing education tied to STEM curriculum—at no cost—to fourth graders in Newport’s public schools.
“We are grateful to NIBS for recognizing the value of community sailing in the Ocean State,” said Brad Read, Executive Director of Sail Newport. “Their support allows us to provide many programs to the community, schools, civic groups, and clubs.”
This year’s boat show, set for September 11–14, 2025, will continue the collaboration, with NIBS supporting the Newport Regatta in July and Girls AdventureSail Day in September. Now in its 54th year, the Newport International Boat Show remains one of the most influential in-water shows in the U.S., drawing hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of boaters to Rhode Island’s iconic sailing city.
For more information, visit newportboatshow.com or sailnewport.org.
