The first time we visited Newport in 2011, we were walking along the shops and came upon a ticket booth selling tickets for cruises on the Amazing Grace. Without hesitation, we bought two tickets and within an hour we were cruising Newport Harbor. It was a sunset cruise and it was lovely.
On our next visit, we brought my mom along. My daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter also joined us for a couple of days and this time we opted for a cruise on the Rum Runner II - Built in 1929 for two New Jersey mobsters to elude the Coast Guard while speeding cases of "hooch." Aboard the high speed motor boat Rum Runner II, you will cruise by Newport mansions and former speakeasies that were fueled by seaborne smugglers back in the 1920s and 30s. This restored Elco Motor yacht carries you swiftly and safely through local waters of Newport Harbor on an adventurous motor yacht tour. Originally powered with three Packard airplane engines, she has been re-powered with twin turbo-charged 350HP Caterpillar Marine Diesels, to ensure our Newport Harbor tour is both thrilling and comfortable. (Taken from website linked below). This was the perfect vessel when travelling with a two year old! The Rum Runner tickets run from $25-30 per person.
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As you can see - even Elena loved every minute! |
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The Rum Runner II |
Last year we decided to expand our horizons and cruised on the 72-foot schooner sailing yacht, the Madeleine. "The Madeleine, which was specifically designed and built to carry passengers easily and safely sailing through the local waters of Newport. The sailing yacht Madeleine maintains 19th century sailboat style with a 21st century sailing yacht comfort and convenience." The Madeleine holds 49 passengers, and is also a 90 minute cruise. Tickets for the Madeleine range from $30-$40 per person.
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"Our Crew" |
This was 90 minutes of sheer exhilaration. I don't know if it was the gigantic, brilliant white sails, or the immaculate deck with its polished wood trim or the enthusiasm of our crew, the brilliant blue skies above, or just the wind blowing on our faces as we sailed along, but I was in heaven. The sights, the other boats sailing by, it was just more than the senses could handle.
Seeing Newport from the harbor is definitely an experience not to be missed. There are vessels of all shapes and sizes and I've got my eye on the Aquidneck for my next ride! What do you think? She's pretty - pretty spectacular! I'm thinking a sunset sail might be in my future! Stay tuned for the last in my Newport series.....featuring one of Newport's most magnificent mansions, The Elms.
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The Aquidneck |
This is just beautiful !!! I have always loved the ocean! I have to dig up one of my pictures...I have almost the exact same picture of the sail from our adventure in Rockport, Mass.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I are going to be moving to Rhode Island next year sometime. What do you recommend we visit and see while there?
ReplyDeleteI suggest you read all four of my Newport Pists for a multitude of ideas. Newport is a beautiful state!
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