Sailing Capital of the World...

Castle Hill Light

It was a short sail from Block Island to Newport, Rhode Island.  Yet again we were going to have to take a day and wait out yet more bad weather.  Fortunately, for us we made some new friends along the way who happen to live near Newport.  So the delay was not bad at all! 

Mansion

Newport is known as the sailing capital of the world.  There are some beautiful boats there!  High dollar boats owned by famous yachtsmen.  America's Cup sailors.  Newport was also once the summer destination for the very wealthy - Vanderbilts and Astors.  A few past presidents had summer homes in Newport as well such as JFK and Eisenhower.  The mansions still stand and some are now open to the public.  

Fixer Upper on a Rock

 Newport is a sailors town for sure.  There is a "Seamen's Church" where sailors can go to get a shower, do laundry or get a bite to eat.  There is also a newer "Sailor's Institute" that also provides services for sailors.  Long, long sailing history.  

Mooring field in Newport, RI

 

 

 We felt a little like step children here however. These boats have matching dinghies!  All the boats shine and sparkle while we were looking a little worn from travel.