Host an Event at Sail Newport
Sail Newport can host mission-related events at the Sail Newport Marine Education and Recreation Center. We have a variety of spaces, including the 11th Hour Great Room, a wrap-around covered deck, and our lawn space.
If your event falls under the category of events we can host, or if you’re not quite sure, please click the “Host An Event Inquiry” button below.
Events we can host
- Sailing related events (lectures, clinics, seminars, etc)
- Marine-Industry related functions
- Sustainability related events
- Classroom or educational functions
- Safety seminars
- Regatta adjacent (registrations, meetings, socials, etc.)
- Functions in conjunction with J/22 rentals
- Community organization meetings, lectures or seminars
- Sail Newport Business Member meetings
Events we can not host
- Weddings
- Rehearsal dinners
- Bachelor or bachelorette parties
- Birthday parties
- Bar/Bat mitzvahs
- Anniversaries
- Memorials
- Non-marine or non-corporate member functions
- Member or public non-marine or non-mission-related social events
- Employee or board member non-marine or non-mission-related social events
We are happy to connect inquiries to the other special event locations in Fort Adams State Park.
Facility overview
Sail Newport is located in scenic Fort Adams State Park. The Marine Education and Recreation Center is along the water, where guests can enjoy sweeping views of Newport Harbor, Brenton Cove, and downtown Newport from our unique location.
The Marine Education and Recreation Center features the 11th Hour Great Room, a multi-purpose space that can be transformed to perfectly suit your event. Split the room with retractable walls, or lead your meetings with whiteboards and a projector/screen. A variety of tables and chairs are available. Speak with the Sail Newport Events Manager for more information about additional rental equipment.
Amenities of the 11th Hour Great Room
- Convertible, multi-purpose 2,000 square foot space
- Tables and chairs
- Built-in white boards
- Built-in speaker system (projects in the Great Room and on the deck)
- Projector and screen
- Wireless microphone (with stand)
- Lavalier microphones
- Access to 2000 sq ft covered deck (drop-down vinyl walls available)
- Ample parking
- Water refill stations
- Coat racks
- Incredible views of Brenton Cove and Newport Harbor
- Additional AV equipment and lighting available at additional cost
- Kitchen space available at additional cost
Functions with alcohol
Events that serve alcohol must first be approved by the RI DEM (through Sail Newport’s Event Manager). If alcohol service is approved, it must be served by a Rhode Island Class P Caterer with a TIPS certified bartender. No exceptions. Please see our Choice Vendors list below for Class P Caterers.
Sustainability
Sail Newport works to maximize our sustainability practices and limit our environmental impact. We require all vendors and clients to work with us on these efforts by abiding by the guidelines below:
- Preference should be given to locally sourced food, beverage and catering services
- Caterers must supply either reusable food service ware or compostable food service ware (plates, napkins, utensils and cups)
- Absolutely no single-use plastics – this includes plastic water bottles
- Sail Newport’s facilities have water refill stations for reusable waterbottles/cups
- Paper or compostable straws only
- Bulk containers preferred over single use packets (sugar, cream, condiments, etc)
- Non-toxic cleaning products should be used whenever necessary
- Please see the City of Newport’s guidelines on recycling and trash removal for additional information – https://www.cityofnewport.com/en-us/city-hall/departments/public-services/trash-recycling
Sail Newport works to maximize our sustainability practices and limit our environmental impact. We require all vendors and clients to work with us on these efforts by abiding by the guidelines below (scroll down for more text).

Accessibility
Sail Newport is an ADA-compliant accessible building. The exterior ramps allow access to the lower lobby and Dock Office.
Accessible restrooms are available on the ground and second floor.
There is an elevator providing access to the upper floors.
In-season/offseason rates
Discounted rates are available during our off-season which is November 15 – May 1
Sail Newport is in-season from May 1 – November 15
Choice vendors
Catering and Bar Service
Audrain Hospitality
Stella Melchione
[email protected]
(401) 239-0165
Blackstone Caterers
Gina Calcagni
[email protected]
(401) 848-2030
Island Time Catering
Sabrina/Island Time Catering Team
[email protected]
(401) 430-5845
McGrath Clambakes
Alexis Radkovich
[email protected]
(401) 847-7743
Pranzi Catering & Events
Lisa Mattiello
[email protected]
(401) 383-3631
Russell Morin
Jess Sullivan
[email protected]
(508) 226-6600
Whitestar Catering
Ron Hopkins
[email protected]
(401) 241-4252
Tents and Rentals
Newport Tent
Ryan Leary
[email protected]
(401) 683-9160
PEAK Event Services
Nicholas Vitale
[email protected]
(781) 436-8613
Pranzi Tents
Lisa Mattiello
[email protected]
(401) 383-3631
Have questions?
Contact Nikki Raccio, Events and Sales Manager
Phone: (401) 846-1983
Email: [email protected]