Newport International Boat Show Celebrates 55 Years

Newport International Boat Show © NIBS

The Newport International Boat Show presented by BankNewport announced that tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Show, as it prepares to celebrate 55 years as one of the premier and largest Northeast in-water boat shows.

Set for September 17-20 on Newport's iconic waterfront, this year's event will feature expanded educational programming, a reimagined Windward VIP Lounge experience, hundreds of boats and marine products, and four days of immersive experiences designed for every type of boating enthusiast.

As anticipation builds for the 55th edition of the Show, organizers have officially opened ticket sales and announced a range of new and returning attractions, including Tech Talks, Cruisers Classroom educational sessions, and hands-on on-water training opportunities.

The Show's educational partner, IYRS School of Technology & Trades will once again deliver Tech Talk classroom sessions from industry professionals on Saturday and Sunday, with dynamic courses open to anyone at a cost of $125 per class, which includes a single-day general admission ticket to the Show. Cruisers Classroom, presented by the Annapolis School of Seamanship (ASOS) will return to Hammetts' below deck with a full slate of free discussions and panels designed to enhance boating knowledge and skills for new boaters and seasoned mariners alike. For those seeking on-water training, BoatClass by Freedom Boat Club will offer 90-minute training sessions with certified captains who will guide attendees through the essential skills of boating, with sessions going on sale soon.

To purchase tickets online, visit www.newportboatshow.com. Opening Preview Day is Thursday, September 17, and tickets are $44. A one-day General Admission ticket is $33 (valid for one day, Friday through Sunday), two-day passes including preview day plus one general admission ticket are $68, or two-day general admission tickets are $56.

The Windward VIP Lounge offers an elite retreat with stunning views of Narragansett Bay and the sounds of an active waterfront. This select ticket package includes a private VIP entrance to the Show through Perry Mill Wharf, features a premium open bar with endless options, gourmet food served throughout the day, private restrooms, and an ideal location to relax and lounge. In addition to the many offerings of the Lounge itself, VIP Experience ticket holders will enjoy early entry one-hour before the Show opens, to start your day as a VIP with Windward access for food and beverage, as well as open access to the Show grounds.

Windward VIP Lounge One-Day Tickets are available for $250 now through August 15, or $300 after that date. Each VIP ticket is valid for any one day of the Show. Showgoers must purchase tickets in advance, as this experience will not be sold day-of. Digital tickets will be scanned at entry of the Windward Lounge. Visitors must be 18 or older to enter the Windward VIP Lounge.

"Reaching our 55th anniversary is an incredible milestone and an opportunity to reflect on what has made the Newport International Boat Show such a special event for generations of boaters," said Jocelyn Emory, Director of Strategy for the Newport International Boat Show, US Boat Shows for Informa Markets. "This year's Show combines everything attendees have come to expect—world-class boats, industry-leading brands and the energy of Newport's waterfront—with enhanced educational programming and elevated hospitality experiences. Whether you're shopping for your next boat, expanding your boating knowledge or simply enjoying the lifestyle, there will be something memorable for everyone."

As one of the most coveted in-water events in the country, the Newport International Boat Show spans over 17 acres across six connecting show sites located on Newport's renowned waterfront. It features hundreds of exhibitors, dealers, and manufacturers, showcasing a dazzling array of powerboats and sailboats, new debuts and brokerage, ranging from 15 to 90 feet, alongside a comprehensive selection of marine equipment, services, and accessories for boating aficionados.

The 55th Newport International Boat Show is scheduled for September 17-20, 2026. Please follow the Newport International Boat Show's Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and schedules of events. For more information, visit www.newportboatshow.com.

Show Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, Friday and Saturday, September 17, 18, and 19: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Sunday, September 20: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.