Newport Bermuda Race Starting Line Festival
120 Years of Offshore Sailing History Comes Alive at Fort Adams
2026 marks 100 years of partnership between Cruising Club of America & Royal Bermuda Yacht Club co-organizing one of the largest & oldest international sailing events in the world.
Watch 175 boats launch on a biennial 636-mile journey from Fort Adams, a natural amphitheater framed by the Newport Bridge and iconic lighthouses.
Newport, RI is a captivating blend of coastal charm, walkable streets, and rich maritime heritage. Creating a vibrant waterfront for a perfect summer escape.
Sailing legends will provide live commentary, bringing the action and stories from the water to the shoreline—so you’ll be able to follow and enjoy every moment.
From 12–5 PM at Fort Adams, enjoy food trucks, bars, live music, kids’ activities, shopping, and exhibits from local partners—all in one festive waterfront setting.
In 2024, the first year of the new starting party 4,000 spectators attended in person, and over 12,000 joined online. 2026 is expected to be even bigger!
NEWPORT BERMUDA RACE
STARTING LINE FESTIVAL
Friday June 19, 2026
12 - 5 PM
FREE ENTRY
Gates are opem from 12:00 - 5:00 PM
Music from 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Food from 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Beer Garden open from 12:00 - 2:00 PM
Exhibits from 12:00 - 5:00 PM
Shopping from 12:00 - 5:00 PM
Starting Line Live Show begins 12:45 PM
First Warning Signal 1:00PM
First start 1:10 PM
Last Class starts 3:00 PM