Newport International Boat Show returns!

The Newport International Boat Show returns Sept. 11-14, 2025. To learn more about this year’s event, Newport Life caught up with Jocelyn Emory, Director of Strategy – US Boat Shows / Newport International Boat Show.

How many boat shows have you been involved with? And would you tell is a little bit about your role?

I’ve spent a decade in marketing and communications for the Newport International Boat Show, which is right in my own backyard and especially meaningful — I love seeing how much it’s grown and getting to know so many exhibitors, sponsors, and community partners. With our small Newport team, we all go beyond the day-to-day details — and I can tell you, it’s never a dull moment producing an outdoor boat show! In my new role, I support strategy and special projects across the entire U.S. boat show portfolio, working closely with senior leadership and teams to manage projects, align priorities, and drive growth while tailoring each show to its unique audience and energy. What I enjoy most is seeing months of planning come together as the docks fill with boats, the showgrounds buzz with activity, and the energy of each destination takes over.

What are you most looking forward to about this year’s event?

This year’s Newport International Boat Show is bigger than ever — expanding across 17 acres with more than 350 exhibitors (sailboats, powerboats, and land displays), including more than 25 U.S. debuts (boats and products) and dedicated areas to feature brokerage boats up to 100 feet. On land, you’ll tentfuls of marine products, services, and accessories to explore.

Beyond the boats, we’ve planned an incredible lineup of educational and interactive experiences:

• Cruisers’ Classroom (Presented by Annapolis School of Seamanship): Complimentary sessions all four-days on topics like anchoring, diesel basics, weather safety, navigation, and more.
• Tech Talks at IYRS: Hands-on workshops on lithium batteries, electronic diesel engines, and gel coat repair (Sat–Sun). Space is limited book ahead!
• BoatClass (by Freedom Boat Club): A 90-minute on-water training session with a certified captain, for all experience levels. Offered daily, recommended to book session in advance.
• For an elevated experience, don’t miss the Windward VIP Lounge—your private waterfront oasis with a premium open bar, gourmet food, private restrooms, and exclusive pop-up activations, all with stunning views of Narragansett Bay.

What’s something that goes on behind the scenes that visitors may not be aware of?

Months of planning and coordination go into transforming downtown Newport into a world-class boat show. Our team works closely with the City of Newport, local businesses, and hundreds of exhibitors to seamlessly connect multiple show sites by land and water. From carefully orchestrating boat moves into tight marina spaces, to laying miles of docks, utilities, and signage, to ensuring safety and access for thousands of guests each day — there’s a massive logistical effort that most visitors never see. Add in programming, partner relationships, dozens of sponsor activations, and educational courses, it’s this teamwork behind the scenes that makes the Newport International Boat Show such a memorable experience for all.

This is the first full year with Informa, is that right? How has that changed that show, if at all?

This is our second year with Informa Markets, and the first full year with their resources fully in place. The essence of the Newport International Boat Show hasn’t changed — it remains deeply rooted in the local community and boating culture and continues to be the must-see kickoff to the boating season for marine trades and boating enthusiasts. What Informa has brought is enhanced operations and technology, expanded programming, elevated experiences like the Windward VIP Lounge, and the strength of being part of a ‘family’ of show organizers who share a common passion for boating and industry knowledge. It’s the same beloved show — now with an extra layer of support!

What makes the Newport show stand out from other shows?

The Newport International Boat Show stands out as the official kickoff to the boat show season. Many exhibitors debut their new 2026 models here, with more than 25 U.S. launches across power, sail, and marine products. Look for the red and blue Newport for New Products (NFNP) decals and burgees to spot entries, with winners announced Friday on the website. What truly makes Newport unique is its energy and setting. The show is seamlessly woven into historic downtown Newport, offering not just boats but a full destination experience—waterfront views, world-class dining, boutique shopping, and the unmistakable charm of New England in the fall. It’s both a premier industry event and a memorable experience.

Know before you go:

Ticketing info:

Discover Newport is sponsoring opening Preview Day on Thursday, September 11^th for $42. A one-day General Admission ticket is $32 (valid for one day, Friday through Sunday), two-day passes including preview day plus one general admission ticket is $65, or two-day general admission tickets are $54. Children under 10 are free when accompanied by an adult. On behalf of Hogan Associates Real Estate and Carey, Richmond & Viking Insurance, in appreciation of military families and veterans as well as residents of Newport County on Sunday, September 14^th, tickets are $20 at kiosk row only with ID check. 

For the VIP Lounge:

Windward VIP Lounge One-Day Tickets are available for $275. 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 and visitors must be 18 or older to enter.

For more information, visit www.newportboatshow.com and be sure to follow @thenewportboatshow on social media.

Newport Life is proud to be a sponsor of this year’s show.