Newport International Boat Show unveils expanded schedule of new Boater Educational Programs

New Boater Educational Programs © Tom King

The Newport International Boat Show, presented by BankNewport announced today that it will include a multitude of new and exciting educational activities and opportunities for attendees and boating enthusiasts to enjoy. This year's Show will take place September 11-14, 2025, across multiple interconnected show wharfs, marinas and sites in downtown Newport, Rhode Island.

Presented by the Annapolis School of Seamanship, the Cruiser's Classroom, located Below-Deck at the Hammetts entrance to the Show, returns as an educational experience featuring interactive presentations covering an array of marine-related topics such as docking, navigation, safety, boat safety and maintenance, offshore cruising, marine systems and more. Classes will be offered all four days of the show with limited seating capacity. For a full list of classes, click

here.

"We're thrilled to bring our hands-on, real-world training to Newport," said John Martino, CEO of Annapolis School of Seamanship. "This partnership allows us to empower boaters at every level with the skills and confidence they need to enjoy the water safely and fully."

In addition to the Cruiser's Classroom, IYRS will present a variety of all-new Tech Talks during this year's Show, featuring hands-on technical training classes for boaters of all experience levels led by industry experts. American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) expert and Boat of the Year judge Ed Sherman will lead two separate workshops during the 2025 Show, covering lithium batteries and electronically controlled diesel engines. Composites Hall-of-Famer Bob Lacovara will lead a three-hour workshop exploring gel coat technology and repair. It is recommended to register in advance online here. Pricing is $125 per person for each course. This purchase does include one admission ticket to the Newport International Boat Show.

Also, for 2025 will be BoatClass, powered by Freedom Boat Club. Whether looking for a confidence boost on the water, or brand new to boating entirely, BoatClass offers the optimal start point to a lifetime of memories on the water. These 90-minute on-water training sessions led by a certified captain will guide attendees through essential boating skills from top to bottom. Classes will be offered from the slips at the Newport Harbor Hotel during the Show at 10 a.m., 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. daily. Pricing is $99 per person. While onsite registration may be available, it is recommended to book your session in advance online here, as spots are limited.

"As we continue to welcome more boaters to the water, we need to ensure that they have the education and guidance to make them comfortable, confident and safe," said Jocelyn Emory, Director of Strategy for the Newport International Boat Show, US Boat Shows for Informa Market. "With the help of our industry partners, these educational programs and opportunities at the Show are geared toward providing a welcoming community for new and seasoned boaters alike. There's truly something for everyone in these course offerings that bring safety and enjoyment on the water."

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

The 54th Newport International Boat Show is scheduled for September 11-14, 2025. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.newportboatshow.com.