Newport Memorial Boat Parade – remembering those lost in 2020/21

A group of community boaters has joined Sail Newport to organize a Newport Harbor Memorial Boat Parade for Sunday, June 6, starting at 5:30 p.m.

The parade will pay tribute to members of the community who passed away in 2020 and 2021.

Brad Read, Sail Newport’s executive director was inspired to create the memorial boat parade because of the loss of opportunities to gather due to pandemic restrictions.

“We’ve lost so many people over the past year who had an enormous impact on all aspects of our community, the boat parade will be a meaningful tribute and an opportunity for all of us to spend time together to remember our loved colleagues, friends and family members,” says Brad Read, Sail Newport executive director.

The parade will include a blessing of the fleet by Reverend Jackie Kirby planned for 1720 and the rendition of Amazing Grace by the Newport Hibernians.

Spectators:
Watch: The Newport Memorial Boat parade can be viewed from points surrounding the waterfront in Newport Harbor. Spectators are reminded to adhere to state and city guidelines for COVID safety.

Parade Route:
The boat parade will navigate clockwise around Newport Harbor and will start at Goat Island then proceed past the Safe Harbor Newport Shipyard,  State Pier 9, Newport Yacht Club, The Newport Harbormaster’s Office, Bowen’s and Bannister’s wharves, Hammetts Wharf,  IYRS, Casey’s Marina, Ida Lewis Yacht Club, New York Yacht Club,  Sail Newport and end at Fort Adams State Park.

To Participate by boat: Please watch the parade from points around the harbor. If you are interested in getting on a boat, complimentary seats may be available courtesy of Oldport Marine on the Amazing Grace, and until filled on a commercial tour boat, please email: mattgineo@gmail.com

Radio Coverage: Listen to parade commentary on WADK-AM Radio (1540) starting at 5:30 p.m.

A rain date is scheduled for Monday, 6/7

More information, including a parade roster, here: https://sailnewport.org/calendar/newport-memorial-boat-parade-2/