Rhode Island

3 of the Best Sunset Cruises in Newport

by Bridgette Redman  |  Published August 13, 2023

Take in the beauty of an ocean sunset while cruising in Newport, Rhode Island.

Photo: Evening Cocktail Cruise on the Coastal Queen / Courtesy GetyourGuide.com

Newport is renowned for its coastal views, making a sunset tour a romantic and relaxing way to spend an evening. Whether you are looking to spend time with someone special or wanting to take advantage of the great photographic moments available during the vibrant Atlantic Ocean sunsets, cruises offer the opportunity to do both. Many cruises come with knowledgeable guides and you’ll get a unique view of the Newport Bridge, lighthouses and historic buildings along the shoreline.

Evening Cocktail Cruise of Narragansett Bay

Let the Coastal Queen show you the beauties of the Newport Coast as you sip a cocktail on this 75-minute cruise. You’ll experience Newport Bay and Jamestown while breathing in the ocean air and watching the sun set in all its glory. The trip around Narragansett Bay lets passengers view mega yachts, lighthouses, historic church steeples, the Newport Pell Bridge, Rose Island, the Jamestown shoreline and historic forts. Choose between the panoramic views available from the climate-controlled, weatherproof main salon or enjoy the wind off the waters from the open-air upper deck. While one crafted cocktail is provided as part of the cruise, you can purchase additional refreshments at the cash-only bar onboard. You must be at least 21 years old to take this cruise. It is wheelchair accessible. From $38 per person.

Book at GetyourGuide.com

Evening Bubbly Cruise from Jamestown

Photo: Jamestown-Newport Bubbly Sunset Cruise / Courtesy of GetyourGuide.com

Head out from Jamestown on this sunset cruise of Narragansett Bay and Newport Harbor. The leisurely, 1.5-hour cruise on the Jamestown-Newport ferry gives you an opportunity to toast to the beauty of this charming coastal town with a glass of champagne that is included in the price of the cruise. For those wanting more than a single flute, a bar onboard will sell other refreshments. The small group tour is limited to 10 participants, allowing for an intimate experience. Passengers on the ferry will get to witness such sights as the Newport Harbor area, Goat Island, Rose Island Lighthouse, the Newport Pell Bridge, the Jamestown shoreline, Clingstone, the House on the Rocks, Fort Wetherill, Horsehead, Fort Adams, Hammersmith Farm, Eisenhower House, Brenton Cove, Beacon Rock, The Armory, St. Mary’s Church and the Ida Lewis Lighthouse/Yacht Club. From $36 per person.

Book at GetyourGuide.com

Sunset Cruise with Gansett Cruises

Photo: Sunset Cruise / Courtesy of Viator.com

Load the whole family onto this traditionally restored 50-foot lobster boat. The 90-minute sunset tour cruises through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. Those over 21 years of age can engage in a champagne toast and everyone can delight to the stories told by experienced guides who share the legends and history of their home port. The cruise will show off many of the most beloved sites in the bay and be in sight of the Newport Bridge at sunset. In addition to the champagne, each sunset cruise features a complimentary treat that represents Rhode Island cuisine and culture such as a quahog stuffie. Passengers can choose to enjoy the sunset from either the comfortably cushioned and shaded deck or the top, sunny-side deck. The operators encourage passengers to dress comfortably and wear soft-sole shoes. Heels are not allowed. From $40 per person.

Book at Viator.com