Newport: Morning Cruise with Complimentary Mimosa

If you’re visiting Newport and looking for a calm, scenic way to start your day, a morning cruise with a free mimosa might just be your ideal choice. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken to people who’ve enjoyed it. This cruise offers a mix of beautiful views, engaging storytelling, and a laid-back vibe that appeals to many travelers.

What really drew me in are the friendly guides who keep things lively and the opportunity to see Newport’s famous sights from the water, all while sipping a complimentary mimosa. On the flip side, it’s a fairly short experience—just 75 minutes—so it’s best suited for those wanting a relaxed, no-hurry introduction to the harbor. If you love boats, history, and a bit of sunshine, this tour could be just right for you.

However, keep in mind that it’s not designed for those in wheelchairs or with mobility issues, and no outside food or drinks are allowed onboard. It’s a decent value at $40, considering the views and the storytelling, but it’s not a full day of touring—more of a gentle, scenic taste of Newport’s waters.

This cruise suits travelers who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere, enjoy a good narrative, and want to add a comfortable, scenic experience to their day. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or a partner, it’s a straightforward, charming way to soak up Newport’s maritime charm.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic views of Newport Harbor, Narragansett Bay, and Gilded Age mansions.
• Entertaining guides who share stories about the sights, yachts, and local history.
• Complimentary mimosa or orange juice, with options to buy more drinks onboard.
• Short, manageable duration of 75 minutes makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
• Restrictions include no outside food or drinks, no high heels, and limited accessibility.
• Family-friendly for most, but not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail: What to Expect on This Morning Cruise

This cruise is run aboard the M/V Gansett, a beautifully restored 50-foot lobster boat that comfortably fits up to 49 passengers. From the moment you step onto the boat, you’re treated to a blend of comfort and style, with modern amenities ensuring a smooth ride and a great view from all sides.

Departure Point & Check-In: You’ll find the Gansett Cruises Ticket Booth next to the Landing Restaurant on Bowen’s Wharf. It’s a straightforward spot, and the staff are friendly and ready to help you get settled. Arriving a bit early is recommended, especially if you want to snag a good seat or sit in the front.

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 75 minutes, usually scheduled in the morning. It’s a great way to start your day, leaving plenty of time for other activities afterward.

The Ride & Views: Once underway, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree view of Newport’s harbor and Narragansett Bay. The boat’s top sun deck is perfect for soaking in the morning sun, while the main deck offers a shaded area if you prefer a bit of cover. The boat’s size and design allow for close-up views of the mansions, yachts, and landmarks, which you might miss if you’re just walking around the town.

Storytelling & Guides: One of the biggest highlights is the narration. Guides are known for their lively, often funny storytelling—imparting local tales, facts about the yachts, and insights about the historic sites like Fort Adams. As one reviewer put it, “The guide was sooo funny and the tour was great!”

Sights & Highlights: Expect to see hidden Gilded Age mansions as you cruise past Brenton Cove, learn about the bustling Newport Harbor, and glide past Fort Adams—the largest fortification of its kind on the East Coast. The stories and details shared by the guides make the sights more meaningful and memorable.

What’s Included & What You’ll Want to Budget For

The price of $40 per person is quite reasonable for this kind of experience. It covers the boat cruise, a tour guide, and the complimentary mimosa—a nice touch that elevates the experience from a simple boat ride to a slightly more festive occasion.

You can purchase additional drinks from the onboard cash bar, with options like beer, wine, cocktails, soda, and water ranging from $2 to $7. If you’re looking to keep it simple and refreshing, the free mimosa or orange juice is a lovely perk.

Food and extras: No outside food or drinks are permitted, so don’t plan to bring snacks or bottles onboard. Also, keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchairs or those with mobility issues, which could be a consideration depending on your group.

Additional offerings: For a small extra, you can try a quahog “stuffie”—a stuffed clam with sausage, pepper, and onion served on half shell with lemon, priced at $3 each or two for $5.

The Experience: A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point & Boarding: You’ll meet at the red-roofed ticket booth next to the Landing Restaurant. The check-in process is straightforward, and staff are helpful. Boarding begins with a friendly vibe, and you’ll find plenty of space to settle in.

Departure & Cruise: Once everyone is on board, the boat departs, and your guide kicks off the narration. The cruise is smooth and comfortable, with plenty of seating on the main deck and the sun deck. Given the relatively short duration, there’s a good balance between sightseeing and storytelling.

Sights and Stories: As you glide past Brenton Cove, expect to see some of Newport’s most exclusive mansions—though hidden from street view, they come alive from the water. The guide’s stories add depth and personality, making the sights pop with history and gossip.

Fort Adams & Other Landmarks: Passing Fort Adams is a highlight, allowing you to appreciate its scale and strategic position. The guide will fill you in on its significance during your cruise, adding a layer of understanding that makes the sightseeing more meaningful.

Return & Disembarkation: After 75 minutes, the boat gently returns to the harbor. Many travelers report feeling relaxed and refreshed, having enjoyed both the scenery and the lighthearted banter from the guides.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews are glowing, with an average rating of 5 out of 5. Many mention the guides’ humor and knowledge, with quotes like “The narrator made the whole day,” and “The guide was sooo funny and the tour was great!” These comments reflect how much personality the guides bring to the trip.

Others praise the stunning views, noting that the scenery is “beautiful,” and the ride is “very entertaining.” The intimate size of the boat and the up-close perspectives are often highlighted as real advantages. One traveler said sitting in the front was “a very cool experience,” emphasizing the personal touch of the tour.

A couple of reviewers also appreciated the laid-back pace—it’s not a hurried sightseeing tour but rather a peaceful cruise that allows you to soak it all in. The friendliness of the staff and the overall value for $40 are frequently mentioned as strong points.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic overview of Newport’s harbor with some good storytelling thrown in. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for a low-key morning activity. It’s especially pleasing if you’re interested in seeing the mansions from the water and learning the stories behind the sights.

If you’re traveling with people who appreciate a friendly guide and a laid-back atmosphere, this cruise will likely hit the mark. However, if you have mobility issues or are seeking a longer, more in-depth tour, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $40, you’re getting a charming, scenic cruise with engaging guides and a free mimosa. It’s a simple but well-reviewed way to enjoy Newport’s harbor from the water without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The experience offers good value, especially if you’re a fan of boat rides, stories, and sunshine.

The relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere make it a great choice for a morning activity—whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even a small group of friends. It’s a perfect way to kick off a day of exploring Newport, giving you a fresh perspective of the town’s stunning waterfront.

Just remember, it’s a quick cruise, so if you’re craving a deep dive into Newport’s history or want wheelchair accessibility, you might want to consider other options. Still, for what it offers—a fun, scenic, and friendly water adventure—it hits the spot for many.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is generally friendly for most travelers, but it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly. Children should be comfortable sitting on a boat for 75 minutes, and parents should note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear on the boat?
Dress comfortably in soft-soled shoes, as high heels and strollers aren’t allowed onboard. It’s a good idea to bring layers or sun protection, depending on the weather.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No outside food or drinks are permitted, so plan to enjoy the complimentary mimosa or purchase beverages at the onboard cash bar.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it perfect for a morning activity or a quick scenic outing.

Where do I meet the tour?
Look for the red-roofed ticket booth next to the Landing Restaurant on Bowen’s Wharf. Arrive a little early to get settled and find a good seat.

Is there parking available?
The tour departs from Bowen’s Wharf, which typically has nearby parking options, but it’s best to check in advance if you’re concerned about parking.

Is the tour accessible for all?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility restrictions. Assistance dogs are allowed if notified in advance.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later keeps your plans flexible.

If you’re after a peaceful, engaging look at Newport’s harbor, with the bonus of a complimentary mimosa, this cruise ticks a lot of boxes. With friendly guides, scenic views, and a laid-back vibe, it’s a simple pleasure that many travelers find well worth the time and money.

You can check availability for your dates here: