The Newport Boat Show

I have to tell you, Jody & I were nervous as we drove the Cruising Outpost Van and trailer from our Founders Party in Alameda, CA to our first Cruisers Party in Newport Rhode Island. Not because we only had 4 days to do it in (but that did help!) and meet Dave, or BS (Boat Show) Manager at a precise time at a corner in Indiana on the way.

No, we were worried that after the demise of Lats&Atts in such an un-glorious way, we weren’t sure how our readers and the industry would welcome us. Tar and feathers was uppermost in our minds.

But as it turned out, the reception was great. Our readers came from far and wide to let us know that they were ready and waiting for our new Cruising Outpost” and the industry was equally as welcoming.

We set up our first CO booth at that show, and on opening day we were inundated with new subscribers. that made us feel good. Not only for the friendly reception, but because the gas to drive that stupid van and trailer 3,000 miles in 4 days was over $1,300!! We need to sell some subscriptions to help defray the cost.

But the best time was had on Saturday night, when we sponsored our first Cruising Outpost Party. First and foremost I have to thank to folks who helped us put this on. After all, the free Pizza and Beer doesn’t grow on trees! No, we needed help, and we got help from our Co-Sponsors at the party. They were The Newport Exhibition Group, who put on the show, along with West Marine, Harken, Forespar Dream Yacht Charters, Bio-Solve, The Bitter End Yacht Club, Prism Polish, CopperCoat Bottom Paint, Mystic Knotworks and KewlChange.com

As with all of our events, the admission was free (you just had to be in the show) and so was the beer and pizza, while it lasted. There were also some great prizes from the vendors at the show. But the grand Prize, donated by Dream Yacht Charters, was a 1 week charter in the Caribbean, followed closely by a Winchrite electric winch handle from Sailology, and other prizes from The Bitter End Yacht Club, Harbor Lights and dozens more from the marine industry. The proceeds from the profits when to the Mystic Seaport Museum to help with the refit of the Charles W. Morgan. The oldest sailing New Bedford Whaler.

The surroundings for the party were perfect, as was the weather, all who came, about 750 people, had a great time. Next year it will be even bigger! See you there?

Story by Bob Bitchin

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