Newport Bermuda Race extends to 636 miles, offers free public viewing from Fort Adams State Park

Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island © Discover Newport

The Newport Bermuda Race is thrilled to announce an exciting new approach to the start of the 2024 race: free shoreline viewing and a live broadcast from Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island, which will also be streamed online at bermudarace.com.

The Race's starting line has been relocated one mile north of Castle Hill in Narragansett Bay to provide spectators a new opportunity to witness 200 boats up close - thus extending the race course distance to Bermuda from 635 to 636 miles.

"The Bermuda Race Organizing Committee, with support from the State of Rhode Island and other partners, has been able to invest in transforming this hallmark biennial event into a celebration for the sailors, their families, and fans alike," says Race Chair Andrew Kallfelz of Jamestown, Rhode Island. "Fort Adams is a great venue for the public to come together to witness up close the adrenaline-pumping start of this prestigious race."

On-site experiences at Fort Adams

For those planning to attend in person, Fort Adams promises an excellent spot to see the start. The park will host a lively beer garden, exhibits from partners, and a vibrant atmosphere filled with maritime enthusiasts. Spectators will also enjoy live coverage from world-renowned commentators on-shore and on the water, with state-of-the-art graphics on a big screen, ensuring the crowd sees and experiences every exciting moment of the start.

Can't make it to Fort Adams? No problem!

For those who can't join us at Fort Adams, we have gone the extra mile to make the Newport Bermuda Race accessible to the global audience with the Starting Line Live Show. The entire start will be broadcast live on bermudarace.com, providing a front-row seat to sailing enthusiasts worldwide.

Starting line live show highlights

• Professional commentators: The online broadcast will feature seasoned commentators who bring their expertise and insights into the dynamics of the race, adding an extra layer of excitement for viewers.

• Aerial footage: State-of-the-art technology will capture breathtaking aerial footage of the race, offering a unique perspective of the sailing prowess on display.

• Graphics and storytelling: Engaging graphics will enhance the viewer experience, providing real-time information on the positions of each boat. The broadcast will also bring to life the stories from the action and the people onboard, making it a captivating narrative for those watching on-site and from home.

Newport Bermuda Race - photo © Bermuda Race

Save the date: June 21, 2024

Mark your calendars for June 21, 2024, at 1pm, as the 53rd Newport Bermuda Race promises an unforgettable start, blending the thrill of nearly 200 boats shoving off to start an iconic ocean race, with professional commentary and state-of-the-art technology to create an immersive experience for all. Whether you join us at Fort Adams State Park or watch as part of the global audience online, this race is set to be a true celebration of the "Thrash to the Onion Patch" that you won't want to miss. Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to witness the Newport Bermuda Race like never before.