Sail-Newport, Newport

The sight of an 80-foot pilot schooner sailing as it nimbly navigated the water of Newport Harbor was a much more common sight in the 19th century than today. Sail Newport celebrates the majestic spirit of this bygone era by welcoming passengers aboard the Adirondack II, a wooden-hulled, turn-of-the-century-style schooner that wouldn't look out of place 100 years ago—even though it was built in 1999.

The original pilot schooners were built for speed, and the creators of the Adirondack II honored this legacy while still implementing a number of modern touches—including rigging held in place with kevlar shrouds—to better create a swift, safe, and comfortable ship. On days with high winds or an above-average number of people sneezing, the Adirondack II can reach speeds of up to 10 knots as its sails catch the breeze.

For each voyage, as many as 57 passengers can explore the vessel's mahogany-trimmed teak decks as it sets out into the harbor. Cruises can provide guests with stunning views of sights such as Newport's waterside mansions, numerous lighthouses, and a 19th-century fort.