Aurora FAQ’s

Where is Schooner Aurora docked?
The boat is docked on S-dock on Goat Island. The address is 5 Goat Island Rd, Newport, RI 02840.

Where do I park?
Parking is located off of Goat Island Rd in the S Dock parking lot or along the water. You will see signs that say “Goat Island Marina Guest Parking Only” — this parking is for you!

What is the cancellation/refund policy?
You have 48 hours prior to the start of the event to cancel and receive a full refund. Bookings cancelled within less than 48 hours will be charged the full rate. 

What if the weather is bad?
The Captain will make the call no later than 2 hours prior to the scheduled sail. We will still sail if it is lightly raining or sprinkling but will cancel if there are high winds or a chance of thunderstorms and/or lightning in the forecast. If we have to cancel due to inclement weather, we will contact all guests and issue a full refund or reschedule if possible.

Can I bring my own food/drinks?
It depends on the sail package. For the Lobster Boil & Sunset Sail, the dinner portion is cash bar only and you may bring your own beverages on the sail portion. Food is not allowed on the Wine & Cheese sail (wine is BYOB).

What should I wear/bring?
We recommend comfortable, flat shoes, a sweatshirt/sweater (it can get a bit chilly on the water) and a personal cooler if your sail is BYOB. If it is a sunny, hot day, make sure to bring sunscreen and a hat/sunglasses for your comfort.

Which sails are child/family friendly?
The Lobster Boil & Sunset Sail is family friendly and one of our most popular sail packages. Note: There is no age restriction on this sail, but the boat only has life jacket accommodations for people who weigh 30+ lbs.

Where do we sail?
The Schooner Aurora sails along the Narragansett Bay and Newport Harbor passing Fort Adams, Clingstone “the house on a rock”, and more!

How many people can the Schooner Aurora accommodate?
The Schooner Aurora can accommodate up to 68 passengers.

Is the sailboat handicap accessible?
No.

Can we bring our pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed.

Are there restrooms on the boat?
Yes, we have two restrooms below deck that are accessible by a ladder.

Where can I purchase a gift certificate?
Click here to purchase a gift certificate. Gift certificates expire one year from purchase date.

How do I reserve the boat for a private sail?
Fill out our contact form here for private charter inquiries.

Will I get seasick?
The Schooner Aurora is a 101′ schooner and it moves fairly slow. If it is windy, the sail boat may lean a bit to one side, but is is rare that someone becomes seasick.

What is the history of the Schooner Aurora?
Originally named Lou Ann, it was designed and built in 1947 in Thomaston, Maine, to be used as a motor-powered sardine or herring carrier. In 1993, the vessel was converted into a two masted gaff schooner with topsails and renamed the Francis Todd. Francis Todd plied the waters of Maine as a charter vessel for two years prior to being purchased by Island Development Corporation (IDC) in 1996, and was renamed Aurora.

Where do I purchase tickets?
To purchase tickets, click here or call us at 401-849-6683. Tickets need to be paid in full to be guaranteed. We are not able to hold tickets that are unpaid.

Any additional questions?
Please give us a call at 401-849-6683 and we’ll be happy to answer any and all questions. We want to make sure you have the best experience on the water!