Celebrating 20 Seasons on Narragansett Bay
This season, Wickford Boat Rentals turns 20, marking two decades of unforgettable boating experiences on Narragansett Bay. Known officially as Wickford Boat Rentals, the company has spent the last 20 years giving locals and visitors a flexible, accessible way to enjoy Rhode Island’s coastal waters—without the cost and commitment of boat ownership.
If you’re asking, “Is a boat club worth it in Rhode Island?,” you’re not alone. With multiple boat club options, promotional pricing, and hefty membership fees, deciding how to spend your boating dollars can be confusing.
Here’s a clear, local perspective for Rhode Island boaters who want the most value, flexibility, and real on-the-water time — without unnecessary long-term costs.
Seamanship Training is more than learning how to operate a boat. It’s the foundation of safe, confident, and responsible boating—built on awareness, judgment, and control. While many people associate seamanship with basic boat handling, true Seamanship Training teaches how to think on the water, not just how to move a vessel from point A to point B. At its core, seamanship can be broken down into three essential elements: Sea · Man · Ship This framework explains what Seamanship Training…
Massachusetts Boating Safety Requirements: What the Hanson–Milone Act Means for Boat Operators
If you operate a motorized boat or personal watercraft (PWC) in Massachusetts, important changes to Massachusetts boating safety requirements are taking effect under the Hanson–Milone Act.
This law introduces mandatory boater education for most operators, with compliance deadlines based on birth year and phased enforcement beginning in 2026.
Whether you’re a first-time boater or a seasoned captain, understanding these requirements is essential for boating legally and safely in Massachusetts waters.
At In-Command Seamanship Training, we believe informed operators create safer waterways. Under this new law, boating education is no longer optional — it’s required.
If you’re ready to explore Narragansett Bay or rent a boat from Wickford Boat Rentals, understanding Rhode Island’s boating requirements is essential. Whether you’re new to boating or updating credentials, In-Command Seamanship Training can help ensure you comply with state law and gain confidence behind the wheel. Who Needs a Boating Safety Certificate in Rhode Island? Born on or after January 1, 1986: You must complete a state-approved boating safety education course to operate a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower.…
Here’s a quick look at why September is the ideal month to set sail: Planning a September yacht charter in Rhode Island? This time of year offers the perfect blend of warm days, crisp evenings, and some of the most transparent waters in New England. The coastline, spanning over 400 miles, is renowned for its historic harbors, scenic bays, and tranquil inlets. Fall boaters flock to destinations like Narragansett Bay, Newport Harbor, and especially Wickford Harbor, drawn by stunning views…
Looking for the best boating routes near Wickford, Rhode Island?
Nestled along the coast, this historic harbor town offers scenic escapes, calm waters, and endless opportunities for coastal adventure.
Known for its rich nautical history, this destination offers a mix of calm coves, vibrant marinas, and coastal routes teeming with natural beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned navigator or just looking for a peaceful day on the water, you’ll find boating routes near Wickford, Rhode Island that offer unmatched access to some of the region’s most stunning marine experiences.
Block Island, Rhode Island, has officially claimed the title of Best Harbor in the U.S. 2025—and for the second year in a row. This national recognition comes on the heels of a record-setting number of votes, proving Block Island’s harbor is more than just a stopover—it’s a destination powered by natural beauty, rich boating culture, and unmatched community pride.
At In-Command Seamanship Training and Wickford Boat Rentals, boating safety is at the heart of everything we do. One of the most pressing issues on Narragansett Bay and beyond is Boating Under the Influence in Rhode Island. Each summer, local waterways are filled with recreational boaters, and with increased activity comes the need for greater awareness and responsibility.
Operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a serious threat to everyone on the water. In Rhode Island, it’s illegal to operate a boat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, aligning with the state’s DUI laws for motor vehicles.
The 71st Newport Jazz Festival is just around the corner, happening August 1–3 at Fort Adams State Park. While the festival promises world-class performances and unforgettable summer vibes, Rhode Island is currently experiencing a brutal heatwave, and standing in line under the sun or fighting festival traffic doesn’t sound like much fun. Instead, Wickford Boat Rentals invites you to experience Jazz Fest in comfort and style—with a private, captained charter that takes you right to the action, without the hassle…
