What should we bring on our private charter?
You’re welcome to bring snacks and BYOB, including glass bottles of wine or beer. We provide complimentary water, seltzer, and a large cooler stocked with ice to keep your beverages chilled. You can bring your own plates, glasses, and cutlery, but we’re happy to provide them if you prefer. For catering, we recommend nearby options like Mother Pizza, Yagi Noodles, and The Quencher, all conveniently close to our boarding location. Ladybird has a Bluetooth sound system, so don’t forget to prepare a playlist! Bring a sweater or blanket for sunset cruises, as Newport’s bay can get chilly. Ladybird is not covered, so be sure to wear sunscreen. Capture memories with a camera, phone or Polaroid to make it an unforgettable outing!
What if the weather isn’t ideal?
Newport’s weather can change quickly. For safety, we’ll reschedule in cases of thunder, lightning, heavy wind, or rain. Full refunds are provided for weather cancellations, and we’ll keep you updated two days before, the day before, and the morning of your charter if conditions look uncertain.
How do I book?
You can check availability and book directly on our website. If you can’t find your preferred date or time, feel free to reach out. Bookings are first-come, first-serve, with flexible pricing brackets for different group sizes. While we typically discourage groups of 12 due to space, we may be able to accommodate with a special request—please call us in advance. To avoid the 6% online booking fee, call us, and we’ll waive it!
Where do we board?
Ladybird picks up and drops off at Perrotti Park, where there’s ample nearby parking, such as the Gateway Center. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early. Don’t worry if the boat isn’t docked when you arrive, We are probably out sailing with other guests but will be back shortly, on that note, when we do return, we may be unloading guests before boarding new ones. Please be patient and wait off the dock. You’re welcome to relax on the benches overlooking the docks while you wait. We will call you down when we are ready, just be sure to say “hi, we are your next group.”
What’s not suggested on the boat?
For safety and respect of the local wildlife, please avoid balloons, streamers, confetti, banners, and backdrops. Comfortable footwear is encouraged (avoid heels). Large liquor bottles are discouraged, though premixed cocktails are fine. Please apply aerosol sunscreen before boarding.
What’s your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy is as follows: •14+ days in advance: Full refund. •13 days to 72 hours before the charter: 50% retained or a full company gift card. •72 hours or less: Full trip cost forfeited. •Weather cancellations: Full refund.
What if my group size changes?
No problem! As long as your group doesn’t exceed Ladybird’s capacity limit, we’ll adjust payment when you arrive. We offer different pricing brackets for various group sizes, and for groups over 12, please call us to discuss accommodations.
What will we see?
We’ll cruise Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay, passing sights like Fort Adams, Castle Hill, Hammersmith Farm, Clingstone, and several lighthouses. Weather permitting, we’ll also get close to some iconic Gilded Age mansions.
Can we bring snacks and BYOB?
Absolutely! Bring your favorite picnic items and any cups or napkins. Beer, wine, hard seltzers, and cider are ideal. You may bring your own cooler or use ours, as we’ll have ice stocked. Call us for charcuterie or catering suggestions!