Bermuda to Newport RI
About
The Return Passage: A True Offshore Crossing to the Maritime Capital
Bermuda to Newport, Rhode Island | June 25th Departure
The Voyage
The return from Bermuda to Newport is a passage that stands on its own—over 600 miles of open ocean requiring unwavering focus, physical endurance, and disciplined seamanship. While the outbound leg is defined by the excitement of the race, the return is defined by the sailor’s growth. This five-day crossing offers a sophisticated perspective on blue-water navigation as weather patterns and sea states evolve, providing a deeper mastery of the Atlantic’s offshore environment.
Professional Distinction
This is an elite academic immersion designed for experienced sailors seeking to solidify their offshore capabilities. Under world-class instruction, guests will achieve their U.S. Sailing Bareboat Cruising Certification, Catamaran Endorsement, and the International Proficiency Certificate (IPC). Due to the rigorous nature of this open-ocean transit, prospective participants are invited to submit a brief sailing résumé and application for consideration.
Expedition Highlights
The Full Offshore Circuit: While a singular crossing is significant, completing the return leg pairs naturally with the outbound voyage to form a complete offshore circuit—the definitive experience for those seeking to be recognized as true offshore sailors.
Evolving Decision-Making: Refine your judgment as you navigate the return across the Gulf Stream. This leg emphasizes advanced weather awareness and offshore routing, reinforcing the confidence gained during the initial crossing.
Sustained 24-Hour Operations: The rhythm of passage making becomes second nature here. Participants are fully engaged in every facet of the vessel’s movement, rotating through disciplined watch schedules and managing navigation through continuous day and night operations.
Meaningful Mileage: Build substantial offshore mileage that carries real credibility in the maritime community. This passage is a testament to a sailor's commitment to mastering the art of the long-range crossing.
Logistics & The Complete Experience
The expedition commences in Bermuda and concludes in the historic harbor of Newport. Guests are responsible for arranging their own travel to Bermuda prior to departure and their subsequent return from Newport upon arrival.
The Ultimate Credential: For those looking to maximize their experience, we recommend pairing this passage with the June 19th outbound leg from Newport. Together, these voyages represent the pinnacle of our seasonal training calendar.
Complete the crossing. Build the experience that defines offshore sailors.
Highlights
The Excess 14: A Performance-Driven Platform for Serious Passage Making
The Excess 14 is purpose-built for the mariner who values performance as much as comfort—making it exceptionally well-suited for the rigorous coastal and offshore passages offered across this program. While many modern catamarans are designed primarily as floating villas, the Excess 14 was engineered for the sailor who still finds joy in the act of navigation.
The Helmsman-First Philosophy Unlike traditional cruising catamarans that prioritize interior volume over sailing feel, the Excess line is engineered to be driven.
Direct Tactile Feedback: Twin aft steering stations feature a mechanical link that places you directly in touch with the boat. You feel the pressure in the sails, the changes in sea state, and the subtle shifts in wind—feedback that is critical when managing night watches and busy coastal approaches.
Unobstructed Command: This placement provides an uncompromising view of the sail plan and the horizon, ensuring the skipper remains connected to the environment rather than detached in a flybridge "cockpit."
Advanced Naval Architecture by VPLP Designed by VPLP—the legendary firm behind the world’s fastest racing trimarans—the Excess 14 features an innovative hull design optimized for versatility across the Gulf Stream, the open Atlantic, and the dynamic Northeast coast.
Asymmetrical Hulls: These reduce drag and improve "bite" on the water, allowing for superior upwind performance and consistent passage speeds that make weather windows easier to manage.
Efficiency Over Distance: Performance is not just about top speed; it is about control. The lighter displacement and refined sail plan allow the vessel to remain responsive and composed even in challenging offshore conditions.
Stability as a Performance Multiplier The inherent stability of the catamaran platform is a key factor in building offshore capability. By significantly reducing heel, the Excess 14 creates a sustainable environment for multi-day passages.
Reduced Fatigue: Crew members can stand watch, rest effectively, and maintain focus longer than on a monohull of similar size.
Low Center of Gravity: By keeping the boom and deck hardware lower, the vessel minimizes pitching, providing a steady platform for students mastering the discipline of the night watch.
Optimized for Offshore Autonomy Onboard systems and layouts are intentionally straightforward to support the objective of passage making.
Functional Living Underway: From clear sightlines to accessible controls, every inch of the living space is designed to work while the boat is moving, not just at anchor. The Pulse Line Advantage: Our configuration includes an extended mast and high-end rig, providing the power needed to maintain momentum across a 600-mile crossing without constant reliance on engines.
The Modern Luxury of Space The interior is a masterclass in modern, minimalist design—bright, ventilated, and highly functional. It provides a sophisticated retreat for a discerning clientele after a challenging watch, offering "performance without compromise and comfort without detachment."
The Excess 14 provides a balance that few boats achieve: a platform designed not just to take you there—but to make you a better sailor along the way.
Cancellation
At The Bluewater Academy, we are committed to delivering a smooth, enjoyable, and safe sailing experience. While we understand that plans can sometimes change, our booking policies are designed to ensure fairness and efficiency for all guests. All bookings are strictly non-refundable. However, in the event you are unable to make your scheduled trip, we offer a one-time rescheduling opportunity based on the next available date in our calendar. Guest-initiated cancellations made within 72 hours of departure may forfeit this rescheduling option. Refunds will only be considered under extraordinary circumstances and are granted solely at the discretion of The Bluewater Academy. In rare instances, schedule adjustments may be required due to factors such as maintenance needs or unfavorable operating conditions. In such cases, we will work to get you this information as soon as possible. We ask for as much notice as possible in the event of an emergency cancellation. While refunds are not typically issued, we strive to be understanding and flexible when truly unavoidable situations arise. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to providing you with a memorable experience on the water.
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