Seamanship, science goal of Newport Race
thusly: "The objectives of the race are to encourage the designing, building and sailing of seaworthy yachts and development in the amateur sailor of the art of seamanship and proficiency in the science of navigation.'' Not much has changed in the 91 years since, although the advent of professional sailors and the competitiveness of the yachts has led to perhaps a more serious approach.
The race is now sailed under the IMS rule as an ORC Category One event, described as: "Races of long distance, well offshore, in large unprotected bays and in water where large waves, strong current or conditions leading to the rapid onset of hypothermia are possible, where yachts must be completely self-sufficient for extended periods of time, capable of withstanding heavy storms and prepared to meet serious emergenices without the expectation of outside assistance.''