Successful voyages depend on planning beyond the immediate circumstances of today, and looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities that lay beyond the next horizon.  Projecting forward for maritime commerce as a whole, the International Maritime Organization, the U.S. Maritime Administration, and commercial shipping companies all agree that we will soon face a critical shortage of licensed and qualified mariners.  In our world of tall ships and sail training, we already feel the pinch:  licensing requirements and costs keep climbing, but program revenues, business opportunities and wages struggle to hold par in a down economy. 

Tall Ships America invites you to join the discussion as we explore how training, safety, public engagement, and youth enrichment can be harnessed to develop the crews, career opportunities, and business systems necessary to prepare the Next Watch.

Conference Grants Available for Qualifying Crew! Click here for details

The exquisite Newport Marriott hotel is situated in the heart of historic Newport, Rhode Island. This Newport hotel offers first-class accommodations with a luxury spa, an indoor swimming pool, fitness center and on-site restaurant, Fathoms, which features fresh seafood cuisine. With a convenient harbor side location, legendary attractions such as the Cliff Walk, Newport Mansions, Castle Hill Lighthouse and the International Tennis Hall of Fame are easily accessible.

With 22,800 sq ft of meeting space and a stunning 7-story atrium, skilled culinary team, expert event staff and high-tech AV services the hotel is ideal for meetings and events.