Can't recommend Capt. Carl houseboat enough. If you're spending time in Newport, why bother with a boring (expensive) hotel room when you can have your own houseboat floating in the harbor, minutes from all downtown activity. It was an amazing experience top-to-bottom.
Kathy could not have been more accommodating and helpful. She even allowed us an early check-in upon arrival so that we could get organized before our event, and she took the time to walk us through the houseboat and explain some of the basic differences between this and a standard house or hotel (electrical set-up, nautical toilet, etc.) When we had a question later about garbage and recycling disposal, Kathy immediately responded to a text message to walk us through it.
Capt Carl's houseboat is very cozy, very nautical, and very economical in its use of space, but also has all the needed amenities and plenty of room for all. The addition of fantastic outdoor spaces (two second-floor decks overlooking the harbor, one first floor patio with a grill and Adirondack chairs) makes the place feel even bigger. And access to kayaks and a paddle board was a bonus to check out the local waterway. A five-minute walk from the houseboat brings you to all of the great downtown Newport watering holes and restaurants. It could not be more convenient to all.
I HIGHLY recommend you consider Capt Carl's houseboat before booking another boring old hotel room in Newport. It is a perfect way to experience nautical life in this nautical city. My family and I will be back soon, and will definitely book Capt Carl again.