Newport, RI to New Bedford, MA

Our run from Newport to New Bedford was short and easy. Two imposing engineering projects greet you at the entrance to New Bedford harbor. The most recently constructed of the two is the New Bedford Hurricane Barrier which is an almost 2 mile long rip-rap barrier with hydraulic gates providing access to the harbor. Constructed in 1958, it is the largest stone structure on the US East Coast. The next government engineering project clearly evident is Fort Rodman located on Clark's Point. A fort has stood on Clark's Point since the American Civil War. Fort Rodman was an active coastal defense facility until it was deactivated in 1946 shortly after the end of World War II.

New Bedford Hurricane Barrier

Fort Rodman

In the mid-19th Century, New Bedford had the largest whaling fleet in the world and the city's ships covered the globe in search of whales whose oil was used for many purposes such as lamp oil, lubricating oil, cosmetics, and as an ingredient in numerous other products. Increased use of petroleum, natural gas and electricity eventually reduced the demand for whale oil and the whaling fleet eventually disappeared.

Today, New Bedford is home to the largest fishing fleet on the East Coast. Over 300 commercial fishing vessels make up the New Bedford fleet. Unlike Newport, there are few (if any) mega-yachts found in the harbor. This is a working port with a waterfront that caters to fishermen. The tourists come here to see the fishing fleet come and go in the busy harbor and enjoy fresh seafood in the many bars and restaurants. Many visitors to New Bedford come to learn about the historic events and people who played a part in making the city the whaling capital of the world. Many of the old homes from that great era still stand in the heart of the city.