The Newport H12 Women’s Fleet began racing on Narragansett Bay in the summer of 2024 after an invitation from IYRS School of Technology & Trades event chair Jens Lange to participate on the line of the Newport Classic Yacht Regatta—if we could field at least five boats for the H12 class.

With only two owner-sailed H12s and three borrowed boats, sailed entirely by women, the challenge was met. Thus began the making of a fleet.

The following season, we launched Tuesday night racing for the 2025 sailing season and grew the H12 line at the Newport Classic Yacht Regatta to eight boats—six owner-sailed and two once again generously loaned by the Herreshoff Marine Museum.

For the 2026 season, the fleet has expanded to fourteen owner-sailed boats, bringing new energy to one of America’s most storied sailing classes while creating expanded opportunities for women on the water.

An important milestone in the fleet’s growth came in early 2026 when the prestigious Ida Lewis Yacht Club formally welcomed the Newport H12 Women’s Fleet as an affiliate of the club.

From early June through Labor Day, the fleet races in weekly summer series off Newport, Rhode Island, under the guidance of the Ida Lewis Yacht Club Race Committee. In addition to competing in respected regional regattas—including invitations to race on the line at events hosted by the New York Yacht Club and Sail Newport—members also enjoy informal sailing together during the shoulder seasons.

The Newport H12 Women’s Fleet is made up of women of all ages and experience levels, united by a shared passion for being on the water, building confidence, and competing in a spirit of camaraderie and fun.

For those interested in sailing, joining the fleet, or simply learning more, we encourage you to connect with us.