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PORTSMOUTH, R.I. (WBZ NewsRadio) — With boats flocking to Narragansett Bay in Portsmouth, Rhode Island for Saturday's "Aquapalooza," officials are reiterating the importance of water safety for those taking the helm.
The Portsmouth Police Department said in a Facebook post on Saturday that boaters should have a designated operator, just as you would for any onshore outing. Citing the "Harbormaster Ordinance" for the Town, the PPD said Portsmouth does not offer transient moorings to boaters visiting for the day, reminding the public that each mooring within the Town's multiple mooring fields is privately owned.
Police suggested visiting boaters watch for nearby moorings before dropping anchor, something that should be set so that vessels can withstand changing tides and weather conditions.
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According to the Newport Daily News, Portsmouth Police Chief John Cahoon said law enforcement never quite knows what to expect for Aquapalooza on Potter Cove, because it's an informal event with details shared primarily through a private Facebook group.
As boats gather to celebrate Aquapolooza, state resources will be split, with the Newport Jazz Festival happening on the same weekend at Fort Adams State Park.
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