SEAFARING SOIREE, SEPTEMBER 25th
Live Music Featuring La Vie en Rose
Thank You to our 2025 Sponsors
Anchor Sponsor
Daniel P. Healey III
Flagship Sponsor
Leadership Sponsors
Nita
Lamborghini
Anonymous
Donor
Maritime Sponsors
Dong Soo &
Beth Anderson-Song
Gala Auction
For info on absentee bidding or live bidding by phone email info@thechmm.org for instructions.
Chartered Tuna Fishing Trip for Three
Generously donated by Capt. Bill Gynan.
Embark on an exciting eight-hour fishing adventure off Jeffrey’s Ledge aboard a 28 foot Rampage with Captain Bill.
Enjoy a day of fishing for tuna, bass, and mackerel with two friends, and compete to see who lands the biggest catch. The trip also offers the chance to spot Moby Dick, porpoises, dolphins.
Refreshments, including lunch and snacks, are provided.
Est. $600 – $800
Exclusive Dining Experience at the Newburyport Range Lighthouse
Generously donated by Lighthouse Preservation Society, James Hyland, and Loretta Restaurant.
Indulge in a private and unique dining experience at the top of the Newburyport Range Light. This location has earned the titles of “the most romantic and exclusive dining destination” by Boston’s Phantom Gourmet and one of the “Top 35 Things To Do” by Yankee Magazine.
Enjoy an unforgettable meal with stunning views and a truly unique atmosphere. Your meal will be expertly prepared and delivered by Loretta’s of Newburyport. This is a BYOB event.
Est. $1,800 – $2,500
Seven Days of Heaven in the British Virgin Islands
Generously donated by Jack Weston and Jack Wasson.
Experience the ultimate sailing adventure in the British Virgin Islands aboard a stunning 40 foot Fontaine-Pajot Catamaran.
Available for charter from early February to early May, this luxurious yacht offers the perfect escape for up to 7 guests (or 4-5 guests if you choose to hire a captain).
This bareboat charter allows you the freedom to chart your own course through the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking islands of the BVIs. If you prefer a more relaxed voyage, we can recommend experienced captains to guide your journey.
Indulge in the beauty and serenity of the Caribbean, with options to include provisioning and a captain for an additional cost. Schedule directly with the owners, Jack Weston and Jack Wasson, to secure your dream vacation dates. Please note, airfare is not included.
Est. $7,000 – $9,000
Vintage Vino Wine & Dining Experience for Four
- NV Satan Franciacorta, Rico Winery
- 2023 Toascana Bianco “Vistamare” Angelo Gaja
- 2023 Vino Bianco “Rossj Bass” Angelo Gaja
- 2010 Barbaresco Sori Paitin
- 2011 Barbaresco Produttori dei Barbarersco
- 1995 Barolo “Villero” Mascarello
- 2010 Barolo “Cannubi” Burlotto
- 2015 Barolo “Marcenasco” Ratti
- 2017 Vin Santo, Badia a Coltibuano
Generously donated by Tom and Ree Coleman of www.vintagevino.org.
Est. $1,500 – $2,000
Spring Getawayto Marco Island
Generously donated by the Healey Family.
Escape to paradise this spring and enjoy a week of relaxation at a beautiful 3-bedroom family home on Marco Island. Perfect for families or small groups, this home offers everything you need for a perfect vacation. Enjoy views of the intracoastal waterway from the comfort of your own backyard. Spend your days lounging by the pool or soaking in the hot tub.
The outdoor space is fully equipped with lounge chairs and a fire pit for cozy evenings. Just a 5-minute walk to the beach. The home sleeps 6 comfortably with 3 spacious bedrooms. Make lasting memories in this beautiful island retreat!
Available for 1 week in April. Airfare is not included.
Est. $3,000 – $4,000
Exciting Cultural & Entertainment Packages
The Cultural and Entertainment Package offers a diverse array of experiences for individuals or couples looking to explore and enjoy various activities. Gift packages donated by:
Sailing Lesson with First Reef Sailing School & SailTime Boston
Step aboard a world-class sailing experience with First Reef Sailing and SailTime Boston, two proud stewards of New England’s rich maritime tradition. Founded by captains Paul Sullivan, USCG and ASA Master Instructor and Captain Forrest Hardy, USCG, First Reef Sailing is dedicated to making the magic of the sea accessible to adults of all skill levels.
This exclusive package offers a private sailing lesson aboard your choice of a 2024 Fountaine Pajot Isla 40 catamaran or a 2025 Dufour 41 monohull—both sleek, modern vessels from SailTime Boston’s premier fleet. Your voyage sets sail from Boston at 5:30 PM, where you’ll enjoy the golden light of the setting sun, salty breezes, and unforgettable views of the city skyline.
Bring your own food and drinks and let the sea do the rest. Package valid through October 31, 2026.
Est. $1,000 – $1,500
Original Painting by Richard Burke Jones
Osprey Along the Rail Trail
Framed oil on board, 16″ x 20″
Richard Burke Jones studied art as an undergraduate student at The College of the Holy Cross and went on to earn a Masters through Tufts University and the Museum School. Following school he studied with Boston School master portraitist Robert Cormier and eventually was admitted to the Guild of Boston Artist. He maintained a studio for a number of years at 262 Newbury Street in Boston.
This area of the Rail Trail in Newburyport, MA supports a handsome sculpture of Osprey: Pandion Haliaetus by artist Wendy Klemperer and is witness to stunning late day skies and light across the Merrimack River and its many boats.
View more of Richard’s work on his website.
Est. $1,500 – $2,000
An Elegant Event Closing
A Year-Long Celebration of Maritime Heritage
A message from our Gala Co-Chairs:
The Custom House Maritime Museum (CHMM) invited the community to embark on a celebratory voyage at its Seafaring Soiree gala on September 25th, 2025, at the Blue Ocean Music Hall. This prestigious event closes a year-long celebration of the Museum’s golden anniversary, aligning with the nation’s 250th jubilee.
“This gala is both a tribute to our rich past and a launching point for our ambitious future. The support of our sponsors is instrumental in preserving our maritime heritage and propelling us into a future of excellence and community service”, states co-chairs Caroline Healey and Nita Lamborghini.
The anniversary year heralded transformative initiatives for the museum, including:
- NEW – Opened a STEM-focused Discovery Center free to kids with huge positive response;
- NEW – launched a $100k endowment fund to provide internships for HS and college students ($60k raised to date);
- NEW – launched outdoor Saturday kids’ programs weekly;
- NEW – Presented a Revolutionary War themed, city-wide parade on June 28 in partnership with the Museum of Old Newbury;
- NEW – Unveiled a stunning partnership exhibition on Nbpt’s role in the Rev War;
- Quadrupled school field trips in ’25
- Midway through our 2nd year partnering with the Boys & Girls Club;
- Attendance is on track to reach 16,000, an increase of 100% over ’23;
Delivered a balanced budget and increased net assets! - 100% Transformation of all 8 Galleries;
- Unveiling a new Community Gallery
- Major preservation work to protect the iconic Robert Mills-designed 1835 building;
- Deepening important local and regional partnerships;
The anniversary year celebration highlighted the museum’s position as a vibrant community hub and a leading cultural institution in the greater Newburyport area.
We look forward to you joining us!
– Caroline Healey and Nita Lamborghini
2024 Letter of Thanks, Photo Montage & Drone Video
