SOLD OUT! 50th ANNIVERSARY SEAFARING SOIREE
Thank You to Seafaring Soiree Sponsors
Anchor Sponsor and Honorary Chair
Daniel P. Healey III
Flagship Sponsor
Merchant Sponsors
Maritime Sponsors
Anonymous Donor
An Elegant Event Launches
A Year-Long Celebration of Maritime Heritage
The Seafaring Soiree promises an evening of elegance, community spirit, and historical maritime significance. Guests will enjoy an elegant dinner, dancing, entertainment and auction.
“Our 50th anniversary gala is both a tribute to our rich past and a launching point for our ambitious future,” said Susan Finneran, Co-Chair. “We’re calling on our community to join us in celebrating our maritime legacy of the lower Merrimack Valley and to support our vision for the next half-century.”
The anniversary year heralds transformative initiatives for the museum, including:
- A comprehensive renovation of the iconic Robert Mills-designed building;
- Unveiling of new exhibitions and introduction of an interactive kids’ Discovery Center;
- Meticulous cataloging and preservation of the museum’s 6,000-item collection;
- The opening of the museum’s time capsule placed in the cornerstone of the building 50 years ago;
- Publication of a handsome Commemorative Book celebrating 50 years of accomplishment.
The anniversary celebration will highlight the museum’s position as a vibrant community hub and a leading cultural institution in the greater Newburyport area.
“The support of our sponsors is instrumental in preserving our maritime heritage and propelling us into a future of excellence and community service,” added Susan Bernhard, Gala Co-Chair.
“On behalf of my fellow Directors, I am grateful to Jennifer Germain, Susan Bernhard and Susan Finneran for co-chairing this important gala and kicking off these celebrations that will elevate the museum to its next level of success,” states Jack Santos, President, Board of Directors. “What a wonderful way to celebrate the founding of this museum, the 50th year of Newburyport’s renaissance, and the start of the 250th celebration of our nation’s founding.”
Live Auction
Perfect Party Package
Celebrate in style with a memorable event for up to 150 guests on the picturesque lawn of the Museum, with stunning views of the Merrimack River. This exclusive package includes:
- Event management discount generously donated by CAtCH, Pat Cannon and Jacqueline Chauvin;
- Discount on tent and additional discounts on furniture rentals, courtesy of Sperry Tent;
- Catering discount provided by Kitchen to Aisle Catering and Meghann Basque.
Cape Getaway
Ideal for May, September, or October
Generously donated by the Cutting family.
Escape with your family and friends during the perfect, less crowded seasons of the year. Enjoy a week-long stay in a stunning waterfront property in the charming town of Wellfleet.
This spacious rental features 5 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, offering 7 nights of serene relaxation from Sunday to Sunday.
The winner will need to coordinate with the owner to finalize dates.
Chartered Tuna Fishing Trip for Three
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.
Chef Extraordinaire at Home
Transform your evening into a culinary experience with Chef Ryan McGuire, renowned for his exquisite gourmet creations.
- Host up to 8 guests and indulge in a sumptuous 3-course meal, meticulously crafted to impress.
- Chef McGuire’s expertise extends beyond the kitchen; he will guide you through perfect wine pairings to elevate your dining experience.
This unforgettable evening promises to be a highlight for you and your guests!
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.
Culinary Experience: Your meal will be expertly prepared and delivered by Loretta’s of Newburyport.
This is a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) event.
Golf Package
Generously donated by Haverhill Country Club and Mark Werner
Includes foursome at Haverhill Country Club, 4 dozen TP5s, 4 golf coolers, Golf travel organizer, (USGA)
Private Boston Duck Boat Tour for 35
Donated by Boston Duck Tours
One big splash and the rest is history! Experience Boston with a quack and enjoy a fully narrated guided tour in a “DUCK,” a WWII style amphibious landing vehicle.
Valid any day from the Museum of Science in April, May, September, October, or
November.
Does not include staff gratuity based on the actual charter rate of a Duck Tour. Expires December 2025.
Exciting Cultural & Entertainment Package
The Cultural and Entertainment Package offers a diverse array of experiences for individuals or couples looking to explore and enjoy various activities. Included are: 8 tickets to the Museum of Science, 2 Celtics tickets, gift cards to both the Mission Oak Grill and The Joy Nest Restaurants, gift card to the Grand Trunk, tickets to the following: MIT museum, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, NE Aquarium sail on the Ardelle Schooner.
Seven Days of Heaven in the BVIS (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.
Vintage Vino Wine & Dining Experience
Generously donated by Tom and Ree Coleman of www.vintagevino.org.
Vintage Vino offers carefully-selected wine dinners which emphasize rare vintage wines perfectly paired with a 4-course expertly prepared, locally-sourced meal in a 6 person private dining setting.
This French Syrah dinner will pour 2 Vintage Champagnes, 2 Rare White Rhone wines, 4 French Syrah wines (vintage 1999-2010) and a 1988 Sauternes.
Our dinners are a rare treat: delicious, fun and educational.
Join us for this outstanding Vintage Vino Experience.