IYRS Holiday Auction: Unique Maritime Gifts, Artwork, Travel and Experiences
The holiday season is fast approaching — a perfect time to find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts that support a great cause. The IYRS Holiday Auction offers an eclectic selection of maritime treasures, original artwork, handcrafted jewelry, travel packages and live experiences. IYRS (the International Yacht Restoration School) is a marine trades and advanced manufacturing school based in Newport, Rhode Island. All auction proceeds help support IYRS programs and scholarships, expanding access to hands-on maritime education. The auction closes on December 4th, 2022.
Why this auction matters
Whether you’re shopping for a collector, a boating enthusiast, or someone who appreciates craftsmanship, the IYRS Holiday Auction pairs memorable items with purpose. Purchasing or bidding not only brings home a distinctive gift but also directly supports training in boatbuilding, composites, digital fabrication and other skilled trades. For families and friends who value maritime heritage, education and community impact, this auction is an opportunity to give thoughtfully.
Featured lots and standout experiences
Below are highlighted items from the auction that may spark interest or serve as exceptional gifts. Each lot reflects the maritime spirit of Newport and the broader New England coast, from luxury travel to historic artifacts and handcrafted pieces.
7-night stay for four in St. Barth’s with Tradewind flights — Enjoy a week in a Wimco villa on the renowned island of St. Barth’s, with flights provided by Tradewind Aviation. This combination of private villa accommodations and regional air service delivers an elevated island getaway — an appealing option for couples or families seeking sun, seclusion and refined island style.
Private daysail for eight aboard Verissimo on Narragansett Bay — Spend an unforgettable day sailing Rhode Island’s Narragansett Bay aboard Verissimo. The experience begins with lunch at the venerable New York Yacht Club’s Harbour Court, then moves to a private sail with room for eight guests. It’s an ideal gift for a group outing, corporate hospitality or a special celebration on the water.
Tuna fishing charter off Chatham, Massachusetts — For angling enthusiasts, this charter offers a chance to travel 50 to 100 miles offshore in pursuit of Bluefin tuna. The trip accommodates three guests and provides a full day of deep-sea fishing along Cape Cod’s productive waters — an adventurous and memorable gift for serious sport fishermen.
Vintage brass oil ship lantern — A finely crafted brass oil lantern made in Holland by Den Haan Rotterdam. This elegant piece of early 20th-century maritime hardware reflects period craftsmanship and makes a handsome decorative item for a nautical-themed home or study. The listed price for this collectors’ piece is $550.
Handmade Nantucket Lightship basket — A quintessential New England craft, the handmade Nantucket Lightship basket is offered for $400. These baskets are celebrated for their skilled construction and are treasured by collectors and admirers of traditional maritime handicrafts.
1870s Newport Harbor lithograph — A historical lithograph depicting Newport Harbor in the 1870s offers a window into maritime history. This framed piece is an excellent gift for history buffs, collectors of nautical art and anyone who appreciates historical scenes of coastal New England.
How to see the full catalog and participate
The auction features many additional lots — from jewelry and small artworks to unique services and private experiences. For the complete catalog and registration details, please visit the IYRS Holiday Auction page. Bidding supports scholarships, student programs and the continued preservation of maritime trades.
Whether you’re looking to give a spectacular experience, a rare collectible, or a handcrafted heirloom, the IYRS Holiday Auction offers meaningful gifts that celebrate maritime culture and support vocational education in Newport, Rhode Island.