Just drove back from Newport this weekend, smooth sailing from I-95 (CT) -> 87 -> 287 -> Garden State Parkway -> I-95/NJ Turnpike -> 195 -> 295 and then south across the Delaware memorial bridge. This is the most reasonable route with the tolls. If you can avoid NJ, they are doing construction on the NJ turnpike. Alternate route is the Garden State Parkway -> 195 -> 295.

My suggestion is to travel on a weekday, summer weekends I-95 in CT isn't pleasant, and unfortunately without a trailer can't jump on the Merrit Parkway.

Alternative is to fly from BWI to Providence for under $100 each way.

We were in the same situation as Jeff, no boat and charter price was too much to justify. The current party information is also a little bit weak (Hot Dogs?). We decided to do Newport to Bermuda on a big boat instead, though the F16 sailing will be more fun!

We have a club member on a Viper who needs crew or a driver, expenses paid. PM me if interested.