The attached spreadsheet shows recommended anchorages in Southern New England. This data was presented to the 2015 & 16 OCC Southern New England Cruise participants but you may find it of use.
These are personal observations - you may not like my taste!!!
edited by bbalme on 1/1/2019

Bill Balme

Dick,
Nothing much to add really - they're considering restricting boats at anchor to always have someone aboard which in the case of short handed crews would be ridiculously restrictive. Decision to be made in March as I understand it.
Can't share your opinion of Newport as a destination - it has always been and so far remains one of my most favorite - top 5 - anchorages, with lots going on, things to do, boats to watch, decent holding, little swell... It's a tourist town for sure but then, so are so many harbours around the world... Jamestown is an option but not nearly as nice an anchorage (in my opinion).
Bill
edited by bbalme on 1/24/2019

Bill Balme