2022 Hartford Boat Show Cancelled Due to Covid Concerns; Organizers Plan for 2023
The Connecticut Marine Trades Association (CMTA) has announced the cancellation of the 2022 Hartford Boat Show, which had been scheduled to take place from January 20 through January 23 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut. In light of increasing Covid-19 infection rates across the Northeast and nationwide, the organizers determined that cancelling the event was the most responsible choice to protect the health and safety of exhibitors, staff, volunteers, and the general public.
This year’s show will not be rescheduled for 2022. Instead, the CMTA has already begun preparations and planning for the 2023 Hartford Boat Show. Organizers say they remain committed to delivering a full, community-focused event when it is safe to gather again, and they are shifting attention to next year’s planning efforts.
Organizers’ Statements on Safety and Community
Bob Petzold, Committee Chairperson for the 2022 event and owner of Petzold’s Marine Center in Portland, Connecticut, expressed regret about the decision: “We are greatly disappointed to have had to make this decision. However, with the rising number of Covid infections in the Northeast and across the nation, the safety of our exhibitors and the general public are what is most important right now.”
Tasha Cusson, Chairperson of the Connecticut Marine Trades Association and owner of Atlantic Outboard at Westbrook Marine Center, reinforced that the association intends to bring back a strong and engaging Hartford Boat Show in 2023 once conditions allow. The 2022 cancellation would have marked the 52nd running of an event that has long promoted recreational boating across Connecticut’s lakes, ponds, rivers, and coastal waters, including Long Island Sound.
Ticket Refunds and Where to Find Updates
People who already purchased tickets for the cancelled 2022 show will be reimbursed. Ticket holders and exhibitors should watch for direct communications from event organizers regarding the refund process. For updated information, organizers advise checking official channels and the event’s online presence.
For those seeking more information about refunds, future plans, or exhibitor updates, please consult the official Hartford Boat Show resources listed by name: www.HartfordBoatShow.com and the Hartford Boat Show Facebook page. These resources will provide official announcements, details on reimbursement procedures, and future event planning updates from the Connecticut Marine Trades Association.
Impact on Local Boating Community and Industry
The Hartford Boat Show is an important annual gathering for Connecticut’s recreational boating community and marine businesses. It serves as a venue for boat manufacturers, dealers, marine service providers, and boating enthusiasts to meet, share information, view new products, and celebrate the boating lifestyle. While cancelling this year’s event is disappointing for many, the decision reflects a prioritization of public health and the well-being of the community that supports boating in the state.
Organizers emphasize that cancelling one year does not diminish the boat show’s role in promoting safe and enjoyable recreational boating on Connecticut waterways. The CMTA remains focused on supporting marine trades, exhibitors, and boating enthusiasts as they look ahead to future opportunities to connect and celebrate the region’s boating culture.
Looking Ahead
Although there will be no Hartford Boat Show in 2022, the association’s continued planning for 2023 signals an intention to return with a high-quality event when public health conditions permit. Attendees, exhibitors, and the broader boating community are encouraged to stay informed through the show’s official channels for announcements about next year’s dates, safety protocols, exhibitor opportunities, and other relevant updates.
The safety-driven cancellation aligns with broader public health guidance and reflects the CMTA’s commitment to making prudent decisions in uncertain times. Organizers and community members alike are hopeful that the Hartford Boat Show will resume its long tradition of promoting recreational boating and supporting Connecticut’s marine industry as circumstances improve.