By Erin Depot
There are some events that just feel like the start of something — and for us (and so many across the Connecticut shoreline), the CT Spring Boat Show is exactly that.
This year marks a major milestone: 10 years of launching boating season. And for the ninth year, we’re proud to continue our partnership with the show — one that has grown into something much more than a client relationship. It’s personal.
Taking place April 24–26 on Safe Harbor Essex Island in Essex, the CT Spring Boat Show is the first in-water boat show of the season in New England — and it sets the tone for everything that follows. But what makes this show special isn’t just the boats (though there are plenty of those). It’s the feeling.
From the moment you arrive in Essex, it’s clear this isn’t your typical event. As show director Ben Cesare puts it:
“We have really made a big effort to make the CT Spring Boat Show a festival that celebrates the town of Essex and the beautiful [Safe Harbor] Essex Island Marina; we’ll have 70+ boats in the water this year, we have over 50 exhibitors on shore, and they range from artists, to home improvement, to marine vendors and exhibitors, to clothing. It’s not like other shows. It’s not at a convention center. Its outdoors. Its springtime. It’s really a spectacular event that has grown every year.”
And while the setting and experience are what draw people in, it’s the purpose behind the show that makes it truly meaningful.
For the ninth year, Sails Up 4 Cancer (SU4C) is the official charity partner — and 50% of all gate proceeds go directly to the organization. SU4C supports individuals and families battling cancer, as well as local cancer care centers, hospice organizations, and children facing diagnoses — providing real, tangible relief when it’s needed most.
This partnership became even more personal after Ben’s own cancer diagnosis in 2019 — a moment that reshaped how he approached the show and its impact.
“Ever since we changed the model to have half of the gate proceeds go to Sails Up 4 Cancer, we’re starting to approach $100k. This year, I’m sure we’ll clear that mark and [those are] real funds; so these monies are going directly to help people in their fight against cancer.”
That’s what sets this event apart. It’s not just about kicking off boating season — it’s about showing up for the community in a real way.
And for our team at First Position Media, that matters deeply. Like so many, we’ve all been touched by cancer in one way or another. Being able to help shine a light on not only a wonderful event, but a cause that is actively supporting people right here on the Connecticut shoreline, is something we don’t take lightly. It’s an honor to be part of it.
If you’re planning your weekend, here’s how to do it right:
Start in Essex. Take your time. Pop into a local boutique to pick up some nautical stripes, grab a coffee from a cozy café, and soak in that first real feeling of spring. Then head to the dock, purchase your ticket (knowing that half is going directly to SU4C), and take the short (and charming) ferry ride over to the island.
Once you’re on the island, explore the boats, meet the vendors, listen to live music, and stay for the Off the Hook Fundraiser Party — a can’t-miss event supporting SU4C, complete with live comedy acts and a great crowd.
Ten years in, the CT Spring Boat Show has become more than an event. It’s a tradition. It’s a kickoff. It’s a community coming together — on the water, in the sunshine, and for something bigger than itself.
