Awards
Award-Winning Marina
Cedar Island Marina Awards
Awards & Recognitions as One of the Best Marinas in Connecticut and Long Island Sound
Cedar Island Marina has been recognized across the marina industry for excellence in operations, customer experience, and environmental stewardship. Through national honors, regional awards, and consistent feedback from the boating community, these distinctions reflect a well-rounded approach to running a marina that prioritizes quality, innovation, and long-term investment. From service and facilities to sustainability initiatives and industry leadership, the range of awards highlights Cedar Island’s position among the top marinas on the Connecticut shoreline and across the country.
Below are highlights and descriptions of select awards and recognitions received over the years, though this list is not all-inclusive.
Marinas.com and Dockwa Elite Fleet’s Best Marinas Awards
Cedar Island Marina has been consistently recognized by Dockwa and Marinas.com for delivering a top-tier boating experience across the United States, earning Elite Fleet honors in 2018, 2019, and every year from 2021 through 2025, along with Boater’s Choice recognition in 2020. Notably, when Cedar Island first received Elite Fleet status in 2018, the distinction was far more selective, with only about 20 marinas nationwide earning the award. These recognitions reflect consistent feedback from boaters and a continued focus on maintaining a high standard of service, facilities, and overall marina experience along the Connecticut shoreline.
New Haven Register Best of Marina in Connecticut
Cedar Island Marina was recognized as the Best Marina in Connecticut by the New Haven Register “Best Of” awards for five consecutive years from 2017 through 2021. This consistent recognition reflected strong local support and positive feedback from the boating community across the region. Notably, 2021 marked the final year the award was given, making Cedar Island’s multi-year run a rare distinction that few marinas achieved.
Marina Dock Age – Marina of the Year in Environmental Responsibility
Cedar Island Marina was named Marina of the Year in Environmental Responsibility by Marina Dock Age in 2019, earning first place among marinas nationwide. The recognition was driven in large part by the marina’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, including the work conducted through its on-site research laboratory. From studying under-dock ecosystems to supporting restoration efforts in Long Island Sound, these initiatives helped set Cedar Island apart as a leader in sustainable marina operations.
Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection
Cedar Island Marina was recognized by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection with the Green Circle Award in 1999 for its innovative oyster dock design. Developed as part of the marina’s ongoing environmental research efforts, the design integrates marine habitat directly into the dock structure, encouraging oyster growth and supporting improved water quality in the surrounding harbor. The concept was advanced by Jeffrey Shapiro, who received a patent for the dock system.
Marina Dock Age – Young Leader Award – Kristopher Shapiro
In early 2020, Kristopher Shapiro was awarded the Young Leader Award by Marina Dock Age. The recognition highlighted a select group of just 12 professionals across the United States under the age of 40 who were making a meaningful impact in the marina industry, reflecting both leadership and a forward-looking approach to marina operations.
