There are several choices today for aquarists who wish to attend reefing trade shows in their area, Reefstock, RAP, national club sanctioned events and more. These marketplaces provide an excellent opportunity for hobbyists to purchase corals, fish and interact with manufacturers. Some have an educational component, but often that isn’t the focus of the event.
Reef Retreat is a newly founded educational conference being held at Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI. There are no coral sales nor exhibitor booths to purchase goods, it is about community and learning. Sharing information with fellow hobbyists while learning from experts in the field. Attendees will stay together in campus housing, have meals together and socialize before and after each presentation. It’s an all inclusive experience!
Many of us that grew up in the hobby attending events like MACNA lamented the loss of this venerable institution. Yes, it had a large trade show component, but the soul of MACNA was education and community. Dr. Andy Rhyne of RWU wanted to bring that community back with a focus on sharing knowledge. Reef Retreat is the culmination of his efforts, as well as a team of volunteers.
Education from Scientists & Hobbyists
This two day event is chocked full of learning opportunities. There are world class speakers here, but the opportunity to share and commune with fellow hobbyists lives beyond the individual sessions. A number of presenters have been announced:
- Dr. Craig Bingman (MASNA Award Honoree)
- Dr. Jen Bowen
- Salem Clemens
- Dr. Kevin Erickson
- Dr. Sanjay Joshi (MASNA Award Honoree)
- Dr. Chris Jury
- Zach Murphy
- Richard Ross (MASNA Award Honoree)
- Dr. Koty Sharp
- Julian Sprung (MASNA Award Honoree)
- Sara Stevens
- Joe Yaiullo
- And more…..
The conference fee includes two nights in your choice of room, meals, speaker sessions and the Friday night beer bash. Add-on adventures exist as well as the ability to book an extra night or two. If you attended MACNA, or a few of the current reefing shows, you know that some of our favorite parts of the event occur after hours. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, catch up with old ones and share experiences.
Join us for the inaugural Reef Retreat event, attendance is limited. You’ll want to say you were there when it all started. Book your conference tickets here for this all inclusive reefing event.
Conference pricing starts at $499, rooms Friday & Saturday night, double occupancy (other options are available).
Reef Retreat is hosted by Roger Williams University and proudly sponsored by:
