Making history as the first international boat show to get the go ahead since Coronavirus restrictions came into force, FLIBS exceeded all expectations with a COVID-secure environment and a higher footfall than forecast.
Covering 3 million square feet of exhibition space and six miles of floating docks, 2020 FLIBS witnessed busy docks and a positive outlook 'considering the challenging circumstances'.
The main focus of the 61st edition catered towards the increased local demand to get out on the water, coinciding with record-setting boat sales in the U.S since March 2020.
Shifting the attention towards the smaller yachts for sale paid off, with many contracts being signed during the event, plus more still in discussions.
Initial reports from exhibitors overwhelmingly come together to express gratitude towards show organisers Informa, and impressive results in spite of the reduced event.
Shifting the attention towards the smaller yachts for sale paid off, with many contracts being signed during the event, plus more still in discussions.
Integrating measures which complied with the comprehensive AllSecure health and safety standards, all visitors and exhibitors were presented with new guidelines to adhere to throughout the five-day event.
New measures for visitors included mandatory face coverings, social distancing and a contactless ticketing system. The usual layout around the docks also incorporated altered systems with widened docks, one way systems and bookings to view individual yachts.
Sally Doleski, of Alexander Marine and Ocean Alexander, commented 'Informa’s communication and safety protocols has ensured attendees feel safe to attend'.
Informa’s communication and safety protocols has ensured attendees feel safe to attend'.
With many exhibitors and visitors unable to travel due to coronavirus travel restrictions, the popular Superyacht Village remained closed for the 61st edition and there were fewer stands from larger European superyacht builders such as Heesen and Lurssen.
However, with an audience comprising a higher percentage of US visitors, most of the exhibits presented idyllic weekend vessels like weekenders, cruisers, and motor yachts in the range of 10-30m.
Figures reading attendance being down only 20% compared to the 2019 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show reflect on the growing boating trend in the US, further granting acknowledgment to the outcome of the multiple sales of smaller motor yachts.
Even though this is a scaled down event, it has proven to be one of the best shows.
Director of Sales
HMY Yachts
Even without the Superyacht Village, there was still a buzz throughout the COVID-secure show with many yachts making their global and US debuts.
Ocean Alexander had many reasons to celebrate during the 2020 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show with two brand new ranges making their global debut. The Explorer and Legend ranges made a big statement with two deposits being made at the stand.
Azimut-Benetti Americas have also praised the efforts behind the 2020 edition of FLIBS, reporting the contracts of 16 units throughout the duration of the event.
British shipyard Princess has also reported great response with their Princess Y78 US debut and more orders on their books.
The menu differed slightly to cater to the new guidelines, but the taste still came up to scratch with the usual FLIBS standards.
COVID-19 measures continued in to the catering sector of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, with the food court being omitted from the 61st edition.
Adhering to heightened hygiene and safety regulations, food was pre-prepared into portions in disposable cartons. The menu differed slightly to cater to the new guidelines, but the taste still came up to scratch with the usual FLIBS standards.
Windward VIPs also indulged in a premium menu, along with an open bar with free flowing champagne throughout the duration of the event.
Now looking to the 62nd edition from October 27 - 31, 2021, FLIBS closes the doors on a moment in history as the only international boat show to go ahead during the global pandemic.
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