The annual five-day event draws 100,000+ visitors and exhibitors from 52 countries. Held across three million square feet of exhibit space, it is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services.
What to Expect at FLIBS
Known for its extensive display of luxury yachts for sale, cutting-edge technology, and maritime innovations, the event, held annually in Florida, is one of the premier yacht and boating shows globally. It showcases everything from sleek superyachts and sportfishing boats to marine accessories and watercraft. Visitors can expect to explore an impressive array of luxury yachts and watercraft displayed across sprawling docks and exhibition spaces.
The Florida-based boat show features an exclusive program of events, including VIP previews, yacht premieres, and live demonstrations of the latest marine technology. Visitors can also enjoy engaging activities, such as interactive exhibits and seminars led by industry experts.
Food and hospitality are integral to the event, with a variety of dining options available throughout the show. Entertainment is another highlight, with live music performances, cocktail parties, and themed events adding to the relaxed party atmosphere.
The Show Layout
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) spans seven interconnected locations where visitors can explore a diverse array of motor yachts, superyachts, and marine accessories. Each venue offers unique experiences, from the bustling Bahia Mar Yachting Center to the luxurious Superyacht Village.
Bahia Mar Yachting Center
The Bahia Mar Yachting Center is the heart of the show, featuring a vast selection of in-water displays, including sportfishing boats and motor yachts, and land-based exhibitors. Attendees can explore the Engine Tent for power upgrades, the boating accessories tents for shades, shoes, clothing, and jewelry, and the Marine Equipment Tent for paint, deck hardware, and safety gear. The Electronics Tent showcases the latest technological advancements in boating.
Superyacht Village
Superyacht Village is an exclusive marina showcasing some of the largest and most luxurious superyachts for sale at the show. It provides an exclusive setting for serious buyers and industry professionals.
Those attending the exclusive exhibit can also discover the latest tenders and water toys, or explore the impressive collection of luxury vehicles.
Pier 66 Marina
Pier 66 Marina, with its dedicated marina and land exhibition space, can accommodate yachts up to 121m (400ft), making it a magnet for the largest superyachts.
Surrounded by fantastic restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining, Pier 66 is a great place for networking and is easily accessible by shuttle bus or water taxi.
Hall of Fame Marina
The Hall of Fame Marina is well served by bars and restaurants in addition to the lure of the brokerage yachts and smaller boats for sale.
Las Olas Marina
The furthest northern point of the FLIBS showground, the Las Olas Marina primarily focuses on showcasing brokerage yachts and smaller luxury yachts. It offers a more intimate setting for yacht viewings and sales.
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina (17th Street Yacht Basin)
Home to a variety of boats and marine accessories. This area is also known for its hospitality suites and spaces for private meetings and events.
Broward County Convention Center
The Broward County Convention Center features the popular AquaZone and is an exciting and engaging attraction at FLIBS designed to give visitors an upfront and personal experience with various water sports and innovative marine products.
Tickets and Access to FLIBS
As with many modern yacht shows, there is no box office on site. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets online in advance. Tickets are digital and will be scanned upon entry.
General admission tickets are available for one-day or multi-day access and children under six can enter for free when accompanied by an adult. Active military and veterans receive complimentary general admission on specified days.
Windward VIP tickets elevate the FLIBS experience with a host of exclusive benefits, with access to the Concours event on Friday evening available at an additional fee.
Held on Friday night, the Fort Lauderdale Concours offers a unique blend of classic cars, high-end sneakers, fine and pop art, live entertainment, an open bar, and hors d'oeuvres, all set against stunning views. It’s the premier event to attend during FLIBS.
Superyachts on display at FLIBS are accessible on an invitation-only basis.
Serious yacht buyers should contact their broker or dealer before the show to secure access to yachts for sale. Early communication may also help ensure inclusion on guest lists for special events and exclusive hospitality.
Yachts on Show at FLIBS
Being a high-profile event with an esteemed reputation, Boat builders and shipyards often select the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show for world premieres or U.S. debuts of their latest creations.
Many well-known brands return to FLIBS year after year with their latest models including the British shipyards Princess Yachts and Sunseeker, Turkish builder Sirena Yachts, Polish builders Sunreef and Galeon, and many more.
In addition to the impressive collection of production yachts throughout the marinas, FLIBS has been known to host some spectacular superyachts over the years including 61.26m (201ft) motor yacht MARGUERITE and 72.55m (238ft) motor yacht CORAL OCEAN in 2022, and 85.3m (280ft) explorer yacht BOLD in 2021.
FLIBS: Show Highlights
At FLIBS, it’s not just about the boats. Visitors can experience the show as a lifestyle event, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere, gourmet food, exclusive seminars, and live music throughout.
The Sunset Soiree & Yacht Chef Competition is a highly anticipated event at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and is a highlight among the events held at Superyacht Village.
The competition highlights top yacht chefs vying for the title of Best Yacht Chef. This event offers a culinary spectacle and serves as a prime networking opportunity for yacht owners and industry professionals. With its blend of gourmet excellence and the vibrant FLIBS atmosphere, the Sunset Soiree & Yacht Chef Competition exemplifies the luxurious lifestyle and high standards of the superyacht community.
Hospitality at FLIBS
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is a hospitality delight with over 100 food concessions and satellite bars throughout the showground. From Greek gyros to woodfired picanha to authentic street tacos, hand-crafted burgers, fresh stone crab claws, calamari, and oysters.
There are options for every taste and budget and ample menu items for visitors with specific dietary requirements. Current foodie attractions include Goslings’ Dark ‘N Stormy Island Bar, Anheuser-Busch Island Beer Garden, and Stella Artois Barge.
VIP and Exclusive Access
The Windward VIP Club at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) offers an exclusive experience. Located at the heart of the show, this luxurious retreat provides a perfect setting for relaxation, networking, and enjoying the best of what FLIBS has to offer.
Members of the Windward VIP Club enjoy numerous benefits, including premium open bars, fine dining options, and private concierge services to enhance their show experience. The club features a comfortable, elegantly designed lounge area, where VIP guests can take a break from the bustling show, enjoy refreshments, and socialize with other premium guests and industry professionals.
The Windward VIP Club also provides exclusive access to private events, including special yacht tours and product previews, allowing members to get an insider's look at the latest in yachting innovation. VIP guests receive priority access to tender services and water taxis, ensuring convenient and hassle-free transportation throughout the show.
For those seeking a premium experience at FLIBS, the Windward VIP Club is the ultimate destination, offering unparalleled service, comfort, and access to the best the show has to offer.
How to Get Around at the Show
With over three million square feet of exhibit space, navigating the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is streamlined thanks to excellent organization and years of experience.
The Broward County Convention Center serves as the FLIBS Transportation Hub. Visitors can start their day here and then take a water taxi, shuttle, or golf cart to and from all other show locations.
FLIBS offers complimentary shuttles and golf carts that operate one hour before the show opens and until one hour after closing.
The Water Taxi service is available for a fixed daily rate, with bundle options for a full five-day visit. Children under five travel free on the water taxi. Windward VIP ticket holders receive complimentary water taxi service.
Many exhibitors provide boat transportation for clients and VIP guests. Serious buyers are advised to contact their broker or dealer to schedule appointments to visit their preferred yachts. This ensures their visit is well-organized, with arrangements for transportation within the show, access to the yachts, refreshments, and exclusive invitations.
For any large event, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and plan your day in advance.
Fort Lauderdale
With the exotic Everglades on one side and beautiful beaches on the other, there is plenty to see and do in Fort Lauderdale.
Within minutes of the show is the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Museum of Discovery and Science & the AutoNation 3D IMAX Theater, the Florida Grand Opera, the Fort Lauderdale Historical Center, the Stranahan House, and the Museum of Art.
If you are considering attending the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, start planning your trip by viewing all the new and used yachts for sale and charter at the show.
World Debut 
Show Premiere
USA Debut
Preview
YachtBuyer Reviewed
