The best debuts at FLIBS 2020: The YachtBuyer round-up

The majestic return of FLIBS is fast approaching with less than two weeks to go, and despite the numerous influences from the coronavirus pandemic there's a fleet of yachts ready to make their global debut.

Integrating an entirely new system for an AllSecure environment, the 2020 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show will look very different compared to its previous 60 editions. However, organisers Informa have been defeating the odds to put on a show which is COVID-secure for all visitors, staff and crew.

Bringing back multiple popular attractions from previous editions such as the Windward VIP Experience and the highly exclusive Superyacht Village, the 61st edition looks to follow the successful 60th anniversary edition by putting on a show which is remembered for all the right reasons.

Showcasing a plethora of yachts for sale across the seven locations and six miles of floating docks, FLIBS has some exciting debuts on her list of showstoppers which includes models from Azimut, Ocean Alexander and Princess.

YachtBuyer have handpicked a selection of the global and US debuts you should add to your walking tour of the 2020 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. 

Ocean Alexander | 27Explorer

Ocean Alexander 27E underway surrounded by sea

A world debut from Ocean Alexander as they officially debut their Explorer range and welcome the Ocean Alexander 27E.

Powered by twin MAN® V12 1650HP engines, the new explorer yacht for sale advertises a cruising range of up to 2,100 nautical miles and all the amenities needed to explore each and every new destination.

Spacious interiors with an amidships galley and dining area offer iconic views onboard the Ocean Alexander 27E at every angle thanks to the abundance of windows, with the lounge acting as a gateway to a capacious exterior lifestyle.

The multi-functional hydraulic swim platform hosts on-deck storage for a tender plus watertoys, which can then be launched off the platform, making way for an additional area to socialise and relax.  

With a roomy bridge deck housing further relaxation opportunities, the new Explorer range will be a highlight at the Ocean Alexander stand.

Outer Reef Yachts | 620 Trident

Outer Reef Yachts 620 Trident underway, surrounded by sea

A global debut for the Taiwanese shipyard, Outer Reef Yachts will be showcasing their Trident 620 model.

Joining the production line in 2016, the trawler-shaped yacht paves the way for multiple Trident models currently in development, showcasing high standards and all the characteristics needed for a 'versatile, solidly built' cruiser.

Offering accommodation for up to six guests in a three-cabin layout, the Outer Reef Yachts Trident 620 boasts a fast displacement hull with twin propulsion from a choice of two engine options.

A deep swim platform and outdoor shower offer an ideal area for an easy access watersports area during voyages at sea, plus comfortable interiors reflect the ambience around the yacht through wide stretches of windows along the superstructure.

Alongside the global debut of the first Outer Reef Yachts Trident yacht for sale, other models in attendance will include the Outer Reef 700/720 Motoryacht.

  • LOA - 18.8m (61.7ft)
  • Maximum speed - 20.5 knots
  • Berths - 6 + 2crew 

Ocean Alexander | 32Legend and 36Legend

Ocean Alexander 32L underway, surrounded by sea
Ocean Alexander 36L underway, surrounded by sea

Debuting not only another two new models, Ocean Alexander are also presenting a new range called Legend. The Ocean Alexander 32L and 36L are both true to the Taiwanese shipyard with all the traits and innovations you'd expect from one of their yachts. Featuring designs from Evan K Marshall, these new Ocean Alexander yachts for sale have everything you need for an indulgent voyage at sea.

The 32L boasts a five-cabin layout including a full beam master cabin on the main deck forward, plus two ensuite twins and two doubles on the lower deck. 

Spacious interiors are parallelled around the exteriors with relaxation being a focal point throughout. An on-deck Jacuzzi on the bridge deck sets the scene, with multiple areas for sunbathing and of course a swim platform which can double up as a launch pad.

The Ocean Alexander 36L offers a four-cabin layout which dominates the lower deck, plus an open plan interior on the main deck with abundant natural light throughout.

The flybridge features a similar layout to the sister 32L model with an on-deck Jacuzzi, along with comfortable seating plus a wetbar for cocktails under the stars.  

32 Legend

  • LOA - 32.13m (105.4ft)
  • Berths - 10

36 Legend

  • LOA - 35.9m (117.8ft)
  • Berths - 8

Princess | Y78

Princess Y78 underway, surrounded by sea

Accommodating up to eight guests in a four-cabin layout, the Princess Y78 is an idyllic cruiser which is making her US debut at the 61st edition of FLIBS.

Sporting every trait typical of the iconic British fleet, the Y78 features a GRP construction powered by twin MAN V12-1800 engines, offering 3,600hp of propulsion.

Joining the fleet of Princess yachts for sale in 2019, the planing yacht features 'a walkthrough foredeck with U-shaped seating and sunbathing area'. Also boasting a hydraulic swim platform for seamless access to the sea, the Y78 is highly suited to entertaining and making the most of remote island destinations.

In addition to the Princess Y78 US debut, the stand will also be showcasing the V60, V65, V78, R35 and Princess F50 models.

  • LOA - 24.67m (80.9ft)
  • Maximum speed - 36 knots
  • Berths - 8 + 3 crew

Azimut | Magellano 25 Metri

Azimut Magellano 25 Metri underway, surrounded by sea and rock formations in background

Attending with the Azimut-Benetti Spa Azimut Yachts Division at the 2020 FLIBS event, the brand new Magellano 25 Metri, JAKAT, will be making her US debut.

Powered by either twin 1400hp MAN V12-1400 and twin 1550hp MAN V12-1550 engines, the Azimut Magellano model is the first project to feature exterior design by Vincenzo De Cotiis, and it has already made a statement by winning the award for Most Innovative Yacht (24-30m) at the 2020 World Yachts Trophies.

Sporting a four-cabin layout on the lower deck, the Magellano 25 Metri truly makes the most of the space available, using wide stretches of windows to create a vision of a spacious environment. A separate tender garage also helps to keep decks clear for long days of entertaining guests and making the most of every destination.

A hydraulic swim platform expands the flybridge yacht further acting as an additional socialising space and water sports launch pad.

Azimut will also be showcasing the Atlantis 45, Azimut 55, 66 and 78, Azimut S6 plus the Grande 25 Metri and Grande 27 Metri models. 

  • LOA - 25.22m(82.74ft)
  • Maximum speed - 25 knots
  • Berths - 8 + 3 crew

Beneteau Yachts | Gran Turismo 32

Beneteau Yachts Gran Turismo 32 underway, surrounded by sea

Making her US debut, the Beneteau Yachts Gran Turismo 32 launched in to production in 2019 and is a speedy weekend yacht which can accommodate up to four guests in a two-cabin layout.

Offering power from either twin 250hp Mercury MerCruiser 4.5L or twin 300hp Mercury MerCruiser 6.2L engines, she boasts a maximum speed in excess of 35 knots, and has 'good head clearance, appealing to anyone who loves an open boat'.

Maintaining aesthetics of the Gran Turismo range, the latest Beneteau yacht for sale makes use of the Flyer 10 layout, offering owners a light and airy interior with every amenity needed for a relaxing voyage.

Accompanying the Gran Turismo 32, Beneteau Yachts will also be displaying the Gran Turismo 36 and 40 models, Flyer 10, Swift Trawler 41, Monte Carlo 52 and Antares 9 and 11 models. 

  • LOA - 9.95m (32.6ft)
  • Maximum speed - 35 knots
  • Berths - 4

Before heading out to the 61st edition of the esteemed event, familiarise yourself with the new layout and COVID-secure measures of FLIBS.

If you're on the market to buy at the show, take the chance to get a head start on viewings by checking out all the available new and used yachts for sale.