More than 100,000 visitors are expected to descend upon what is the largest in-water boat show in the world at the end of October and start of November.
As ever, in amongst the 1,500 boats on show, you can expect to see the worldwide debuts of some stunning yachts and you can take the chance to speak to brokers about any prospective purchases that might catch your eye.
Running across seven locations and on six miles of floating decks, over 1,200 exhibitors are expected to take part as a range of vessels including superyachts, tenders, sailing yachts, cabin cruisers, express cruisers and inflatables will all be on show.
Take advantage of the excellent inter-show transport system and you will easily be able to see everything you want to during this five-day show.
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show - The Highlights
With over $4billion worth of products showcased in the gorgeous Florida sun, the latest boats and yachts of all sizes can be seen at the show and much more. From superyachts to sunglasses the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (also known as FLIBS) has it all!
Bahia Mar Yachting Center
The beating heart of FLIBS is the Bahia Mar Yachting Center - which gives you the chance to take in everything from sportfishing boats to motoryachts.
There are a big selection of in-water displays and tent after tent of land based exhibitors as well as the Superyacht Pavilion and American Pavilion - home to some of the world’s best boat builders and equipment manufacturers and the perfect place to talk about your boating needs.
There is plenty more you can see at the Yachting Center:
- Engine Tent - if you want to crank up the horsepower head here to talk to the experts about adding power to the props, or simply see the biggest diesels in the open air display space.
- Land Area Displays - consoles and runabouts aplenty can be found here, alongside a range of tenders and equipment.
- Boating Accessories Tents - the place for anything to do with boating, shoes, shades, clothing and jewelry - it is all here.
- Marine Equipment Tent - Anything from paint to deck hardware and safety gear can be found here.
- Electronics Tent - Marine electronics seem to be developing as fast as any other part of the industry. Pop into the electronics tent to see what is new and what might be coming in the future.
Pier 66 Marina
Pier 66 Marina is hard to beat for brokerage yachts - there are some fine wares on display and some of the top experts in the industry to speak to about them.
It is easily accessible by shuttle bus or water taxi.
Las Olas Marina
Want to see some big production and brokerage bots? You can find them at Las Olas Marina, along with a wide selection of new and brokerage superyachts.
Speak to your broker and arrange an appointment on any boat you want a better look at.
The Superyacht Village
Introduced in 2019 for the 60th edition of FLIBS the Superyacht Village is a go-to destination to see even more jaw dropping yachts over 300 feet in length.
This exclusive marina and on-land area is framed by a display of the world’s most spectacular vessels and exhibits from renowned shipyards. Top brokerage houses will be there too, and you can speak to them about some of the world’s most exciting yachts.
The affluent theme that pervades this 3.5 acre site is enhanced by other luxury toys on display including helicopters, submarines and collectable cars.
The site is well served by the shuttle bus service and water tenders and has on-site parking.
Other areas
The Sailfish Pavilion hosts tents and open air displays, along with demonstrations from experts on other water sports and the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center is home to even more boats - including fishing boats, bowriders and runabouts. Both are worth a visit.
What else can you expect?
There is much more at FLIBS beside some of the world’s best yachts. Take in a relaxed atmosphere, some wonderful food, plenty of seminars and talks and lots of sunshine!
The Sunset Soiree and Yacht Chef Competition
Tickle your tastebuds and enjoy some delicious cuisine as four world-leading yacht chefs compete for the crown of best chef.
An expert panel of judges will adjudicate this competition but guests can also try some of the food the chef’s produce as well as enjoy craft cocktails and tastings from other luxury food sellers.
Seminars, talks and expos
The event hosts a series of seminars that yacht owners or potential buyers might benefit from, with experts talking about the yachting market and the process of buying a yacht.
There are also talks from water sport experts, kids’ fishing clinics, seminars on marine projects that are protecting the coral reef and wine tastings as well.
The Windward VIP Club
Also introduced for the 60th anniversary of the show the Windward VIP Club includes access to exclusive experiences and events run by the show's sponsors.
Situate yourself in the climate-controlled Windward VIP Club lounge, just metres from some of the show’s most incredible superyachts and relax and plan your day, whilst enjoying the open bar and some gourmet food.
The Angler’s Hospitality Lounge
Overlooking the show, the Angler’s Hospitality Lounge offers a luxury suite and an extensive Key West tapas style menu.
Getting Around
FLIBS is located across seven venues that cover more than six miles: Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel and Yachting Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Pier 66 Marina, Sails Marina, Las Olas Municipal Marina, Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina and the Greater Fort Lauderdale /Broward County Convention Center.
Boasting a fantastic inter-show transport system that makes getting around easy, there's an extensive shuttle bus service operating across three different routes and water taxi services connecting to all show sites.
Fort Lauderdale is a tourist hotspot and with the exotic Everglades on one side and beautiful beaches on the other it is easy to see why.
In addition within minutes of the show is the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Museum of Discovery and Science & the AutoNation 3D IMAX Theater, Florida Grand Opera, Fort Lauderdale Historical Center, Stranahan House and the Museum of Art.
If you are interested in attending the 2021 edition of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show start planning your trip by taking a look at all the available new and used yachts for sale.
World Debut 
Show Premiere
USA Debut
YachtBuyer Reviewed
