FLIBS opens its doors to an exuberant 63rd edition

Five days of glistening motor yachts, bustling docks and an electric atmosphere descend on Florida as the 63rd Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show begins. 

Expecting around 100,000 visitors to a collection of seven different locations, Fort Lauderdale is the largest in-water boat show in the world and never fails to impress the crowds of yachting enthusiasts.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) has become an ultimate yachting hub, bringing every part of the industry together, a place where all niches are represented at one of seven always social locations.

During the show visitors have interconnected access to; the Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Hall Of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, Pier 66 Marina, and Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South.

Motor yachts moored along portside with one motor yacht travelling towards camera, during Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

The 2022 edition witnesses the return of many show favourites such as the Windward VIP Experience, the AquaZone by Nautical Ventures and the outstanding Superyacht Village.

Very much feeling like a 'getting back to normal' show, visitors seem to be enjoying themselves - no other show does food, booze and friendly better than FLIBS - making for a vibrant and fun atmosphere. 

The other thing Fort Lauderdale is famous for is being a 'selling show' and deals are certainly being done across the board. On paper, there are fewer yachts this year, particularly in the larger 50m+ sector, but there's no lack of quality, including plenty of local and global debuts to get excited from names such as Sunseeker, Pearl Yachts and Mangusta.

It is also noticeable that Asian and Turkish brands are really making themselves known here, with impressive line-ups from Numarine, Horizon, CL Yachts and Ocean Alexander. Polish builder, Galeon, is another to underline its US strength.   

For an idea of yachts scheduled to attend the show take a look at our FLIBS 2022 Countdown: Must See Debuts.

Stationary helicopter on display at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

Running alongside the extensive selection of around 1,300 boats at the show, FLIBS must-see moments include multiple halls full of equipment, engines and accessories.

Whether it's helicopters and supercars on superyachts or a new outboard motor, there is something for everyone waiting at the exhibitor stands.

To find out more about the show, read our guide to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Or get straight to the action and browse all yachts for sale.