Owned by Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), FLIBS (Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show) boasts an impressive coverage of over three million square feet at seven iconic waterfront locations. The exciting ensemble of premium brands, unique exhibitions, expansive displays of yachts and VIP exclusives all come together to create the electric atmosphere which has continually attracted thousands of visitors each year.
Following on from a promising launch event back in 1959, FLIBS has progressively grown to become an essential part of the culture and commercial activity in Fort Lauderdale, bringing substantial income to the community each year.
In addition to a myriad of enticing exhibitor stands with premium products and merchandise, the social calendar and entertainment aspects of the show have helped to bring the event to its landmark anniversary event. Starting off as simple food courts and a little background noise, the side attractions have now expanded to become a gourmet food selection including conch, delicious lobster rolls and sushi, and live music to heighten the already adrenaline pumped environment.
It would’ve been hard to imagine that FLIBS would become the cultural and commercial icon that it is today. In 1959, it made a splash with just 13 boats in the still new Lauderdale Marina and yet it enjoyed immediate success, quickly growing from an informal, free-to-the-public and volunteer-led exhibition, to the hugely-ambitious and grandly-scaled extravaganza that it is today.
President
U.S. Boat Shows for Informa Markets
In an event which now offers exclusive water taxis. shuttle buses and riverboats to escort visitors to each area of the show, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show once held a humble selection of 13 boats to showcase to the general public.
Even after just one event the potential future success of FLIBS was already shimmering as the following event in 1960 held double the amount of exhibitors in attendance. By 1971 there were 115 exhibitors who managed to reap in a credible $1 million.
Further down the line, FLIBS indulged in more expansion as the show moved to the current location of Bahia Mar Resort & Yachting Center. Big changes continued to attract visitors to the show as it became a leading event in the industry.
FLIBS is at the heart of an $8.9 billion industry that employs 111,000 people in the Fort Lauderdale area. As the show has grown over the years, the marine industry has grown side-by-side, creating jobs and providing an unparalleled economic impact.
CEO/president
MIASF
Innovative changes regarding exhibitor stands and clear-span tents made the show really stand out as it became more capable of withstanding the elements and sheltering all the guests in attendance. Making it an overall more welcoming atmosphere.
Skipping forward to present day, the esteemed five day event continues to grow as the diamond anniversary is marked by the introduction of the first Superyacht Village. Anchoring 10 of the biggest yachts at the show, the exclusive village is set to host several US debuts and feature staggering vessels measuring up to 400 feet.
The 60th anniversary FLIBS event launches on the 30th October 2019 and runs until the 3rd November 2019.
