Talking points: Everything you need to know about the 65th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Set to return for its 65th edition in less than a month, FLIBS will welcome a range of new features as well as a return to iconic venues throughout the city of Fort Lauderdale. BOAT rounds up all the action not to be missed between 30 October – 3 November.

Honouring over six decades of the region's long-standing affinity for boating and yachting, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) encourages boating fans and industry professionals to network front and centre of the superyacht action. Located within a stone's throw of the beach, the South Florida boat show spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space and brings in more than 100,000 visitors, with 49 per cent coming from outside Florida. With just one ticket, guests can soak up what is recognised as the largest in-water boat show in the world and gain access to a generous seven locations with around 150 yachts above 24 metres.

The show's history

Established in 1959, FLIBS has become a global showcase for some of the world's largest and most expensive superyachts. It not only stands as a testament to the industry's niche marine expertise but also displays a real community impact, generating a substantial $1.79 billion in economic impact within Fort Lauderdale. It supports small businesses while attracting international acclaim – boosting the region's tourism and hospitality offerings.

As the show marks 65 years on the water, Andrew Doole, president of the US Boat Shows division of Informa Markets, said: “This milestone year for FLIBS underscores our team’s dedication to investing in and elevating this event for the industry and consumers to enjoy. As a key event on the marine industry’s calendar, we are already seeing early excitement from exhibitors and look forward to welcoming our guests back to our docks.”

What's new this year?

Of course, this is a show that never stops evolving. With tradition comes the addition of new openings – and the show's partnership with Goslings and Anheuser-Busch provides a unique culinary and cocktail experience, shining a spotlight on crafted drinks and fan-favourite brews. Visitors can make the most of the show's new additions:

• New location for the Windward VIP Club: 

Now located at the Hall of Fame Marina, visitors can enjoy a host of luxury experiences, including Sunday brunch, access to celebrity guests and unique pop-up activations. Further Windward VIP perks comprise a premium open bar, gourmet food, exclusive access to luxury sponsorship activations, and private restrooms within the VIP area.

• Expanded Designers Pavilion at Superyacht Village: 

The Designers Pavilion at Superyacht Village has also expanded and will showcase cutting-edge designs and innovations in luxury yachts.

• More products at Pier Sixty-Six and Las Olas Marina: 

These two iconic locations will play a prominent role in the show, offering more space and showcasing the latest products and vessels.

• Superyacht Village at Pier Sixty-Six: 

This year, Superyacht Village will feature the largest vessels at the show and will be located at Pier Sixty-Six’s Hotel & Marina Pier South property – accessible by water tenders, water taxi, shuttle bus and golf cart routes to and from all seven show locations. There is also the possibility of on-site valet and self-parking. Open to all general admission ticket holders, visitors can expect exhibitor displays and a daily lineup of seminars here.

• Expanded transportation options: 

There will be more water taxi stops and water taxis serving the show at show locations, ensuring greater convenience and easier mobility across the seven show locations. Water Taxi tickets must be purchased separately for $15.

The superyachts to look out for

As the excitement builds for the show, more yachts are announcing their attendance daily. Amongst the largest yachts to look out for are Abeking & Rasmussen's 78.4-metre Amaryllis, Amadeus Yachts' 70.4-metre Amadeus, Lürssen's 60-metre Bella Vita (which rejoined the market in July this year) and two Trinity yachts – Unbridled and Skyfall.

While vintage lovers were blessed with Feadship's Ice Bear last year, the Dutch yard's Double Haven will be attending this year, built in 1991 and appearing in what is understood to be her first show. Meanwhile, the Viking 82 will be at FLIBS for the first time, and Dunya Yachts' 46.7-metre King Benji will be amongst the new yachts to look out for following her display at the Monaco Yacht Show.

Tickets for FLIBS are available exclusively online. Secure your ticket ahead of the show here.

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