The 64th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show takes place October 25-29
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is a magnet for new boat debuts as consumers and builders look toward the new model year. This year’s FLIBS, set for October 25-29, is no exception as new powerboats, center consoles, and yachts are making their debut at the 64th annual event.
Billed as the world’s largest boat show, FLIBS has more than 1,300 boats on display and draws more than 100,000 people, primarily to the Bahia Mar Yachting Center and Broward County Convention Center. Other show locations include the Las Olas Marina, Hall of Fame Marina, Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South, Pier 66 Marina, and the 17th Street Yacht Basin.
Parking is at a premium, and it’s why organizers encourage attendees to take advantage of the 3,000 parking spaces at the Convention Center. Shuttle buses and water taxis will get visitors where they need to go over the five-day show, which is owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida and produced by Informa Markets.
Among the attractions worth noting include: Superyacht Village, featuring superyachts and exhibits; Windward VIP Club, exclusive club with gourmet food and premium bar; The AquaZone by Nautical Ventures, freshwater pool with in-water demos; Fort Lauderdale Concours features rare cars, fine art, and live music; educational seminars for adults, and a kids’ corner.
Tickets for a one-day general admission is $42, while a two-day general admission pass is $70 and recommended because of the show’s size. The special Wednesday preview ticket is $64, while the Windward VIP tickets start at $398 and include early entry. FLIBS opens daily at 10AM (Wednesday starts at noon) and closes at 7PM (Sunday closes at 6PM), but the parties go well into the night.
Celebrate these new boats making their first appearance at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
-by Gregg Mansfield
