A Celebration of Yachts, Innovation, and Marine Culture
The 65th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is about to kick off on October 30th, and this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just love the idea of life on the water, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show has something for everyone. With over 1,300 boats on display, hundreds of exhibitors, and a lineup of cutting-edge yachts making their U.S. debuts, this show is a must-see for anyone passionate about the boating world.
A Boat Show for Every Kind of Boater
This year’s show spans seven different venues, from the Broward County Convention Center to Pier Sixty-Six and beyond. Expect everything from personal watercraft and fishing boats to show-stopping super yachts like the 257-foot Amaryllis, which is set to steal the spotlight. Whether you’re here to admire the boats, test out the latest in marine technology, or attend a seminar, FLIBS has a packed schedule that guarantees a memorable experience.
Superyacht Village will once again be one of the highlights of the show, hosting the largest and most luxurious vessels at Pier Sixty-Six Marina. Even if you’re not in the market for a superyacht, the Superyacht Village is a great place to catch a glimpse of the future of marine design. Boats like the Sialia 57 Weekender, an all-electric luxury cruiser, are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, blending eco-friendly technology with stunning designs.
New Features for 2024
FLIBS is celebrating its 65th year with some exciting new features. The Windward VIP Club, now located at the Hall of Fame Marina, has expanded to offer a more exclusive experience with perks like a premium open bar, gourmet food, and even Sunday brunch. This year also brings more product displays at Pier Sixty-Six and Las Olas Marina, allowing visitors to explore a wider range of boats, marine accessories, and innovative technology.
Getting around FLIBS has been made easier with more water taxis and shuttle options connecting all seven locations. This expanded transportation makes it simple to hop between venues, so you won’t miss any of the action. And don’t forget—this year, tickets are available exclusively online. Be sure to buy your tickets here in advance!
Exciting Debuts You Don’t Want to Miss
One of the reasons FLIBS remains a global attraction is the impressive lineup of boats making their debuts. For fans of performance boats, the Viking 74 is a sportfishing powerhouse, while the Riviera 6800 Sport Yacht brings an Australian touch of elegance to the show. On the other hand, Mangusta Oceano 44 and Ocean Alexander 35 Puro represent the luxury side of boating with stunning designs and high-end amenities.
For those interested in innovation, boats like the Sialia 57 and Canados Oceanic 143 are pushing the limits of what’s possible on the water. From all-electric cruisers to semi-displacement explorers, these boats are designed for the modern, eco-conscious boater.
A Full Experience: Seminars, Products, and VIP Access
While the boats are the stars of the show, FLIBS offers a whole lot more. Throughout the event, you can attend daily seminars, where industry experts share insights on the latest trends in boating, marine technology, and sustainability. And if you’re looking to upgrade your gear or learn more about marine products, there’s an incredible array of exhibitors showcasing the latest in marine technology, accessories, and gadgets.
If you’re looking to make your FLIBS experience extra special, the Windward VIP Club is the place to be. Located at the Hall of Fame Marina, this expanded VIP area offers an elevated view of the show with luxury perks like gourmet food, open bars, and access to exclusive events.
Need Boat Insurance? We’ve Got You Covered
While you’re walking the docks and checking out the latest yachts, don’t forget to think about protecting your new purchase. I’ll be at the show on October 30th, so feel free to reach out while you’re there! At On The Water Marine Insurance, we offer coverage for virtually every type of boat showcased at FLIBS—from high-performance boats to superyachts. If you’re buying a boat at the show, give us a call or text at (513) 653-3800 to get insured and ready to go.
I’ll see you On The Water!
Written by Eric Fisher
Boat Insurance Guy & Agency President at On The Water Marine Insurance.
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