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The Ultimate Guide to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Introduction

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is the world’s largest in-water boat show, spanning seven interconnected locations along the New River and Intracoastal Waterway. Each November, industry leaders unveil hundreds of vessels—from rugged expedition yachts to three-hundred-foot superyachts—alongside cutting-edge marine technology, expert seminars and evening celebrations. A 100-foot charter yacht gives you prime moorage on the Yacht Deck, seamless shuttle connections between show sites and front-row access to every sea trial and VIP event. Here’s your deep dive into FLIBS 2025.

Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Location

  • Yacht Deck at Pier 66 – Superyachts above 100 feet, private tours by appointment.
  • New River Marina – Brokerage boats, center-consoles and day-boat displays.
  • Esplanade Park – Land pavilions featuring electronics, tender craft and lifestyle brands.
  • Huizenga Plaza – Festival zone with food trucks, marine art and gear demos.
  • Lauderdale Marine Center – Custom builders and refit specialists.

Complimentary water taxis and land trams link all seven show venues in 5–10 minute intervals. Moored aboard your charter, you step ashore refreshed and ready for the next exhibit.

Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Dates

October 29 through November 2, 2025 marks this year’s exhibition week. Early registration opens in June, with VIP badge packages and captain credentials available soon after. Charter your yacht now to secure a prime slip on the Yacht Deck—ideal for entertaining clients, hosting VIP receptions or simply docking steps away from the show’s grand entrance.

Overview of the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show

FLIBS covers over 3.5 miles of waterfront: more than 1,500 vessels, 1,300 exhibitors and six themed zones. Key attractions include:

  • Superyacht Village – The most opulent builds, with private walkthroughs by designer and owner.
  • Powerboat Central – Performance ski boats, center-consoles and luxury cruisers.
  • Sailing Yacht Showcase – Modern catamarans, monohulls and bluewater cruisers.
  • BoatLife Experience – Lifestyle pavilions for marine fashion, toys and tech.
  • Harbour Beach Demo Zone – Offshore sea trials just a short tender ride away.

In-Water Exhibits and Yacht Deck

The Yacht Deck at Pier 66 hosts vessels from 100 to 300 feet. Highlights include:

  • New Launches – World premieres of custom superyachts with onboard cinemagraphs, beach clubs and helipads.
  • Brokerage Finger – Pre-owned yachts certified by charter brokers for inspection.
  • Design Studios – Deckside showrooms showcasing interior concepts, finishing materials and nautical art.

Board your charter to tour the latest models, then return to your own salon for cocktails at sunset—no shuttle required.

Sea Trials and Demos

Off Esplanade Park, the Harbour Beach Demo Zone launches sea trials daily:

  • Center-Console Test Drives – Captains guide you through chop-ready offshore runs.
  • Flybridge Cruising – Experience comfort and handling at 20+ knots.
  • Watersports Clinics – Try stand-up paddleboards, Sea-Bobs and jet skis in calm lagoon waters.

Tender from your yacht directly to the demo dock for priority boarding and guaranteed trial slots.

Seminars, Workshops and Education

The FLIBS Classroom offers free and ticketed sessions on:

  • Advanced navigation and electronic charting
  • Composite hull innovations and green propulsion
  • Charter management, crew training and legal compliance
  • Fishing tactics: big-game and inshore techniques

Experts from MBTA, Yamaha, Garmin and leading shipyards lead hands-on workshops in the Esplanade pavilion and on select yachts.

VIP and Networking Experiences

Charter guests enjoy exclusive perks:

  • Captains’ Lounge – Private bar and snacks at the Yacht Deck Clubhouse
  • Industry Roundtables – Invite-only discussions with designers, brokers and marine executives
  • Evening Rendezvous Cruises – Sunset cocktail receptions aboard partner superyachts
  • Gala Dinner – Black-tie affair on the final night at Huizenga Plaza

Planning Your Visit

  • Accommodations: Book hotels in Fort Lauderdale Beach or downtown; marinas fill fast.
  • App & Scheduling: Download the FLIBS app for interactive maps, real-time shuttle ETAs and exhibitor directories.
  • Dress Code: Layered nautical attire with non-marking deck shoes; evening gala black-tie optional.
  • Yacht Logistics: Schedule your vessel’s arrival at Sea Isle Marina by October to secure optimal slip assignments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tour superyachts from my charter?

Yes—arrange a docking side by side or use the connecting gangway for VIP walkthroughs. Speak with your broker early to schedule.

Are children allowed at FLIBS?

Families are welcome. Kiddie clinics and fishing ponds make it a multi-generation event, plus your yacht offers the perfect private retreat.

How do I get to Harbour Beach Demo Zone?

Water taxis run every 10 minutes from each dock; your captain can also tender directly to the demo docks for priority boarding.

Is parking available?

Paid parking garages surround Esplanade and New River; ride-shares and water shuttles are recommended to avoid traffic.

Can I combine a Caribbean charter with FLIBS attendance?

Absolutely. Position your yacht in Fort Lauderdale before the show, then sail south to the Bahamas once FLIBS concludes. Contact us to coordinate seamless routing.

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