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Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2023: Everything you need to know

Taking place between 25 - 29 October 2023 in its 64th edition, FLIBS is recognised as the largest in-water boat show in the world, showcasing a wide range of yachts, tenders, toys and accessories.

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2023 Key Facts

Date: 25 - 29 October 2023

Opening Hours:

🕒 Wednesday 25 October - 12:00 till 19:00

🕒 Thursday 26 October - 10:00 till 19:00

🕒 Friday 27 October - 10:00 till 19:00

🕒 Saturday 28 October - 10:00 till 19:00

🕒 Sunday 29 October - 10:00 till 18:00

Location: Bahia Mar Yachting Center, 801 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale 33316, United States

Please contact our team in Fort Lauderdale to make an appointment or visit us during the show.

Why visit the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show?

Renowned as the greatest boat show on the seven seas, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the largest in-water yacht show in the world. In 2021, the port saw over 100,000 attendees, 1,000 exhibitors and more than 1,300 boats on display.

The show is held across seven locations: Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, Pier 66 Marina and Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South.

From the latest watertoys and tenders to some of the world’s largest and most luxurious yachts - a visit to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is an absolute must for any yacht enthusiast, whether looking to buy, sell or plan your next superyacht purchase.

Yachts at the 2017 Fort Lauderdale boat show aerial view

Event Highlights

Showcasing more than $4 billion worth of yachts and marine equipment, FLIBS presents keen yachters with the opportunity to not only view the latest and hottest innovations in the industry, but also network and engage in a high-flying social event with like-minded yacht enthusiasts - the perfect scene to sell your yacht, or upgrade to a new one.

Across the five-day event, there is no end to the nautical wonders that await you at Fort Lauderdale.

Enter the AquaZone

One of the most popular areas of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the AquaZone is home to all of the industry-leading water sports, water toys and yacht accessories you could possibly need. From SEABOB to Torqeedo, Crystal Kayak, and more - Nautical Ventures will be offering in-water demos, testing, contests and prizes in their 40,000-gallon freshwater pool inside the Convention Center.

Aquazone Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Superyacht Village

A yacht show isn’t complete without a section dedicated exclusively to the largest, most luxurious yachts on the market. With tenders, water toys, world-class superyachts and exotic vehicles all on display for visitors to admire, the Superyacht Village is a must-see section of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

Windward VIP Club

If you’re looking to escape the Floridian heat for a brief respite, then the Windward VIP Club is the right choice for you. Located at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center’s Captain’s Lounge, this VIP experience offers premium open bars, gourmet food, live music and lifestyle pop-up activations from the show’s sponsors - the perfect way to kick back and enjoy the views of the marine in between boat browsing.

Hook the Future

For yacht enthusiasts with families in tow, Captain Don’s Hook the Future seminar is a unique spectacle, showcasing a wide variety of fish species and fishing techniques to younger audiences. Each child leaves with a free Hook the Future / Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo, as well as a renewed love for marine life and the wonders of the ocean.

Getting the most out of your stay in Fort Lauderdale

With white sand beaches, beaming sunshine and mountains of gastronomic opportunities, a trip to Fort Lauderdale is one you will never forget. When dropping in for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, there is plenty to see, do and experience outside of the show that will make your trip all the more special.

Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Wander along Las Olas Boulevard

From cocktail bars to boutiques, museums and unique restaurants - Las Olas Boulevard is alive at night, packed with culinary delights, buzzing bars and enthralling nightlife. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy day browning yachts at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

Tour Bonnet House

Dating back to the early twentieth century, Bonnet House is one of the last natural barrier island habitats you can see. With five distinct ecosystems found on the property, the gardens are swathed in tropical flowers and are home to various wildlife - including a vast array of migratory birds. This gorgeous oasis is an idyllic way to pass your afternoon after a wander around the FLIBS exhibition.

Guided reef tour

The underwater scenery in Fort Lauderdale is simply breathtaking. Colourful reefs, crystalline waters and an abundance of marine life make the coastline an idyllic spot for snorkelling and scuba diving. To round off your Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show experience, why not explore beneath the surface with an underwater tour?

Beach with palm trees in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Relax on the beach

A trip to Fort Lauderdale is not complete without a few hours spent lounging on the soft beaches that scatter the coastline. With palm trees wafting in the breeze, the turquoise waters lapping at your feet, and the warm sun beating down on your face - the beaches at Fort Lauderdale are renowned for their luxurious and tropical vibes.

Top Restaurants in Fort Lauderdale

After an action-packed day viewing all the latest superyachts, water toys, tenders and luxury nautical gadgets, you are likely to have built up quite the appetite. Luckily for you, Fort Lauderdale is teeming with culinary treats - from traditional American grills to fine dining overlooking the marina.

1. DUNE - Auberge Beach Residence and Spa Fort Lauderdale

Inspired by the vibrant hues and decadent flavours of South Florida’s breezy coastal landscape, this contemporary American restaurant is overseen by Michelin-starred chef, Laurent Tourondel, and promises a fresh, creative take on traditional American cuisine.

2. The Terrace Grill - The Dalmar

Set on the ground floor of The Dalmar, The Terrace Grill promises fine dining in a chic, lively atmosphere, with contemporary decor and colourful dishes that will not disappoint.

3. Mastro’s Ocean Club

Sitting on the Intracoastal Waterway, Mastro’s Ocean Club offers world-class service, unparalleled cuisine and live entertainment for a truly unforgettable evening. Hailed as ‘masterful’, ‘high-end’ and ‘the preferred steakhouse of celebs and locals’, a meal here will be a one-of-a-kind experience.

4. Boatyard

With a picturesque waterfront setting, unique nautical-chic vibe and seafood-centric menu, Boatyard has everything you need to unwind after an exciting day at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

5. Wild Sea Las Olas - Riverside Hotel

Renowned for their delicious seafood cuisine, comfortable atmosphere and stunning views of the marina, Wild Sea Las Olas is somewhat of a local haunt for those that live within Fort Lauderdale. Marine-inspired decor, fresh local produce and a varied menu are just some of the attractions of this oyster bar and grille.

Top Hotels in Fort Lauderdale

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is a spectacle in itself, but after a day of excitement, planning and exploring, you need nothing less than the utmost luxury to relax, unwind, and get a good night’s rest.

1. W Fort Lauderdale

In the epicentre of all that’s vibrant on Fort Lauderdale beach lies this 5-star, ultra-luxurious hotel. With stunning suites, award-winning dining, bold nightlife and decadent lounging areas - W Fort Lauderdale has everything you need to recharge before another exciting day at FLIBS.

2. The Ritz-Carlton

Another beachfront luxury resort, The Ritz-Carlton offers a unique blend of Fort Lauderdale’s historical, nautical and contemporary design influences for an inviting and decadent ambiance. With views overlooking the white sand beaches, this hotel promises glamour, indulgence and beauty, all in one.

3. The Atlantic

Calming, invigorating and breathtaking - The Atlantic Hotel and Spa promises a boutique hotel experience right on the beachfront of Fort Lauderdale. Relax by the pool, soak up the sun, and unwind before another busy day browsing yachts at FLIBS.

4. The Diplomat Resort

Voted one of the top 10 resorts in Florida by Condé Nast Reader’s Choice, this beachside resort has everything you need for a relaxing stay in Fort Lauderdale - from a lagoon and infinity pool to a 15,000 square foot spa and complimentary beachfront water sports.

5. Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach

With breathtaking views, stylish kitchens, indulgent in-suite service and signature extras, a stay at Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach is an experience unlike any other. Offering luxury and decadence in a contemporary beachside package, this hotel is the ideal getaway for your stay during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

Start your next adventure at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

The FLIBS is more than just a yacht exhibition - it’s a place for yacht enthusiasts to learn more about the industry, discover the future of yachting, and prepare for their next yachting adventure - whether planning a new-build, purchasing your first superyacht, or starting a new chapter as you hand over a beloved vessel to a new Owner.

Throughout the yacht show, our team will be available to answer your questions, discuss enquiries and help you get the most out of your yacht show experience.

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