The 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is preparing for its 65th anniversary, presenting an exhilarating selection of fresh features and making a grand return to its renowned locations throughout Fort Lauderdale. Scheduled from October 30 to November 3, this year’s event promises amplified experiences for both boating aficionados and industry experts as it continues to celebrate the area’s rich heritage in boating and yachting that has flourished for more than sixty years.
FLIBS is not merely a boat exhibition—it is a jubilation of 65 years of nautical innovation and community bonding. Recognized as the largest in-water boat expo globally, FLIBS has made a lasting impact on the local maritime industry while significantly contributing to Fort Lauderdale’s economy. It has not only enhanced the regional marine landscape but has also invigorated the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors, aiding small enterprises to flourish and drawing international guests. With over 100,000 participants each year, the occasion generates an astonishing $1.79 billion in economic repercussions for the region, reinforcing its role as a pillar of the global marine network.
This year, attendees can anticipate a variety of thrilling new offerings intended to elevate the overall experience. A key highlight of the 2024 exhibition is the collaboration with Goslings and Anheuser-Busch, which will provide a singular culinary and cocktail experience, featuring specially crafted beverages and well-known brews. Whether you’re an occasional enthusiast or an experienced professional, this year’s FLIBS is poised to create unforgettable moments as it celebrates its 65th year of excellence.
NEW site for the Windward VIP Club: Now situated at the Hall of Fame Marina, the expanded venue will provide additional luxury experiences including an exclusive Sunday Brunch, interaction with special celebrity guests, and distinctive pop-up activities. Additional Windward VIP benefits include a premium open bar, gourmet cuisine, exclusive access to luxury sponsorship activations, and private restrooms within the VIP sector. Expanded Designers Pavilion at Superyacht Village: This year, the Designers Pavilion at Superyacht Village will be larger than ever, featuring state-of-the-art designs and innovations in luxury yachts. More Offerings at Pier Sixty-Six and Las Olas Marina: These legendary venues will have a crucial role in the exhibition, providing more space and showcasing the latest products and vessels. Superyacht Village @ Pier Sixty-Six: This year, located at Pier Sixty-Six’s Hotel & Marina “Pier South” property, Superyacht Village will host the grandest vessels at the show. This exclusive marina will feature high-end exhibitor displays and an expanded schedule of daily seminars. Superyacht Village will be accessible to all general admission ticket holders. The area will be reachable by water tenders, water taxi, and shuttle bus along with golf cart routes connecting all seven show venues, in addition to on-site valet and self-parking. Expanded Transportation Alternatives: This year, show organizers are increasing the number of water taxi stops and water taxis serving the exhibition locations, ensuring improved convenience and easier transit across the seven show sites. Water Taxi tickets must be purchased separately for $15.
“This landmark year for FLIBS emphasizes our team’s commitment to investing in and enhancing this event for both the industry and consumers to appreciate,” stated Andrew Doole, President of the U.S. Boat Shows division of Informa Markets. “As a key event on the marine industry’s calendar, we are already witnessing early enthusiasm from exhibitors and are eager to welcome our guests back to our docks.”
Phil Purcell, CEO and President of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, remarked, “As we commemorate the 65th anniversary of FLIBS, we not only honor its legacy but also its substantial influence on shaping the marine industry. Throughout the years, FLIBS has welcomed millions who have traversed the docks, fostering support and contributing to the sector’s development. The progression of FLIBS from its inception to its present status as the globe’s largest in-water boat show underscores its influence on the industry, Broward County, and South Florida as a whole. I take immense pride in the efforts our team and partners at Informa have dedicated to hosting this iconic event, and we are all enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead.”
The Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), the steward of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, is the largest trade organization in the Southeast United States dedicated to advocating for, safeguarding, and enhancing the 142,000 middle-class jobs while driving the economic output to $18.5 billion regionally. Established in 1961, this not-for-profit trade group focuses on the sustainable growth of the marine industry in the South Florida region for the benefit of its members, clients, communities, and the environment. The Association has over 500 members across Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.
Tickets for FLIBS are available exclusively via the internet. To guarantee a smooth experience, attendees are highly advised to acquire their tickets beforehand, as there will be no ticket booth on-site. Visitors to the show can contribute to the Water Revolution Foundation (WRF), this year’s official community partner. Donations can be made while purchasing tickets, with funds directly supporting the WRF’s Important Marine Mammal Areas (IMMAs) program. Established by the IUCN Task Force on Marine Mammal Protected Areas, this program seeks to identify and safeguard vital habitats. By mapping these critical zones, particularly in the North West Atlantic region—which includes popular boating destinations such as the US East Coast, Bahamas, Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean—we can nurture a flourishing ocean ecosystem.
This year, the Broward County Convention Center returns as the official FLIBS Transportation Hub, providing over 3,000 parking spaces at a daily flat rate of $20. With convenient access to all show venues via water taxis, shuttles, and golf carts supplied by ICON Electric Vehicles, the Convention Center is the perfect starting point for your #FLIBS adventure. Inside the Convention Center, guests will discover an impressive selection of fishing boats, runabouts, cruisers, marine accessories, fishing gear, diving equipment, and personal watercraft.
Image Source: Drozdin Vladimir / Shutterstock
