Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

What to Expect

Conveniently located near Fort Lauderdale’s golden beaches, FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services.

Visitors can take in balmy breezes and swaying palm trees as they wander between the event’s seven locations, including Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Las Olas Marina, Hall of Fame Marina, Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South, Pier 66 Marina, the Broward County Convention Center, and the 17th Street Yacht Basin.

At Superyacht Village, showgoers can climb aboard a superyacht, meet with world-renowned yacht builders to design their next project, discover the latest tenders and water toys, check out a collection of exotic vehicles or grab a drink at the SYV bar overlooking the marina.

Meanwhile, at the Broward County Convention Center, attendees can see what’s new on the water with boat debuts from their favorite brands. The Convention Center will also feature a FLIBS Kids Corner, seminars and fishing clinics, as well as exciting and engaging attractions designed to give showgoers an exclusive experience with several innovative products.   

Where to Stay

From luxurious waterfront resorts to chic boutique hotels, there’s no shortage of incredible accommodations near FLIBS. To find your perfect place to unwind after a day of nautical excitement, visit the FLIBS website for a comprehensive list of options.

FLIBS Like an Insider

Want to navigate FLIBS like a pro? You’ll need a solid plan.

“Don’t try to see it all in one day,” says Phil Purcell, CEO and president of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, owner of the boat show. “Take time to look at the schedule in advance, plan out the “must-see” exhibits over different days, and remember to take advantage of the fishing clinics and special events.”

Start your day at the Broward County Convention Center, which serves as the FLIBS Transportation Hub - with over 3,000 parking spots available at a flat rate of $25 per day. From here, you can hop on a Water Taxi, shuttle or golf cart to and from all seven show locations. However, if you rather park elsewhere, the FLIBS website has a detailed list of available garages. 

Coming from Miami, West Palm Beach, Aventura, Boca Raton or even Orlando? Get to and from the show on the Brightline train, and start the party early! The Brightline lets you skip traffic with express rail service to Fort Lauderdale and complimentary shuttle service to the Riverside Hotel, where you can hop on the Water Taxi and head straight to the show. 

For a more elevated experience, you’ll want access to the Windward VIP Club, located at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center. VIP perks include a premium open bar, gourmet food, luxury sponsorship activations, private restrooms, early entry, complimentary shuttle and water taxi service from all seven locations, and more! 

While those in-the-know may have access to exhibitors’ private on-site and off-site parties, you won’t want to miss dining on famous Las Olas Boulevard or at any of our favorite waterfront dining spots. 

“A personal favorite of mine to visit after the show is Coconuts located right at the entrance of the show on the Intracoastal. It’s a great place to enjoy the sunset, while continuing to take in the beautiful boats on display,” suggests Andrew Doole, President of Informa U.S. Boat Shows. Doole also praises Boatyard restaurant on the 17th Street Causeway as a popular place for good music, great views and delicious food.