The Ultimate Guide to the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

The World's Largest In-Water Boat Show

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is the premier marine industry event in the world. Held annually in late October and early November across six venues along Fort Lauderdale's waterways, FLIBS draws over 100,000 visitors from more than 100 countries and showcases over 1,000 exhibiting companies with boats worth billions of dollars in aggregate value.

Whether you're in the market for a center console, a sailing yacht, a superyacht, or just want to browse the latest marine technology, FLIBS is an unmissable event for any serious boating enthusiast or buyer.

Show Venues

FLIBS spans multiple venues, each with its own character:

• Bahia Mar Yachting Center: The historic main venue, home to the largest in-water display including superyachts and megayachts
• Hall of Fame Marina: Additional in-water display space for mid-size yachts and powerboats
• Las Olas Marina: More mid-size vessels and waterfront access
• Broward County Convention Center: Largest indoor exhibits including accessories, electronics, and services
• Pier 66 Marina: Premium yacht and superyacht displays
• Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina: Additional exhibit space and corporate events

Planning Your Visit

FLIBS runs for five days, typically Thursday through Monday. Strategies for making the most of your visit:

• Go early in the week: Weekdays are significantly less crowded than the weekend
• Arrive by water if possible: Boating to FLIBS is a memorable way to arrive and avoids parking challenges
• Book accommodation early: Fort Lauderdale hotels fill months in advance during show week
• Wear comfortable shoes: You'll walk miles across the venues
• Download the show app: The FLIBS app includes maps, exhibitor lists, and event schedules
• Plan for specific categories: The show is too large to see everything — identify your priorities in advance

Buying a Boat at FLIBS

Many significant boat purchases are made at FLIBS. If you're considering a purchase:

• Arrange financing pre-approval before the show if you're serious about buying
• Contact a marine insurance broker before the show so you can bind coverage immediately on purchase
• Factor in delivery costs, commissioning fees, and first-year maintenance
• Ask dealers about demo periods and sea trials before signing
• Compare prices across multiple dealers and brands for similar vessels

Critically: never take delivery of a boat without insurance in place. Coverage can typically be bound by phone or email within hours during business hours — contact us before the show to arrange a marine insurance quote so you're ready to act.

Insurance Considerations When Buying at a Show

Show purchases create a moment of excitement that can lead to inadequate insurance planning. Before you sign a purchase agreement at FLIBS:

• Know the agreed insured value you'll need
• Understand whether your intended marina requires liability minimums
• If you're taking the boat offshore or to the Bahamas, ensure your policy will cover those navigation areas
• For new boats, confirm whether agreed value or replacement value coverage is available
• Ask about hurricane and storm coverage before signing if you're buying late in the season

Beyond the Boats: FLIBS Events and Highlights

FLIBS is as much an event as it is a show:

• Industry seminars and educational programming throughout the week
• Exclusive evening events and yacht parties
• Fort Lauderdale's restaurant scene is in full swing during show week
• The New River waterfront comes alive with boating and socializing
• Marine industry networking opportunities

FLIBS week is a highlight of Fort Lauderdale's calendar and one of the most exciting marine events anywhere in the world. Plan ahead, protect yourself with proper insurance, and enjoy everything the world's greatest boat show has to offer.