Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) 2025: A Glimpse into the Future of Yachting
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), organized by Informa Markets and the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, stands as the world’s largest in-water boat show. Spanning nearly 90 acres, or over three million square feet of exhibition space, connected by a network of land and sea shuttles, FLIBS is a spectacle of maritime innovation and luxury.
Economic Impact and Global Reach
In 2024, the event drew over 100,000 visitors and 1,000 exhibitors from 52 countries, generating a staggering $1.79 billion in economic impact for Florida, with $24.5 million benefiting Broward County alone. This year, seven key locations will host the event: Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Broward County Convention Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, 17th Street Yacht Basin, Pier Sixty-Six Marina, and the Superyacht Village at Pier Sixty-Six South.
A Showcase of Superyachts
Each year, Fort Lauderdale transforms into a floating stage for the world’s most magnificent yachts. The 2025 show will feature Casino Royale, a 74-meter Amels 242’ designed by Tim Heywood and Winch Design. This floating palace accommodates 12 guests in six suites and boasts a spa, hammam, jacuzzi, gym, and a range of 5,000 nautical miles.
Other notable yachts include:
- Hemisphere (Pendennis 145’): The world’s largest sailing catamaran.
- Gene Machine (Amels 180’) and Gene Chaser (Damen Yachting 182’): A yacht and its accompanying scientific vessel.
- Ela (Heesen 164’).
- Hampshire (Feadship 217’).
New models will also be on display, such as the BGM75 from Bluegame Yachts, the 130 Explorer from Cheoy Lee, and the AB 110, an Italian sports yacht capable of exceeding 40 knots.
The Rebirth of Pier Sixty-Six
A highlight of this 66th edition is the reopening of Pier Sixty-Six, a Fort Lauderdale landmark. Originally a service station for boats in the 1950s, it has evolved into one of South Florida’s most iconic marinas. Fully renovated, the hotel-marina complex is reopening this year, providing a brand-new setting for the Superyacht Village.
“FLIBS continues to set the standards for the global boating industry,” says Andrew Doole, president of Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows. “This year, the renaissance of Pier Sixty-Six and the new VIP experiences mark a significant milestone in the show’s history.”
Enhanced VIP Experience
The Windward VIP Experience offers visitors an elevated level of comfort. For $439 per day, guests receive reserved parking at Superyacht Village, direct access to the Windward Lounge with gourmet dining, a premium bar, private spaces, and boat transfers to the Cabana Club at Hall of Fame Marina.
This year’s event also emphasizes gastronomy, with exclusive tastings by chefs Ryan (winner of Hell’s Kitchen season 22) and Dave White (Chopped Grand Champion) on October 31st and November 1st.
A Global Yachting Hub
FLIBS 2025 is more than just a boat show; it’s a showcase of global yachting, an economic engine, and a maritime spectacle. With its blend of innovation, design, gastronomy, and hospitality, Fort Lauderdale reaffirms its status as the yachting capital of the world.
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