62nd annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show dubbed a great success

The 2021 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) returned in full force for its 62^nd year, putting on five full days of programming filled with superyachts, family-friendly events, and experiential activations throughout Fort Lauderdale.

This year’s show lived up to its title as the largest in-water boat show in the world, welcoming over 100,000 visitors and featuring exhibitors from global shipyards and local marine manufacturers. FLIBS, which is owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida and produced by Informa Markets, took place from 27^th to 31^st October.

“The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show was a complete success, proving that South Florida remains a premier destination for those seeking all the marine and boating industry has to offer,” said Andrew Doole, president of U.S. boat shows at Informa Markets. “We are grateful to the Marine Industries Association of South Florida and the City of Fort Lauderdale for being our partners in this great event – and we can’t wait to return next year for another unforgettable boat show.”

The 2021 boat show was the premier destination of notable debuts for a range of luxury yachts, including the Azimut Grande Trideck, the Ocean Alexander 35R, and the Feadship Boardwalk.

“It was by far the happiest boat show in years. So nice to return to normal,” said Ted McCumber, commercial director at Feadship America, Inc.

The return of the Superyacht Village for this year’s FLIBS provided a fantastic backdrop for opening day events, including the ribbon cutting ceremony and the opening night reception, while spotlighting some of the world’s most astounding superyachts like the Benetti 40-metre (131-foot) Oasis and the 84-metre (278-foot) M/Y Bold.

At the Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward County Convention Center – which was back in action after undergoing renovations – visitors were connected to new product debuts from exhibitors including notable brands such as Grady White, Yellowfin, and Robalo, among others. The Convention Center also served as the home to Nautical Ventures, which was one of the largest exhibitors at the show occupying over 44,000 square feet and representing 23 brands. Through its signature and innovative AquaZone – which featured a 40,000-gallon freshwater pool inside the Convention Center for in-water demonstrations – Nautical Ventures gave boat show goers an upfront and personal experience with a variety of water sports and innovative marine products.

FLIBS is a major economic driver benefitting the marine industry, the City of Fort Lauderdale, and the State of Florida with a total statewide economic impact of $1.3 billion (c. €1.1 billion) and over $714 million (c. €616 million) in products sold over the 5-day event, as per a 2019 study prepared by Thomas J. Murray & Associates. Marine Industries Association of South Florida and Informa Markets has commissioned a study of this year’s show which will be released early in 2022.

“The demand for boating products is at an all-time high – and we are thrilled to see that FLIBS served as the perfect medium to connect boat buyers with sought-after products,” said Phil Purcell, president and CEO of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida. “We are already looking forward to next year’s show, which is set to continue supporting our local marine economy and setting the bar for boating exhibitions across the world.”

The 63^rd annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is set to return on 26^th to 30^th October 2022.

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