The annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, now in its 59th year, is the premiere global yachting event and the largest in-water boat show in the world. Staged this year from October 31-November 4, it attracts an international audience of thousands of boating enthusiasts from Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia as well as every corner of the U.S., providing a statewide economic benefit of $857 million – more than a $100 million a day! Covering more than 3 million square feet of space, visitors have access to a stunning array of an estimated $4 billion worth of products ranging from the largest superyachts, sport fishing boats, and center consoles, to kayaks, jet skis, marine products, accessories, and services.
Known as “FLIBS” in the marine industry, the event puts an exclamation point on year-round manufacturing, brokerage, sales and service activity in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County and South Florida, which is also “The International Marine Hub.”
On the surface FLIBS may appear as simply the premiere consumer show it is. However, behind the scenes it also serves as a vital business-to-business platform. The importance of the show attracts the principals and decision-makers from the global marine marketplace, presenting unique opportunities for face-to-face meetings and the execution of deals and partnerships. Many trade associations and organizations with national and international reach choose FLIBS to hold their annual meetings.
