Why the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2025 Is the One to Watch

With so many boating events and launches happening each year, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. But there’s one date serious buyers and builders don’t miss: the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show.

In 2024 alone, this event moved nearly $1.8 billion across Florida, with more than 1,300 boats on display and seven waterfront locations open to the public. It’s the largest in-water boat show in the world and one of the most influential gatherings in the marine calendar.

If you’ve never been, or simply want a clearer picture of what it represents, this article walks through everything you need to know about the 2025 edition: the show’s scale, its highlights, what to expect, and how to make the most of your visit.

And of course, you’ll find NX Boats there again, bringing Brazilian design and performance to one of the top yachting stages on the planet.

About Fort Lauderdale Boat Show

The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show is the largest in-water boat exhibition in the world. The show brings together shipyards, brokers, investors, and boating enthusiasts across nearly 90 acres of exhibit space. 

Organized by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) and produced by Informa Markets, the event covers everything from superyachts to tenders, electronics, accessories, and high-end lifestyle brands.

What sets this show apart is its global reach. Over five days, it becomes a meeting point for serious buyers and top industry names. It’s where new launches are revealed, connections are made, and the future of marine innovation takes shape.

Top Highlights from the 2024 Edition

The 2024 FLIBS confirmed its status as the marine industry’s most influential stage. Here’s a quick look at what stood out:

• 7 official venues, including Bahia Mar, Superyacht Village, and the Broward County Convention Center
• 1,300+ boats on display, from tenders to superyachts
• 100,000+ visitors from around the world
• $1.79 billion in total economic activity across the state of Florida
• $709.7 million in estimated sales by Florida-based companies
• $85.8 million in state and local taxes generated, with $24.5 million staying in Broward County
• 49% of attendees came from outside Florida
• $47.3 million in spending by non-local visitors and exhibitors
• Products ranged from performance boats to luxury accessories, electronics, and yacht services

Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2025: What to Expect?

The 2025 FLIPS edition promises a full lineup of must-see attractions, whether you’re interested in yachts, innovation, learning, or lifestyle. Here’s what visitors can expect this year:

• The latest boats, yachts, and superyachts on the market
• Live seminars covering safety, navigation, fishing, and sustainability
• New marine technologies and emerging trends
• Immersive experiences like AquaZone and Windward VIP Lounge

Let’s take a closer look at each.

New Boats and Yachts

From entry-level speedboats to megayachts, this is where the world’s leading shipyards bring their best. FLIBS has become the go-to stage for international and U.S. debuts and many brands return year after year to present their latest launches here.

Visitors will find a full range of vessels: performance boats, day cruisers, luxury yachts, and high-tech superyachts, all in one place. Whether you’re comparing models or searching for your next investment, this is where the decision-making starts.

And speaking of new launches, have you seen the latest from NX Boats? The NX41 Horizon is our newest model, designed for those who expect more from every nautical mile. 

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Seminars

The event offers more than just boats. Throughout the week, seminars cover essential topics for both new and experienced owners. Sessions often include:

• Boating safety
• Sportfishing strategies
• Navigation techniques
• Marine conservation

These talks bring practical knowledge and connect visitors with seasoned professionals in the field.

Latest Marine Technologies and Trends

FLIBS is a magnet for innovation. Expect to see:

• Electric and hybrid propulsion systems
• Smart helm stations and onboard automation
• Sustainable materials and eco-designs
• Advanced navigation tools and AI-integrated systems

This is the place to preview what’s next for the industry and what’s already becoming standard on the water.

Immersive Experiences

Some of the most popular attractions go beyond the docks. Among them:

• AquaZone: A 40,000-gallon freshwater pool where you can watch live demos of water toys, electric surfboards, tenders, and water sports gear, all in action.
• Windward VIP Lounge: A premium space with a private bar, gourmet catering, and panoramic views of the marina. Ideal for relaxing between walkthroughs or networking with brokers and builders.

Stay in the loop: Luxury boats: best types and how to choose the right one

FLIBS 2025 Full Schedule

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show returns from October 29 to November 2, 2025. The event unfolds across seven official locations, all connected by complimentary water and ground transportation:

• Bahia Mar Yachting Center
• Broward County Convention Center
• Hall of Fame Marina
• Las Olas Marina
• 17th Street Yacht Basin
• Pier 66 Marina
• Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South

One ticket grants access to all venues. To plan your visit, check the official FLIBS map!

How to Attend the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2025?

To attend the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2025, all you need is a digital ticket — no physical box office, no printouts. Tickets are sold exclusively online, and must be purchased in advance through the official website.

For most adult visitors, general admission tickets start at $46 (excluding fees), with multi-day passes and VIP options also available. Upon arrival, your digital ticket will be scanned at the entrance to any of the show’s seven venues.

Now, a word of advice: don’t try to cover it all in one day. And that’s what 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”, says Purcell, to Visit Lauderdale.

That’s exactly how we approach it. Whether you’re focused on superyachts, new tech, yachting gear, or simply soaking in the scene, pacing yourself is the way to go.

NX Boats will be part of the action once again in 2025, on our fourth consecutive year at FLIBS. If you’re planning to be there, we’d love to meet you. 

And before setting sail, take a look at our collection of luxury boats and pick your favorites. That way, when the show begins, you’ll know exactly which ones you want to step aboard.

Conclusion

Few events capture the full picture of the marine industry like the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. Its scale, diversity, and economic impact make it a global reference point for everything connected to the yachting lifestyle.

In this guide, we’ve covered what FLIBS is, what stood out in the 2024 edition, what to expect in 2025, and how to prepare for a smarter, more focused visit. 

From high-tech superyachts to live demos and industry seminars, the experience goes well beyond the docks.

NX Boats will be there once again — and we look forward to seeing you. Until then, stay up to date with the latest in design, performance, and innovation on our official blog!