Celebrating 66 Years of FLIBS

Oct 26, 2025 by admin

When the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) returns October 29 – November 2, 2025, it won’t just mark another year of the world’s largest in-water showcase—it will celebrate a double milestone. Now in its 66th year, FLIBS coincides with the long-awaited reopening of Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina, freshly redeveloped and gleaming on the Intracoastal. For locals and visitors alike, it’s the perfect moment to rediscover why Fort Lauderdale truly is the Yachting Capital of the World.

Start at Pier Sixty-Six: The Show’s Shining New Star

The heart of this year’s show beats at the newly reimagined Pier Sixty-Six Marina—fully occupied by exhibitors for the first time since redevelopment began. Expect gleaming hulls reflecting the marina’s iconic tower and luxury activations that match its legendary views. Just south, Superyacht Village returns as the show’s crown jewel, displaying the largest vessels and hosting VIP gatherings, industry panels, and high-end brand experiences. It’s also the setting for the Windward VIP Lounge, an elegant oasis featuring gourmet dining, a premium open bar, and luxury sponsor activations in partnership with ONE Sotheby’s International Realty.

For those who crave the ultimate indulgence, the new Windward VIP Cabana Club at Hall of Fame Marina is this year’s debut must-see. Think shaded waterfront cabanas, champagne in hand, and front-row views of the marina’s most glamorous yachts.

Seven Show Sites, Endless Experiences

With seven show locations connected by shuttle and water taxi, FLIBS can feel like a nautical treasure hunt. Start at Bahia Mar Yachting Center, the show’s largest footprint, where hundreds of vessels—sportfishers, center consoles, and day cruisers—line the docks. Nearby, Las Olas Marina brings a fresh perspective on the latest luxury builds and brokerage offerings, while Hall of Fame Marina offers lively entertainment and waterfront lounges.

At the Broward County Convention Center, visitors can explore marine accessories, diving gear, engines, and cutting-edge tech. The Convention Center also serves as the main transportation hub, with $20 daily parking, convenient shuttles, ICON golf carts, and water taxi routes that connect all show sites.

Inside, families will find the Blue Wild Kid’s Corner and Don Dingman’s Kids Fishing Clinics, while adults can attend Boating to the Bahamas and women-in-boating seminars. It’s the perfect stop between marinas for an air-conditioned break and a dose of learning or family fun.

Where to Eat, Drink, and Unwind

Beyond the boats, FLIBS is known for turning the docks into one of South Florida’s most glamorous outdoor parties. Don’t miss the Goslings Island Bar for rum-based classics or the Stella Artois Barge & Bar—a floating hangout where guests sip and socialize with panoramic harbor views. Many exhibitors also host private evening events and yacht unveilings, so networking happens as naturally as the tide.

If you’ve splurged on the Windward VIP Experience ($439 per day), your ticket includes early entrance through Superyacht Village, complimentary self-parking, and access to both VIP venues. It’s the golden key to the show—whether you’re closing a deal or simply soaking up the luxury lifestyle.

Celebrating 66 Years of Marine Excellence

“FLIBS has always been about delivering an unforgettable experience for everyone, from lifelong yachting enthusiasts to families discovering the marine lifestyle for the first time,” says Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets. “With the reopening of Pier Sixty-Six and new experiences like the Windward VIP Cabana Club, 2025 will be a year to remember.”

The sentiment is echoed by Phil Purcell, President & CEO of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), which owns the show. “FLIBS is more than the world’s largest in-water boat show—it’s an economic powerhouse for our region, generating more than $1.78 billion annually and supporting over 100,000 jobs,” he says. “The enhancements we’re seeing this year reinforce Fort Lauderdale’s position as a global leader in both boating and business.”

Getting There (and Getting Around)

Plan ahead—there’s no on-site box office, and tickets must be purchased online at flibs.com.

Preview Day (Wednesday): $70 per person
2-Day Preview + General Admission: $100
2-Day General Admission (Thu–Sun): $77
1-Day General Admission: $46
Child Ticket (ages 6–12): $18; under 6 free with adult
Windward VIP Experience: $439 per person

For smooth sailing between venues, purchase a Water Taxi pass ($15) at WaterTaxi.com/FLIBS. Routes stop near every show site and are the most scenic way to navigate Fort Lauderdale’s waterways.

For accommodations, FLIBS has partnered with onPeak to secure discounted hotel rates throughout the city—from waterfront resorts to downtown hideaways.

What Not to Miss

Superyacht Village: Marvel at the show’s largest and most luxurious vessels.
Pier Sixty-Six Marina: Enjoy the grand reopening and explore its new luxury offerings.
Windward VIP Cabana Club: The debut hotspot for elevated relaxation.
Bahia Mar Yachting Center: The epicenter of the action with hundreds of boats.
Broward County Convention Center: Educational exhibits and family programming.
Evening Atmosphere: As the sun sets, the docks glow—an unforgettable South Florida tradition.

A Tradition That Defines a City

From its beginnings in 1959 to today’s global spectacle, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show has evolved alongside the city itself—innovative, sun-drenched, and anchored in a love of the sea. With Pier Sixty-Six reborn and luxury experiences reaching new heights, the 66th anniversary of FLIBS promises not just a show, but a celebration of everything that makes Fort Lauderdale shine.

Tickets are available exclusively online at www.flibs.com

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