FLIBS 2020 features the largest display of boats and new yacht models and the latest in marine technology and accessories.
Representing the only major marine event to take place in the U.S. since April, the 61ST Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is making its way to the “Yachting Capital of the World,” with changes for a better and safer event experience, Oct. 28 to Nov. 1.
The five-day outdoor boat show spans nearly 90 acres across multiple outdoor sites and will unveil more than 20 of the year’s most anticipated debuts, ranging from luxury yachts and motor yachts to sport fish, center consoles and express cruisers.
FLIBS 2020 is a major economic driver benefitting the marine industry, the city of Fort Lauderdale, and the state of Floridawith a total statewide economic impact of $1.3 billion as a result of last year’s show and over $714 million in product sold over the five-day event. More than 8,000 full-time jobs were associated with the show in 2019.
Here’s a look at what visitors can expect at this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show:
Boat Show Enhancements, Additional Entrances + Increased Dock Sizes
Recognized as the pinnacle of all nautical exhibitions, FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres now accessible by 13 showentrances, making it easier than ever to safely navigate through the show. FLIBS is also increasing its six miles of floating docks to widths up to 30 feet along the face dock, allowing plenty of roomy walking space for a smooth and safe flow of traffic. Additionally, the show has added multiple mouth-watering concession locations including on-water cafes and food and beverage enjoyment gardens.
New Debuts
This year’s boat show will feature exciting new yacht debuts from some of the world’s most recognized manufacturers, including Mangusta’s GranSport 33, Azimut’s Magellano 25 Metri, and the world debut of Monte Carlo Yachts 76 Skylounge, Viking Yachts’ 54 Convertible, Intrepid Yachts 409 Valor, Solace Boats 41CS Center Console,and three models by Ocean Alexander – the 27 Explorer, the 32 Legend and the 36 Legend –among many others.
Windward VIP Club
Sponsored by Swiss luxury watchmaker, Ulysse Nardin, the Official Timekeeper of FLIBS and Douglas Elliman Real Estate, the Windward VIP Club is an annual highlight and is located on the main facedock in the heart of the show. The Windward VIP Club will take over the Bahia Mar’s Captain’s Lounge with outdoor terraces for shore and water views to enjoy the luxury of the premium open bar, featuring Whitehaven wine, the Official White Wine of FLIBS and gourmet food offerings. New perks that are sure to elevate the exclusive Windward VIP experience this year include extended show hours starting at 8 am and a concierge for booking appointments with manufacturers and yacht brokers.
With the new AllSecure standards in place, FLIBS will follow the GBAC (Global Biorisk Advisory Council) standards for enhanced cleaning, including undergoing deep cleaning before, during, and after each day’s events to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and cleanliness. All attendees can expect a contactless ticketing system and thermo imaging systems for temperature checks taken at all entrances.
To maintain social distancing, FLIBS has added more shuttle buses and water taxi services to transport guests safely around the show, while providing social distance seating between riders.