Imagine walking along a sunny Florida waterfront with hundreds of luxury yachts stretching as far as you can see.
Some are built for weekend fishing trips.
Others look like floating mansions, complete with multiple decks, elegant lounges, and enough space to cross oceans.
Now imagine seeing more than 1,300 boats gathered in one city.
That’s what visitors can expect when the 67th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show returns from October 28 through November 1, 2026.
Known as FLIBS, the five-day event is recognized as the world’s largest in-water boat show.
And this year, there’s plenty to see beyond the yachts.
The 2026 show includes new boat debuts, a massive 305-foot superyacht, a floating pickleball court, fishing clinics for children, and special waterfront experiences.
Whether you’re shopping for a boat or simply curious about the incredible vessels that visit South Florida, here’s everything you need to know before going.
When Is the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026?
The show runs for five days, beginning Wednesday, October 28, and ending Sunday, November 1.
Here are the official hours:
| Date | Hours |
|---|---|
| Wednesday, October 28 | 12 PM–7 PM |
| Thursday, October 29 | 10 AM–7 PM |
| Friday, October 30 | 10 AM–7 PM |
| Saturday, October 31 | 10 AM–7 PM |
| Sunday, November 1 | 10 AM–5 PM |
Wednesday is the show’s preview day.
If you’re planning a weekend visit, Saturday and Sunday offer opportunities to explore the exhibits, although you’ll want to arrive early and plan your route.
One important detail: the show is spread across several locations, not one single building or marina.
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Where Is the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show?
FLIBS takes place across six locations throughout Fort Lauderdale.
Each location offers a different experience.
1. Bahia Mar Yachting Center
801 Seabreeze Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
Bahia Mar is one of the show’s main waterfront areas.
Here, visitors can walk along the docks and explore displays of yachts and marine products.
It’s also home to the popular Goslings Island Bar.
For 2026, Bahia Mar is adding the Windward VIP Cabana Club, giving premium ticket holders another place to relax during the show.
2. Las Olas Marina
240 East Las Olas Circle, Fort Lauderdale
Las Olas Marina is one of the most interesting locations this year.
Why?
Because organizers are bringing a floating pickleball court to the marina.
Yes, pickleball on the water.
The attraction will feature a friendly tournament for yacht crew members.
Even if you don’t play, it’s an unusual addition to a boat show and a fun reason to explore this part of the event.
3. Pier Sixty-Six Marina
2301 SE 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale
Pier Sixty-Six is another major waterfront location.
It’s a great area for visitors interested in larger yachts and the luxury boating lifestyle.
4. Hall of Fame Marina
435 Seabreeze Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
Hall of Fame Marina offers another chance to see boats along Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront.
Its location near Bahia Mar and Las Olas Marina makes it a useful part of a walking-focused visit.
5. Superyacht Village
2150 SE 17th Street, Fort Lauderdale
If enormous luxury yachts are what brought you to FLIBS, put Superyacht Village near the top of your list.
This area showcases some of the show’s most impressive vessels.
It’s also one of the locations for the Windward VIP Experience.
Keep in mind that seeing a yacht at the dock doesn’t guarantee you’ll be allowed aboard. Boarding is controlled by the exhibitor, manufacturer, or broker.
6. Broward County Convention Center
1950 Eisenhower Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale
The Convention Center is a great starting point, especially for families and visitors interested in fishing equipment and boating accessories.
You’ll find exhibits featuring marine technology, smaller boats, equipment, and other boating products.
It’s also the show’s main transportation hub.
That makes it a practical place to begin your visit before traveling to the waterfront locations.
A 305-Foot Superyacht Is One of the Biggest Attractions
The boat show is known for bringing some extraordinary vessels to Fort Lauderdale.
And the 2026 lineup includes a particularly impressive yacht.
Oceanco Draak, measuring approximately 305 feet, is among the featured superyachts.
The vessel has been adapted for scientific research and marine exploration.
Its features include specialized equipment-handling areas, a dive center, medical facilities, and a hyperbaric chamber.
It’s a reminder that not every superyacht is designed only for parties and vacations.
Some are built for serious long-distance exploration.
Other featured yachts include the 223-foot Lady Christine and the 209-foot explorer yacht Scout.
Seeing vessels of this size up close is one of the main reasons visitors travel to FLIBS.
More Than 1,300 Boats and 1,000 Exhibiting Brands
The size of this event is difficult to appreciate until you start looking at the numbers.
Organizers expect more than 1,300 boats and approximately 1,000 exhibiting brands.
That includes far more than luxury superyachts.
Visitors can explore:
- Sportfishing boats and center consoles
- Cruisers and recreational powerboats
- Sailing and luxury yachts
- Personal watercraft
- Fishing and diving equipment
- Marine electronics and accessories
- New boating technology
Some visitors come with plans to buy a boat.
Others are interested in new designs or equipment.
And plenty simply want to enjoy the atmosphere of one of South Florida’s biggest waterfront events.
New Boats Making Their Debut in 2026
FLIBS is also an important event for boat manufacturers.
Several companies use the show to introduce new models to buyers and industry professionals.
This year’s notable debuts include the second-generation Viking 70 Convertible, a sportfishing yacht from Viking Yacht Company.
Other announced introductions include the Viking 64 Sport Coupe, Viking 50 Sport Coupe, and Valhalla 46 Sport Yacht.
Visitors can also look for the Pearl 100 Hybrid, a 100-foot yacht featuring hybrid propulsion technology.
The Delta 72 brings carbon-fiber construction and a design focused on performance and efficiency.
Additional announced models include the Prestige M8 EVO, Absolute Navetta 66, Princess C48, and Aquila 35 Sport.
For boating enthusiasts, these premieres are one of the biggest reasons to attend.
There’s a Floating Pickleball Court This Year
Of all the new attractions, this might be the most unexpected.
Organizers are setting up a floating pickleball court at Las Olas Marina.
The court is planned as part of a friendly tournament for yacht crew members.
It’s an interesting combination of two things South Florida loves: boating and pickleball.
And it gives visitors another memorable sight beyond the boats themselves.
The attraction isn’t being advertised as an open public pickleball court, so don’t assume general admission includes a chance to play.
Is the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Family-Friendly?
Yes.
You don’t have to be a boat owner to enjoy the show.
Families can visit the Convention Center to explore fishing gear, marine exhibits, and activities designed for younger visitors.
One highlight is Hook the Future, the children’s fishing clinic associated with Don Dingman.
The clinics are planned for Saturday and Sunday.
The show also features The Blue Wild, which focuses on diving, fishing, and marine activities.
For children interested in boats or ocean life, these experiences can make the visit more engaging.
Check the official activity schedule before arriving, since individual programs may have limited spaces or specific session times.
How Much Are Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Tickets?
FLIBS offers several ticket options, including general admission, preview-day admission, and premium experiences.
Tickets must be purchased online.
There is no traditional ticket box office at the event.
The organizer recommends buying through its official website:
Ticket prices depend on the date, admission type, and selected experience.
Before paying, check the final checkout amount and what’s included.
Children younger than six are admitted free with a ticketed adult, while discounted tickets are offered for children ages six through twelve.
Free Tickets for Military Members and Veterans
FLIBS offers a complimentary general admission ticket to eligible active military members and veterans.
The show’s October 2026 announcement specifically promotes free admission for Sunday, November 1, through advance registration.
The general FAQ describes a broader military admission policy, so eligible visitors should use the official registration instructions to confirm the date available to them.
Family members and friends are not automatically covered by the offer.
What Is the Windward VIP Experience?
For visitors who want a more luxurious day, the show offers the Windward VIP Experience.
In 2026, the premium program includes two destinations.
One is located at Superyacht Village.
The other is the newly located Windward VIP Cabana Club at Bahia Mar.
Depending on the ticket and location, amenities include gourmet food, premium open bars, private restrooms, lounges, and early access.
The VIP experience is designed for people who want more comfort while exploring a large and busy event.
But you don’t need a VIP ticket to enjoy the main boat show.
General admission still provides access to the public exhibits covered by that ticket.
Where Should You Park?
The organizers recommend starting at the Broward County Convention Center.
It serves as the main transportation hub, with connections to other show locations.
Parking fees are separate from show admission.
Published 2026 visitor information has advertised Convention Center parking at $20 per day, while other event information has quoted higher rates.
Because rates may vary or change, check the official parking page before traveling rather than relying on one quoted amount.
Are Shuttles and Water Taxis Free?
This is an important distinction.
Shuttles and golf cart transportation are complimentary with your show ticket.
The official routes connect key areas, including the Convention Center, Bahia Mar, and Superyacht Village.
Water taxis, however, require a separate ticket for most general admission visitors.
The published 2026 Water Taxi prices are:
- One-day pass: $15
- Five-day pass: $65
- Children under five: Free
Windward VIP admission includes complimentary water taxi service.
The water taxi can be a pleasant way to move between waterfront locations while enjoying views of Fort Lauderdale’s canals.
But if you’re trying to keep costs down, the complimentary ground transportation is worth using.
Can You Board the Superyachts?
Not automatically.
This is one of the biggest misunderstandings first-time visitors have.
A general admission ticket lets you explore the show, but it doesn’t guarantee entry onto every boat.
Individual exhibitors, manufacturers, and brokers decide who may board their vessels.
Some boats may be open for viewing.
Others may require appointments, buyer credentials, or an invitation.
If there’s a particular yacht you want to see, contact the exhibitor ahead of time.
How to Spend One Day at FLIBS
With six locations, trying to see everything in a few hours can be overwhelming.
A simple plan can make the experience much easier.
Morning: Start at the Broward County Convention Center. Explore the marine exhibits, equipment, and fishing displays.
Late morning: Take the complimentary shuttle toward Bahia Mar. Walk the docks and enjoy the waterfront atmosphere.
Early afternoon: Explore nearby Hall of Fame Marina and Las Olas Marina. Look for the floating pickleball court.
Later afternoon: Head to Superyacht Village and Pier Sixty-Six to see the larger luxury vessels.
If you’re visiting on Sunday, remember that the show closes at 5 PM.
For visitors especially interested in superyachts, it may make more sense to reverse this plan and start with the larger vessels.
Tips Before Visiting the Boat Show
Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll likely walk a lot.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and drinking water.
Choose lightweight clothing suitable for South Florida’s warm weather, but check the forecast before leaving.
Download or save the official show maps.
If you’re planning to visit a particular yacht, find its location in the online directory first.
Buy your tickets online before arriving.
And leave extra time for transportation between venues.
Remember that the event goes ahead rain or shine, although severe weather could affect operations.
Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026: Quick Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | 67th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show |
| Dates | October 28–November 1, 2026 |
| Location | Fort Lauderdale, Florida |
| Number of locations | Six |
| Expected boats | More than 1,300 |
| Exhibiting brands | Approximately 1,000 |
| Featured superyacht | 305-foot Oceanco Draak |
| New attraction | Floating pickleball court |
| Tickets | Online only |
| Shuttles and golf carts | Complimentary with admission |
| Water taxi | $15 for one day |
| Official website | flibs.com |
Is the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Worth Visiting?
If you enjoy boats, the ocean, or simply seeing something extraordinary, FLIBS is worth considering.
It’s not every day you get to stand near a 305-foot superyacht.
Or walk through a waterfront display with more than a thousand boats.
And this year’s new attractions make the event appealing even to visitors who aren’t planning to buy anything.
Families can explore fishing exhibits.
Boating enthusiasts can discover new models.
And visitors who love luxury travel can admire some of the world’s most impressive yachts.
Just remember to plan ahead.
Choose the locations you most want to see, purchase tickets online, and allow time to travel between venues.
For five days, Fort Lauderdale will become an enormous showcase of life on the water.
And you don’t need to own a yacht to enjoy the experience.
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