GENERAL SEMINARS & FISHING CLINICS

LEARN SOMETHING NEW AT #FLIBS2026

There's more to explore at FLIBS beyond the docks. Throughout the show, stop by expert-led seminars and interactive clinics covering boating safety, boat handling, fishing, cruising to The Bahamas, life on the water, and more.

Whether you're a new boater, a seasoned captain, or bringing the whole family, there's something on the schedule for you. All seminars and fishing clinics are complimentary with show admission, so explore the lineup below and add a session or two to your FLIBS day.

BROWARD COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER

Boating Seminars & Fishing Clinics

Start your FLIBS day at the Broward County Convention Center and pick up a few new skills while you're there. Hear directly from boating experts on topics ranging from safety and navigation to boating handling, cruising to The Bahamas, earning your captain's license, and more.

Bringing the kids? Don't miss Captain Don Dingman's Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinics, featuring hands-on fishing instruction and plenty of fun for young anglers.

Convention Center Seminar Schedule

11AM | Knot Tying 101

📍Convention Center

Learn the ropes in this fun, hands-on clinic focused on essential knots for fishing and boating. Participants will learn and practice commonly used knots, including the Improved Clinch Knot for fishing, the Bowline Knot for creating a secure loop, and the Cleat Hitch Knot for securing a boat to the dock (rope and paracord provided).

Speakers:

Victor Troubatchov, Freedom Waters Foundation
Jeff Gage, Sea Suite
Walter Johnson, Walter Johnson Yachts

12PM | Trouble on Board

📍Convention Center

Be prepared before trouble strikes! Learn how to respond to common boating emergencies, identify potential hazards, and understand when and how to use assist towing services. Gain the confidence and knowledge to handle the unexpected before it becomes an emergency.

Speaker: Captain Robert Elmore, Sea School

1PM | Boating to The Bahamas

📍Convention Center

Thinking about making the crossing to The Bahamas for the first time? Join our boating experts as we walk you through everything you need to know—from entry requirements and procedures to tips that make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Don’t miss this session as we exclusively reveal the official Summer 2026 Bahamas Boating Fling dates. Be the first to hear when and where these exciting group trips will take place, and learn how you can join a fun, organized rendezvous to explore The Bahamas with fellow boaters.

Speakers: Richard Munroe & Robert Brousseau, Bahamas Boating Ambassadors, The Islands of The Bahamas

2PM | Optimize Your Boating Experience

📍Convention Center

In this collaborative seminar, industry experts will share practical tips to help you optimize your boating experience. Learn best practices for anchoring, build confidence using electronic navigation systems, and gain the knowledge to make every trip safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.

Speakers: Captain Frank Bilotta, Captain Robert Elmore & Captain Robert Franks, Sea School

3PM | Boating 101

📍Convention Center

Whether you're a new boater or looking for a refresher, this seminar provides the essential knowledge to get you started. Discover basic navigation, safety regulations, and the Rules of the Road for a safer, more enjoyable day on the water.

Speaker: Captain Frank Bilotta, Sea School

4PM | Into the Wild with Manny Puig

📍Convention Center

Manny Puig is a wildlife entertainer who is known for his encounters with animals such as sharks, black bears, and American alligators. He has made frequent appearances on the television shows Jackass, Wildboyz, and Gator Boys. He hosted Outdoor Channel's "Savage Wild" and has appeared in numerous documentaries as an animal expert and appeared on Late Night with Conan O'Brien and on Shark Week. He continues to educate and entertain audiences with his knowledge of wildlife.

Speaker: Manny Puig

5PM | Get to Know FWC: Safety, Conservation & K9s

📍Convention Center

The FWC professionals will cover fisheries and wildlife laws; endangered species and nonnative wildlife; boating rules and regulations. You will hear real life stories and get all your questions answered in an entertaining Q&A session. As a bonus, you will meet a specially trained K-9, trained in evidence recovery, article searches, human tracking, and wildlife detection. One of the goals is to develop the next generation that cares about wildlife, safety, and conservation.

Speakers: FWC Officers

11AM | From Dock to Destination: What Every Boater Needs to Know to Stay Safe

📍Convention Center

Join us for an engaging and practical seminar on boating safety at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Drawing on over 40 years of boating experience, Capt. Chris Juall will cover the essential skills and knowledge every boater needs to operate safely and confidently on the water. This session will highlight recent updates to Florida boating laws, real-world examples of common mistakes and preventable mishaps, and offering valuable takeaways that can help save lives and protect property. Whether you’re a new boater or a seasoned operator, this seminar will help you stay safe, minimize mishaps, and enjoy more time on the water.

Speaker: Captain Chris Juall, The Qualified Captain

12PM | Know Your Vessel

📍Convention Center

To know your vessel is one of the most important skills a boater can have. Discover how to properly prepare your boat before departure, conduct routine safety and equipment checks, and complete essential post-trip maintenance to extend the life of your vessel and ensure it's always ready for the water.

Speaker: Captain Robert Franks, Sea School

1PM | Boating to The Bahamas

📍Convention Center

Speaker: Richard Munroe & Robert Brousseau, Bahamas Boating Ambassadors, The Islands of The Bahamas

2PM | How to Get Your Captain's License

📍Convention Center

Thinking about becoming a licensed captain? Learn the differences between recreational and commercial boating, explore the various U.S. Coast Guard captain's licenses, and discover the steps, requirements, and training needed to earn your captain's license and begin your maritime journey.

Speaker: Aimee Carmenate, Sea School

3PM | Women on the Water Panel Discussion

📍Convention Center

Moderated by Captain Debbie Hanson, four women who've built careers in fishing and boating share real talk, hard-won advice, and inspiration for anyone ready to feel more confident on the water.

Speakers:

Captain Deborah Hanson, Freedom Waters Foundation
Nikki Timmerman, MarineMax Fort Myers
Betty Bauman, Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!
Shelby Callison, Primo Yachts
Captain Lee Lavery, Broward Chapter of Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!
Kim Sweers, The Boat Boss

5PM | Launch Your Future: Discover Massachusetts Maritime Academy

📍Convention Center

Get ready to take the helm of your future! Join us for an engaging presentation about Massachusetts Maritime Academy, where university academics meet hands-on, real-world leadership training. Located on the picturesque Cape Cod Canal, the Academy offers high-impact degree programs in marine transportation, engineering, emergency management, international maritime business, and environmental protection. Discover how our unique learning environment meets transformation by preparing students for global leadership in high-paying, high-demand industries on land or at sea through our “Learn–Do–Lead” approach.

What You’ll Learn:

Academic Excellence: Explore our specialized STEM majors designed for career-readiness from day one.
The Cadet Experience: Learn what it’s like to balance regimented-style leadership with campus life and athletics. Discover how Sea-Term cruises aboard the TS Patriot State II, experiential learning, and co-ops inspire confidence in your practical skills and give grads a competitive edge.
Career Success: See why our graduates boast top-tier job placement rates and high starting salaries across energy, maritime, and corporate sectors.
Next Steps: Get a step-by-step breakdown of the admissions process, financial aid options, and upcoming campus tour dates.

Speakers: Michael Ortiz, Dean of Enrollment Management & Global Citizenship & Maryann Richards, Director of Career & Professional Services

11AM | Dock to Destination: Important Safety Gear & Information to Keep You Safe

📍Convention Center

Speaker: Captain Chris Juall, The Qualified Captain

12PM | Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic

📍Convention Center

Captain Don Dingman will demonstrate various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Each kid will receive a free Hook the Future/Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combo. You won't want to miss this hands-on, interactive fishing clinic.

Speaker: Captain Don Dingman, Hook the Future

2PM | Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic

📍Convention Center

Speaker: Captain Don Dingman, Hook the Future

3:30PM | Boating to The Bahamas

📍Convention Center

Speaker: Richard Munroe, Bahamas Boating Ambassador, The Islands of The Bahamas

11AM | Beyond the Life Jacket: What Every Boating Family Needs to Know

📍Convention Center

Boating is more fun when everyone feels confident around the water. This session explores how swimming ability, life jackets, and knowing your limits all work together to help you and your family enjoy boating more safely. Parents and kids will learn how to think about their own swimming ability, what children should know before getting on a boat, and simple steps every family can take to be safer on and around the water. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just getting started, you’ll leave with practical tips you can use right away.

Speaker: Kyle Kamman, VP of Aquatics, YMCA South Florida

12PM | Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic

📍Convention Center

2PM | Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinic

📍Convention Center

Speaker: Captain Don Dingman, Hook the Future

SUPERYACHT VILLAGE

Conversations from the World of Superyachting

Head to Superyacht Village for discussions covering the latest topics and trends shaping the world of superyachts. Hear from industry experts and get a closer look at everything from charter and new builds to innovation and what's next for the industry.

Whether you’re a seasoned industry professional or simply fascinated by the world of superyachts, these sessions offer valuable insights and opportunities to connect with key players in the field.

More sessions are still to come! Explore the seminars announced so far below and check back as more are added.

Superyacht Village Seminar Schedule

1PM | The Future of Yacht Marketing

📍Superyacht Village

Social media is only one piece of today's marketing landscape. AI search, digital reputation, experiential storytelling, luxury partnerships, creator collaborations, and changing buyer behavior are redefining how yachts, brands, marinas, designers, and destinations earn attention. Join leaders from across the industry as they discuss what actually works, what trends are fading, and where marketing is headed over the next five years.

Speakers:

Emily Taffel, Ryan Cohen & Leah Arluk, Mugsy PR
Oriana Schneps, The Yacht Edit
Kevin Koenig, The Yacht Fella
Victoria Chalaya & Rico Stoll, NautiStyles

3PM | Taking the Pulse of the Market: Insights from the Yacht Sales Frontline

📍Superyacht Village

Together with leading sales brokers, we will examine the latest development in yacht sales: from shifting buyer expectations and pricing strategies to brokerage activity, new-build demand and the factors influencing purchasing decisions.

With geopolitical uncertainty, evolving market dynamics and changing client priorities continuing to shape the industry, the discussion will explore how brokers are navigating the current landscape, where opportunities are emerging and what the coming year may hold for yacht sales.

Drawing on firsthand experiences from the sales frontline, the panellists will offer expert insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the market, providing a grounded perspective on its present position and future direction.

Speakers:

Ben Ritchie, Y.CO
Ken Bracewell, BR Marine
Tim Kershaw, Delta Marine
Janaina Pina, MarineMax

4PM | Off the Beaten Track: Unlocking Chartering in the South Pacific

📍Superyacht Village

Join The Superyacht People to discover why South Pacific locations are shifting from “bucket list” to repeat charter destinations. With the largest fleet of central agency yachts in the South Pacific, they will unpack practical insights on itineraries, seasonality, weather, taxes and what do on charters. From Tahiti to Tonga, Fiji to PNG, the South Pacific delivers raw beauty, cultural depth and true escape — but it also requires smart planning and operational know-how.

Speaker: Cam Bray, The Superyacht People

11AM | Robert Allen Law

📍Superyacht Village

Tax Alleviation

Speaker: TBD

12PM | The Catamaran Shift in the American Market

📍Superyacht Village

Catamarans are reshaping how people experience life on the water, and the U.S. is ready for the shift. In this fireside chat, Sunreef Yachts’ Artur Poloczanski and Philip Bell explore what is driving the growing appeal of luxury multihulls: stability, more living space per foot, shallow draft and superyacht-level comfort in a more efficient footprint. They will discuss how energy-efficient design is making hybrid and electric propulsion a reality for the next generation of owners.

Speaker: Artur Poloczanski, Sunreef Yachts

1PM | YachtAID Global

📍Superyacht Village

Speaker: Steve Jackman, YachtingBC

2PM | John Staluppi & His Life with Yachts

📍Superyacht Village

From record-breaking superyachts and James Bond-inspired names to his latest 82-metre project, this panel will centre around one of the industry’s most recognisable yacht owners: John Staluppi. Hosted by SuperYacht Times Editor-in-Chief Francesca Webster, the panel will see John Staluppi joined by Simon Graham of FGI Yacht Group, who has worked with Staluppi for many years.

Also on stage are Jonny Horsfield of H2 Yacht Design and Berkay Yilmaz of Bilgin Yachts, who work closely together with John and Jeanette Staluppi on their new Project Bond, the 82-metre Bilgin currently in-build. Expect personal stories, behind-the-scenes insights and an entertaining conversation about a life spent pushing the boundaries of superyacht ownership.

Speakers:

John Staluppi, Superyacht Owner
Simon Graham, FGI Yacht Group
Jonny Horsfield, H2 Yacht Design
Berkay Yilmaz, Bilgin Yachts

3PM | Proposal for a U.S. Yacht Code: Why Now?

📍Superyacht Village

The proposed United States Yacht Code establishes a modern statutory framework for the documentation and regulation of recreational yachts under the United States flag. It is not a relaxation of safety standards. Rather, it adopts the internationally recognized regulatory model for a fundamentally different type of vessel.

Speaker: Duncan Smith, Smith Advocacy Group LLC

4PM | Discover the Eastern Caribbean: A Premier Yachting Destination

📍Superyacht Village

Join the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the Tourism Authorities of Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show for "Discover the Eastern Caribbean: A Premier Yachting Destination." Experience breathtaking island-hopping across sheltered coves and pristine bays, complemented by world-class marinas, yacht services, and the vibrant culture of each island. Attend to learn more about the Eastern Caribbean and its signature yachting events. One yachting destination—three experiences.

Speakers:

Natasha Deterville-Moise & Maria Fowell, OECS Commission
Shanai St. Bernard, Grenada Tourism Authority
Denise Mauricette, Saint Lucia Tourism Authority
Kathique Haynes, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Authority

11AM | The Insurance Handbook

📍Superyacht Village

What Really Matters
What Will Save You Time
What Causes Claims
Tricks of the Trade

Speakers: Laura Sherrod, Newcoast Insurance Services + Panel

12PM | Beyond the Wake: How Superyachts Can Advance Ocean Science & Restoration

📍Superyacht Village

In this presentation, marine scientist Dr. Shelby Thomas will explore practical ways that superyacht owners, captains, crew, managers, marinas, and other industry professionals can contribute to ocean stewardship. Drawing from real-world examples involving coral restoration, artificial reefs, marine monitoring, citizen science, and community engagement, the session will explain how yachts can support research and conservation without creating unnecessary operational burdens.

Speaker: Dr. Shelby Thomas, Ocean Rescue Alliance International

1PM | Integrated Remote Healthcare in the 21st Century

📍Superyacht Village

Medical technology. The capability for ‘point-of-care’ testing has fundamentally changed how medicine is practiced, from the bedside in the most technical Intensive Care Unit, to the remotest place on Earth. Vital signs can be measured with remarkable accuracy, and tests and examinations performed on a patient to a level previously not possible. All this objective clinical information better guides the process of making diagnoses, and thus formulating more effective treatments that fundamentally preserves and improves lives.

Treatment algorithms. The advent of Advanced Life Support and Advanced Trauma Life Support emergency treatment algorithms in the 1980s-90s introduced a structured way of delivering care in emergency clinical situations. The concept of treatment algorithms has been extended to many other areas of emergency medical and trauma conditions, and also other more routine medical conditions. Such an approach gives the non-medical professional clear guidance on recognizing serious clinical situations (using ‘red-flags’), required immediate actions, and also when to call for advice.

A revolution in global communications. Telemedical advice is available almost instantaneously, from anywhere in the world. Also, images and medical test results can be sent to shore-based medical advisors in almost real time, to improve the veracity the advice given back to the vessel. The synergism between these quite disparate areas of development has facilitated a significant improvement in delivering very good quality healthcare to workers at sea and other remote locations.

Speaker: Dr. Spike Briggs, Medical Support Offshore

2PM | Unpacking the American Charter Market

📍Superyacht Village

The American charter market is a complex one. From the established cruising grounds of The Bahamas and Florida to the coastlines of Mexico and Canada, the region encompasses vastly different destinations, regulatory frameworks and charter clientele.

Hosted by Leona Caanen, Features Editor and Yacht Charter Market Editor at SuperYacht Times, the panelists will look at what the charter market actually looks like today: how is demand evolving? What distinguishes American charter clients from their European counterparts, and what are the challenges of operating across such a fragmented region?

From shifting client expectations and the complexities of charter regulations to emerging destinations and opportunities for growth, we'll explore what defines the American charter market today and where it may be heading.

Speakers:

Alex Guy, Burgess
Heather Hatcher, IYC
Pila Pexton, Worth Avenue
Representative from Edminston

3PM | Mastering Caviar: A Guided Tasting for Chefs, Stews & The Caviar Curious

📍Superyacht Village

Whether you're preparing service onboard or simply curious about the world's most celebrated delicacy, this interactive tasting explores everything you need to know about caviar. Learn proper presentation, tasting etiquette, ideal serving temperatures, unexpected pairings, and how to confidently guide guests through an unforgettable experience. Guests will enjoy a curated tasting featuring selections from Yacht Life Caviar.

Speakers: Patrick Knowles, Allison Janen, Jennifer Davis & Jason Johns, Yacht Life Caviar

4PM | Destination: Pacific Northwest

📍Superyacht Village

Speaker: Steve Jackman, YachtingBC

11AM | Real Chats About Mental Health at Sea

📍Superyacht Village

Join Captain Kelly Gordon, founder of Yachtie Minds Matter, and a panel of current and former yacht crew for an open, judgment-free conversation about the realities of working at sea. Through personal stories, practical advice, and audience discussion, the panel will explore resilience, leadership, communication, burnout, conflict, career growth, and the everyday challenges that rarely get discussed, but impact every vessel.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to submit anonymous questions before and during the session, creating a safe space to ask the questions many crew members think, but are often hesitant to say out loud. No topic is off limits.

Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned captain, you'll leave with fresh perspectives, practical tools, valuable resources, and the reminder that the strongest crews are built through honest conversations and mutual support.

Speakers: Captain Kelly Gordon & Jayna Bradenberg, Yachtie Minds Matter, & Deputy James Mackey, PBSO

1PM | Bareboat Business: Compliance, Contracts & Profitability

📍Superyacht Village

Capt. Kenny Hilderbrandt, CEO of RentaBoat.com, breaks down the legal framework behind bareboat/demise charters, explaining how U.S. Coast Guard and maritime law define compliance. Learn the history, rules, and strategies that owners and operators need to navigate contracts, reduce risk, and maximize profitability.

Speaker: Captain Kenny Hilderbrandt, RentaBoat.com

2PM | The Great Lakes & the Great Loop

📍Superyacht Village

Discovering America's secret cruising grounds - from superyachts to jet skis.

Speaker: Debora Radtke, American Yacht Agents