Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Closes Out Strong 2025 Edition
The world’s largest in-water boat show draws more than 100,000 visitors and global exhibitors, showcasing the strength and innovation of the marine industry.
Fort Lauderdale, FL – November 6, 2025
The 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) concluded five extraordinary days across seven show locations, marking another strong year for attendance, sales, and international participation. Produced by Informa Markets and owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF), the show once again underscored Fort Lauderdale’s reputation as the Yachting Capital of the World.
“This year’s FLIBS demonstrated the strength and resilience of the marine industry, not just in South Florida but around the world,” said Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets. “We welcomed more than 100,000 visitors, showcased an incredible variety of vessels, and saw outstanding results from our exhibitors. The energy throughout all seven show locations was unmatched.”
The 66th edition of FLIBS featured more than 1,300 vessels and 1,000 exhibitors representing over 50 countries. This year’s show spanned nearly 90 acres of exhibit space and generated a $1.78 billion economic impact for the state of Florida. From luxury yachts and sportfishing vessels to tenders, catamarans, and cutting-edge marine technology, the event celebrated every facet of the marine lifestyle.
The overall experience of this year’s show was elevated by the full reopening of Pier Sixty-Six. The marina was filled with FLIBS exhibits, while the resort’s accommodations and dining offerings added an extra layer of luxury to the event.
Additionally, guests enjoyed the debut of the new Windward Cabana Club and world-class culinary experiences from Chef Dave White (Chopped Grand Champion, Below Deck Mediterranean) and Chef Ryan O’Sullivan (Hell’s Kitchen Season 22 Winner), who crafted fresh, creative dishes from scratch throughout the weekend.
Educational seminars and expert-led panels at the Broward County Convention Center further highlighted innovation, sustainability, and the future of marine technology.
This year’s Honours Awards took place in Fort Lauderdale for the first time, celebrating global contributions to the ocean and yachting stewardship. The honourees were Angela Abshier, founder of Sail to Shelter (USA); Francisca Cortés Solari, founder of Fundación MERI (Chile); and Rosie O’Donnell, project lead for Yachts for Science (UK). Each received The Bowspirit Award for their leadership and efforts to connect yachting with global good.
The 2025 Best of Show Awards recognized the year’s most exceptional vessels for innovation, craftsmanship, and design. The Valhalla 55 Sport Yacht (under 60 ft) and Bluegame BGM75 (over 60 ft) were named the winners, selected by a distinguished panel of judges:
- Bill Zito, General Manager of the Florida Panthers
- Ricky Carmichael, motorsports legend and outdoor enthusiast
- Jacob Ulman, Senior Vice President of Production, FOX Sports
- Mitch Covington, Vice President of Sports Marketing, Monster Energy
- Joshua Pascual, President, YachtCreators
FOX Sports will broadcast a special Best of Show segment on December 7 at 11:00 AM on FS1, featuring hosts Jamie Little, Will Christien, and Kristen Beat, offering an inside look at the ceremony and the winning yachts.
In a special show initiative, guests purchasing tickets this year had the opportunity to add a donation to support recovery efforts in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa. The campaign raised more than $8,000 to assist with rebuilding efforts on the island.
“FLIBS continues to be a cornerstone event that not only strengthens our industry but also serves as an economic engine for our community, one whose impact is felt year-round,” said Phil Purcell, CEO and President of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF). “The show fuels over 100,000 jobs and drives more than $800 million in marine product sales over the five days of the event. FLIBS is more than an event; it’s a catalyst for economic growth, innovation, and global recognition of South Florida’s leadership in the marine industry.”
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show will return October 28 through November 1, 2026. For more information, visit www.flibs.com and follow FLIBS on social media for updates throughout the year.
About Informa Markets
Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate, and grow. Through more than 450 international B2B events and brands, Informa Markets provides opportunities to engage, experience, and do business through live and digital platforms. The company operates across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare and pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, construction, fashion, hospitality, food, and beverages. Informa Markets is part of Informa PLC, a leading international B2B markets, live, and digital events company.
About the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF)
The Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) is the largest marine trade organization in the Southeast United States dedicated to promoting, protecting, and growing the 142,000 middle class jobs and driving the economic output to $18.5 billion regionally. Created in 1961, the not-for-profit trade group is focused on the sound growth of the marine industry in the South Florida Region to benefit its members and their customers, communities, and the environment. The Association has over 500 members in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties and is the owner of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
