Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS)

Launched in 1982, PBIBS has grown into a major fixture on the global yachting calendar, welcoming more than 55,000 visitors each year.

Typically held over five days in March, the show takes place during an ideal weather window and marks the final major international boat show of the season, making it a key moment for viewing new launches, Florida yacht charters, and brokerage listings.

• Location: Flagler Drive & Intracoastal Waterway, West Palm Beach
• Event type: Public boat show
• Duration: Five days
• Attendance: 55,000+ visitors annually
• Yacht focus: Motor yachts, superyachts, sportfishers, day boats
• Known for: Boutique feel, premium superyacht line-up, waterfront setting
• Ideal for: Exploring Florida and Bahamas yacht charter options

The Palm Beach International Boat Show offers a complete yachting lifestyle showcase, combining on-water yacht displays with shoreside exhibits and interactive attractions. Visitors can explore everything from compact inflatables and bowriders to high-end motor yachts and world-class superyachts, all presented in a relaxed yet sophisticated environment.

Alongside the yachts, the show features fishing seminars, watersports demonstrations, marine technology showcases, and live entertainment, ensuring a steady flow of activity across the docks. Its thoughtfully designed layout allows for easy navigation between exhibits, making PBIBS especially appealing to first-time visitors and seasoned yacht enthusiasts alike.

For those considering Palm Beach or USA yacht charters, the show provides an excellent opportunity to compare yacht styles, onboard amenities, and charter-ready features in person.

Stretching along Flagler Drive and the Intracoastal Waterway, the Palm Beach International Boat Show is designed as a streamlined waterfront experience, combining in-water yacht displays with a curated collection of land-based pavilions and hospitality areas.

Unlike sprawling multi-city events, PBIBS benefits from a compact, walkable footprint that allows visitors to move easily between yachts, exhibits, and amenities while maintaining constant views of the water.

The backbone of the Palm Beach International Boat Show is formed by the extensive in-water displays lining Flagler Drive, where hundreds of boats and motor yacht charters are presented across floating docks and marina berths.

What to expect along the docks:

• A wide spectrum of boats, from small craft to large motor yachts
• Clear dock layouts allowing for relaxed yacht inspections
• Direct engagement with builders, brokers, and crew
• Consistent waterfront access throughout the visitor journey

This linear layout creates a calm, easy-to-navigate environment that reflects the show’s boutique reputation.

Positioned within Palm Harbor Marina, Superyacht Show Palm Beach is a dedicated enclave for the largest yachts and North America yacht charters attending the event.

What to expect at Superyacht Show Palm Beach:

• A curated collection of superyachts typically over 100ft (30.48m)
• Reduced foot traffic and a more refined viewing atmosphere
• High visibility for premium builders and charter-ready yachts
• A setting well suited to private viewings and serious enquiries

While integrated into the wider show, this area offers a noticeably elevated experience for visitors focused on the upper end of the market.

Running parallel to the dockside exhibits, the Marine Equipment Pavilion brings together leading brands in marine technology, accessories, and onboard systems.

What to expect in the pavilion:

• Navigation, propulsion, and onboard technology displays
• Equipment and accessories for both new builds and refits
• Industry experts available for technical discussions
• A central hub for comparing products away from the docks

Designed to add energy and interactivity, the AquaZone focuses on the experiential side of boating and is the perfect area ot the show to influence future watersports yacht charters.

What to expect at the AquaZone:

• Live demonstrations of watertoys and marine equipment
• Inspiration for watersports-focused yacht charters
• Family-friendly activities and hands-on displays
• A lively atmosphere that balances the more technical exhibits

Many of the yachts on display at the Palm Beach International Boat Show are available for charter, making the event a valuable touchpoint for prospective charter clients wanting to explore luxury yacht charters in the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean.

Since the very first edition of the Palm Beach International Boat Show there have been some incredible North America yacht charters on display including the iconic 295.7ft (90.1m) superyacht charter NERO who made her debut in 2024, 246.1ft (75m) luxury yacht charter ARROW in 2023, and 279.10ft (85.3m) expedition yacht charter BOLD in 2022.

Superyacht Show Palm Beach

Nestled in the Palm Harbor Marina, the Superyacht Show Palm Beach attraction showcases an exceptional collection of premium superyachts each exceeding 100 feet in length. From sleek, high-performance expedition yacht charters to iconic superyachts, this exhibit is dedicated to the finest in naval architecture and bespoke craftsmanship.

Open to both Windward VIP and General Admission visitors, the Superyacht Show Palm Beach grants enthusiasts and industry insiders an unparalleled opportunity to experience these masterpieces firsthand against the stunning backdrop of Palm Beach’s azure waters.

The Windward VIP Club offers an exclusive retreat amidst the excitement of the show. Situated within the Lakeside Pavilion on Flagler Drive, this sophisticated lounge boasts both indoor and outdoor spaces, providing a serene, upscale setting with sweeping waterfront views.

VIP ticket holders have access to a host of exclusive benefits including a premium open bar, gourmet culinary offerings, and luxury brand activations, ensuring an indulgent experience throughout the event. Adding more to the Palm Beach experience, Windward VIP ticket holders also receive one-day admission to the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary Art Fair.

An interactive highlight of the show, the AquaZone hosts live demonstrations of the latest watertoys and marine technology. Jet Skis, paddleboards, and innovative watersports equipment take center stage, offering inspiration and tips to hone skills on the waves.

Getting younger visitors involved, the educational Kids Fishing Clinic sessions introduce children to the fundamentals of fishing in a fun, hands-on setting, reinforcing the show’s family-friendly appeal.

Set in downtown West Palm Beach, the Palm Beach International Boat Show benefits from a central location that places visitors close to some of South Florida’s most refined dining, leisure, and cultural attractions.

Many visitors choose to extend their stay ashore before or after the show, enjoying the relaxed yet elegant lifestyle that defines the Palm Beach area.

• Café Boulud - A refined, seasonally inspired French restaurant by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud, known for its elegant tasting menus, impeccable service, and sophisticated wine list.
• Imoto - A sleek, high-energy Asian fusion concept with refined sushi, Wagyu offerings, and elevated cocktails — excellent for a luxe night out after the show, with a trendy yet polished vibe.
• Buccan - A modern Palm Beach favourite known for its elevated, ingredient-driven menu and lively yet polished atmosphere, popular with locals and visiting tastemakers alike.

• Palm Beach Island - Home to pristine beaches and calm Atlantic waters just across the Intracoastal Waterway.
• The Breakers Palm Beach - An iconic oceanfront resort offering beach clubs, dining, and spa facilities.
• Lake Trail - A scenic coastal path with views across the water toward West Palm Beach and the marina.

Positioned just a short cruise from the Bahamas and charter routes in the Exumas, Palm Beach, and Florida are highly sought-after yacht charter destinations, offering a versatile cruising experience.

Charter highlights include:

• Calm Intracoastal cruising
• Family-friendly itineraries
• Excellent diving and watersports opportunities
• World-class marinas and yacht services

With cosmopolitan cities sitting alongside sun-drenched beaches and clear blue waters, Florida yacht charters are ideal for both first-time charterers and experienced guests.

The Palm Beach International Boat Show is open to the public, with general admission and premium ticket options available. Windward VIP tickets provide enhanced access and hospitality benefits, while certain superyacht viewings may require private appointments arranged through brokers or exhibitors.

Advance ticket purchases are recommended, particularly for peak days.

How does PBIBS compare to other U.S. boat shows?
PBIBS offers a more boutique, refined experience, with a strong emphasis on luxury yachts and superyachts in a relaxed waterfront setting.

Do exhibitors at the Palm Beach International Boat Show offer private appointments or guided yacht viewings?
Yes. Many exhibitors provide private viewings or guided tours by appointment, allowing serious buyers and charter clients to explore yachts in detail and experience onboard features in a more personalised setting.

Is the Palm Beach International Boat Show suitable to include within a Florida–Bahamas yacht charter itinerary?
Absolutely. The show’s location and timing make it an ideal addition to a Florida or Bahamas yacht charter. Guests can combine attendance with nearby cruising in Palm Beach waters or extend their itinerary to the Bahamas, enjoying both the show and the surrounding islands.

Combining attendance at the Palm Beach International Boat Show with a Florida yacht charter is an excellent way to experience the region’s cruising grounds firsthand. 

To explore yacht charters operating in the region, or to integrate a visit to the Palm Beach International Boat Show into an existing itinerary, speak with your preferred yacht charter broker or browse the global fleet of luxury yacht charters on YachtCharterFleet, the biggest curated collection of superyacht charters.