Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show announces show updates as ticket sales open for 2026 edition

By Anna Ingles 7 August 2026

Following a successful edition in 2025, the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) promises an expanded visitor experience alongside world premieres, luxury activations and new updates throughout the show.

Held across six waterfront locations in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, FLIBS is widely regarded as one of the most influential events on the global yachting calendar.

Bringing together leading shipyards, luxury yacht builders, brokers, marine brands and industry professionals, the annual showcase also presents a dedicated collection of luxury yacht charters.

Tickets have officially gone on sale for the 67th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), with the internationally renowned event returning to Florida from 28 October to 1 November 2026.

One of the leading showcases for North America yacht charters

For anyone considering a future yacht charter in North America, FLIBS offers an unrivalled opportunity to compare a broad selection of yachts in one destination.

The 2025 edition featured 187 yachts, with 62 available for charter, equating to just over 33% of the fleet. Those charter yachts averaged 40.15m (132ft) in length and collectively represented almost 2.5km (1.55 miles) of luxury yachts available to inspect.

Motor yachts dominated the charter fleet, accounting for 98% of all charter yachts on display, while crews totaling 444 professionals were on hand to showcase onboard service, accommodation and guest experiences.

The charter fleet also reflected the breadth of today's luxury market, with combined weekly charter values approaching $12 million and average weekly charter rates exceeding $152,000.

New experiences for the 2026 show

Returning visitors can expect many of FLIBS' signature attractions alongside several new additions.

One of the most talked-about arrivals for 2026 will be a floating pickleball court at Las Olas Marina, where a dedicated tournament will be held exclusively for yacht crew members during the show.

The Windward VIP Experience also returns with an updated layout. While the Superyacht Village VIP Lounge remains in place, a newly relocated Windward VIP Cabana Club will debut at Bahia Mar Marina, offering gourmet dining, premium beverages, waterfront lounges and exclusive hospitality experiences.

Celebrity chefs Ryan O'Sullivan (Hell's Kitchen) and Dave White (Below Deck and Chopped) will once again headline the culinary programme across both VIP venues.

Elsewhere around the show, the Broward County Convention Center once again serves as the show's central transportation hub, offering more than 3,000 parking spaces with complimentary shuttle services linking Bahia Mar, Superyacht Village, and the remaining venues.

Families visiting FLIBS can also enjoy returning attractions including The Blue Wild, the FLIBS Kids Corner, and Don Dingman's Hook the Future fishing clinics, where young visitors receive complimentary fishing rods and reels.

This year's show will have the same attractions attendees have come to love, with some exciting enhancements we're eager for them to experience firsthand.
Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows , Informa Markets

A landmark of the global yachting industry

Beyond the fleet of USA and Florida charter yachts themselves, FLIBS continues to play an important role within both the marine industry and the South Florida economy.

According to organizers, the show generates an estimated $1.79 billion in annual economic impact while supporting more than 100,000 jobs across the region, reinforcing Fort Lauderdale's long-established reputation as the Yachting Capital of the World.

As preparations continue for the 2026 edition, visitors can once again expect an exceptional display of luxury yacht debuts, charter opportunities and marine innovation, making FLIBS one of the standout events of this year's international boat show calendar.

Florida is a yachting hub that needs to be seen in person

Ideally positioned for a broad range of charter itineraries, Florida is a gateway that effortlessly combines a must-see event with idyllic coastlines and close proximity to the Bahamas. A yacht charter broker can work with you to create a bespoke charter experience and provide further details surrounding yacht charter costs.

Can't attend the show, but want to book a charter? Speak to a yacht charter broker today.