The world’s largest in-water boat show returns to Fort Lauderdale next week. The 67th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show runs October 28 through November 1, 2026, spreading yachts, marine tech, and on-water experiences across six waterfront locations.
For boat lovers staying in Miami, the show is an easy day trip north. For those who want to be first on the docks, basing in Broward puts the whole show within reach. Here is what to know before you go.
When Is the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2026?
The show runs Wednesday, October 28 through Sunday, November 1, 2026. Opening day is a shorter Preview Day, from 12 PM to 7 PM. Thursday through Saturday the show runs 10 AM to 7 PM, and Sunday closes early at 5 PM.
Tickets are on sale now through the official FLIBS website. Buying in advance saves time at the gates, and Preview Day tends to draw serious buyers who want first access to the boats.
Where Does the Show Take Place?
FLIBS is not one venue. It stretches across six Fort Lauderdale locations: the Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Superyacht Village, and Pier Sixty-Six.
Water taxis and shuttles connect the sites, and that movement between marinas is part of the fun. Plan your day around the sections you care most about. Superyacht Village concentrates the largest vessels, while the convention center covers marine accessories, electronics, and gear.
Wear shoes that handle docks, bring sun protection, and expect to walk several miles if you cover more than one location.
What Can You See and Do at FLIBS?
The show bills itself as the world’s largest in-water boat show, and the range backs that up. Visitors tour everything from center consoles to superyachts, with marine technology, engines, and accessories alongside.
Beyond the boats, the show layers in on-water experiences, demonstrations, and seminars. Serious shoppers can arrange sea trials and private viewings, while casual visitors can simply enjoy the spectacle of the Yachting Capital of the World at its busiest.
If the show sparks charter ideas, South Florida delivers. A Miami yacht charter pairs naturally with boat show week, and seeing vessels in person helps you know what to ask for.
Where Should You Stay During the Boat Show?
Fort Lauderdale puts you closest to the docks, with hotels and rentals near Bahia Mar and the Las Olas corridor filling early for show week. Staying near Las Olas Marina means walking to the boats and dinner on the same evening.
Many visitors prefer to base in Miami and day trip north. The drive runs roughly 30 to 40 minutes in normal traffic, and a Miami villa rental gives a group more space for the rest of the week: a private pool, a full kitchen, and room to host friends after a day on the docks. Luxury villa rentals in Miami also work well for groups combining the show with Miami’s restaurants and nightlife.
A concierge can arrange drivers between Miami and the show, reserve waterfront restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, or book a private charter so you can compare the show’s yachts against the real thing, depending on availability.
Before You Go: Five Questions Worth Asking
- Which show locations have the boats and exhibits I most want to see?
- Are my tickets bought in advance, and do they cover the days I plan to attend?
- How will I move between show sites, and where does the water taxi stop?
- Should I base in Fort Lauderdale or day trip from my Miami villa?
- Can my concierge arrange a private charter or waterfront dinner during show week?
Make Boat Show Week a South Florida Vacation
A thoughtful boat show trip leaves space for both the docks and everything around them. At Escape, we help guests find Miami vacation homes that suit their group, preferences, and pace. Browse our villa collection or contact our team to plan your boat show week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2026? The 67th annual show runs October 28 through November 1, 2026, with a Preview Day on Wednesday from 12 PM to 7 PM.
Where is the Fort Lauderdale boat show held? Across six locations: the Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Superyacht Village, and Pier Sixty-Six.
How far is the boat show from Miami? Fort Lauderdale is roughly 30 to 40 minutes north of Miami by car, making the show an easy day trip from a Miami villa.
Is the Fort Lauderdale boat show the same as the Miami Boat Show? No. They are separate events. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show runs in late October, while Miami’s own boat show takes place in February.
