Everything You Need To Know Ahead Of The 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
Sunny South Florida is hosting the 65th edition of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2024 from 30 October to 3 November. Widely known as FLIBS, the show will welcome over 100,000 attendees to the yachting capital, and an impressive lineup of over 1,300 superyachts for sale and charter. The IYC team is excited to be at the show to showcase various members of our luxury yacht fleet.
Alongside the superyachts, FLIBS has plenty of brands exhibiting with tenders, toys, and a luxury car collection. This year, the show also has an array of enhanced offerings and experiences. The Hall of Fame marina, one of the many sites the show is hosted at, will host the Windward VIP Club, this year a larger space will offer luxury experiences and an exclusive lounge. Meanwhile, more designers will be at the Superyacht Village, and more products will be presented at Pier 66. Continuing from last year, FLIBS will also be doubling down on its commitment to sustainability practices throughout the show.
This comprehensive guide to the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show provides an overview of everything you need to know to enhance your experience this October:
Where To Stay
Fort Lauderdale has many luxury accommodation options to make your FLIBS experience as comfortable as possible. Plenty of waterfront hotels are close to the show and on the beach, with abundant relaxation opportunities to enjoy before and after show events.
Four Seasons Hotel: This 189-room spot provides the ultimate hospitality experience in the city. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean, it is the perfect accompaniment to a yacht show stay; there is also a top-tier spa to rewind after the day's events.
W Fort Lauderdale: Another hotel on the beach with a selection of oceanfront luxurious rooms and suites to book is the W. Aside from the pool and lounging areas, the hotel also hosts the award-winning restaurant Steak 954.
The Ritz Carlton: Located on Fort Lauderdale Beach, this downtown chic hotel was modeled to reflect an art deco ocean liner influenced by the esteemed yachting culture here. The seventh-floor pool deck and the 11-treatment room spa are luxurious additions to a stay.
Lago Mar Beach Resort & Club: Located further south along the coastline is the iconic 200-room and suite hotel, which has been run by the same family for the past 60 years and is on its own 500-foot private beach. Lago Mar has plenty of amenities and facilities, including tennis courts, volleyball, and six different eateries.
Where To Wine And Dine
While exploring the yachts for sale and charter on offer at the show, you will find plenty of opportunities to indulge in Fort Lauderdale's culinary scene.
Maass: Michelin-acclaimed Chef Ryan Ratino serves contemporary American cuisine using the finest ingredients and contemporary wood-fired dining. Maass is located in the Four Seasons hotel and also offers a Sunday brunch service with endless champagne and caviar.
Casa d'Angelos: One of the oldest and best restaurants in the city, Casa d'Angelos is run by an Amalfi coast native. Its Italian-inspired fine dining menu is complimented by an award-winning wine list and puts modern twists on traditional recipes.
Heritage at The Hive: For more Italian menu items, book a table for lunch or dinner when at the show at the Heritage, a New York-style speakeasy in the heart of Flagler Village.
EntreNos, Miami: Although in Miami, EntreNos is a short drive from Fort Lauderdale and offers a Michelin-starred experience. The restaurant hosts chefs who pay homage to the seasonal produce found in the Sunshine State.
Stache: In the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, the 1920 speakeasy Stache is the city's premier cocktail lounge and nightclub; in addition to your drink, you can enjoy live entertainment, bands, DJs, and burlesque.
Elbo Room: Known as one of the world's best beach bars with live music, the Elbo Room beach bar was established in 1938 and is a long-standing hangout in the city.
Nube: Fort Lauderdale has plenty of rooftop bars, so it can be hard to choose, but Nube, crowning the Hilton hotel on the 26th floor, serves innovative cocktails with panoramic views over the city.
Casablanca Cafe: For a more relaxing vibe, Casablanca's patio across from the beach is an ideal place to unwind after the show or before a night out. The cafe is housed in a historic house built in 1927 and renovated in the 1990s, preserving the structure and architectural style. Its Mediterranean-styled menu is available for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
What To See And Do
Meet IYC at FLIBS: Meet some of our team to discuss our fleet and America's yachting market at FLIBS this year. Get in touch with an IYC consultant to book a meeting or yacht viewing. Aside from the show itself, there are plenty of VIP entertainment offerings and activities at various locations before, during, and after the show.
Bonnet House Museums and Gardens: Visit the historic 35-acre estate of Bonnet House Museums and Gardens, once belonging to a 1920s artist full of beautiful landscapes and amazing decor. Take a private tour and experience history; this space is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Art Scene: For art galleries and studios, visit Flagler Village, FATVillage Arts District. There are plenty of galleries to explore, perhaps spotting the perfect piece for a new superyacht. Within the show at Las Olas, the heart of Fort Lauderdale, you will find further art galleries alongside fashion boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Beach Time: You cannot visit Florida without enjoying some time on the beach; Fort Lauderdale has miles of golden sandy beaches to visit. There is something for everyone, whether a relaxed and quieter beach or a vibrant and bustling beach atmosphere. Some favorites include Hillsboro Beach, home to nesting sea turtles; Pompano Beach which is ideal for snorkelers and in-the-water adventures, while Dania Beach is a wide, quieter beach popular for fishing.
Everglades Tour: While the Sunshine State boasts its beaches, a trip here should also include a tour of the famous Everglades. You can rent a private airboat in Sawgrass Recreation Park to experience a true Floridian activity, with the opportunity to spot alligators.
Go Further afield: If you have more time when at FLIBS, visit more of what Florida and Fort Lauderdale's neighbors have to offer. To the north is Palm Beach, renowned for its luxury shopping experiences of Worth Avenue, or south in Miami, where you can stay a few more nights to explore the restaurant and art scene. Further afield, the Florida Keys are perfect for trying out your new superyacht, which is renowned for snorkeling and diving here. If you want to combine the show with a yacht charter, why not charter in the Bahamas after the show? It is just a short hop from Florida, and the pristine archipelago is perfect for a winter yacht charter.
Insider Tips & Tricks
Clothing & Footwear: Comfort is important throughout the day as yacht shows require lots of walking. Opt for easy-to-remove, comfortable shoes ideal for boarding the yachts. Loose, breathable clothing is recommended for Florida's hot and humid climate.
Plan Ahead: With so much to see and do at FLIBS, it's advisable to plan ahead to ensure you visit all the yachts you want to. It's also best to plan for quieter periods; arriving earlier in the morning is better for beating the crowds. Work with your IYC Consultant to schedule your viewings so you can plan around and enjoy the show atmosphere.
Weather Precautions: Bring sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to wear while exploring the yachts and outdoor exhibitors. Florida's weather is hot and humid. Carrying an umbrella is also wise during the show, as Fort Lauderdale can be prone to rain showers.
