Complete Guide: Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2025
by Ellie Smith / September 19, 2025
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is the world’s largest in-water boat show. It’s like the Monaco Grand Prix of the yachting world. It’s a five-day event with hundreds of boats, on-water demonstrations, and exhibits, giving visitors a full look at the latest in yachting and marine products. People come from all over the U.S. and the world, so parking and traffic near the marinas can get heavy.
Our FLIBS guide, along with a detailed venue map breaks down everything you need to know to show up relaxed and ready to explore.
Table of contents
FLIBS dates and details
When is the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show: The 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show takes place from October 29 to November 2, right as South Florida slides into its prime season.
Where is the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show: FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres and three million square feet, with boats and exhibits spread across several marinas and connected by water and land routes. The show takes place at seven locations: Bahia Mar, Las Olas Marina, Hall of Fame Marina, Broward County Convention Center, Pier Sixty-Six Marina, 17th Street Yacht Basin, and Superyacht Village.
How many boats are at FLIBS: The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the largest boat show in the world. 2024’s show drew over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors, with more than 1,300 vessels on display. The 2025 edition is expected to meet or even exceed those numbers.
Closest airport to Fort Lauderdale: The most convenient airport for FLIBS is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), just 15 minutes from most show venues. Miami International Airport (MIA) is another major option, located 35 - 45 minutes south by car, while Palm Beach International (PBI) sits about an hour north. All three airports offer both domestic and international connections, as well as private aviation services.
Traffic disruptions and road closures: Fort Lauderdale doesn’t turn into a racetrack (thankfully), but smooth sailing near show venues isn’t guaranteed. The Broward County Convention Center serves as the main transportation hub with parking and shuttle connections. Las Olas Boulevard and the areas around Bahia Mar and Hall of Fame Marina often face heavy congestion, especially on the weekend.
Parking is limited and often fills up early, and although there aren’t major road closures, the congestion alone is enough to derail your day if you’re not prepared. Your best bet? Avoid driving altogether and book a chauffeur who knows the local drop-off zones inside out.
Getting to the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show
Arriving at FLIBS takes a bit of planning, with traffic, limited parking, and long walks in the Florida heat all part of the challenge. Here are your best bets:
Show Shuttles: FLIBS operates a network of complimentary shuttles between major parking lots and all show locations, including Bahia Mar, Superyacht Village, and the Convention Center. If you're staying nearby, this is a practical (if not glamorous) way to get around. Shuttle and golf cart services run from one hour before the show starts until one hour after it ends.
Pros: Free and easy.
Cons: Limited routes and longer waits during busy hours.
Water Taxi: One of the most iconic and scenic ways to get to FLIBS is via Water Taxi. The show partners with local services to offer direct routes to the show’s key docks. Pricing is $15 for one day, or $65 if you’d like access for all five days.
Pros: Great views, relaxed vibe, and drops you right at the show.
Cons: Can get crowded during peak times; limited luggage space.
Brightline Express Rail: For those coming from Miami, West Palm Beach, Aventura, Boca Raton, or even Orlando, Brightline offers a smooth and stylish way to reach Fort Lauderdale. The high-speed rail service drops you at Fort Lauderdale station, where a complimentary shuttle runs to the Riverside Hotel. From there, you can hop on the Water Taxi straight into the show.
Pros: Fast, comfortable, and no traffic stress. Onboard perks include free Wi-Fi, spacious seating, and food and drink options.
Cons: You’ll still need to connect from the station to the show via shuttle and Water Taxi, which can add time.
Private Chauffeur Service: Traffic and limited parking are part of the FLIBS experience, but that doesn’t mean you need to deal with them. With a private chauffeur, you can arrive in style, step out close to the entrance, and skip the stress entirely.
Pros: Door-to-door service with none of the hassle. Perfect for groups, luggage, or anyone who values a calm arrival.
Cons: Let’s be honest, barely any.
Where is the best place to sit at Fort Lauderdale Boat Show
As mentioned, FLIBS stretches across multiple marinas and exhibition halls, each offering a different angle on the show. Here are the highlights worth knowing about:
Bahia Mar Yachting Center: The show’s main hub, home to hundreds of yachts and the largest in-water displays. If you want the full boat-show energy, this is the place.
Superyacht Village at Pier Sixty-Six: Reserved for vessels 100 feet and above, plus luxury lifestyle exhibitors.
Hall of Fame Marina: A bit more relaxed than Bahia Mar but still central, with a good mix of boats and easy access to the action.
Fort Lauderdale Convention Center: The indoor heart of FLIBS, where you’ll find marine tech, gear, and accessories. Great for air conditioning breaks, too.
Las Olas Marina: A boutique-style setup with sleek yachts and waterfront charm, perfect for strolling.
17th Street Yacht Basin (Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina): An extension of the main show, this marina showcases a wide selection of yachts and offers convenient access for guests staying at the Hilton.
Pier Sixty-Six Marina: Alongside Superyacht Village, this marina plays host to some of the largest vessels in the show, particularly those over 100 feet. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to see the biggest and boldest yachts on display.
Where to stay for FLIBS
Finding the right place to stay during FLIBS can make your experience much more memorable. Most visitors choose accommodations near the beach or downtown, both of which offer easy access to Bahia Mar and the main show venues. Here are some of the top hotels to consider:
The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale: Classic luxury with ocean views, a rooftop pool, and easy access to Bahia Mar.
Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale: Sleek, modern, and designed for a new generation of luxury travelers. Expect impeccable service and prime beachfront.
W Fort Lauderdale: Bold, trendy, and perfect if you want nightlife with your yacht show.
The Dalmar: A chic downtown choice with rooftop dining and a stylish, artsy vibe. The venue is slightly removed from the marina crowds.
The Pillars Hotel & Club: An intimate boutique option right on the Intracoastal Waterway.
FLIBS show day tips
Arrive early: The marinas get crowded quickly, especially on the weekend. Morning visits mean easier access and cooler temps.
Pack for the Florida sun: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essentials. Don’t forget a refillable water bottle, you’ll thank yourself later.
Wear smart shoes: You’ll be walking across docks, ramps, and plenty of uneven surfaces. Stylish, yes, but make it practical.
Plan your route: The show spans multiple locations. Grab a map or use the FLIBS app to avoid backtracking in the heat.
Book restaurants ahead: Waterfront dining near Las Olas and the beach fills up fast during show week.
Keep some cash handy: Most vendors take cards, but smaller purchases or tips are easier with bills in hand.
Cruising through the city
Once you’ve planned your visit to FLIBS, the last thing you want is to worry about logistics. With Blacklane, you can count on smooth rides across the city and easy transfers to the airport, leaving you free to enjoy the show.
If you’re looking to explore more of Florida, Blacklane also offers long-distance rides to cities like Miami, Palm Beach, or even Tampa. It’s a seamless, door-to-door alternative that saves you from parking hassles, crowded shuttles, or juggling multiple connections.
And when it’s time to head home, our airport transfer service covers all major airports in the region, including Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL), Miami International (MIA), and Palm Beach International (PBI).
