For five days each fall, Fort Lauderdale remembers that its waterways can also serve as the world’s most extravagant showroom.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) returns Oct. 28 through Nov. 1 for its 67th year, spreading sport fishers, center consoles, personal watercraft, and yacht-world royalty across six unique locations. The Broward County Convention Center will again serve as the anchor and transportation hub, while Bahia Mar, Las Olas Marina, and Superyacht Village each boast the waterfront scenes that have made FLIBS a global marine-industry fixture.
Even by this show’s typically excessive standards, 2026 brings some unexpected additions. Perhaps the headliner is a floating pickleball court at Las Olas Marina, complete with a tournament for yacht crew members.
The Windward VIP Experience also gets a notable pizzazz. Its Superyacht Village lounge returns with complimentary self-parking, an open bar, gourmet food, private restrooms and admission one hour before the gates open there. A second destination, now called the Windward VIP Cabana Club, moves to Bahia Mar Marina for a smaller waterfront setup offering the same amenities. Chefs Ryan O’Sullivan of “Hell’s Kitchen” and Dave White of “Below Deck” and “Chopped” will handle the culinary roster at both locations.
At the Convention Center, guests can browse fishing boats, runabouts, cruisers, marine technology, accessories, diving equipment, and plenty of gear. The Blue Wild returns with hands-on exhibits and activities, while the FLIBS Kids Corner brings crafts and face painting for the kiddos. On Saturday and Sunday, Don Dingman’s “Hook the Future” clinics begin at noon and 2 p.m., with each young attendee receiving a free fishing rod and reel.
It can be a lot to navigate, and a little strategy goes a long way. Start by reviewing the six venues online and deciding whether the day calls for serious boat shopping, family activities, superyacht gawking, or a cocktail near the docks. Comfortable shoes are essential and so is sunscreen, water, and acceptance that seeing everything in one afternoon is impossible.
The Convention Center is the strongest launch point, with 3,000-plus parking spaces available for a flat $20 daily rate. From there, complimentary shuttles and golf carts connect the major venues. Brightline offers rail service into Fort Lauderdale, and a $15 daily Water Taxi pass supplies transportation and a scenic shortcut in one.
Because there are no on-site box office locations, tickets must be purchased online at flibs.com One-day adult admission Thursday through Sunday is $48, while a Wednesday preview ticket costs $73 and can be used any day of the show. Two-day options run $80 for Thursday through Sunday or $105 when Wednesday access is included. Children ages 6 to 12 enter for $19, and younger guests are free with an adult. Windward VIP admission is $459 per person.
The spectacle carries a sizable economic punch for our region. According to show organizers, FLIBS generates $1.79 billion annually and supports more than 100,000 jobs across South Florida.
Few cities could stage something this massive on the water. Fort Lauderdale does it every year and in 2026 even found room for pickleball.
