Prepare to be captivated by the nautical extravaganza as the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) 2023 embarks on its journey from October 25th to 29th in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the yachting capital of the world, this premier boating event, owned by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) and produced by Informa Markets, promises an unparalleled showcase of experiences, innovations, and luxury across seven locations, including the renowned Bahia Mar Yachting Center and the Broward County Convention Center (BCCC).



FLIBS 2023 beckons guests to delve into a sensory voyage where cutting-edge design, state-of-the-art technology, and sustainable initiatives converge to redefine the future of boating, as expressed by Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows with Informa Markets. With a legacy spanning over six decades and contributing over $1.79 billion to the state's annual economy, FLIBS continues to set new standards for excellence, emerging as an unrivaled platform for marine enthusiasts, industry professionals, and luxury aficionados.

"The marine industry and the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show have long been integral to our region's prosperity," notes Phil Purcell, CEO/President of the MIASF. As evident in MIASF's recent industry report, the industry's robust growth during the pandemic has significantly impacted local employment, generating approximately 141,860 jobs across South Florida. The industry's current surge, marked by a 20% increase in the value of boats since 2019 and a noticeable uptick in boat sales, paints a promising picture for sustained success.

Here are the boats that can’t be missed: 

Alloy
Sanlorenzo



Crafted in collaboration with the Zuccon International Project studio, this yacht stands out with its groundbreaking spatial design, particularly in the owner's cabin, which spans three levels, creating a private apartment-like ambiance. Alloy's remarkable attributes include an expansive owner's cabin, a lounge on the mezzanine level, and a versatile upper deck that can serve as a study, gym, or relaxation area. The upper deck extends into a spacious outdoor zone, complete with a sundeck, a hot tub, and a lounge area, providing an unmatched seascape experience.

Oasis 34m
Benetti



Designed with exterior flair by the British studio RWD and interior finesse by New York-based architects Bonetti/Kozerski, the Benetti Oasis 34m closely follows the design principles of its larger counterpart, the Oasis 40m. Mirroring its big sister, the yacht wholeheartedly embraces a commitment to relaxed socializing, expansive views, and a profound connection with the sea. At the core of this concept lies Benetti's innovative 'Oasis Deck.' Central to this design is a captivating infinity pool, gracefully positioned at the lower center of the transom, accentuated by a glass aft bulkhead. Surrounding the pool's forward edge are sunbeds, leading to a spacious open cockpit with retractable bulwarks. The seamless interaction of this area with the saloon adds to the overall gratification of the design.

Ferretti Yachts 1000 SkyDeck



The SkyDeck edition of Ferretti Yachts 1000, a huge success story for the Forlì-based shipyard, features an upper deck redesigned to create an enclosed, sheltered space that can be enjoyed year-round and conveys the breathtaking feeling of being able to touch the sky. The result is a second lounge for the owner and guests to enjoy in any weather and whatever the time of year or day, perfectly coordinated with the interiors.

Sirena 78
Sirena Yachts



Sirena 78 was designed by Cor D. Rover and German Frers. She provides options for a tri-deck yacht, a conventional two-deck flybridge boat with a hard top, or a hybrid of the two. The yacht can accommodate eight guests across four cabins. A full-beam, amidships master stateroom with a private bath and dressing area located on the lower deck, as well as VIP stateroom has the double bed at an angle to capitalize on the deck area.

Y95
Princess 



Princess Y95 seamlessly embodies the design language of the new generation Princess models, showcasing the elegant and sculpted exterior lines influenced by Pininfarina and Olesinski. Notably, it draws inspiration from the forthcoming X95 model. Following a traditional layout, the Y95 features five cabins. The main set of beams is cleverly directed forward on the main deck, while the lower deck boasts another VIP cabin with full width, accompanied by two twin and double cabins, comfortably accommodating a total of 10 guests. 
In terms of performance, the Y95 is powered by two Man V12 engines, delivering a remarkable top speed of 26 knots. Enhancing fuel efficiency and seaworthiness, the wave-piercing nose is a notable feature of this sophisticated vessel.

Phantom 65
Fairline 



Fairline Phantom 65 finds its place between the Fairline Squadron 68 and the Fairline Targa 65 GTO. Despite being 4 feet shorter and five tonnes lighter than the Squadron 68, the Phantom remarkably accommodates the same three- or four-cabin layout below decks, along with a crew cabin and tender garage. At first glance, the Phantom appears to provide a bit more across the board compared to the Targa, all while maintaining a sportier and more manageable profile than the Squadron.

Magellano 60
Azimut 



The design of the Azimut Magellano 60 presents a departure from the avant-garde cutouts and angular hulls seen in the Italian yard’s Fly, S, and Verve lines. Instead of a starkly modern aesthetic, this vessel exudes a more classical and understated charm, fitting perfectly as the new starting point for the Magellano line's four-model range. The external form boasts a clean, stripped-down linearity, and the trim exudes a modest confidence, giving the boat a timeless quality. The monochrome hull and the airy upper deck contribute to a surprisingly low profile for a 60-meter flybridge cruiser. 

80 Sunreef Power Eco
Sunreef Yachts 



The US debut of an innovative electric luxury catamaran 80 Sunreef Power Eco Sól. Leveraging Sunreef Yachts' in-house developed green technology, Sól incorporates composite-integrated solar panels seamlessly built into the yacht’s hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. The catamaran is equipped with custom-engineered battery banks featuring Sunreef Yachts Eco batteries, boasting a density less than 5.2 kg per kWh. These batteries are nearly 30% lighter than the average systems commonly used in the yachting world. Sól, with its four-cabin layout, offers accommodation for eight guests in a serene interior filled with ample natural light and vibrant finishing materials.

Credits: FLIBS; Yacht Harbour archive

Latest News

Zeelander Yachts Reveals Interior of Flagship Zeelander 8
Zeelander Yachts has unveiled the first images of the exquisite interior of its newest flagship model, the Zeelander 8. Measuring 24 meters, this is the largest yacht produced by the company to date. The vessel boasts a timeless design complemented by contemporary elements, offering a refined and sophisticated aesthetic.The interior of the Zeelander 8 features meticulously crafted social spaces, characterized by elegant curves and the use of premium materials. Each hull is customized according to the owner's specifications, with the first hull exemplifying a harmonious blend of fine leathers, rich woods, and deep upholstery. This combination highlights the yacht's sophistication, innovation, and impeccable craftsmanship.The main deck accommodates spacious lounging and dining areas, along with a well-appointed galley. The helm station is situated behind expansive forward windows, while three cabins on the lower deck offer effortless comfort. A large targa sunroof and retractable aft doors allow for versatile climate control, whether open to the breeze or insulated for heating or air conditioning.The first hull includes notable customizations, such as relocating the galley to the starboard side of the salon and integrating the bar into the cockpit area. This reconfiguration created space for an additional lounge area. Neutral color schemes dominate, with perforated white Alcantara headlining matching high-polish white cabinetry and diamond-stitched leather seating.Woody detailing is strategically implemented to accentuate edges and shapes, notably around the sunroof opening, table surfaces, and aft door frames. Interestingly, these 'woody' elements are actually composite materials skillfully painted to mimic real wood, reducing maintenance needs while maintaining a luxurious appearance.Amidships, the owner's stateroom benefits from ample headroom and large windows, contributing to a sense of spaciousness. Uncaulked teak flooring contrasts with white leather panelling, while padded velvet panels add a calming touch. Integrated features like hidden speakers, a TV lift, and sound-dampening ceiling panels enhance the serene atmosphere.Forward of the master suite, two guest cabins are currently configured as doubles, though they can be customized to accommodate different layouts upon request. Both cabins enjoy excellent sea views and generous headroom, along with ensuite bathrooms and ample storage.The forepeak area houses two potential crew cabins, each flanking a cozy bow seating area suitable for use as a crew mess. This section includes a separate crew entrance, a small kitchen, and laundry facilities. Alternatively, these spaces can be integrated into the guest accommodation or finished to match the guest areas for occasional use.The pilot area on the main deck is designed for owner operation, featuring two adjustable leather seats and triple Garmin navigation displays. The single-piece, double-curved windscreen provides clear visibility, and the ergonomically designed wheel resembles walnut wood. When desired, a hidden panel can rise to ensure privacy for the captain.Zeelander Yachts emphasizes the ability to customize each vessel extensively, often drawing inspiration from the owner's private jets or other personal preferences. This flexibility ensures that every Zeelander 8 reflects the unique tastes and lifestyle of its owner.Founder and owner Sietse Koopmans underscores the company's commitment to quality and customization, stating that Zeelander builds only a select number of exceptional yachts annually, dedicating tens of thousands of man-hours to achieve their exacting standards.Zeelander Yachts was founded in 2002 in the Netherlands by Sietse Koopmans. The first model was unveiled to the public in 2008. The launch model Z44 received positive reviews at the Monaco Yacht Show and drew enormous crowds, despite being at an event dominated by much larger yachts. Within three years, the Z44 had been successfully introduced to the US as well as Europe, and it was an obvious direction to add a larger model to the fleet. The first Z55 was delivered in November 2015, and the flagship Z72 was launched in March 2019.Credit: Tom van Oossanen/Zeelander Yachts
Pershing GTX116 to Debut in Miami International Boat Show
Ferretti Group made a grand entrance at the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, headlined by the U.S. debut of the impressive Pershing GTX116. This state-of-the-art yacht exemplifies power, sophistication, and technological prowess, standing out with its streamlined design and luxurious living spaces that promise unmatched performance and opulence.Riva 68' DiableFrom February 12 to 16, 2025, the highly anticipated Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show returned, drawing excitement and attention from enthusiasts, owners, and industry professionals alike. As a platform for innovation, design, and luxury, the East Coast boat show solidified its status as a premier destination for maritime connoisseurs.Pershing GTX116Joining the AMAS region premiere Pershing GTX116, Ferretti Group presented a lineup of four additional yachts, each representing the pinnacle of beauty and innovation across their respective brands:Ferretti Yachts 860, Riva 68' Diable, wallytender48, and wallypower58.wallypower58Throughout the show, Ferretti Group collaborated with several esteemed international brands. Dolce&Gabbana designed the Group’s distinctive uniforms, while La Scolca and Pommery provided an exquisite selection of beverages.Adding to the luxury experience, official automotive partner Range Rover offered a chauffeur service using vehicles from their newest collection, while Flexjet ensured exclusive, personalized air travel services.Ferretti Yachts 860Seabob contributed to the extravagance with special limited-edition models customized for Riva, Ferretti Yachts, Pershing, and Wally. Additional partners such as Frette, Poltrona Frau, Bang & Olufsen, and Perennials&Sutherland completed the exceptional experience at the Miami International Boat Show.wallytender48The Ferretti Group, led by Chief Executive Officer Alberto Galassi, is now one of the world’s leaders in the construction and sale of luxury yachts and pleasure vessels, with a unique portfolio of brands: Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Itama, Mochi Craft, CRN, Custom Line and Wally.Credits: Ferretti Group
BIA Revolutionizes Australia's Boat Show Scene
The Boating Industry Association (BIA) is poised to transform Australia's boat show scene beginning in 2025, introducing two groundbreaking event formats designed to better align with industry needs, global trends, and public interest.BIA President Adam Smith unveiled plans for an innovative boat show and festival slated for Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, from 14 to 17 August 2025. This event will feature paddle boats, power boats, and sailboats up to 10 meters in length, as well as cutting-edge marine technologies, accessories, and the burgeoning boat-based fishing sector.Smith highlighted the advantages of the chosen location, stating, "Sydney Olympic Park offers exceptional facilities, convenient transportation options, abundant parking, and opportunities for outdoor activities. Situated at the heart of Sydney, this venue provides easy access for the region's six million residents, enhancing engagement between exhibitors and passionate boaters."The event will occupy The Dome and adjoining Exhibition Halls at the Sydney Showground, with interested parties able to explore the venue virtually via a provided link.Additionally, the Sydney International Boat Show will relocate to November, capitalizing on Sydney's pleasant spring weather and shifting away from traditional indoor exhibitions toward a more immersive harbour-side experience. This reimagined event will spotlight larger in-water power and sailing vessels measuring 10 to 30+ meters, delivering an enriched outdoor experience for attendees and exhibitors."Moving the Sydney International Boat Show to November enables us to leverage the city's optimal spring conditions – warmer temperatures and extended daylight hours," Smith elaborated. "By embracing the harbour setting, we're fostering a more authentic connection with the boating lifestyle, both on and off the water."Smith emphasized that these modifications are intended to meet the changing demands of the industry and boating enthusiasts, providing more dynamic and inclusive experiences that capture the essence of Australian boating.The BIA also confirmed its ongoing partnership with event organizer Mulpha Events, ensuring a smooth transition to the new formats and a top-tier experience for all participants.Corey Rattray-Wood, Head of Events at Mulpha Events, expressed enthusiasm for the continued collaboration, saying, "We are honored to work with the BIA in bringing these remarkable events to life. Our goal is to create unforgettable experiences that bring people closer to the joys of boating."Further information regarding both events, including exhibition space applications, will be available soon. Participants can anticipate captivating and inspirational gatherings celebrating Australia's vibrant boating heritage.Credits: BIA
A Closer Look at New Pardo Endurance 72
Pardo Yachts presents the Endurance 72, a remarkable new addition to its esteemed lineup, featuring a harmonious fusion of luxury and functionality designed for those seeking the ultimate in long-range cruising. Following its much-anticipated debut last summer, the Endurance 72 has now been unveiled in its entirety, spotlighting its captivating style and innovative engineering. This exceptional yacht served a prestigious role during the summer of 2025, acting as the hospitality vessel for the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team at the 37th America's Cup in Barcelona. Its striking silhouette, prominently featured alongside the Italian team, has sparked curiosity and excitement in yachting circles and amongst potential owners.The Endurance 72 enhances the family lineage of Pardo Yachts with sophisticated aesthetics that beautifully echo the elegance of Italian craftsmanship. Emulating its acclaimed predecessor, the Endurance 60 – which is celebrated for its superior construction and meticulous attention to detail – the new model is purposefully designed for extended journeys at sea. The yacht features fold-down bulwarks, expansive windows, and sliding doors that create a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces, allowing for a truly immersive experience. Tailored with discerning owners in mind, the Endurance 72 stands out as an exquisite option for those unwilling to compromise on style, comfort, efficiency, or reliability. An eco-speed regime enhances fuel efficiency, catering to environmentally conscious yacht enthusiasts.The Endurance 72 showcases striking and unmistakable design lines, characterized by a reverse bow and a bold superstructure that underscores its contemporary silhouettes. The alternating hull windows create a sense of ongoing motion, while the innovative walkaround deck reflects Pardo's commitment to merging form with function.Designed with elegance, comfort, and practicality in mind, the yacht's exterior features a variety of spacious areas that encourage both social gatherings and intimate moments. At the bow, a generous sunpad provides an idyllic spot for relaxation, whereas the stern offers guests a choice between an extraordinary suspended sunbed or an inviting alfresco dining area in the cockpit. When combined with fold-down bulwarks, the cockpit transforms into an impressive 40-square-meter terrace, a standout feature among vessels of this size.Among the many attributes that set the Endurance 72 apart is its exceptional hull design, optimized for IPS propulsion which ensures superior maneuverability and safety while minimizing fuel consumption. The yacht features a "warped" hull designed with a gradually decreasing deadrise angle from bow to stern, enhancing stability in challenging sea conditions. Owners can opt for propulsion systems that include the standard dual Volvo Penta D13 IPS 1050 engines or the optional IPS 1350 configuration, both of which are designed for easy hybrid integration.With eco-speed parameters defining the optimal cruising speed for balance between efficiency, comfort, and fuel economy, the Endurance 72 achieves notable results. Its IPS 1350 configuration allows a cruising speed of approximately 12 knots with a fuel consumption of just 80 liters per hour, granting an outstanding range of 900 nautical miles.In collaboration with the renowned BURDISSOCAPPONI Yachts & Design studio, Pardo Yachts has reimagined the interior layout of the Endurance 72, creating a space where livability meets sophistication. The main deck boasts an aft-positioned galley that connects seamlessly with the cockpit and dining area. Below deck, owners and guests will find four en-suite cabins, a day head, and a crew cabin with a private entrance, ensuring privacy and comfort.With expansive windows and sliding doors permeating the main deck, there is a constant flow of natural light, enhancing the cruising experience. The elegantly designed helm station is fitted with modern technology for ease of navigation, while features such as concealed air conditioning vents and layered lighting systems elevate onboard comfort.The Pardo Endurance 72 is set to make its world premiere at the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2025, scheduled for March 19-23. This event marks a significant step for the yacht, showcasing Pardo Yachts' commitment to creating vessels that embody sophistication, performance, and eco-consciousness.Cantiere del Pardo was founded in 1973 in Italy. Pardo Yachts, the brand of Cantiere del Pardo dedicated to powerboats, was born in 2016. The first model, the Pardo 43, was launched in 2017.Credits: Gianluca Naphtalina Camporesi/Pardo Yachts
Sunreef 43M Eco Reaches Key Construction Milestone
Ocean Independence has announced a significant development in the construction of the Sunreef 43M Eco, marking a critical stage in the realization of Sunreef’s flagship eco-friendly yacht series. Acting as project managers and owner representatives, Ocean Independence supervised the successful unmoulding of the yacht’s 1,700-square-meter composite hull at Sunreef’s facility in Gdańsk. The hull was fabricated using the largest single-shot infusion technique ever implemented within the yachting industry, involving the careful introduction of resin into dry fiberglass and core materials under precisely controlled vacuum conditions. The resultant hull exhibits superior strength and reduced weight compared to traditional constructions, while also demonstrating a notable decrease in volatile organic compound emissions – a testament to Sunreef’s dedication to environmental stewardship.Thomas Carey, Project Manager at Ocean Independence, commented, "This accomplishment transcends mere scale; it reflects a pursuit of engineering excellence. Even prior to the final painting stages, the initial examination confirmed a surface finish exceeding our expectations."The meticulously executed unmoulding procedure, extending over two weeks, underscored Sunreef’s technical proficiency and steadfast commitment to quality. The process entailed the systematic deconstruction of the reusable mold in distinct segments, highlighting Sunreef’s innovative application of modular construction techniques. This approach facilitates the simultaneous progression of various yacht components, allowing near-complete elements to be supplied according to a just-in-time schedule.Carey noted, "We have witnessed firsthand the efficacy of this methodology. Overnight, four prefabricated bulkheads, each featuring all essential penetrations, were promptly integrated. The level of precision and synchronization achieved is indeed remarkable."With the hull now unmoulded, the Sunreef 43M Eco advances into an accelerated construction phase. Leveraging Sunreef’s modular strategy, parallel workstreams on bulkheads, technical systems, interiors, and decks can be pursued, thereby optimizing the project timeline while upholding stringent standards of accuracy.Captain Jim Thom, renowned for his extensive experience in extreme-latitude navigation, plays a central role in the project, aligning his expertise with the Owner’s ambitions for global exploration. Regarding the vessel’s electric systems, he stated, "These systems represent a genuine paradigm shift. Their environmental benefits are considerable, and the silent operation both underway and at anchor will significantly enhance the experience in remote regions."Preparations for the yacht’s forthcoming expeditions are well underway, with Captain Jim Thom ensuring comprehensive planning and organization of all aspects, including tenders, recreational equipment, and specialized gear, well in advance of completion.Sunreef Yachts was founded by Francis Lapp in 2002 in Gdansk, Poland. Since then, the shipyard has been designing and manufacturing luxury sailing and power multihulls. Credits: Sunreef Yachts