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
Henk de Vries III will retire as Director of Feadship and CEO of Koninklijke De Vries Scheepsbouw on 1 May 2025, concluding nearly four decades of leadership in the superyacht industry. He will transition to an Ambassador role for Feadship while maintaining involvement as a non-executive board member and shareholder of the family-owned shipbuilder.Henk de Vries De Vries joined the company in 1987 and became a director/shareholder in 1996 alongside his cousin Tom de Vries. Under their leadership, De Vries expanded to seven operating companies with over 1,200 employees. The group remains fully family-owned and holds a 50% stake in Feadship.A proponent of sustainability, de Vries co-founded the Water Revolution Foundation in 2018 and continues as its Board Chairman. The organization focuses on reducing yachting’s ecological impact through science-based initiatives.Leadership transitions to Roderick de Vries as CEO and Operational Director, with Bas Nederpelt assuming the role of Chief Commercial Officer and Feadship Director. The new executive team brings over 80 years of combined experience at De Vries.Henk and Tom de VriesHenk de Vries stated: “The four members of our new executive board bring with them over eighty years of De Vries experience. Their deep understanding of the company ensures it is in very capable hands.”Based in the Netherlands and with roots dating back to 1849, Feadship was formed as a group in 1949 as a marketing partnership between six Dutch shipyards, de Vries Lentch, Van de Stadt, Witsen & Vis, Akerboom, De Vries Scheepsbouw and Van Lent Shipyard, and De Voogt Naval Architects. Feadship is well-known as one of the Netherlands’ most elite yacht builders and delivers superyachts from 50–100+ meters in length.Credits: Feadship
April 25, 2025
Apreamare California, the brand’s new exclusive dealer for the U.S. West Coast, will present the American premiere of the Gozzo 38 Cabin at the Newport Beach International Boat Show from May 1st to 4th. The new dealership, led by entrepreneur Jack Suski, marks Apreamare’s return to the U.S. market, where the brand has previously sold nearly 100 boats across Florida, California, Connecticut, and other regions.Based in San Francisco Bay, Apreamare California maintains direct ties with the Sorrento shipyard, ensuring clients receive an authentic Made in Italy experience.The Gozzo 38 Cabin is a year-round cruising version of the popular Gozzo line, designed for enhanced comfort in rougher waters while retaining the open version’s signature style. Developed by Cataldo Aprea, Marco Casali, and Umberto Tagliavini, the model features a redesigned deckhouse with panoramic windows, offering a 360-degree view and a fully enclosed dinette.Giovanni Aprea, Sales Director of Apreamare, stated: “Overseas shipowners have always shown a strong appreciation for Apreamare boats, attracted by the timeless style of our creations, the excellent navigation capabilities, and the endless customization possibilities. With Apreamare California and our participation in the Newport Beach boat show, we bring this heritage directly to our esteemed American customers.”Jack Suski, CEO of Apreamare California, added: “I am thrilled to introduce the Gozzo 38 Cabin to California. Apreamare’s elegance and seaworthiness perfectly align with West Coast boating culture, offering owners the opportunity to cruise the coastline in style and with confidence.”The Newport Beach International Boat Show will be held at Lido Marina Village.Credits: Apreamare
April 25, 2025
The 60 Sunreef Power Eco electric catamaran has been named Catamaran of the Year 2025 in the Multipower category. The award was presented on April 23 during the International Multihull Show in La Grande Mothe, France. The prestigious accolade is granted by Multihulls World magazine to recognize the most innovative and outstanding catamarans in the industry.The 18m catamaran features an advanced solar energy system with photovoltaic panels integrated into the hulls, bimini roof, and superstructure. Powered by two electric motors, the vessel benefits from a continuous supply of clean energy, delivering a smooth and environmentally friendly sailing experience.A key feature of the 60 Sunreef Power Eco is its special ultralight battery, which enables silent and vibration-free operation. The catamaran is designed for comprehensive 360° sustainable sailing, incorporating an energy-efficient air conditioning system and eco-friendly materials in its finishes. 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
April 25, 2025
Viken Group has introduced its latest innovation in the luxury cruise yacht sector – the 196-meter REI. Developed as a collaborative effort between the three brands of the Viken Group – TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden), Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – the project aims to set new standards in sustainable and exclusive cruise experiences.The REI project solidifies Viken Group’s position as a pioneer in the luxury cruise yacht segment. The vessel, designed to accommodate up to 112 guests and 125 crew members across its 10 decks, features a beam of 28 meters and offers a unique blend of adventure, sustainability, and exclusivity.“We are thrilled to introduce REI. The 196-meter project is the perfect illustration of the combined offerings of the Viken Group, where we manage exterior styling, engineering, master planning, and interior under one umbrella,” said Fredrik Johansson, Co-Founder of the Viken Group and Executive Director of TDoS. “This approach helps our clients streamline the process dramatically, control investments, and optimize outcomes for both guests and operators.”The yacht’s design features a streamlined exterior inspired by nature, combining technical, industrial, and automotive aesthetics with dynamic curves. In contrast, the contemporary interior offers a tranquil environment with adjustable lighting and tactile materials, providing a rare digital detox experience for guests.REI’s design focuses on balancing private and public spaces, featuring numerous dedicated areas for exclusive use. Notable amenities include duplex suites with private winter gardens and pools, massage areas, double-height windows showcasing panoramic views, and a stunning forward infinity pool.Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with multiple propulsion options including electric, hydrogen, solar, and wind power. The vessel also includes a secondary 27-meter expedition vessel for easy embarkation and disembarkation, powered by electric or solar energy.The onboard experience is designed to be ever-evolving, with entertainment, activities, and menus adapting to the time of year and location. The exploratory dining concept, themed ‘from sea, to land, to sky,’ offers a diverse culinary journey.“The market for cruise yachts is currently looking very promising,” said Antonio Romano, Commercial and Marketing Director at Viken Group. “Thanks to our three brands – TDoS, Hot Lab, and Thalia Marine – Viken Group can harness our unique expertise across superyachts, cruise ships, and refits, meaning we are perfectly positioned to make our mark.”The REI project represents a significant advancement in the luxury cruise yacht sector, combining innovative design, sustainability, and an unparalleled guest experience.Credits: Viken Group
April 24, 2025
Heesen Yachts has announced the passing of its founder, Frans Heesen, on April 23, 2025, in his hometown of Oss. He is survived by his wife Petra, children, and grandchildren.Frans Heesen’s leadership and talent for identifying and nurturing potential were fundamental to the success and growth of Heesen Yachts. Known for his visionary approach and Dutch courage, Heesen took bold steps that shaped the future of the shipyard.One of his most notable achievements was the decision to build the groundbreaking yacht Octopussy, despite significant risks. This project not only succeeded but also brought global recognition to Heesen Yachts.Throughout his career, Frans dedicated himself to creating a family-like atmosphere at the shipyard. Even after the company was sold, the family environment he established remained strong. The values he instilled continue to define the company’s culture today.Heesen Yachts expressed its deepest condolences to Frans’ family and friends, noting that while his presence will be deeply missed, his spirit and vision will continue to guide the company.Frans Heesen’s contributions have left a lasting impact on the yachting industry and on everyone who had the opportunity to work with him. He will be remembered for his pioneering spirit and dedication to excellence.Credits: Heesen Yachts
April 24, 2025