Arguably the main yacht show in the United States, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2019 is set to start on the 30th of October and last for a total of 5 days. In 2017, the parent company of the Monaco Yacht Show, spent $133 million to acquire a portfolio of shows, which included FLIBS, which celebrates its 60th edition this year.
This year, visitors will find nearly 1,200 boats on display across seven different locations in Florida, not to mention around 1,000 exhibitors. That all will transform the Fort Lauderdale city into a hive of on-water activity. The show’s locations will cover:
- The Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel & Yachting Centre
- Hall of Fame Marina
- Las Olas Municipal Marina
- Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina
- Sails Marina
- Pier 66 Marina (Superyacht Village)
- The Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Centre.
A new feature of this year’s layout, The Superyacht Village will be unveiled for the first time. Located along Pier 66, the newly opened 3.5-acre space will be capable of hosting yachts of up to 121 metres in LOA.
Yacht Harbour takes a look at the largest yachts on display at the upcoming show.
Charter in winter: from $1,400,000 p/w
The largest superyacht on the show, the 95-metre superyacht Madsummer is set to make her international debut at FLIBS after a recent delivery to her owner, a repeat client with Lürssen. First known as Project Fiji it took nearly 2,5 years to build her under supervision of the owner’s captain and brokerage company Moran Yacht & Ship.
With a 14-metre beam, the exterior profile of Madsummer comes from a British designer Harrison Eidsgaard maintaining sleek and elegant lines within impressive volumes. The interior design aimed at up to 20 guests across 10 suites comes from drawing boards by Laura Sessa.
The vessel's main trademarks are the 12-metre swimming pool and Jacuzzi laid on the aft deck, protected with glass bulwarks. Spacious beach club and spa zone with a sea terrace on the lower deck also belong on the list of Madsummer’s special features. The bow is equipped with a helipad, while the sun deck aft features hidden crane in the bulwark, able to handle an aeroboat.
The superyacht is available for charter in the Mediterranean in summer period and in Caribbean/Bahamas in winter.
Builder: Amels (2016)
LOA: 83m
Charter in winter: from approx. $ 1,353,400 p/w
The largest Amels superyacht to date, Here Comes The Sun became her Russian owner's 4th superyacht named after The Beatles' song. The superyacht features exterior design by Tim Heywood and interior style by Winch Design.
Amongst her main features are a 5.5-metre swimming pool aft of the main deck, an extensive 87-square-metre beach club area located right underneath with a sitting area, sauna and gym. Other amenities also include a cinema room and a large Jacuzzi on the sundeck.
As for the accommodation, there are 8 guest cabins on board and space for 27 crew. The six-decks yacht comprises 900 square metres of outside deck space and a garage capable of storing four jet skis and two 11m tenders.
Meanwhile, the superyacht generated one of the highest charter revenues during the summer 2017, estimated at €9-9.5 million.
#3. Excellence
Builder: Abeking & Rasmussen (2019)
LOA: 80m
Charter in winter: from $ 1,100,000 p/w
Photo: Dutch Yachting
The vessel is believed to be owned by Herb Chambers, American billionaire and the owner of a network of six dozen dealerships in Massachusetts. He is also famous for his collection of exotic cars. The automotive dealership mogul estimated at $1.5 billion by Forbes.
The sixth largest vessel of Abeking & Rasmussen, Excellence features both exteriors and interiors developed by the UK-based design studio Winch Design. Her framework relies on the same technical platform as the 81-metre Grace (ex. Kibo), featuring a 12.6- metre beam and a maximum draught of 3.5 metres.
Key exterior trademark of Excellence is her striking and angular reverse bow, offering a silhouette comparable to a spaceship. Her exterior lines draw the eye to the bridge and owner’s decks surrounded by curved floor-to-ceiling mirrored glass, blurring the distinction between the upper deck and the panoramic skylounge.
With accommodation capacity for 14 guests, Excellence offers a swimming pool and platform, as well as Jacuzzi and sprawling beach club and impressive limousine tenders.
#4. Vida
Builder: Heesen (2019)
LOA: 55m
Delivered in May 2019, Vida represents the third project in Heesen FDHF steel class series. With muscular exterior outline by Frank Laupman, Omega Architects, one of the distinctive hallmarks of the vessel’s layout are french windows designed to get the most of the natural light on-board.
Vida is also the first yacht in Heesen fleet to comply with the latest emissions regulations, thanks to a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system that reduces NOx in exhaust emissions.
As to interior concept, the owner commissioned Be Design Associates, a design bureau based in Florida, for whom Vida became the first new-build yacht project. The yacht’s interior volume amounts to 740 GT, with the accommodation provided to 12 guests within five cabins on the lower deck and a 80-squere-metre master suite forward on the main deck.
Vida’s owner, experienced American yachtsman and sport fisherman, worked closely with the shipyard’s engineers to customise his new yacht and make her the mothership of his sport fishing fleet. Thus, Vida can refuel and recharge the owner’s Bayliss 60 and Bayliss 68 sportfish yachts, enabling the guests and the owners to spend several days offshore without returning to the base.
#5. Solo
Builder: Tankoa (2018)
LOA: 72m
Charter in winter: from approx. $ 665,600 p/w
The yacht was launched in August 2018, making her international debut at the Monaco Yacht Show the same year.
Designed by Francesco Paszkowski in collaboration with Margherita Casprini, Solo’s interiors represent blend of contemporary and timeless air. Her spacious main and upper salons provide relaxation zones with large plush seating areas, along with a dazzling baby grand piano and numerous entertainment options.
The yacht’s six staterooms can accommodate up to 12 guests, including a spacious VIP, two doubles and two twins. The master suite is fitted with a private terrace complete with sunpads and a Jacuzzi with panoramic views. On the skylounge aft, there is a swimming pool and a private dance floor, which easily converts to a touch-and-go helipad.
Solo’s beach club, meanwhile, represents a spacious and welcoming space with sofa, bar, TV, oversized glass walled gym with fold-out terrace, bathroom, sauna (also fitted with its own fold-out terrace) and hammam.
#6. Baba's
Builder: HSY Yachts (2019)
LOA: 56m
The brand new 56-metre superyacht represents a debut of the Turkish builder HSY Yachts on the international arena. The builder's flagship, Baba's was commissioned by an American customer.
The superyacht features exteriors by Unique Yacht Design, the studio working closely with another Turkish builder Bilgin Yachts on their two 80-metre projects. The yard’s in-house team has handled her naval architecture and interior design meanwhile.
This tri-deck yacht features a 10,4-metre beam, building up interior volume of 800 GT spread over three decks. Baba's has been constructed of a steel hull and aluminum superstructure.
The yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests within 6 cabins including a main-deck full-beam owner’s cabin, an upper deck VIP near the captain’s cabin. 4 guest cabins as long as 6 cabins for up to 11 crew members are laid on the lower deck.
#7. Broadwater
Builder: Feadship (2000)
LOA: 50.3
Charter in winter: from $245,000 p/w plus expenses
Broadwater was launched under the name Blue Moon in 2000, as the world’s first all-aluminium yacht over 500 GT. She features designs by Donald Starkey, along with naval architecture by Feadship De Voogt Naval Architects.
The 50-metre yacht features a beam of 9,5 meters and a draft of 2,5 meters. With her aluminium hull and aluminium superstructure, she bears gross tonnage of 692 tons. Broadwater's maximum accommodation capacity is 12 guests in 6 cabins.
The yacht completed an all-encompassing refit in 2017. The modifications included a completely new interior design refit by Adam Voorhees for a six-stateroom layout. In June, she was spotted at Feadship yard in Amsterdam, for pre-season deck and engineering works, according to Feadship.
Her maximum speed of 17 knots and cruising speed of 14 knots are provided with Caterpillar engines of 1500 hp each.
Custom Line concluded 2024 with the launch of two new yachts, bringing the total number of vessels introduced at the Ferretti Group Superyacht Yard in Ancona to 18 over the past year. Among the launches were the Custom Line 50, the brand’s first all-aluminium 50-meter displacement superyacht, and the Custom Line Navetta 38, a 299 GT displacement yacht. The first units of these models were launched in January and November, respectively.Custom Line 50The shipyard completed eleven launches in the Navetta line, six in the planing line, and one in the aluminium superyacht line. A new Custom Line Navetta 30 was launched on December 4, marking the 22nd hull in this displacement line. The yacht, measuring 28.43 metres in length with a beam of 7.3 metres, was developed by the Product Strategy Department and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, in collaboration with ACPV ARCHITECTS Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel for the interiors and Filippo Salvetti for the exterior styling. Custom Line Atelier provided strategic consulting to adapt the interior design to the owner's stylistic preferences. Custom Line Navetta 38The year concluded with the launch of the 33rd Custom Line Navetta 33 on December 16. The vessel was developed by the Product Strategy Committee and the Ferretti Group Engineering Department, with Custom Line Atelier overseeing the owner's requests. The yacht, measuring 33 metres in length with a beam of 7.52 metres, was designed for charter operations and includes a number of customised features such as pullman beds in the guest cabins, additional storage units, and cocktail bars on the sun deck. The interior incorporates materials such as Irish Green marble in the master bathroom and American walnut flooring. The yacht’s colour scheme reflects the owner's preference for sage green, integrated in various elements throughout the interior.The 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
January 30, 2025
Ocean Independence recorded a 22% increase in retail charter income in 2024 compared to the previous year, with several yachts in its Central Agency Fleet surpassing typical seasonal booking targets. The most frequently booked yacht was Onyx, securing over ten weeks of charter, followed closely by E-Motion and Isotta.OnyxChief Commercial Officer Toby Maclaurin stated, “We are very pleased with the 2024 charter result. It was a key pillar to the company’s overall performance and we expect a similar, if not better, result in 2025. Chartering large yachts is in vogue and we are well prepared to meet the needs of a wide variety of customers with our portfolio. Of course, we can also reserve any other available charter yacht for our customers.”The list of top-performing charter yachts in 2024 was led by Onyx, a 25.48-meter Ferretti-built yacht from 2007. The vessel accommodates up to ten guests in four staterooms and offers a spacious aft deck, alfresco dining areas, and a hot tub. Charter rates start from EUR 40,000 per week.E-MotionE-Motion, a 40-metre Sunseeker, was also among the most-booked yachts. It offers accommodation for ten guests across five staterooms, including a full-beam master suite and convertible twin staterooms. Charter rates begin at EUR 170,000 per week.IsottaIsotta, a Ferretti 1000 motor yacht, was another high-performing vessel. It features an innovative aft beach area and a spacious flybridge. The yacht accommodates up to ten guests in five staterooms, with rates starting from EUR 114,000 per week.VertigeVertige, a 50-meter yacht built by Tankoa in 2017, also saw strong bookings. The aluminium-built vessel features minimalist deck spaces and a contemporary interior by Francesco Paszkowski, accommodating 12 guests in six staterooms. Charter rates start at EUR 270,000 per week.HuboHubo, an Azimut 85 delivered in 2015, remains a popular choice among charterers. The yacht accommodates eight guests in four staterooms, including a full-beam master suite. Rates start from EUR 40,000 per week.With demand for large yacht charters increasing, Ocean Independence is advising early bookings for the 2025 season. Helene Delstanche, Group Charter Fleet Manager, commented, “To secure your dream yacht, I suggest calling us rather sooner than later. 2025 bookings are already strong, and demand will only get higher as we get closer to springtime.”Credits: Ocean Independence
January 30, 2025
Sialia Yachts will showcase its fully electric 57-foot model, the Sialia 57 Deep Silence, at the Miami International Boat Show from February 12-16, 2025. The yacht will be presented in collaboration with Yacht Sales International, Sialia Yachts’ official dealer in North America, and will be located at One Herald Plaza, Dock B (3rd intersection).The Sialia 57 Deep Silence is equipped with a proprietary drivetrain featuring a 256 kWh battery, which can be upgraded to 1 MWh, and twin 400 kW electric motors. The yacht has a cruising speed of 16 knots and can exceed 25 knots at full speed. Its carbon fiber hull, optimized by Vripack, measures 16 feet in beam and is designed for stability and efficiency.The model accommodates up to 12 passengers and includes a climate-controlled cockpit, multiple lounge areas, a beach club with folding sides, and a garage for an 11-foot tender. It is also fitted with fast-charging capabilities to reduce downtime. A biofuel-compatible range extender is available to increase operational flexibility.Sialia Yachts emphasizes lifecycle considerations in its construction process, using carbon hulls that are more recyclable and durable than traditional GRP. The electric propulsion system is designed to require minimal maintenance, with electric motors needing only a grease change every 10 years. The batteries are rated for 30,000 cycles and come with a five-year guarantee, along with the rest of the propulsion system. The yacht’s technology is designed to be upgradable, allowing for extended operational longevity and reduced depreciation.Established in 2017, Sialia Yachts, owned by Silent Straits, is a company focused on sustainability and ocean-friendly innovation aiming to set new standards in yachting, with designs that inspire both enthusiasts and experts. The company offers the following models: 45, 59, and 80 Explorer. Sialia Yachts is based in Warsaw, Poland, with a team that includes members in the Netherlands and Italy.Credits: Blueiprod/Sialia Yachts
January 30, 2025
Arcon Yachts has confirmed the sale of two new-build Benetti Oasis 40M models, with both units scheduled for delivery in 2027. The 40.8-meter yachts will be constructed at Benetti’s facility in Livorno, Italy.The Oasis 40M series is one of Benetti’s most established lines, recognized for its Oasis Deck, which features a 90-square-meter open space with a flat platform, two unfolding gunwales that create overwater balconies, an infinity pool, and multiple seating areas. The design is intended to maximize outdoor living and provide an extended connection to the water.Accommodation is arranged across five cabins, including a main deck master suite. According to the broker, the interiors will emphasize contemporary design, though further details have yet to be disclosed. Exterior styling for the series is by British studio RWD, while the interiors are developed by Bonetti / Kozerski architecture.Powered by twin MAN engines, the standard performance specifications of the Oasis 40M include a maximum speed of 18 knots and a cruising speed of 12 knots. The yacht has a beam of 8.5 meters and a draft of 2.1 meters.Founded in 1873, Benetti is the oldest Italian shipyard specializing in luxury yachts. Benetti designs, builds and sells composite vessels from 29 to 44m and steel and aluminum boats from 37 to over 100m. The fleet consists of five categories: Class, Oasis, B.Yond, B.Now and Custom to meet all the needs of the market. Benetti belongs to the Azimut|Benetti Group, the largest privately owned luxury yachting group in the world.Credits: Benetti
January 29, 2025
Italian yacht builder Pardo Yachts is charting a course for significant expansion into the Middle East, announcing an exclusive dealership agreement with Dubai-based Ocean 360 and a highly anticipated debut at the Dubai International Boat Show 2025. This strategic move underscores the brand's commitment to establishing a strong presence within one of the world's most discerning yachting markets.Pardo 43The partnership with Ocean 360, a leading provider of premium yacht services, will see Pardo Yachts showcase its renowned craftsmanship and innovative designs to the UAE and wider Gulf region. The Dubai International Boat Show, running from February 19th-23rd, 2025, will serve as the ideal platform to unveil the brand's flagship models, the Pardo 38 and Pardo 43.Pardo 38"The Middle East represents a strategically important market for Pardo Yachts' global growth," commented Marcello Veronesi, CEO of Cantiere del Pardo. "Partnering with the established and respected Ocean 360 provides us with the ideal platform to connect with discerning clients who appreciate the unparalleled quality and style synonymous with our yachts."Sebastian Dumitrescu, CEO of Ocean 360, added: "We are privileged to represent Pardo Yachts as their exclusive dealer in the UAE. Their commitment to innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship aligns seamlessly with our dedication to providing world-class yachting experiences. We are thrilled to introduce these stunning yachts to clients throughout the region."Marcello Veronesi, Sebastian Dumitrescu, Bogdan Borascu and Rok Babarovic (photo by Luca D'Ambrosio)Visitors to the Dubai International Boat Show can experience the epitome of Italian yachting excellence firsthand. The Pardo 38 and Pardo 43, both representing the pinnacle of Pardo's walkaround range, will be on display, showcasing the brand's intelligent use of space and unwavering commitment to bespoke luxury. These models epitomize the perfect harmony of aesthetic appeal and superior functionality, offering unparalleled comfort and performance.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. Grand Soleil was founded in 1973 and is famous for its yachts, which ensure performance for regattas, autonomous long-distance navigation, as well as a high level of sustainable consciousness.Credits: Cantiere del Pardo
January 29, 2025