The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show returns October 28–November 1, 2026, for its 67th annual event. Known as FLIBS, it brings thousands of boats, boating brands, and people together across Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront. And it’s a show you can enjoy whether you’re shopping for your next boat or simply love spending a day around the docks.
What makes FLIBS stand out? Its history, remarkable scale, in-water displays, and broad mix of powerboats and yachts all add up to a true boating event. This year, the Little Yacht Sales team will be at Bahia Mar representing Wellcraft and Beneteau powerboats. We’d love to see you there.
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: From 13 exhibitors to a world-class event
FLIBS began in 1959 at Fort Lauderdale’s War Memorial Auditorium. The first show was a modest, informal gathering organized with local dealers and volunteers. It featured just 13 exhibitors.
That small beginning makes today’s event all the more impressive. Over time, the show grew and moved among several locations. Then, in 1976, it moved to Bahia Mar Resort and Yachting Center under new management. The organizers also shifted the event to fall, when boatbuilders traditionally introduce new model-year boats.
That change helped shape the modern FLIBS. Bahia Mar became a major part of the show’s identity, and the event continued to expand. Today, FLIBS is recognized as the largest in-water boat show in the world.
Why FLIBS is America’s premier powerboat and yacht show
First, there’s the sheer range. FLIBS spans seven locations throughout Fort Lauderdale, with more than three million square feet of exhibit space. The show attracts over 100,000 attendees and features more than 1,300 boats. It also brings together around 1,000 exhibiting brands from more than 90 countries.
Just as important, many of those boats sit in the water. So you can step aboard, walk through the spaces, and get a more practical sense of a boat’s layout than you can from a brochure or screen. Vessel access depends on the exhibitor, manufacturer, or broker, so ask before boarding.
Meanwhile, the multiple show locations create different experiences. Bahia Mar features everything from center consoles to superyachts, along with marine accessories and electronics. Other venues host additional boats, exhibits, and experiences. Complimentary shuttle and golf-cart services connect show areas, and visitors can plan their day using the official 2026 show maps.
And because the show takes place in fall, it’s a great place to explore new designs and fresh model-year offerings. You can compare boats across brands and categories in one trip. That’s useful whether you’re early in your search or already narrowing down a shortlist.
Powerboats, yachts, and plenty to explore
The Fort Lauderdale yacht show offers a lot more than one kind of boat. You’ll find center consoles, express cruisers, trawlers, motor yachts, and larger yachts. In addition, you can explore marine electronics, accessories, and services from companies across the industry.
For powerboat shoppers, the variety makes it easy to compare how different boats support different days on the water. Are you picturing offshore fishing, day trips with friends, or weekends aboard? As you walk the docks, pay attention to helm visibility, seating, storage, boarding access, and how the layout fits your crew.
And don’t overlook the atmosphere. FLIBS is a chance to talk with builders, brokers, and fellow boaters while getting a close look at what’s new. Even if you’re not ready to buy, it can help you discover which features matter most to you.
Little Yacht Sales at Bahia Mar
The Little Yacht Sales team will be at the Bahia Mar location representing Wellcraft and Beneteau powerboats. Stop by to talk boats, compare ideas, and ask our team which models may suit the way you like to spend time on the water.
Wellcraft’s current powerboat families include offshore center consoles, crossover center consoles, and Explorer models. The Fisherman series ranges from the 202 to the 352, while crossover options include the 28 T-Top, 28 Speedster, 33 T-Top, 33 Speedster, and 38 T-Top. The Explorer range includes 28-, 38-, and 44-foot models. Browse our new Wellcraft boats or visit Wellcraft’s website for more details.
Beneteau’s powerboat range offers another set of possibilities. Its Gran Turismo line includes the GT40 Open, GT45, GT45 Open, and GT50. The Flyer range includes the all-new Flyer 30, along with Flyer 7, 8, 9, and 10 models in SUNdeck and SPACEdeck configurations.
For example, the Flyer 30 features a patented stepped hull, an asymmetrical deck, and twin outboards. Also, the new Gran Turismo generation reflects Beneteau’s Alpine partnership. Ask our team about model details and availability, and explore our new Beneteau boats or the Beneteau website. Specific boats at the show can vary, so contact us if you’re hoping to see a particular model.
Plan a comfortable FLIBS 2026 visit
FLIBS runs Wednesday through Sunday, October 28–November 1. Wednesday is Preview Day, with show hours from noon to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, the show runs from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. On Sunday, it runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Before you go, check the official FLIBS site for ticket details, current maps, transportation updates, and the latest exhibitor information. The show recommends starting at the Broward County Convention Center transportation hub, where you can access complimentary shuttles and golf carts to other show locations.
And wear comfortable walking shoes. You’ll cover a lot of ground, and some exhibitors may ask you to remove your shoes before boarding. South Florida weather can change, so dress for a warm day and bring a rain layer if the forecast calls for it. Finally, make a short list of must-see boats; then leave room for a few happy dockside discoveries.
Frequently asked questions about FLIBS
When is the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2026?
FLIBS 2026 runs October 28 through November 1, 2026. It’s the show’s 67th annual event.
Where is the Fort Lauderdale boat show held?
The show takes place across seven locations throughout Fort Lauderdale, including Bahia Mar Yachting Center. The venues connect through ground and water transportation services.
Is FLIBS the largest in-water boat show?
Yes. FLIBS is recognized as the largest in-water boat show in the world. The event features more than 1,300 boats and attracts over 100,000 attendees.
Can visitors board boats at FLIBS?
Often, yes, but each exhibitor, manufacturer, or broker sets its own boarding policy. Ask the staff at the boat before stepping aboard.
Where can I find Little Yacht Sales at FLIBS?
Our team will be at Bahia Mar representing Wellcraft and Beneteau powerboats. For questions before the show, contact Little Yacht Sales.
So, if you’ll be at FLIBS, come say hello at Bahia Mar. We’d be glad to talk through Wellcraft and Beneteau powerboats, answer questions, and help you explore your next adventure on the water. And if you’re comparing new boats with brokerage options, take a look at our power listings too.