Fort Lauderdale Boat Show continue growing and is the largest event of its kind in the world. We had an interview to know more details about this successful trade show. Keep reading to know more about this popular yacht exhibition!
Why would you recommend to attend the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show and what is the attendee's profile?
It is the largest event of its kind in the world and attracts a global audience of more than 100,000 yachting and boating enthusiasts over five days. More than 1,000 exhibitors from 30 countries showcase billions worth of superyachts, boats of all types and yacht “toys” such as personal submarines, water-propelled jet packs, underwater scooters, and much more. Beyond the amazing display of 1,500 watercraft, the show features a jaw-dropping display of exotic autos.
You don’t have to be solely into yachts to enjoy this fabulous lifestyle event. In addition to being the event where yacht buyers and sellers converge each year to see what’s new, the show also delivers plenty of fun, including its popular floating cocktail lounges, live music, fishing and boating seminars for adults and children of all ages, live water sports demonstrations and marine-themed art and jewelry, all displayed across more than 3 million square feet of exhibit space.
What news can we expect for this 2017 edition?
Earlier this year, Informa PLC purchased Show Management, the company that managed the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show since 1976. Informa Exhibitions has announced plans to enhance the show and support year-round interaction between consumers and exhibitors through its new system, Boat Show Market Place, accessible through the show’s website which allows attendees to plan and manage their time at the show with a “walking list” of exhibitors and products. Sales sheets, technical specifications, marketing materials and videos are easily downloadable by consumers year-round and exhibitors can access information about customer searches for specific products.
From infrastructure improvements to innovative marketing, digital software and hotel booking solutions, Informa Exhibitions’ investments will span numerous aspects of the show experience. This will include new plastic and fiberglass floating docks, half of which will be in place for the 2017 show, new electrical equipment, improved tent flooring and new trucks. Improved wayfinding graphics and signage will make navigating the show’s seven locations, and locating specific products, easier than ever before.
The Windward VIP Club Experience located at the Hall of Fame Marina, offers the luxury of a private dining area, a premium open bar, gourmet food and meet-and-greet opportunities. This climate-controlled sanctuary is the perfect platform to network, close business, or simply share the excitement of this international boating spectacular. Each VIP Club Experience package includes show entry, Windward VIP Club access and access to the water taxi. The daily cost for the Windward VIP Club Experience is $225 per person.
Nothing beats learning from an expert when it comes to improving your boating skills. First-time boaters and seasoned skippers alike can improve their boat handling skills at courses sponsored by Carefree Boat Club. Instruction includes basic and advanced docking skills, anchoring and multi-vessel rafting techniques, open water boat handling, first mate skills and more.
Boat Raffle
TACO Marine is raffling off a completely remodeled 1989 Pursuit 2650 Powerboat, valued at more than $150,000, for its Project Boat Raffle Fundraiser for the I'M LOGAN IT Foundation at this year’s show.
Between now and November 5, entrants can make a $40 donation for one raffle ticket, or three for $100, for their chance to win the boat, which is the Great Boat Makeover featured on Ship Shape TV. The winning raffle ticket will be announced on November 5 at 1 p.m. EST during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Ticket sales will conclude at 12:30 p.m. EST Nov. 5.
Entrants can visit go.rallyup.com/projectboat to purchase raffle tickets. The boat will be on display in the lobby of the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center show location.
Show Management organises five boat shows each year along with hundreds of special events throughout the year, what are the differences between them?
Show Management manages and produces the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, produces and co-owns the Miami Yacht Show, manages and produces the Palm Beach International Boat Show, and produces and owns the St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show and the Suncoast Boat Show in Sarasota. In addition to the boat shows, Show Management produces other special events including the 99.9 KISS Country Chili Cookoff and has an active role in the production of SunFest, an annual outside music festival in West Palm Beach, Florida.
What does Fort Lauderdale Boat Show represent for the yachts business calendar?
FLIBS is recognized as the boat show where the world’s boating community comes to see what is new and do business. Unlike any other boat show, FLIBS offers a full spectrum of boats of all types and sizes, from superyachts to paddleboards and everything that floats in between, and a full array of the latest electronics, accessories and gear.
Lastly, can you give us some participation results from the last edition?
Attendance for the five day event is estimated at 100,000
More than 1,000 exhibitors
30 countries represented at the show
1,500 watercraft, yacht toys and exotic autos