Known as the Venice of America, the city of Fort Lauderdale is the quintessential locale to host the world’s largest in-water boat show. In this edition of The Scoop, we’re bringing you the best of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show’s 63rd annual edition from October 26-30. As avid supporters of Florida’s rich maritime heritage, ONE Sotheby’s International Realty will be out and about throughout the event. Hope to “sea” you there.

The Layout

Spanning nearly 90 acres, the show features seven exhibition spaces. It’s best to have a solid plan in place before heading out to venues including the Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, Pier 66 Marina and the Superyacht Village at Pier 66 South.

Windward VIP Club

Last year’s show with 1,000 exhibitors and 1,300 boats, plus marine merchandise, drew 100,000+ attendees. For a respite, reserve VIP entry to the Windward VIP Club in the Bahia Mar Yachting Center’s Captain’s Lounge. Perks include early show entrance, complimentary shuttle and water taxi service, and the indoor/outdoor lounge’s premium catering and private restrooms.

Buzzworthy Boats

Among contenders for this year’s Best of Show award for innovative debut model are Heesen’s 50-metre Project Aura, Mangusta’s Oceano 50 and the Bronson 50, which pioneered rear foldable side wings that transform the cockpit into a spacious island. Other buzzworthy premieres include Schaefer’s 450 Fly and Tiara’s 48 LS, its largest outboard powered yacht ever.

Family Friendly

Partake in a full program of family-friendly activities from the AquaZone’s marine product demonstrations to the engaging Kids’ Corner with marine-themed crafts and face painting. The latter also offers Hook the Future Kids Fishing Clinics, whose participants receive complimentary Carolina Skiff custom rod and reel combos. Other seminar topics are catching Florida spiny lobster and wildlife conservation.

Dining & Drinking

With 100+ culinary and beverage vendors, one won’t go hungry or thirsty. Partner Whitehaven from New Zealand hosts wine tastings, while Proof of the Pudding catering’s cuisine themes are inspired by ports of call (Portofino, the French Riviera, Cabo San Lucas). Don’t miss the Palm Harbor Marina Cocktail Barge and Goslings’ Dark ‘N Stormy Island Bar either.

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Fort Lauderdale, the Venice of America, is a boater’s and beachgoer’s paradise. But it’s also home to a burgeoning art scene that spills over into art-centric neighborhoods and annual events. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.
Las Olas Isles | Lauderdale-by-the-Sea | Victoria Park | Coral Ridge Country Club Estates