Since its inaugural year, the most accommodating evolution of the event has been its multiple locations. This year’s ticket holders will have five sites to explore: Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Las Olas Marina, Broward County Convention Center, Hall of Fame Marina and Fort Lauderdale Grande Hotel & Yacht Club.
With several sites to scope out, one might wonder how they can keep it all straight. Most people will find the answer in their pocket with the MyBoatShow application. As the official app of the boat show, this free feature to anyone with an iPhone, iPad or Android platform not only acts as an interactive map, but allows guests to search for the boats they want to see based on certain specifications (size, manufacturer or type).
“There is so much for people to do and see at the boat show; having this type of technology will allow them to maximize their time,” says Steve Sheer, director of marketing and show management. Along with the technological advancements, this year’s attendees can expect to observe the latest electronics and marine innovations.
The variety of the boat show extends to the broad range of people it aims to entertain. From kid activities to pro fishing seminars, Sheer describes the boat show as an experience that “has something to offer everyone.” This is no understatement when considering the colorful collection of vessels. From inflatable boats to yachts more than 200 feet long, both new and pre-owned, the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show casts anchors of interest for everyone.
“What amazes me is how the quality of the exhibits keeps growing. Each year the boats are getting bigger, and the [presenters] continue to pull out all of the stops,” Sheer says.
Worldwide media attention and international visitors have Sheer and others describing the event as “the Super Bowl for the marine industry.” With an expected turnout of more than 100,000 people, the success of this year is inevitable — no championship ring required.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
Date: Thursday, Oct. 27 to Monday, Oct. 31
Where: Fort Lauderdale
What: Boat exhibits, demonstrations, seminars and more
Tickets: Opening day $32; Individual day passes are $18 for adults; $5 for children ages 6-15, and free to children younger than 6. Multiple day passes are also available.
Contact: For a $2 discount, purchase tickets online at showmanagement.com. Tickets will also be available at the box offices of event sites.
Additional Info: Need assistance at the event? Look for crew members wearing lime green shits; they are there to answer all of your boat show questions. Also, check out the website for a wide variety of parking accommodations and transportation routes to take you from site-to-site.
