Spanning five days from October 30 to November 3 (2024), the event welcomed over 100,000 attendees to witness the unveiling of nearly 100 new boats and marvel at a showcase of record-breaking superyachts. This year’s FLIBS was not just an event; it was a tribute to decades of maritime tradition and a glimpse into the future of the industry.
This article is a follow-up of our earlier article titled https://boatingnz.co.nz/2024/10/fort-lauderdale-international-boat-show-a-world-leading-boating-event/
A 65-Year Legacy Reaches New Heights
Marking its 65th anniversary, FLIBS stands as a world-renowned showcase of boating excellence, and 2024 was no exception. From its start as a modest marine show, FLIBS has evolved into an unparalleled celebration, attracting yacht enthusiasts, manufacturers, and celebrities alike. Among the attendees this year was Denmark’s Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe (a prolific online writer who has an opinion on many things) who described the show as not just a boat show but as “an immersive journey into the soul of the maritime world.”
Despite some initial challenges, including stormy weather on opening day, the 2024 show drew record-breaking crowds and displayed an incredible range of vessels across a tad under an impressive 278,100 square metres. From the largest superyachts to electric boats, FLIBS 2024 illustrated why Fort Lauderdale remains an epicenter of boating culture and innovation.
The Stars of the Superyacht Village
One of the most anticipated aspects of FLIBS is the Superyacht Village, where size, luxury, and design come together. The Mangusta Oceano 44, which has won Best in Show in 2022 returned still dazzling onlookers with its cutting-edge design and high-performance features. Other crowd-favorites included AMARYLLIS, ABBENTURES2, LOON, and MARGUERITE, all of which showcased opulent interiors, state-of-the-art technology, and expansive outdoor decks designed to maximize comfort and views.
This year also saw an impressive array of nearly 100 new boat debuts. From sleek, modern cruisers to lavish superyachts, manufacturers revealed yachts that ranged from high-speed designs to models tailored for long-range, luxurious travel. Standouts included AB Yacht’s newest models, the AB95 with two versions; the first version is similar to the AB110 while the second version, the AB95-S is designed to look like and feel like a sports car.
Electric Innovations Lead the Charge
A growing theme of FLIBS 2024 was the rise of electric and eco-friendly boating, with leading brands like Axopar, Evoy, Candela, Greenline, and Silent-Yachts presenting groundbreaking models.
Axopar, one of the fastest-growing boat manufacturers globally, recently unveiled its new all-electric line, AX/E , designed to push the boundaries of sustainable boating. Axopar’s AX/E 25, equipped with Evoy’s impressive 300+ hp electric outboard, was one of the event’s most discussed models. Combining power with sustainability, it offered boaters a glimpse into a future of fast, environmentally-friendly marine travel. The company introduced its first electric-powered model at the Cannes Yachting Festival in 2022, and their Axopar 25, featuring high-powered electric outboards by Evoy, went on to win last year’s Gustave Trouvé Electric Boat Award in the Up To 8m / 26ft category.
Since then, Axopar’s designers have made notable updates to the 25, incorporating features that enhance the electric boating experience.
Another standout was the Candela C-8 (you will find our review of the C7 here at https://boatingnz.co.nz/boat-reviews/candela-c7/), a hydrofoiling electric boat designed for efficiency and smooth, quiet performance on the water. These innovations underscored the industry’s increasing focus on eco-conscious design, meeting the demand for boating options that minimise environmental impact while offering superior performance.
The FLIBS Seminar Series: Navigating New Trends
Among the highlights of this year’s show was an enlightening seminar titled How Can Yacht Builders Attract the Next Generation of Owners?, a discussion that addressed the evolving priorities of new yacht owners. Panelists Enrique Tintore, Björn Benecke, and Claudio Corvino emphasised how younger buyers are prioritising unique experiences, sustainable technology, and family-oriented designs.
The seminar highlighted several significant trends:
Sustainable Technologies: New owners are increasingly younger than previous to Covid-19 are are interested in hybrid technology and alternative fuels, reflecting a commitment to reducing environmental impact.
Personalisation and Family: Many buyers seek yachts tailored for family use, with adaptable spaces that make yachting accessible and comfortable for multi-generational groups.
Guidance and Support: Panelists stressed the importance of educating new owners on yachting, helping them navigate the complexities of ownership and enjoy the full yachting lifestyle.
These insights offered a fascinating look at how the industry is shifting to accommodate new values and preferences, aligning with broader trends toward sustainable and family-friendly experiences.
AquaZone: Watersports and Interactive Fun
Adding to the dynamic atmosphere of FLIBS was the AquaZone, a space dedicated to showcasing the latest watersport technology. This interactive zone featured everything from personal watercraft to dive equipment, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of new watersport gear firsthand. For many attendees, the AquaZone provided an adrenaline-fueled complement to the more stately superyachts and offered a look at how technology is enhancing the fun and adventure of life on the water.
Having been to a number of Boat Shows in New Zealand, my 2c, it would be great to see an on-the-water AquaZone-type exhibition zone.
Cutting-Edge Powertrains for the Power Enthusiast
For the performance-minded crowd, FLIBS 2024 unveiled the latest in marine engines and powertrains, including innovations from top manufacturers. Mercury Racing’s 150R engine made waves with its combination of power and reliability, while Volvo Penta’s Twin FWD Drive captured attention with its forward-facing technology designed for better manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency. These advancements represent the ongoing push for higher performance, smoother handling, and greater fuel efficiency in the marine industry, particularly as vessels continue to grow in size and speed.
Looking Back on FLIBS 2024—and Looking Forward
As the 65th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show came to a close, it left behind memories of extraordinary yachts, groundbreaking technology, and a community deeply engaged with the future of boating. With a record-breaking turnout, innovative electric models, and superyachts that redefine luxury, FLIBS 2024 was a milestone that underscored both the tradition and the forward momentum of the maritime industry.
Boating enthusiasts and industry leaders are already looking ahead to FLIBS 2025, where electrification, personalisation, and sustainability will likely continue to be in the spotlight. Until then, the 2024 event has set a high standard, affirming FLIBS as a key platform where dreams of boating grandeur become reality.
