The 65th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, held in its namesake city on the Southeast Florida Coast from 30 October to 3 November 2024, welcomed Australia’s largest ever contingent to the most prominent in-water boat show in the world.

Founded in 1959, FLIBS has grown into a premier global event, displaying some of the world’s largest and most luxurious superyachts. The Show boasts over three million square feet of exhibition space across seven locations, attracting more than 100,000 visitors, with nearly half traveling from outside Florida to attend.

In a powerful alliance, Superyacht Australia (SYA) and AIMEX hosted alongside Tourism Fiji and Tahiti Tourisme, providing an in-depth look at the diverse offerings within Australia and the South Pacific’s superyacht and marine sector. Exhibitors showcased the latest industry developments, products, services, events, and marine tourism opportunities, providing valuable insights into the outstanding cruising experiences available in the region.

The South Pacific Superyachting Stand

The Australian delegation in attendance and representing SYA and AIMEX included Aurora Yacht Logistics, City of Gold Coast, Coral Sea Marina, Carbon Game Towers International, Eighth Degree South, Illumi Vases, Marine Air Flow International, Marine Structures, Melanesian Luxury Yachts, Southport Yacht Club, Superyacht Group Great Barrier Reef, The Superyacht People, The Textile and Design Studio.

In addition, SYA teamed up with Tourism Fiji partners Port Denarau Marina, Yacht Help Fiji, Nawi Island Marina, along with Tahiti Tourisme partners Tahiti Private Expeditions and Seal Superyachts Tahiti. A standout feature of the Fijian presence on the stand was the daily cultural dance performed by Fijian Warriors, followed by a traditional kava tasting.

Superyacht Australian Stand David Good CEO and Maddie Spencer

A momentous focus at FLIBS was Australia’s Gold Coast leading a Trade Mission, with an unprecedented seven Gold Coast companies— all members of SYA and AIMEX—presenting their exceptional products and services on the international stage. This initiative strengthens business opportunities for our members and celebrates the Sister City relationship between the Gold Coast and Fort Lauderdale. Additionally, Australia’s Gold Coast served as a Silver Sponsor at the annual International Superyacht Society (ISS) Awards Night, further solidifying its commitment to the global superyacht industry.

ISS Awards Gala Dinner

AIMEX members made a significant impact at the show, with Riviera prominently displaying 11 boats and taking the opportunity to launch their 6000th vessel during the finale evening. Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis attended the launch, further emphasising the strong partnership between the two cities. Maritimo showcased three vessels, while Carbon Game Towers featured a tower on one of the boats. Additionally, Muir Engineering and VEEM were present, collaborating with their respective overseas partners.

Other key highlights of the show included strengthening SYA’s valuable relationship with the U.S. Superyacht Association (USSA). SYA was featured in the USSA Destinations Luncheon, and David Good, CEO of Superyacht Australia, attended the USSA Annual General Meeting, where he was honored with the inaugural International Industry Partner Award for his outstanding contributions to the global superyacht community. Throughout the show, SYA also made use of the USSA’s Sky Lounge, creating valuable networking opportunities.

Networking in the U.S. Superyacht Association (USSA) Sky Lounge

The International SeaKeepers Society hosted a memorable SeaKeepers Society Gala Dinner, emphasising their progress in the South Pacific region over the last twelve months, with appreciation to the efforts of South Pacific Director Melissa White. The evening honoured Guy Harvey, 2024 SeaKeeper of the Year and Shireen Rahimi, 2024 NextGen Awardee, whilst simultaneously honouring the dozens of yachts and megayachts in its Discovery Fleet. SYA looks forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship with SeaKeepers in future years, recognising their valuable contribution to global marine conservation.

The successful show culminated in the South Pacific Superyachting Stand Networking Drinks, presenting a selection of Australian wines. The event was well attended, offering excellent opportunities for effective networking.

David Good, CEO, Superyacht Australia and AIMEX commented; “Fort Lauderdale is a great show for our members with both Superyacht destination marketing and the Australian marine manufacturers both gaining equal benefits from exhibiting. The Australian boxing kangaroo has a big impact as the Australian reputation is very strong”.

Vaikobi Sunrise Stroll

www.aimex.asn.au

www.superyacht-australia.com