Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Achieves $1.78 Billion Impact

News Summary

The 65th Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) showcased its grandeur with a remarkable economic impact of $1.78 billion for Florida. Despite a slight decrease from last year, over 100,000 attendees enjoyed more than 1,300 boats, generating significant local income and supporting thousands of jobs. This premier event not only highlights the marine industry’s success but also emphasizes stewardship of marine conservation through partnerships. With upgraded amenities and impressive yacht displays, FLIBS continues to establish itself as a vital economic force in the region.

Fort Lauderdale Shines as Boat Show Sets $1.78 Billion Record

The beautiful city of Fort Lauderdale welcomed boating enthusiasts from across the globe for the 65th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), which took place from October 30 to November 3, 2024. This dazzling event has once again proven its grandeur, generating an astounding $1.78 billion in economic impact for the state of Florida!

A Slight Decrease, But Still Impressive

Although this year’s economic impact saw a slight dip of 0.6% from the record-setting $1.79 billion achieved in 2021-2023, the figures still highlight the event’s significance. A deep-dive economic analysis conducted by marine industry consulting firm Thomas J. Murray & Associates sheds light on how exceedingly prosperous this show has become.

Setting the Scene for a Boating Extravaganza

Known as the world’s largest in-water boat show, FLIBS showcased more than 1,300 boats from about 1,000 brands and welcomed over 100,000 attendees to its marvelous displays. The event also supported over 10,000 full-time jobs throughout the Sunshine State and contributed $84.1 million in state and local taxes!

A Boost for Residents and Local Businesses

Residents of Florida felt the financial ripple as the show added $570.4 million in personal income. Attendees and exhibitors spent approximately $54.2 million locally, with $13.5 million earmarked for hotel lodging alone. It’s clear that the boat show not only brings in boats but also gets local businesses sailing into new opportunities!

Male or Female, Young or Old—It’s All About the Boats!

The marine product sales during the show hit a high note too, totaling $823.5 million. Florida-based companies alone took a hefty slice of that pie with $694.5 million in sales, while Broward County reaped $228.9 million. Talk about riding the wave of success!

Bringing the Tri-County Area Together

It’s noteworthy that nearly 48% of exhibitors came from outside the tri-county region, which indicates the drawing power of FLIBS. Exhibitor personnel typically stuck around the area for an average of five days during the festivities. This certainly adds to the local economy’s vibrancy!

A Boat Show with a Purpose

FLIBS is not just about boats; it also plays a significant role in marine conservation. The event has partnered with initiatives like the Water Revolution Foundation, aligning its goals with environmental preservation. Imagine mingling with luxury yachts while supporting sustainable practices!

A Grand Showcase of Yachts

This year’s assembly of aquatic marvels featured a breathtaking 194 superyachts and 97 show debuts. The star of the show had to be the remarkable AMARYLLIS, a stunning 257.4-foot superyacht making her first return to the event in a decade. Other notable mentions include the debut of LOON at 221.5 feet and BELLA VITA at 196.10 feet.

Upgraded Amenities and Access

Attendees were treated to a plethora of amenities, including improved transportation options through a well-thought-out hub located at the Broward County Convention Center. Guests enjoyed easy mobility via shuttles, water taxis, and golf carts, making it all the more convenient to explore the aquatic spectacle.

Finishing on a High Note

While there was a slight decline from previous years, the $1.78 billion economic impact of this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show still speaks volumes about the thriving marine industry in Florida. With illustrious boat displays, extensive marine product sales, and the vital support for local businesses, it is clear that FLIBS stands as a powerhouse of economic influence!

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