Like many Floridians, I grew up around boats, so attending the local boat shows in South Florida has long been a part of my life, but the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show is always a special treat. Perhaps its because the Fort Lauderdale show is the first of our winter season. The air starts getting just a little cooler, the beaches and waterways seem empty, its almost spooky quiet; sort of like the calm before the storm. And then out of nowhere the buzz starts to build, the Intracoastal fills up with vessels of all shapes and sizes, and before you know it the boat show is here!
Fort Lauderdale is known as both the “The Venice of America” and “The Yachting Capital of the World” so its no wonder our boat show is the largest in the world. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show attracts yachties and boating enthusiasts from all over the world. Whether you are a boat show regular or a first timer, here are some tips for attendees that are sure to help you efficiently navigate our show.
BOAT SHOW TIPS – Venue, tickets, parking, etc.
The show is spread out between the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center and the various marinas at Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Sails Marina and The Fort Lauderdale Hilton. The convention center hosts the exhibits, booths and smaller boat displays and the big boy boats are all at the marinas. You can go between the various locations by shuttle bus or water taxi.
You can buy tickets at the show or online for $20 for one day or $38 for a 2 day pass. The busiest days are Saturday and Sunday, so if you don’t like the crowds try to go Thursday, Friday morning, or Monday. The Primetime Preview on Thursday is more expensive ($36), but worth it if you want the first chance to buy your dream boat. Yes, the good ones do sell early in the show, especially if the weather is good.
Win Boat Show Tickets and Dinner at Coconuts in our Facebook Contest!
Parking close by can be difficult and expensive, so consider taking a taxi, especially if you want to be at the Bahia Mar and Hall of Fame Marinas. Another good option is to park at the convention center and take the water shuttle to the marinas. You can also jump on the water taxi from any stop in Fort Lauderdale and connect to all of the boat show locations. Here is the full schedule and link to the Show Management web site:
BOAT SHOW SCHEDULE
October 31 to November 4, 2013
Prime Time Preview:
Thurs. Oct 31, 10am – 7pm
General Admission:
Fri. Nov 1, 10am – 7pm
Sat. Nov 2, 10am – 7pm
Sun. Nov 3, 10am – 7pm
Mon. Nov 4, 10am – 5pm
TICKETS: $20 online or $22 at the show. Win 4 tickets plus dinner in our free drawing
Go to the Show Management web site for more information
SPECIAL FEATURE:
Properties To See While Here For The Boat Show
