Top Five Boat Shows Around the Globe

Updated September 18, 2024

Mark your calendars—boat show season is here, and we’re bringing you the scoop on the top shows happening around the world. Whether it’s the glamorous French Riviera or sunny Florida, these exclusive events are your chance to check out a wide range of boats and yachts for sale, see the latest marine tech, and score some great deals from top manufacturers and dealers. Every year, thousands of people find their dream boat at these shows, and this could be your year. Don’t miss out on the five biggest and best boat shows of the season!

1. Cannes Yachting Festival
2. Monaco Yacht Show
3. Fort Lauderdale Int’l Boat Show
4. Miami Int’l Boat Show
5. Palm Beach Int’l Boat Show

#1 Cannes Yachting Festival – September

Right in the heart of the French Riviera at Vieux Port and Port Canto, you’ll find one of the world’s most diverse yacht shows—the Cannes Yachting Festival. This six-day event brings together a wide variety of yachts and boats for sale, from motor yachts and sailing boats to monohulls, multihulls, superyachts, and even water toys. Since 1977, Cannes has been the official kickoff to the yachting season, attracting over 50,000 attendees and hosting many world premieres. It’s a must-see event, rivaling the famous Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and standing as Europe’s most popular, alongside the Monaco show. The 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival kicks off September 9-14.

#2 Monaco Yacht Show – September

Superyacht fans, this one’s for you! Since 1991, the Monaco Yacht Show has been the go-to event for anyone looking to explore a stunning lineup of superyachts and megayachts, whether for sale or charter. It’s also the perfect opportunity to connect with top industry experts. The show is divided into two main areas: Afloat, where you can tour over 100 superyachts and luxury tenders, and Quayside, where you’ll find designers, naval architects, yacht suppliers, and manufacturers of tenders and all kinds of nautical gadgets. Of the 100+ yachts on display, over 40 are brand-new models or world premieres. If you’re ready to indulge in luxury, join our certified yacht brokers at the Monaco Yacht Show, running from September 25-28, 2024.

#3 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show – October

FLIBS Across the Atlantic, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is the ultimate event for yacht enthusiasts. Held every October, it draws over 100,000 visitors with more than 1,300 boats and 1,000 brands on display across seven locations, including Bahia Mar Yachting Center and Superyacht Village. FLIBS features the largest in-water display of boats and marine exhibits, with more world and U.S. debuts than any other show.

Team Galati will be there from October 30-November 3, 2024, showcasing new and pre-owned yachts. Our certified brokers can also show you any brokerage boat—just book an appointment for assistance. Planning a trip? Check out our Ft. Lauderdale visitor’s guide for top attractions, restaurants, and more.

#4 Miami International Boat Show – February

Every February, South Florida hosts one of the biggest yachting events of the season—the Miami International Boat Show (MIBS) by Discover Boating. Since teaming up with the Miami Yacht Show, this event now spans six locations and draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world. The show takes place at top spots like the Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, One Herald Plaza, Sea Isle Marina, Museum Park Marina, and Island Gardens.

From outboard boats to luxury superyachts, MIBS has something for everyone! Check out our Miami visitor guide to plan your stay, and rely on our team of sales professionals to help you navigate the show. We can show you any brokerage boat at the event, along with our lineup of new and pre-owned yachts for sale.

#5 Palm Beach International Boat Show – March

Love the Miami and Fort Lauderdale boat shows but prefer a more laid-back vibe? Then the Palm Beach Boat Show is perfect for you. Growing in popularity, the Palm Beach International Boat Show offers the same high-quality experience as the bigger shows, minus the crowds. This year marks its 41st anniversary, and it will feature over $1.2 billion worth of yachts, boats, accessories, and more. Held every March along Flagler Drive in Downtown West Palm Beach, this family-friendly event showcases boats from 30 to 300 feet, with live music, refreshments at the famous floating cocktail lounge, educational activities, and beautiful Florida weather to enjoy.

Make an appointment with us, and we’ll connect you with one of our expert yacht brokers for a VIP experience. We’re here to help you find the boat of your dreams! And if you’re visiting from out of town, don’t forget to check out our Palm Beach visitor guide for tips on local restaurants, activities, and where to stay.

Other Noteworthy Boat Shows

Southampton International Boat Show – September

The Southampton International Boat Show is Britain’s biggest festival of boating that kicks off every year in September. The event showcases everything aquatic, from paddleboards and kayaks to catamarans and superyachts. Plus, many marine products and services needed for time spent on or near the water. Catch the show this year, September 13-22, 2024, at Mayflower Park.

Genoa International Boat Show – September

The Genoa International Boat Show is Italy’s premiere boating event, featuring Italian boat builders and suppliers. Italy is home to some of the world’s best-known yacht brands including Sanlorenzo, Azimut, Benetti, and the Ferretti Group. Visitors will find that the event is divided into multiple segments, making it easy to find what you need. Area segments include tech trade, sailing, outboards, yachts and superyachts, and living the sea. Catch the 64th annual boat show from September 19-24, 2024.

About Galati Yacht Sales

Since 1970, the Galati family and our team of over 200 dedicated professionals have been driven by a passion for delivering meaningful experiences to our customers. With decades of expertise and a commitment to adaptability, we ensure top-notch service in every interaction. Our mission is simple: to consistently exceed your expectations. Whether you’re buying or selling, we aim to provide the best boating experience possible while helping you create unforgettable adventures and memories with family and friends. Reach out to us today for more information on our yachting services and let us help you make your boating dreams a reality.
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