FLIBS 2017: The Round-Up

By Rebecca Bradbury 7 November 2017

After returning from the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2017, YachtCharterFleet reflects on the highlights of this year’s world class exhibit held, as always, across seven show locations in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Bringing together a glittering showcase of superyachts, FLIBS 2017 was hailed a success by all in attendance. From day one, the mood across the busy boardwalks was buoyant and the general outlook from industry professionals was extremely positive.

Serious charter clients were in attendance booking vacations aboard the charter yachts in show. On the sales side, meanwhile, a number of smaller boats were sold with serious interest reported on some of the larger superyachts in attendance.

helicopter on the helipad of charter yacht CLOUDBREAK at FLIBS 2017

swimming pool on board superyacht CLOUDBREAK taken at FLIBS 2017

YachtCharterFleet heard first-hand from CEOs of the top brokerage houses and superyacht builders that they were happy with the business being done and this optimistic spirit matched the sunny weather show-goers were treated to.

The talk of the show was undoubtedly the 73m/238ft charter yacht CLOUDBREAK from Abeking & Rasmussen. YachtCharterFleet was lucky enough to be invited on board for an exclusive tour and will provide an in-depth review in the upcoming weeks.

Also drawing admiring glances was the 66m/217ft superyacht VANISH, a 2016 build from Feadship. Unfortunately not available for charter, she stood out thanks to her beautiful exterior styling and helicopter perched atop her helipad.

The renowned Dutch shipyard was also turning heads in the exhibition area. A member of the team designing superyachts in real time and an interactive model wowed all who passed by the stand.

live superyacht designer on the Feadship stand at FLIBS 2017

Feadship superyacht VANISH with helicopter atop her helipad at FLIBS 2017

Other highlights from the boating event included the ISS Design & Leadership Awards, which were held on 1^st November. The 86m/180ft charter yacht AQUILA picked up the ‘Best Refit’ award, while the 50m/160ft charter yacht CHASSEUR won in the ‘Best Power 40m – 65m’ category.

YachtCharterFleet visited a number of other yachts, including the 78m/257ft superyacht TV, and will be providing more coverage on these over the upcoming weeks in the form of yacht reviews.

Check out our livestream of the best show photos from FLIBS 2017, as well as the best people and party photos from FLIBS 2017 to be transported back into the heart of the action.