Palm Beach International Boat Show 2018 opens its doors

By Rebecca Bradbury 22 March 2018

The 33^rd edition of the Palm Beach International Boat Show got underway today, bringing a magnificent fleet of superyachts and world-class boating brands together in West Palm Beach, Florida.

An annual fixture in the global yachting community’s calendar, this year's Palm Beach Boat Show got off to a spectacular start a 12 noon (22 March), with the world-class superyachts lined up along Flagler Drive across from Palm Beach Island sparkling in the sunshine.

Visitors to the four-day boating meet are expected to range from high-level boat buyers and charter clients to sport fishing enthusiasts and blue water anglers, while top shipyards such as Feadship, Heesen and Azimut will also be in attendance exhibiting their latest projects.

aerial shot of yachts and boats lined up in West Palm Beach for the Palm Beach Boat Show 2018

show-goers check out the Viking yachts at the Palm Beach Boat Show 2018

show-goers enter the Palm Beach Boat Show

show-goers check out the yachts on show at the Palm Beach Boat Show 2018

One of the must-see yachts is the iconic 73m/238ft charter yacht ‘Coral Ocean’. Originally launched by Lurssen in 1994, she was one of the first masterpieces from late designer Jon Bannenberg and, beautifully maintained over the years, underwent an expert refit in 2016.

For over two decades, her interior remained a mystery, but lucky show-goers will have the chance to step aboard and discover the refreshed beach house-style décor and amenities, such as a spa area and gym, which made her a true trailblazer in the luxury yachting industry.

Also generating much excitement is Benetti’s 62m/203ft charter yacht ‘Mine Games’. One of her main attractions is the opulent interior, boasting gold accents, crocodile leather wall panels and a monochrome colour palette, but the beach club and oversized sundeck are also sure to wow.

One of the must-see yachts of the show is Lurssen's iconic charter yacht ‘Coral Ocean’, originally launched in 1994

The award-winning 60m/197ft charter yacht ‘Excellence V’ from Abeking & Rasmussen will be on show too, turning heads with her curvaceous exterior lines which, from afar, conceal her huge volume. With ample space, she offers charter guests everything they could possibly desire on a yachting vacation.

Amels’ 69m/225ft charter yacht ‘Lady S’ is another charter option to watch out for at the show. Original Chagall and Frankenthaler artwork, a 4m Henshaw sea pool and a full-service spa with a hammam, massage room and on-board beauty therapist are among her highlights.

The Florida boat show runs until 25 March, opening at 10.00 for the final three days. Key features of this year’s edition include a new VIP experience, kids fishing clinics and sportfishing seminars. Keep up to date on the latest happenings with our live stream of the best photos from the Palm Beach Boat Show 2018.