The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026 (FLIBS) is preparing to return from October 28 to November 1, 2026, with a particularly rich program. The 67th edition of the American event will bring to Florida a selection of vessels ranging from large superyachts to sportfishing boats, motor catamarans, cruisers, and vessels equipped with innovative propulsion technologies.

Organizers expect over 50 debuts, including world premieres and first presentations on the American market. A number that confirms the strategic role of the show for major international shipyards, especially European ones that look to the United States as one of their most important markets.

“Year after year, FLIBS attracts some of the most extraordinary vessels from around the world, and this year’s selection is no exception,” said Phil Purcell, CEO and president of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, which organizes FLIBS. “The boats arriving in Fort Lauderdale reflect the innovation and craftsmanship that are driving the marine industry forward.”

Among the most interesting themes of the 2026 edition are a growing focus on hybrid powertrains, the use of lightweight composite materials, and a design increasingly oriented toward space flexibility and direct contact with the sea.

Superyachts at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026

Representing the superyacht segment at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026 will be three very different units, yet united by significant dimensions and a strong dedication to long-range cruising.

Oceanco Draak, 93 Meters for Ocean Exploration

Among the most imposing presences announced at FLIBS 2026 is Oceanco Draak, a superyacht of approximately 93 meters. Originally delivered by the Dutch shipyard Oceanco in 2014, Draak was subsequently converted to support scientific research and marine exploration activities, taking on the role of support yacht to Leviathan.

Its layout is markedly different from that of a traditional luxury superyacht. On board are dedicated facilities for handling tenders and equipment, a dive center, a medical treatment area, and a hyperbaric chamber. These amenities turn Draak into a true operational platform for sea missions, capable of combining the scale of a large yacht with functionality typically associated with specialized vessels.

Feadship Lady Christine, 68 Meters and 7,600-Nautical-Mile Range

Another notable presence will be Lady Christine, a superyacht of about 68 meters built by Feadship and delivered in 2010. Naval architecture and exterior design were penned by De Voogt Naval Architects, while the interiors were developed by Rodney Black Design Studios.

Lady Christine can accommodate up to ten guests and is powered by two MTU engines. Particularly noteworthy is its stated range of approximately 7,600 nautical miles, a key feature underlying its long-range cruising vocation.

Scout, the 64-Meter Explorer Yacht with Helideck

Rounding out the superyacht lineup is Scout, a 64-meter custom explorer built by the Dutch yard Hakvoort and delivered in 2019. Its bold personality is instantly recognizable thanks to exterior styling by H2 Yacht Design, which incorporates stylistic elements from commercial working vessels and expedition craft.

Scout features an ice-class notation, helideck, panoramic forward lounge, and a spacious sundeck. An operating range of approximately 4,800 nautical miles confirms its ability to undertake demanding oceanic passages.

Premieres at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026

In addition to the three superyachts, numerous smaller—yet equally remarkable—vessels will make their debut at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026.

Pearl 100 Hybrid: New Flagship Focuses on Hybrid Propulsion

Among the most significant premieres at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2026 is the Pearl 100 Hybrid, the new flagship from Pearl Yachts. Measuring 30.5 meters, it represents the largest and most technologically advanced model ever developed by the builder, as well as the first in its range to introduce hybrid propulsion.

The design adopts a raised pilothouse configuration and offers five guest cabins alongside generous outdoor living areas. The centerpiece of interest is naturally its propulsion system, which marks Pearl’s entry into the hybrid yacht segment and highlights shipbuilders’ growing focus on alternative energy solutions.

Delta 72: Carbon Construction and Reduced Fuel Consumption

Another technologically impressive release will be the Delta 72, developed in collaboration with Mannerfelt Design. The vessel, measuring approximately 22 meters, features a lightweight carbon fiber construction aimed at minimizing overall weight, cutting fuel consumption, and extending range.

The project also emphasizes spatial versatility. Expansive deck spaces allow the yacht to be enjoyed equally for intimate cruises with a few guests or for social gatherings and entertainment.

Viking and Valhalla: Four World Premieres at the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026

The presence of the American group Viking Yacht Company, together with Valhalla Boatworks, will be exceptionally strong, introducing four models in world premieres. The announced models are the second-generation Viking 70 Convertible, the Viking 64 Sport Coupe, the Viking 50 Sport Coupe, and the Valhalla 46 Sport Yacht.

Spanning lengths from 46 to 70 feet, this lineup highlights the group’s dual identity: on one hand, vessels engineered for offshore sportfishing and tournament competitions; on the other, yachts designed for cruising and owner-operation.

Prestige M8 EVO: American Debut for the Luxury Catamaran

Among European highlights at the show will be Prestige, introducing the new M8 EVO—the evolution of its flagship M-Line range—to the United States for the first time. Following its world premiere in September, the 20-meter motor catamaran is ready to meet the American market.

The design introduces key enhancements focused primarily on onboard livability and experience quality. Key updates include an expanded galley with an integrated bar, a full-beam flybridge, and an upgraded master suite with private access from the main deck. The Prestige M8 EVO thus continues to build on the M-Line ethos, utilizing multihull architecture to offer living space and volume typically found on much larger yachts.

Absolute Navetta 66: Three Decks Dedicated to Space and Light

Another major American premiere will be the Absolute Navetta 66, the newest model from Italian builder Absolute Yachts. Measuring roughly 19.5 meters, the Navetta 66 continues the design philosophy that defines the line: generous volumes, large glass surfaces, and a spatial layout planned to maximize every environment.

Spanning three decks, the new yacht features a protected cockpit terrace and a spacious flybridge equipped with modular furniture, allowing spaces to be reconfigured for navigating, al fresco dining, or relaxation. The ability to adapt onboard areas to the needs of the owner and guests is a central focus of the project.

Galeon 570 SKY: A Hidden Flybridge in a Sporty Silhouette

One of the most original designs on display will be the Galeon 570 SKY, a 17.4-meter yacht that combines the sleek sporty look of a hardtop with the functionality of a flybridge. Its standout feature is an upper deck concealed within the vessel’s profile, maintaining a streamlined silhouette while offering a secondary helm station equipped with complete controls and convertible seating.

Options also include Galeon’s signature Beach Mode, which uses drop-down side balconies to expand living space at water level.

Princess C48: The Shipyard’s First Model with Outboard Motors

A milestone debut for Princess Yachts will be the new Princess C48, a 15-meter yacht representing a significant step in the British builder’s history as its first model available with outboard propulsion.

Designed with an open configuration to foster direct contact with the sea and flexible living spaces for day trips and longer cruises, it will be offered in two versions: Open and Deck Saloon. The latter is also available with inboard propulsion. 

The introduction of outboard power marks an important evolution for Princess, expanding its lineup into a segment where versatility, performance, and ease of operation are paramount.

Aquila 35 Sport: Five Social Zones in 10.7 Meters

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2026 will also host the Americas debut of the new Aquila 35 Sport, a 10.7-meter power catamaran. Despite its relatively compact footprint, the design successfully integrates five distinct social zones.

A key feature is a sliding seating module that enables quick reconfigurations based on guest needs—whether for day cruising, entertaining large groups, or weekend trips. Once again, the multihull architecture maximizes usable surface area relative to overall length.

Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026: Dates and Tickets

The 67th edition of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show will take place from October 28 to November 1, 2026. Alongside the displayed vessels, visitors can explore the latest in marine accessories, technology, fishing gear, and diving equipment, accompanied by waterfront events.

“What makes FLIBS unique is the incredible variety of boats visitors can discover in one location,” stated Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows. “Few other places offer this level of access, whether you are actively searching for your next boat or simply looking to discover the latest releases from top shipyards.”

Tickets are available exclusively online through the official website, where the full participating boat catalog is also listed.

Conclusions

The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show 2026 is set to be one of the premier events of the international boating season, featuring over 50 anticipated debuts and a selection covering every major market segment. From the imposing Oceanco Draak to new models from Viking and Valhalla, the hybrid propulsion of the Pearl 100, and the carbon fiber construction of the Delta 72, the show will offer a comprehensive overview of industry trends. European builders will also play a prominent role, with the Prestige M8 EVO, Absolute Navetta 66, and Princess C48 ready for the American audience. The overarching theme is clear: increasingly versatile yachts, spaces designed for direct contact with the water, and an elevated commitment to efficiency—trends that will find their global stage in Fort Lauderdale.

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