As visitors sail into The 31st Annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, March 17-20, 2016 — one of the top five events for super yachts in the country — they will be able to see more than $1 billion worth of boats, accessories, and yachts up to 300 feet from the world’s leading marine manufacturers. The show will be held on Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach. Undoubtedly, the grand exhibition can expect a few billionaire visitors. Yachting industry professionals argue that the world’s existing fleet of super yachts will grow by 60% over the next two decades, to around 11,000.
Wealth-X, the global leading provider of intelligence on ultra-high net worth individuals, says the pool of potential buyers is also swelling. The UBS Billionaire Census estimates that by 2020 there will be more than 3,800 billionaires, many looking to purchase a super yacht.
“This show has become known as the place where a yacht owner or buyer can quickly fly into town, come to the show, and compare an incredible selection of luxurious vessels side by side. There are very few places where that is possible,” said Andrew Doole, executive vice-president, and COO of Show Management, the company that produces the event. “The show’s ease of access and walkability, along with some great local attractions, make this an extremely desirable yacht shopping destination.”
To accommodate those buyers, the show has expanded to include a new pier at its northern end, within Palm Harbor Marina. The new in-water space will add 30 slips accommodating yachts up to 280 feet. Additionally, show organizers have added new valet parking service to the northern entrance, offering guests easy access to some of the largest yachts on display.
Top: Northern Star Yacht
Bottom: Solandge Superyacht
For those looking for a cruising boat, CruiserPort is back by popular demand, offering an impressive array of long-range cruisers and trawlers ranging in lengths from 35 to 90 feet, with educational seminars catered to long-term cruising enthusiasts. There will also be small inflatables and other tenders, center consoles and sports fishers.
AquaZone, a 15,000-gallon freshwater pool featuring kayak, stand-up paddleboard, and other water toy demonstrations, is another returning fan favorite. The IGFA School of Sportfishing seminars and youth fishing clinics presented by Hook the Future provide other activities for adults and children of all ages.
Parking is conveniently located within walking distance of the show. Guests are also invited to come by boat and tie up to free Come-by-Boat docks located south of the in-water displays. Show entrances will be located at Evernia St./Flagler Dr. (waterfront) and North Clematis St./Flagler Dr. (waterfront).
Show Schedule:
Thursday, March 17: 12 pm – 7 pm
Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19: 10 am – 7 pm
Sunday, March 20: 10 am – 6 pm
Admission is $21 for adults at the gate, $19 online. For children 6-15, admission is $11 at the door, $9 online. Admission for children under 6 is free.
For more information, including parking and transportation maps, boat lists, seminar schedules, and more, visit ShowManagement.com or download the show’s free smartphone app, MyBoat Show, available on IOS and Android devices, or call 954.764.7642. ■
