Following numerous cancellations and exclusively virtual events this year, any physical boat show is noteworthy. When that event is the 61st Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), both industry professionals and boat lovers are undoubtedly filled with anticipation. According to FLIBS, the event will proceed as scheduled; their homepage features a countdown timer and ticket RSVP options.
How does the world’s largest in-water boat show intend to address COVID concerns during the October 28-November 1 event? Their site outlines the adoption of AllSecure standards, a collection of ten commitments that include enhanced sanitation, social distancing, screening, and tracing measures. Pathways will be marked for one-direction only, and City of Fort Lauderdale capacity regulations will apply. These precautions seem typical for a 2020 event, but the lingering question is: how will the organizers make this weekend successful?
As we approach fall and the coming flu season, plans may adapt. As the usual “100,000+” attendees and “1,000+” exhibitors highlighted on FLIBS’ site – certainly impressive figures – will likely be significantly reduced this year. However, in what is referred to as the “Yachting Capital of the World,” according to their website, boats foster a unique bond within the community. FLIBS describes this year’s exhibition as featuring “runabouts, sportfishers, high-performance vessels, center consoles, cabin cruisers, flats boats, skiffs, express cruisers, sailing yachts, motor yachts, bowriders, catamarans, ski boats, jet boats, trawlers, inflatables, canoes, and amazing superyachts.” This array is as diverse as it is impressive; the interest it generates among Canadian audiences suggests just how far FLIBS’ influence extends.
Keep following Center Console Life for future updates. If there are changes regarding the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, you’ll get the news from us.