The Palm Beach Boat Show is set to return to the island from 19 to 23 March, with organisers calling this year’s edition the ‘most spectacular yet’.
Since its launch in 1982, the Palm Beach Boat Show has become a major fixture in South Florida’s boating and marine industry. More than just a display of high-end boats, it also plays a significant role in the local economy, generating revenue and attracting visitors to the island and the wider tri-county area.
With the region’s property market thriving and tourism in Palm Beach County reaching record highs, organisers expect strong attendance this year. Whether it is yachting enthusiasts or those curious about the marine world, visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of exhibits, ranging from luxury yachts to innovative marine technology.
The show has become increasingly important for brands and brokers, the organisers say, who have steadily increased their investment, recognising its growing significance in the US market.
According to the event’s organisers, more Superyacht Builder’s Association (SYBAss) members than ever before are participating this year, including leading builders such as Feadship, Lürssen, Benetti, and Heesen – the latter showcasing its largest-ever display at a US boat show.
‘The growth and interest in the Palm Beach International Boat Show can be attributed to several key factors,’ said Andrew Doole, president of US boat shows for Informa Markets (who are behind the production of the event).
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He added: ‘First, the City of West Palm Beach has become a thriving, vibrant destination, experiencing notable growth – especially since COVID. Its appeal as a dynamic city draws both seasonal and full-time residents. Additionally, the timing of the show, just before Easter, captures both seasonal and full-time residents’
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What to expect from the 2025 Palm Beach International Boat Show?
This year, the show expands to a five-day format, introducing a preview day on Wednesday, 19 March, to accommodate growing interest.
Attendees will be able to see a showcase of over 775 vessels, including more than 45 yachts exceeding 150 feet in length and over 200 superyachts measuring 80 feet or more.
Among the most notable vessels on display will be BOLD, a 279-foot explorer yacht from Silver Yachts, which stands out as the largest at the show. Other highlights include MOSAIQUE, a 164-foot superyacht from Proteksan Turquoise, TASIA, a 158-foot Feadship, and the 201-foot Lürssen superyacht MARGUERITE.
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‘The event’s continued success has attracted a remarkable number of prestigious yacht builders from around the globe, showcasing some of the finest and most luxurious vessels in the industry,’ Doole said.
‘We’re also thrilled to announce our expansion of space at Palm Harbor Marina, both on land and in the water, offering an even more immersive and dynamic show environment’, he added. ‘This year, we’re adding educational seminars on key yachting topics and a showcase of luxury cars, offering even more for attendees to enjoy’.
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Why is Palm Beach increasingly appealing to (U)HNW entrepreneurs?
Beyond the boat show, Palm Beach is growing as a top destination for work and play for successful entrepreneurs. The island, known for its exclusivity, has gained even more attention in recent years due to its association with Donald Trump and his Mar-a-Lago estate.
The area is also known for its luxury venues, such as the historic Brazilian Court Hotel, which has long been a private retreat for high-profile guests since the 1920s. Past guests include the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Rita Hayworth, Cary Grant, and Marlon Brando.
