Five of the Best Florida Boat Shows to Attend in 2021
Boat shows are a great place to connect with other boaters and professionals in the industry, check out the latest technology, and – most importantly – shop for your own vessel. Whether you live in Florida or are planning a vacation here in 2021, stopping by a boat show is a great way to spend the day.
Why Attend a Boat Show?
Shopping for a new boat? Looking for ways to upgrade an outdated vessel? Just want to spend a day by the water with your family? No matter your reasons, boat shows provide a fun, family-friendly experience for boaters of all experience levels. At most events, you can go onboard display vessels to view navigation equipment, sit in the cockpit, and more – just be sure to wear boat shoes or other footwear with non-scuff soles.
Read on for five of our favorite boat shows in Florida to add to your calendar this year!
1. Tampa Bay Boat Show, June 25th-27th
As the largest boating sales show in the Tampa Bay area, the Tampa Bay Boat Show is one you can’t miss. In late June, head to the Florida State Fairgrounds, where you can view yachts, cruisers, kayaks, and more from leading vendors and manufacturers in the industry. You’ll also find the latest and greatest docking and safety equipment, outdoor and fishing supplies, and boat trailers – everything you need for your boating adventures, all in one place. Fishing enthusiasts can even attend seminars hosted by renowned fishermen, including Captain Sergio Atanes, Captain Charlie Howell, and Captain Tony Frankland. The best part? Admission is completely free!
2. Tampa Boat Show, September 10th-12th
From boat displays on and off the water to educational seminars and training sessions, the Tampa Boat Show has something for everyone. This three-day event is located at the Tampa Convention Center and features dozens of exhibitors showcasing the best boating products on the market. There’s even a Friday evening “Happy Hour at the Boat Show,” which includes $5 adult tickets after 5 pm and $5 drink specials!
3. Daytona Beach Boat Show, September 17th-19th
“Life is better with a boat,” according to the Daytona Boat Show – and we completely agree! This September, visit the Ocean Center at Daytona Beach to view vessels from over 65 manufacturers, represented by 12 of the best boat dealers in Central Florida. This is the perfect opportunity to find your next boat (or gather some inspiration for your own). Some of the top brands you’ll find at the Daytona Boat Show include Grady White, Mako, Robalo, Sportsman, Sundance, Tidewater, and more.
4. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, October 27th-31st
The “greatest boat show on the seven seas” is back! From October 27th to the 31st, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) will host thousands of exhibitors, boats on display, and attendees. Located just steps from the beach, FLIBS is a great way to spend a fall weekend with family or friends, enjoy the sunshine, and check out cutting-edge boating products ranging from fishing sunglasses to megayachts. Kids ages 5 through 16 can even attend fishing clinics to help them hone and grow their skills! The event also features over 100 food vendors serving delicious cuisine ranging from burgers to pad thai.
There will be no box office on-site at FLIBS, so be sure to purchase your digital tickets when they go on sale.
5. Fort Myers Boat Show, November 11th-14th
Looking for a boat show that doubles as a vacation? The Fort Myers Boat Show is the perfect fit! From November 11th through the 14th, the historic downtown riverfront will transform into the largest display of boats, marine products, and boating services on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Tour over 600 vessels representing more than 130 manufacturers, stroll along the river as you view exhibits, and visit the Caloosa Sound Convention Center to shop for boating accessories.
Tickets are $16 for adults and free for children 15 and younger (with a paid adult admission) – buy yours online to skip the line on the day of the show!
Find Gemlux at Upcoming Boat Shows
Want to meet our team and see our products in real life? We love boat show season, and you’ll find us at many upcoming events this year! This is your chance to view our best-selling products in action, such as our Bluewater Outrigger Systems and stainless-steel rod holders.
Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to stay up to date with the shows we’ll be attending. Can’t wait for the next event to learn about our products? Check out our selection of how-to videos, or contact us directly! Our customer service team is happy to help you find the perfect accessories for your vessel.
We hope to see you at a Florida boat show this year!