Held from October 29 to November 2, this year's FLIBS featured more than 160 superyachts, nearly $2 billion in total brokerage value, and 78 debuts, signaling a stable close to the 2025 show season.
FLIBS 2025: Smaller Fleet, Shifting Footprint
The 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show closed with 162 superyachts on display, marking a slightly leaner but still substantial lineup compared to last year’s 195. According to YachtBuyer Market Watch & Intelligence data, the total fleet length reached 5.78 kilometers, down from 7.23 kilometers in 2024, with an average yacht length of 35.68 meters and an average age of 10.86 years.
The total number of debuts stood at 78, including 24 new builds and 44 refit projects. While the overall count dropped by roughly 17 percent year-on-year, the breadth of models and continued brokerage activity reflected a steady core market. A total of 150 yachts were listed for sale during the show, with a combined value of $1.9 billion and an average asking price of $12.5 million.
However, the physical layout of the show marked a noticeable change. The Superyacht Village, traditionally the centerpiece for the largest yachts and builders, was widely viewed as underwhelming. Exhibitors that once occupied the main show area were moved to this more secluded space near the new Pier Sixty-Six development,. However, while intended as an exclusive environment, many visitors and exhibitors noted reduced footfall and less informal interaction between shipyards, brokers, and clients.
Several major builders - including Lürssen, Benetti, and others - opted not to exhibit within the Village this year, leaving the area dominated by automotive displays rather than yachts. The absence of these large manufacturers contributed to a sense that the event’s upper tier lacked presence. Shipyards such as Feadship and Oceanco established stands on a barge positioned off Pier Sixty-Six, a move that, while distinctive, placed them further from the main visitor flow. For many, the logistical distance to the area meant that unless a specific yacht visit was scheduled, there was little reason to make the trip.
Broader Market Context
Despite the changes in layout and exhibitor presence, the mood among attending professionals remained largely positive. Discussions across the docks centered on resilience amid wider uncertainty in global economics and politics. Rising geopolitical tensions, the ongoing U.S. election cycle, and a shifting economic backdrop all colored the outlook. Many exhibitors cited the 10 percent decline in the U.S. dollar and ongoing tariff impacts as factors influencing import and operational costs, particularly for European-built yachts.
In numerical terms, the data points to a recalibration rather than contraction. The 2025 show delivered a smaller but younger fleet, with shipyards focusing on efficiency, hybrid propulsion, and design adaptability to appeal to U.S. owners. Brokerage houses maintained realistic pricing strategies, and the total market value on display stayed consistent with last year’s record levels.
Heading into 2026, FLIBS faces an inflection point. Its position as a cornerstone of the American yacht calendar remains secure, but feedback from this year’s exhibitors suggests a need to re-evaluate the Superyacht Village model to maintain engagement at the top end of the market.
World Debuts: New Models Draw Attention
The 4 largest world premieres included:
- Palm Beach PB85 Sedan (27.55m) – The largest debut of the group, showcasing the builder’s classic Down East style with contemporary comfort and long-range cruising intent.
- Riviera 64 Sports Motor Yacht Series II (21.23m) – The latest iteration of Riviera’s flagship sportfisher, introducing refined interior detailing and updated propulsion options.
- Solaris Power 52 Open ST (16.2m) – A sleek open cruiser emphasizing versatility and Mediterranean design appeal.
- Viking 50C Mk3 (15.75m) – The newest in Viking’s competitive convertible line, tailored to anglers seeking advanced performance in a compact profile.
Other Notable Premieres and U.S. Debuts
Several European builders used FLIBS 2025 to showcase their latest designs to an American audience. Among the show premieres, Sunseeker presented the 29.85-meter Sunseeker 100 Yacht, its flagship model featuring full-beam glazing, and strong performance credentials. Pardo Yachts brought the Pardo E72, a 22-meter model from its extended-cruising E-series with hybrid-ready engineering, while Maxim Yachts drew attention with the 13.41-meter MAX44 R, a compact yet luxurious entry from the emerging European brand.
Making their first appearances in the United States, Sanlorenzo showcased three key yachts: the 30.53-meter SX100, a crossover with an expansive beach club and asymmetrical interior by Zuccon International Project; the SP92, a 27.95-meter yacht combining lightweight performance with minimalist lines; and the SL86 Asymmetric, a 26.6-meter design introducing the builder’s asymmetrical concept to a new audience. Wally also brought the 27.05-meter wallywhy200, noted for its distinctive forward volume and open internal layout, while Pershing presented the 21.76-meter GTX70, a powerful tri-deck model capable of speeds above 30 knots.
The Largest Yachts at FLIBS 2025
At 74 meters, Casino Royale stood as the largest yacht in attendance. Built by Amels in 2018 to the Amels 242 design, the yacht features exterior styling by Tim Heywood Design and interiors by Winch Design.
Closing Outlook
The 2025 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show balanced fewer yachts with higher specification and broader variety. While total fleet numbers declined, the concentration of new and debut models indicated confidence among builders targeting the U.S. market.
Despite macroeconomic uncertainty, strong equity markets and continued U.S. demand have helped stabilize the sector. With nearly $2 billion in brokerage value and a strong lineup of debuts, FLIBS 2025 closed on a note of cautious optimism, setting the stage for a reshaped, more strategically structured edition in 2026.
Inspired by these yachts at the 2025 FLIBS? View all new and used superyachts for sale, tracked in real-time by YachtBuyer MarketWatch. We scan the entire market to ensure access to all genuine listings, saving you time. Alternatively, you can view all other yachts for sale.
