Palm Beach International Boat Show: Things to know before visiting the 2024 edition

The Palm Beach International Boat Show has become one of the major events of the early season © Palm Beach Boat show

Just one month after the Miami International Boat show, another major boat show opens its doors just 1 hour's drive from Miami: the Palm Beach International Boat Show 2024. What will you see ? How to get there ? Here are the things to know.

Boat shows come and go, or so the schedule suggests. In fact, exactly one month after the big Miami show, it's the turn of West Palm Beach, located a little further north on Florida's west coast, to welcome the yachting world.

Palm Beach International Boat Show, a growing success
Palm Beach International Boat Show, a growing success

In 2024, the event takes place from March 21 to 24. Although more recent than its Miami-based rival, PBIBS has been in existence since 1982. Over the past few years, it has grown in importance.

A Boat Show that attracts more and more

This success can be explained by its location, right in the center of town, but also by the fact that it's easier to get to than the Miami Boat show. The clientele is also a little different, a little more upmarket, which appeals to boat builders.

The location of the boat show, right in downtown is perfect
The location of the boat show, right in downtown is perfect

In terms of numbers, PBIBS attracted over 55,000 visitors in 2023, with economic spin-offs estimated at $1.05 billion. Sales in 2023 totaled $725 million, enough to attract brands of all kinds.

In all, the cumulative value of the boats and accessories on display exceeds $1.2 billion.

Superyachts, AquaZone and culinary experiences

In addition to the new boats, the show offers some interesting discoveries.

The Aquazone

It's an area dedicated to demonstrations and testing of a range of trendy aquatic disciplines, from foil surfing to jetboards and floating toys.

The AquaZone is dedicated to demos and sea trials
The AquaZone is dedicated to demos and sea trials

Superyacht Show Palm Beach

Located in the Palm Harbor marina (Docks C-E), the Superyacht Show Palm Beach will allow you to discover some of the most impressive yachts in the world, some of which are over 100 feet long.

The Superyacht area is one of the most famous
The Superyacht area is one of the most famous

Culinary Experience

In association with Proof of the Pudding and chef Vagn Nielsen, PBIBS is all about good food. From Greek gyros and wood-fired picanha to authentic tacos, artisanal burgers and fresh crab claws and other seafood, the show offers a true culinary experience. More than 75 food outlets and bars are set up at the show.

75 food and beverage outlets at the show
75 food and beverage outlets at the show

Location

The boat show takes place downtown, along South Flager Drive, between Lake View Avenue and 4 Th St, at Palm Harbor Marina.

Dates & Hours

  • Thursday 03/21 12pm-7pm
  • Friday 03/22 10 am-7pm
  • Saturday 03/23 10 am-7pm
  • Sunday 03/24 10am-5pm

How to get to the show?

By car

With almost no public transport available, the easiest way to get to the show is by car.

However, parking can be a problem. Consult the show website and plan your parking in advance. As the show is located in the city center, you can also choose a parking lot a little further away and walk.

A little tip: use applications like ParkMobile or Paybyphone, which allow you to reserve a parking space in advance and pay for it online. For some parking lots a shuttle / golf cart service is available.

All the different areas are well indicated
All the different areas are well indicated

By using an Uber / Lyft

The other solution is to take an Uber or cab from your hotel or AirB&B, so you don't have to worry about finding a parking space.

Prices

  • 1 day : $33
  • 2 days : $60
  • Children (6 to 15 y) 1 day : $17

ATTENTION: Tickets are only on sale online on the organizer's website.