It’s February. Where are you? If you’re not yet in Florida for the Miami International Boat Show (that’s MIBS to those who attend frequently) or the Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show (MY&BS), both of which run this week, you still have time to make your plans. Fly down, grab an Amtrak train, or drive. This is where it’s happening if you want to see the best new yachts, helm electronics and gear. MIBS takes place in three locations: the main, new-powerboat-oriented displays in the Miami Beach Convention Center, an in-water display of new powerboats and yachts at Sea Isle Marina on the water side of the Biscayne Bay Marriott Hotel and, for those who prefer sail, Strictly Sail Miami at Miamarina at Bayside. If you’d like to look at a mix of new and brokerage yachts, the MY&BS show takes place on Collins Avenue, a short show-sponsored bus ride north of the Convention Center. Here’s a look at what’s catching our eye as the show opens.
Flybridge yachts in the 40- to 65-foot-range are proving quite popular this year with a large number of builders, both stateside and international bringing the luxe life to South Beach this week. For the boater who likes to entertain, or the family who enjoys spending the weekend on the hook or a summer cruising the coast, you’re feet will wear out before your boat choices do.
We’ve also seen a big surge in new catamarans here, also in the midsize market. While they have always been popular amongst bareboat charters, yachtsmen are seeing them as a solid on-the-water investment for the long-term. We like them too.
And for all you liveaboards and loopers, seriously designed and built long-range cruisers and motoryachts are here in force. Whether you prefer something with moderate speed or like to take the long road home, there’s a yacht for every yachtsman to be found.
Anglers will appreciate the cornucopia of center consoles and big bluewater battlewagons too, both on Collins Avenue and at the Convention Center.
Stay tuned to yachtingmagazine.com for our streaming show photo gallery as well as our live Facebook page updates.
