The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is back this year from 30 October to 5 November 2024, promising to be even bigger and better than ever! And that’s no small feat, considering FLIBS 2023 was a huge success, drawing over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors and showcasing over 1,300 vessels. The show boasts seven iconic locations within Fort Lauderdale—Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Broward County Convention Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, Pier 66 Marina, and Superyacht Village. It is no wonder that this is the world’s largest in-water boat show and an absolute ‘must-attend’ on any yachting calendar.
And here’s the cherry on top: the TYS Recruitment team will be there, and we can’t wait to meet all of you! Whether you’re an experienced yachtie or still trying to shake off your “greenie” status, this show is the perfect opportunity to mingle with recruiters, fellow crew, and some of the most exciting industry exhibitors. But we all know it’s not just about work—it’s about having fun, too! From networking to entertainment, FLIBS is the place to be. In this post, we’ll break down each day’s can’t-miss events so you can dive into FLIBS 2024 headfirst and make the most of this fantastic week!
Purchasing Tickets:
Whether you’re visiting FLIBS for a day or the entire event, buy tickets in advance at www.flibs.com, as there’s no on-site box office. Just show your digital ticket at the gate! For a VIP experience, the Windward VIP pass gives access to all seven locations, plus the exclusive Windward VIP Club with perks like a premium bar, gourmet food, live music, and complimentary shuttle services. Use code THEYACHTSTEW10 for 10% off FLIBS tickets. Remember, entry onto vessels is at the discretion of the exhibitors, not open to the public.
TYSR & TYSA Events at FLIBS:
Triton Canapés and Cocktail Challenge – 30 October at 15:00: Oasis Lounge. Sponsored by The Yacht Chandlers and Global Marine Travel, our very own founder, Gemma Hulbert (@theyachtstew) will be putting her years of expertise to use while being a judge at this competition! Each team will receive a mystery box of 18 ingredients on Tuesday, and be given 18 hours to prepare 3 canapés and cocktails for the competition. Our lovely recruitment agent, Eloise, will also be attending to chat and connect with crew at the Crew Lounge, and Gemma will additionally be giving away prizes to everyone who enters – so you do not want to miss out on this one! Click HERE to enter, and may the odds be ever in your favour!
The Yacht Stew Soirée – 4 November at 19:00: Location released upon ticket application. Back by popular demand – our annual Yacht Stew Soiree will have a little twist this year to wrap up FLIBS with the 3rd annual The Yacht Stew Soirée hosted by The Yacht Stew Academy. This event offers a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, perfect for winding down after the bustling show which is also ideal for networking. Enjoy a curated selection of fine wines from the lovely Miryam of Premier Cellars, along with delicious nibbles. Weather permitting, a cozy campfire will add to the evening’s charm. All attendees will receive a thoughtful gift designed to make your cabin feel extra cozy at the end of the evening. Click HERE to purchase tickets and join us for a fun, positive evening of connection and relaxation!
Agent Meet-up – 5 November at 15:00 – 18:00: Marina Village, 849 Seabreeze Blvd. (Exact spot TBC—follow our Instagram for updates: @tys.recruitment). The TYS Recruitment team lives for FLIBS—it’s hands down one of our favourite events of the year! Our Founder and CEO, Gemma Hulbert and recruitment agent, Eloise Moolman, will be in Fort Lauderdale from 26 October to 5 November, representing the entire TYSR team. And let’s just say they can’t wait to meet all of you! That’s why we’re hosting an in-person crew meet-up, and whether you’re on the hunt for a new role or just looking to grow your network, we’d love for you to join us!
- Important: Before the meet-up, make sure your profile is up-to-date and that you’ve registered with us. It’s super easy—just hop onto our website (www.tysrecruitment) and get signed up so we can connect more efficiently on the day. We’re looking forward to seeing you there!
Day-by-Day Itinerary for Crew at FLIBS 2024:
Saturday, October 26th – 09:00 – 10:00: Beach Clean Up
- Location: Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park (by the north side of the restrooms)
- While the boat show has not officially started at this point, FLIBS (@flibsofficial) will be hosting a beach clean-up with Rock the Ocean, Tortuga Music Festival and The Local Octopus Foundation (TLO). The goal: to raise awareness about protecting our oceans, while having great prizes up for grabs! Head to their website to find out more.
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
- 09:00 – ISS Annual Meeting: the Lauderdale Yacht Club, 1725 SE 12th Street. This event is open to all and the event will feature an update from the ISS Executive Committee and a presentation by the ISS Education Committee. Tickets are $80 and can be purchased via their website.
- 17:00 – Wanderlust foir Randi Barry’s Exclusive Sip and Shop: Green & Serene, 1203 E Las Olas Blvd.
Wednesday, October 30, 2024 (Opening Day)
- 12:00 – FLIBS Grand Opening: Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Entrance Pavilion. Join the kickoff event as the show officially opens.
- All Day – Superyacht Avenue: Bahia Mar Marina. Explore the lineup of superyachts and great stores, while networking with captains and crew.
- 15:00 – Marine Industry Careers Seminar: Superyacht Pavilion, Bahia Mar. This seminar offers insights from key industry professionals for those looking to advance their careers.
- 15:00 – Triton Canapés and Cocktail Challenge: Oasis Lounge. Sponsored by The Yacht Chandlers and Global Marine Travel, our very own founder, Gemma Hulbert (@theyachtstew) will be putting her years of expertise to use while being a judge at this competition! Remember to ensure that you enter before HERE.
- 18:00 – Captain and Crew Happy Hour at YOT Bar & Kitchen: YOT Bar & Kitchen, 2015 SW 20th St. Join fellow crew for drinks and networking.
- 19:00 – FLIBS Kick-off Party with Liquid Yacht Wear: The Fitz Bar & Lounge (503 SW 2nd Avenue, FL).
Thursday, October 31, 2024
- 10:00 – Crew Lounge Networking: Superyacht Pavilion, Bahia Mar. A chill space dedicated to crew members to relax and meet up with peers.
- 11:00 – Sustainability in Yachting Workshop: Marine Education Center, Fort Lauderdale Convention Center. Learn about eco-friendly practices onboard and the future of sustainable yachting.
- 12:00 – The Yachting Community’s Critical Role in Ocean Conservation: Design Pavilion at Superyacht Village. Discussing our role in how the joy of yachting c an be passed down to future generations, and the impact we make on the environment as Yachties.
- 14:00 – At the Helm: A Discussion on Leadership in Yachting by Captain Kelly: Design Pavilion at Superyacht Village.
- 14:00 – Superyacht Builders’ Panel: Superyacht Pavilion, Bahia Mar. Leading yacht builders discuss emerging trends and future projects.
- 18:30 – Captain & Crew Appreciation Party: The Wharf. This party brought to you by Marine Data Solutions and Yacht Industry News is one to not miss out on! With a $500 prize for the best costume and some incredible sponsors, it is a great way to celebrate Halloween with fellow crew members! Tickets are limited, so you must RSVP and be over the age of 21 to enter.
19:00 – Crew Party at Bahia Mar Hotel: Bahia Mar Hotel Rooftop, 801 Seabreeze Blvd. Celebrate Halloween night with live entertainment, drinks, and a great crowd of crew members and industry friends.
Friday, November 1, 2024
- 11:00 – How to Drive a Boat with Confidence: Seminar Stage at Broward County Convention Center. A discussion led by Captain Chris Juan & Captain Aaron Stasiak.
- 12:00 – FLIBS Job Fair: Superyacht Pavilion, Bahia Mar. An opportunity for crew to connect with recruiters (like TYS Recruitment!) and meet prospective employers.
- 13:00 – Yacht Crew Wellness Workshop: Marine Education Center, Fort Lauderdale Convention Center. A workshop focusing on the physical and mental wellness challenges of life at sea.
- 14:00 – Yachtie Minds Matter: A Conversation on Mental Health in Yachting: Design Pavilion at Superyacht Village. A talk conducted by Captain Kelly Gordon.
- 18:30 – Crew BBQ at The Boatyard: The Boatyard Restaurant, 1555 SE 17th St. Enjoy a relaxed BBQ with great food, music, and networking opportunities for crew.
- 20:00 – Captain & Crew Party by Yacht Chandlers: Hard Rock, DAER nightclub, 1 Lucky St., FL. The Yacht Chandlers are throwing their 15th annual ‘Day of the Dead’ Captain and Crew party- and this is not to be missed! Make sure that you head to their Instagram (@yachtchandlers) to apply for tickets.
Saturday, November 2, 2024
- 10:30 – Superyacht Design Panel: Superyacht Pavilion, Bahia Mar. Leading yacht designers share their insights into current trends and future innovations in yacht design.
- 12:00 – Crew Leadership Workshop: Marine Education Center, Fort Lauderdale Convention Center. Focus on enhancing leadership and management skills for those ready to step up in their roles onboard.
- 19:00 – Captain’s Dinner at Pier Sixty-Six: Pier Sixty-Six Hotel & Marina, 2301 SE 17th St. An exclusive, invitation-only event for captains and senior crew members to network in an incredible venue.
Sunday, November 3, 2024 (Closing Day)
- 09:00 – Crew Coffee & Networking: Crew Lounge, Superyacht Pavilion, Bahia Mar. Start the final day with a relaxed coffee meet-up to connect with other crew members.
- 15:00 – Closing Ceremonies and Awards: Bahia Mar Center Stage. Celebrating all the yachts and innovations of FLIBS 2024, with the ending marked by the boat horns.
Monday, November 4, 2024
- 19:00 – The Yacht Stew Soirée: Location released upon ticket application. Join us for our 3rd annual Yacht Stew Soiree, hosted together with Miryamn from Premier Cellars. If you are a yacht stew – we can guarantee you do not want to miss out on this one!
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
- 15:00 – TYSR Crew Agent Meet-Up: Marina Village. Join Eloise and Gemma for an in-person agent meet-up, where we can get to know you in person and update your profile to find your next dream role!
We Can’t Wait to See You There!
FLIBS 2024 is shaping up to be nothing short of spectacular, with an incredible lineup of events that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in Fort Lauderdale to network, explore exciting career opportunities, or just immerse yourself in the awesome vibe of the show, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Huge thanks to the organizers for making this event possible—it’s no wonder FLIBS is such a standout in the yachting world! We absolutely can’t wait to be part of the action, and we hope to see you there. Don’t be shy—come say hi to the TYS Recruitment team! We’d love to meet you, and chat about your next big career move!
By: Chloe Leo
Originally from South Africa, Chloe began her yachting career in 2018 after completing her university education and obtaining her degrees in Economics, and Human Kinetics and Ergonomics (Hons). After six adventurous years at sea, she has traded sea for land, now calling the beautiful island of Mallorca home.
Chloe now works for TYS Recruitment as a recruitment agent, and her passion for the industry and excellent people skills shine through in all her interactions and create a perfect blend of professionalism and relatability. Beyond work, Chloe loves outdoor activities, especially golf and cycling, and although she has hung up her stewardess badge, she still enjoys travelling the world whenever she can.