The Miami Boat Show boosts sales in the industry and sets its sights on 2026

The 84th edition of the Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show 2025 concluded after five days of exhibition at six locations in Miami and Miami Beach. This event, one of the largest boat shows in the world and a key meeting point for the latest innovations and vessels in the market, brought together consumers, industry leaders, and government officials to connect, explore, and purchase the latest in recreational boating.

Governor Ron DeSantis, along with authorities from Miami-Dade County, the city of Miami, and the city of Miami Beach, as well as representatives from the event owners — the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) —, the organizers Informa Markets, and the International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA), officially opened the fair with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. In his speech, the governor highlighted the significant economic impact of the recreational boating industry in Florida and its key role in the state's tourism sector.

The Miami Boat Show is an economic engine for both Florida and the recreational boating market in the U.S., with a regional impact close to 1 billion dollars, approximately double that of the major sporting event held the previous weekend in New Orleans.

Despite economic challenges after years of record growth in boat sales and a slight decline in attendance, exhibitors remained optimistic. Many highlighted the high interest from buyers in the latest innovations, in line with the market assessment for 2025 published by the NMMA in January. Exhibitors reported generating high-quality contacts while recognizing the changing economic conditions that influence attendee sentiment.

“This year's edition of the MIBS was exceptional! We saw buyers with great financial stability and an optimistic outlook for the future. MarineMax and our manufacturing partners offered aggressive pricing to capitalize on existing inventory. We are very satisfied with the deals closed during the event and the potential business initiated at the fair. Congratulations to the organizers for attracting the right audience”, expressed Chuck Cashman, Chief Revenue Officer of MarineMax.

“Miami was another solid event for our brands and teams”, stated Dave Foulkes, CEO of Brunswick Corporation. “Despite the economic uncertainty, we have seen encouraging signs from consumers and distributors at both national and international boat shows, driven by our investments in innovative new products and the strength of our global teams”.

“Florida is the leading state in boating in the U.S., with over 6.5 billion dollars in annual sales of new products. Despite the economic uncertainty affecting the industry, tens of thousands of enthusiasts attended the event to discover and acquire the latest innovations in the sector: from autonomous docking systems with artificial intelligence to navigation with augmented reality and hydrogen propulsion technology. This reinforces the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show as the global premier destination for boating enthusiasts”, noted Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO of NMMA.

Return of the Yacht Showcase to Indian Creek in 2026

One of the most anticipated announcements of this edition was the return of the Yacht Showcase to Indian Creek, in Miami Beach. Approved by the City of Miami Beach on February 3, this change enhances the experience for both exhibitors and attendees, while maintaining the event's presence across multiple jurisdictions between Miami and Miami Beach.

The plan will leverage municipal-owned waterfront along Collins Avenue, north of 41st Street, incorporating strategies to optimize traffic and sustainability. Meanwhile, the Miami Beach Convention Center & Pride Park, Museum Park Marina, Venetian Marina, and IGY Yacht Haven Grande will continue to be key venues.

“With the closure of the 2025 event, our team is already focused on 2026”, said Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets. “The return of the Yacht Showcase to Indian Creek will enhance the experience for exhibitors and attendees. We have received positive feedback from participants, who see this change as a great opportunity. This move marks an exciting future for the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show, solidifying the region as a leading global boating destination”.

“The Yacht Showcase offers a global platform for business development, networking, and showcasing the best in the world of yachts, from vessels to emerging technologies”, commented Paul Flannery, COO of the IYBA. “We eagerly anticipate our return to Miami Beach”.

“The new venue for the yacht component at Indian Creek will allow for a more seamless connection with the location at the Miami Beach Convention Center and open up new opportunities to immerse the boating community in the vibrant social and entertainment environment of Miami Beach”, added Hugelmeyer.

Commitment to marine conservation and community

As part of its ongoing commitment to marine conservation and community engagement, the event named Cupid Splash as its official charity partner. Sponsored by Informa, Cupid Splash organized a fundraising activity for the Biscayne Bay Recovery Fund, managed by The Miami Foundation. Attendees at the DBMIBS were able to support the cause with donations at the time of ticket purchase. On Sunday February 16, the initiative culminated with the “Pledge-and-Plunge” challenge in Collins Park Beach.

On Thursday February 13, the NMMA held the Miami Innovation Awards 2025 during the annual industry breakfast, honoring 12 companies for their contributions to marine technology. Presented in collaboration with Boating Writers International (BWI), these awards highlight manufacturers that introduce innovative solutions to the industry. The full list of winners is available at NMMA.org.

The Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show will celebrate its 85th edition from February 11 to 15, 2026.

Source: https://www.nmma.org/press/article/24986