Miami Boat Show had 3 percent attendance increase

In its 77th year, the 2018 Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show had a successful five-day run over Presidents Day Weekend, with 1,100 exhibitors and 1,400 boats on display on land and in-water, the National Marine Manufacturers Association reported.

New to 2018, Strictly Sail Miami joined power in one location at Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, creating the ultimate destination for boating enthusiasts.

The show’s attendance rose 3 percent in 2018 to 97,391.

“It was a successful 2018 edition of the Miami Boat Show as exhibitors reported some of the best sales they’ve seen in years,” said Larry Berryman, manager of the Miami International Boat Show. “We are proud to host the greatest boat show in the world right here in Miami, delivering an estimated $854 million into Florida’s economy, and we will continue to enhance the show to provide a world-class experience for our guests, exhibitors and the community.”

The move of Strictly Sail Miami from Miamarina at Bayside to Miami Marine Stadium added further convenience for show attendees and exhibitors.

“Our goal was to create one of the premier power and sail events in the world in a single, streamlined location,” said Kevin Murphy, sail manager for the Miami International Boat Show. “With more than 70 sailboats and catamarans on Pier 9, as well as the new Sail Accessory Pavilion and Sailor’s Cove, exhibitors and attendees were pleased with the addition of the sail component for an all-in-one location at this iconic venue.”

A new all-inclusive VIP experience also launched at this year’s show, featuring a luxury lounge and outdoor deck. More than 2,500 people purchased VIP passes and the enhanced VIP experience received positive reviews from exhibitors and attendees.

In the show’s third year on Virginia Key, visitors again embraced the boat show’s park and ride model, utilizing water taxi and shuttle bus transportation to and from the show and designated offsite locations.

“Each year provides new learnings and this year, with the addition of the sailing community, we recognized opportunities to further improve our transportation plan for 2019,” Berryman said. “We’re in the process of gathering feedback from our partners, exhibitors and attendees and are eager to take the feedback and apply it to next year’s show.”

The 2019 Miami International Boat Show will again be held over Presidents Day Weekend, Feb. 14-18, at Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin.

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One Comment

  1. The show was great. The transportation was the worst I’ve seen it yet. Really ridiculous that it took 57 minutes to go from the arena to the show entrance which is about a 2 mile distance. I also think u need more boats to go back and fourth. The way is way too long. Just a suggestion

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