IBEX 2026 Taking Place in Tampa, FL in October
The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) recently announced that North America’s technical trade event for the recreational marine industry is set to take place at the Tampa Convention Center from October 6-8, 2026.
This year’s theme, “Embrace Innovation, Master Momentum,” recognizes that speed alone doesn’t define progress and innovation without coordination creates fragmentation. Builders, manufacturers and suppliers are navigating an increasingly complex landscape of emerging technologies, evolving standards and operational demands. IBEX 2026 will be where the industry comes together to evaluate, compare and determine what works best for their business.
The 2026 event will feature more than 730 exhibiting companies and an anticipated total attendance of over 8,000 industry professionals, including boat builders, manufacturers, naval architects, distributors, wholesalers and more.
“IBEX 2026 will be where the marine industry comes together to tackle today’s challenges and build a strong future,” said Mary Velline, IBEX Show Director. “We’ve taken years of feedback from our exhibitors and attendees and used it to refresh the event in a meaningful way. IBEX 2026 is focused on helping boatbuilders cut through the noise; understanding new technologies, what’s worth adopting, and how it impacts their business. At its core, IBEX remains the only event in the world dedicated to the kind of technical education the industry needs to keep up with real-world change.”
Renews Features at IBEX 2026
IBEX brings together global buyers and key decision-makers from across the marine industry, making it a valuable opportunity to connect, learn and do business. Limited exhibit space and sponsorship opportunities are still available, and companies interested in participating can contact the Sales Team. Click here to submit your online booth application.
As IBEX continues to evolve, the 2026 Show will introduce a refreshed brand that reflects a stronger focus on the future of marine technology, innovation and industry alignment. Shaped by exhibitor and attendee feedback, several key updates will enhance the overall experience, including all exhibit areas opening at 9 a.m. each day to create a more consistent and productive flow across the show floor while expanding networking opportunities.
The Education Conference will continue to deliver a comprehensive, standards-driven technical marine education program, developed in partnership with industry leaders including ABYC, NMEA, NMMA and Professional BoatBuilder, The IBEX Technical Journal. The program includes Monday pre-conference sessions, Tech Talk Workshops and the Seminar Series. A reimagined Main Stage will feature a new lineup and location. The Marine Ideas Exchange (MIX) program, in partnership with Soundings Trade Only, will also return, offering dynamic, peer-driven discussions designed to foster collaboration and fresh thinking across the industry.
Attendees can begin planning now by exploring the exhibitor list, floor plans, and event details on the IBEX website. Additional program details will begin to be announced in May, with the full conference schedule released in June alongside registration opening.
