US Industry Optimistic About 52nd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Hundreds of thousands of boating enthusiasts and marine industry professionals from around the world will come together Oct. 27 through Oct. 31, 2011 in Fort Lauderdale for the 52nd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show®, the largest in-water boat show in the world.
 
Exciting plans are underway as show organizers build on the increase in exhibitors, sales and attendance at the 2010 show, and a renewed sense of cautious optimism in the marine industry.  Expect to see enhanced show logistics as many exhibitors request additional space to accommodate expanded offerings.  
 
Improved signage and a more integrated digital experience are part of a newly revamped, strategically laid out show design to help attendees navigate the world’s largest in-water marine industry event.  Show organizers continue to work with the City of Fort Lauderdale and privately owned locations on convenient and affordable parking options for the public.  
 
Another exciting development for the 2011 show is a layout redesign of the Broward County Convention Center show location.  The new layout will offer a strategic traffic pattern assuring that each booth space will be a prime sales location.  Educational marine activities presented by the Blue Wild Dive and Travel Show, the International Game Fish Association’s School of Sportfishing, and Hook the Future also have been re-positioned and will continue to help create a total marine experience.  
 
“Through feedback from our exhibitors and attendees we continue to work to present an improved show year after year,” said Dane Graziano, senior vice president and COO of Show Management.  “Demand for space is exceeding last year and we have made some tremendous logistical improvements.  We are looking forward to a fantastic show in October 2011.”  
 
The show spans six sites this year and will feature more than $3 billion worth of boats, yachts, super yachts, electronics, engines and thousands of boating accessories from every major marine manufacturer and boat builder across the globe, as well as exotic cars, clothing and jewelry.  Other activities at the boat show include marine seminars, fishing clinics, live musical entertainment and an International Food Garden.
 
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show® takes place this year at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center, the Hall of Fame Marina, the Las Olas Municipal Marina, the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, the Broward County Convention Center and the Sails Marina.