It’s here! Our eagerly-anticipated list of must-see boats at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is ready for your review. This diverse list of boats, curated by the Boating Tech Team, provides you with a glimpse into the design and feature trends currently driving recreational boating. Included are show locations for each boatbuilder as well as outlinks for more information if desired. From versatile family runabouts and offshore fishing machines to performance powerboats and luxury yachts, these builders bring plenty of reasons to explore the docks.
Enjoy boat shopping at FLIBS!
NAVAN
The NAVAN C38 is making its North American debut and is sure to cause a stir! Running on the vaunted (and patented) T-Step Hull, this boat delivers the performance, style and versatility that NAVAN has come to be known for. Now see all that in a 38 foot platform with walkaround deckhouse . Be among the first to see it and get aboard. GH Dock
Axopar
Axopar is expanding its adventure-boat concept with the 38-foot range, which brings additional space and flexibility to its distinctive Scandinavian designs. The 38 XC Cross Cabin is joined by the 38 Cross Top and the 38 Sun Top, which is making its US debut at FLIBS. These configurations allow boat buyers to choose different levels of shelter and open-air boating while retaining Axopar performance and handling. With twin Mercury outboards available, the range targets boaters who want brisk performance, versatile deck space and the freedom to cruise in changing conditions. D Dock
Boston Whaler
Boston Whaler remains a compelling choice for boaters who put offshore confidence and versatile utility high on their priority lists. The 2027 290 Outrage, one of the boats with the new WhalerStep Hull, is among the models listed for the show, bringing the brand’s center-console approach to a size suited to serious fishing and family excursions. Look closely at the helm arrangement, fishing features, passenger seating and walkaround access to see how the boat balances angling functionality with comfort. C Dock
Blackfin
Blackfin builds boats for anglers who want offshore capability without giving up the comfort and finish expected of a premium recreational boat. Its center-console and dual-console designs typically combine fishability with social seating, thoughtful storage and amenities for long days on the water. At FLIBS, buyers should focus on the details that matter most in their own fishing grounds, from livewell capacity and tackle storage to protection at the helm and room for family aboard. Convention Center 2080/2081
Sea Ray
Sea Ray continues to serve boaters who want a blend of performance, comfort and polished styling. The 2027 SLX 280 Outboard, SDX 290 Outboard and SDX 270 Outboard are listed among the models coming to Fort Lauderdale, giving visitors several ways to explore outboard-powered day boating. Compare the SLX’s sport-luxury emphasis, such as the SLX 360, with the SDX models’ more leisure-oriented layouts, paying particular attention to cockpit seating, entertainment amenities and access to the water. GH Dock
Monterey
Monterey Boats is bringing its premium approach to day boating into the spotlight with the Elite 34OB. As the Elite series’ flagship, this outboard-powered model is designed for coastal cruising, entertaining and watersports, with generous seating and a cabin that adds versatility beyond a day on the water. Its available twin- or triple-outboard configurations offer buyers a chance to weigh the advantages of different power packages alongside the boat’s upscale accommodations. Convention Center 2080/2081
Grady-White
Grady-White adds a new dimension to its family-friendly lineup with the Freedom 265. This dual-console model combines fishing utility with comfortable seating, a cockpit side door and the builder’s SeaV² hull design, intended to deliver a reassuring ride in challenging conditions. For buyers who want one boat to handle both offshore fishing and family cruising, the Freedom 265 deserves a close inspection.Also see the Canyon 266. Convention Center 2025
Beneteau
Beneteau has several noteworthy introductions for Fort Lauderdale, including the Gran Turismo 50 and Flyer 30. In addition, see the Antares line of cruisers. The Gran Turismo 50 brings a larger-yacht approach to sport cruising, while the Flyer 30 emphasizes open-air day boating with a flexible, single-level layout. Together, they demonstrate the breadth of the French builder’s powerboat portfolio, from entertaining and coastal cruising to active days spent close to the water. G/H Dock
Bennington
Bennington Marine approaches pontoon boating with an emphasis on comfort, customization and social space. Its lineup ranges from versatile family pontoons to upscale models with elaborate lounges, entertainment features and performance-oriented configurations. At the show, pay attention to seating arrangements, helm technology, storage and the available pontoon and engine packages; those choices can make a significant difference in how a boat fits your preferred style of cruising. Convention Center 2064
MJM Yachts
The new MJM Yachts 38V is a particularly interesting addition to the brand’s lineup. As the first model in its V Series, it combines the performance-oriented hull concept of the 38X and 38R with a more social deck arrangement, an updated helm and a concealed starboard cuddy for overnighting. Twin Mercury Verado outboards rated at up to 400 hp each promise spirited performance, making the 38V worth a look for buyers who want speed without sacrificing cruising comfort. C Dock
Fairline
British builder Fairline Yachts specializes in luxury motor yachts that combine sleek exterior styling with refined interior accommodations.Under new British ownership, this beloved brand’s cruiser and flybridge models are designed for owners who want comfortable extended trips, entertaining space and a sophisticated finish. At Fort Lauderdale, compare the use of interior volume, outdoor lounging areas and helm visibility, as well as the balance between owner-operated convenience and larger-yacht amenities. Docks B424 and D424, FLDU1
Mystic Powerboats
Mystic Powerboats caters to buyers who prioritize speed, acceleration and distinctive performance-boat styling. Its high-performance designs stand apart from conventional family cruisers, with hulls and power packages developed around exhilarating operation. For prospective owners, the important questions extend beyond top speed to handling, ride quality, intended operating conditions and the support required to maintain a high-performance boat. H/I Dock
Tiara Yachts
Tiara Yachts is showcasing its 2027 model-year lineup at Bahia Mar, with eight models scheduled for display. The selection includes the 35 LS, 39 LS, 39 LE, 43 LS, 43 LE, 46 LS, 48 LE and flagship 56 LS. The lineup spans open sport yachts and luxury outboard-powered dayboats, with an emphasis on refined fit and finish, versatile entertainment spaces and performance. Buyers should compare the LS and LE models to see how each balances open-air cruising, social seating and protection from the elements. C/D Dock
Formula Boats
Formula Boats and Fort Lauderdale Boat Show go together like an anchor and its rode. The renown boat bulder will be showcasing a fleet of models including its versatile Super Sport Crossover series. Boats like the 360 SSC deliver the features boaters want today combined with the performance and construction that have made Formula Boats iconic. H Dock
Godfrey/Hurricane
Godfrey Marine and Hurricane Deck Boats are category leaders for pontoon boats and deckboats, respectively. The pontoons are designed for everything from relaxed family outings to upscale entertaining and performance-oriented cruising. The deck boats offer spacious fiberglass runabouts and dayboats from 18-feet on up to the newly re-vamped, Yacht Certified 3200 Outboard. At Fort Lauderdale, look closely at the seating arrangements, helm features, storage and available power packages to determine how each configuration serves your crew. Convention Center 2037
Highfield
Highfield will be debuting the new Escape Series of rigid inflatable boats (RIB). Exclusive to North America, this series of Highfield is loaded with versatility and features designed to tick the boxes of contemporary boat buyers. Easy to tow, efficient to power and built for adventure! See Highfield for yourself at the Bahi Mar, among the land displays. Bahia Mar Land 303
Aiata Sunfinder 50
Aiata is a versatile boat we’ve tested and reviewed recently. The company is debuting a new model–the Sunfinder 50– at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. This is a fast, family boat with many open areas for socializing and fun. It offers a variety of layouts and a fine finish on its interior. H Dock
Sea-Doo
Sea-Doo powers into the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show with new models and new innovations. Don’t miss the Sea-Doo Sparks X Trixx 1 up Audio for instance. It packs a whopping 110-horsepower, a new flow-through design feature and is ready for tailstands and more. Also see the GTX Limited 350 HP, the Fish Pro 170 HP and more. Convention Center 2006
Yamaha
Boating’s Boat of the Year, the Yamaha CrossWave will be on display for you to see at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.The CrossWave has fostered loads of discussion: Stop by and join the conversation. Also, don’t miss Yamaha’s line of class-leading jetboats. Convention Center 2008
Read Next: Everything Show Attendees Need to Know
Everglades
Everglades Boats positions itself as “unsinkabkle, world-class fishing boats built for beyond.” At the 2026 Fort Lauderdale Boats Show, you can see Everglades center consoles, hybrids, and crossovers for yourself and then decide for yourself. Catch Everglades boats at the Bahi Mar show location. D Dock
Nimbus Boats
Nimbus Boats will be on display in a big way at the 2026 Fort Lauderdale Boat Show. This Nordic builder (based in Sweden) is known for quality and builds a wide range of boats and owns a wide range of boat brands. On display at “FLIBS” will be Flybridge, Sport Tender, Sport Weekender, Sport Coupe, and W series boats. F/G Dock
Regal 34 XO
The Regal Boats 34 XO is designed around choice. Run out early. Drift and cast. Pull up at the sandbar. Host friends without a second thought. Stay out late or make it an overnight, with comfort that feels more like a retreat than a compromise. Then point the bow toward home in quiet confidence as the sun comes up. Check it out at FLIBS! H-Dock
SŌLACE 41 CT
This SŌLACE 41 CT catamaran is making a big splash. Built in Edgewater, Florida, it features a bisymmetrical hull design, dual-row helm seating, an aft cockpit noise-reducing bulkhead, and a massive 950-gallon fuel capacity for extended offshore runs. Don’t miss this quad-engine-powered center console luxury fishing cat. C-Dock
Cruisers Yachts 45 VTR/45 VTR EC
At FLIBS? Don’t miss the 45 VTR and 45 VTR EC from Cruisers Yachts. Featuring your choice of an open or enclosed arrangement, these boats are designed for versatility, luxury and performance. Featuring cockpit terraces to expand space and layouts that are easy to walk through and adaptive to a variety of activities, these new Cruisers Yachts models suit cruising couples, those who day boat with a large crew and most boaters in-between. GH-Dock
Make the Most of Your Visit
The best way to shop FLIBS is to compare boats by intended use rather than size alone. Walk through competing models, sit at the helm, test the seating positions and inspect how easily passengers can move around the cockpit and boarding areas. For serious buyers, discuss engine options, fuel capacity, electronics, standard equipment and delivery schedules with the manufacturer’s representatives.
