TL;DR
• FLIBS 2026 runs Wednesday, October 28 through Sunday, November 1, across six Fort Lauderdale waterfront locations.
• Flying private from Tampa makes this busy South Florida weekend faster, easier and more flexible.
• FLL is a convenient private aviation gateway, with Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport as another option.
• Stay near the water, reserve restaurants early and leave time for Las Olas Boulevard and the beach.
• Odyssey Airways can create an itinerary that meets your needs.
The Experience: Why FLIBS 2026 Is Worth the Trip
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show returns October 28 through November 1, 2026, bringing more than 1,300 boats, approximately 1,000 exhibiting brands, marine technology, tenders, water toys and superyachts to Fort Lauderdale.
A private jet to Fort Lauderdale Boat Show weekend fits the occasion perfectly. Instead of navigating commercial terminals and fixed schedules, you can focus on the yachts, waterfront dining and South Florida atmosphere.
When to Go
Preview Day is Wednesday, October 28, from noon to 7 p.m. The show continues Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. FLIBS spans six locations, including Bahia Mar, Las Olas Marina, Pier Sixty-Six and Superyacht Village.
Book hotels and dinner reservations early. Travelers focused on serious yacht viewing may prefer Wednesday and Thursday before the busiest weekend crowds.
Flying Private From Tampa
A Tampa to Fort Lauderdale private jet flight is a short regional trip, making private aviation especially useful. Odyssey Airways lets travelers depart around their own schedule, arrive through an FBO and coordinate catering and ground transportation.
Where to Land
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
FLL is close to the FLIBS waterfront venues. There is a 24-hour full-service FBO there with concierge services and ground support.
Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport
FXE is another private aviation option north of downtown and may work well depending on aircraft availability, parking and ground transportation.
Where to Stay
Consider Pier Sixty-Six Resort, beside one of the show’s key marina locations, or Four Seasons Hotel Fort Lauderdale, the city’s Five-Diamond beachfront retreat. The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale and Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach are also strong choices.
Where to Eat
MAASS offers contemporary American dining and a Michelin-starred chef’s counter, while Evelyn’s serves Eastern Mediterranean cuisine at Four Seasons. For waterfront atmosphere, try Coconuts. And for a lively Las Olas dinner, consider Casa Sensei.
What Not to Miss
Start at Bahia Mar, then continue to Superyacht Village at Pier Sixty-Six for the show’s largest yachts. FLIBS provides shuttle and water-tender connections among locations.
Afterward, stroll Las Olas Boulevard, dine near the Intracoastal, or spend a morning on Fort Lauderdale Beach before flying home.
What Aircraft Fits the Trip?
Odyssey’s Citation CJ seats up to five passengers with up to 50 cubic feet of baggage space. The CJ2+ accommodates up to eight passengers with up to 65 cubic feet and greater speed and range. Odyssey will help you chose the best aircraft for your trip.
Get a Private Flight Quote
Make FLIBS 2026 more than a boat show weekend. Fly on your schedule, arrive closer to the action and let Odyssey Airways coordinate the aircraft and travel details around your plans. Request your private flight quote for Fort Lauderdale today.
