The horizon along Miami Beach looks a little more crowded this week—and locals couldn’t be happier. The 85th Discover Boating® Miami International Boat Show officially dropped anchor on Wednesday, February 11, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia and a billion-dollar economic surge. While the show is a massive global event, the real story this year is happening along the docks of Indian Creek. For the first time since 2018, the “mega-yacht” experience has returned to Collins Avenue, restoring a piece of Miami’s cultural identity that many felt was missing.
The Return of the Miami Beach Yacht Collection
For decades, the sight of towering white hulls lining the water across from the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc hotels was the definitive image of the boat show. When the show consolidated its footprint in recent years, many missed the glamour of the Collins Avenue corridor. This year’s revival of the Miami Beach Yacht Collection (located between 44th and 47th Streets) has brought that energy back in a big way.
The collection features over 1,000 vessels, with a specific focus on motor yachts and powerboats ranging from 30 to 125 feet. Walking the docks, you can feel the excitement from industry veterans and first-time visitors alike.
“Bringing the in-water yacht display back to Collins Avenue delivers what our yacht exhibitors and clients have been requesting,” said Paul Flannery, Chief Operating Officer of the International Yacht Brokers Association. “The move… brings renewed energy to a waterfront that has played an important role in Miami’s boating culture.”
A City Transformed: The Economic Tsunami
The boat show isn’t just about selling vessels; it’s a massive engine for the local economy. With over 100,000 attendees expected to flood the city over the five-day event, every sector—from hospitality to high-end retail—is feeling the impact. This year, the projected regional economic impact is approaching $1 billion, with historical data even suggesting figures as high as $1.34 billion.
Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner highlighted this significance at the opening ceremony, noting that the show is about more than just boats—it’s about showcasing the city’s capacity to host world-class events. “By hosting this world-class event across our iconic waterfront and the state-of-the-art Miami Beach Convention Center, we are driving nearly $1 billion in regional economic impact while showcasing our city on a spectacular scale,” Meiner stated.
Local businesses are certainly seeing the “boat show boost.” From the cafes in the Design District to the bars in Wynwood, the influx of high-net-worth buyers and international tourists has created a vibrant, bustling atmosphere throughout the 305.
Navigating the New Layout
Organizers have worked hard to ensure that this year’s “vibrant and connected” layout is easier to navigate than in previous years. The show is currently split across several key hubs:
Miami Beach Convention Center: The “engine room” of the show, featuring boats up to 49 feet, marine electronics, and the latest in retail gear.
The Yacht Collection (Collins Avenue): The premier destination for luxury motor yachts.
Sailor’s Cove (IGY Yacht Haven Grande): A brand-new dedicated enclave for sailboats, catamarans, and the “sailing lifestyle.”
Pride Park: The home of the “Progressive Boat Show Experience,” focused on education, entertainment, and interactive exhibits.
To connect these dots, the city has implemented a comprehensive mobility plan involving free water taxis and shuttles. Andrew Doole, President of U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets, emphasized that the new layout was a direct response to attendee feedback. “Our goal is to create a more intuitive and connected footprint that elevates the entire event,” Doole explained.
Innovation on the Water
While the yachts are the stars, the technology inside them is what has the “tech-hub” crowd talking. This year’s show has seen several major world debuts. Boston Whaler unveiled its next-generation 330 Outrage, featuring the brand’s first-ever stepped hull technology for better efficiency. Meanwhile, Italian builder Pardo turned heads with the Pardo 43R, a high-performance walkaround capable of hitting 50 knots.
Sustainability is also a major theme. The new Sailor’s Cove destination isn’t just for enthusiasts; it’s a showcase for wind-powered innovation and eco-friendly marine materials. As Miami faces the realities of climate change, the marine industry here is increasingly focused on how to enjoy the water while protecting it.
More Than Just a Show
For Miami Beach Commissioner David Suarez, the return of the yachts to the streets is a win for community pride. “This show strengthens our city’s connection to the water, brings meaningful economic energy to local businesses, and celebrates the vibrant maritime culture that defines our community,” he shared.
As the sun sets over Indian Creek this weekend, the glowing lights from the yachts reflect a city that is confident in its status as the “Boating Capital of the World.” Whether you’re a serious buyer looking for a $10 million superyacht or a local resident just looking to enjoy the views with a 15% resident discount, the 85th Miami International Boat Show is a reminder that in Miami, life is always better on the water.
