The boating world has its eyes set on South Florida this February. Whether you are a first-time buyer, a seasoned yacht owner, or an industry professional, the Miami Boat Show sets the standard for marine events globally.
For decades, this show has been the premier destination to see the latest innovations in hull design, propulsion technology, and marine luxury. The 2026 edition promises to be even more spectacular, offering five days of unparalleled access to the world’s biggest brands. But beyond the glitz and the champagne, it’s a serious marketplace where major purchasing decisions happen.
At Interstate Haulers, we understand the excitement of finding your dream vessel. For nearly 30 years, we have supported boat owners nationwide by ensuring their new investments arrive safely home. Before you head to the docks, here is everything you need to know about why this year’s event is unmissable.
What Is the Miami International Boat Show?
The Miami International Boat Show is more than just a trade fair; it is a global phenomenon. Recognized as one of the largest boat and yacht events in the world, it brings together over 1,000 exhibiting brands and thousands of boats on display.
Industry giants choose this venue to debut their flagship models. Dealers and manufacturers prioritize this week because they know the most serious buyers in the world are walking the docks. For visitors, it offers a unique opportunity to compare dozens of brands side-by-side, step aboard the latest models, and speak directly with the engineers and designers behind them.
If you are looking for the pulse of the marine industry, you will find it here.
2026 Miami Boat Show Dates, Locations, and Schedule
Planning is essential for an event of this magnitude. The 2026 Miami Boat Show will take place from February 11 to 15, 2026, capitalizing on Miami’s beautiful winter weather. The show will span five venues across Greater Miami and Miami Beach, with the Miami Beach Convention Center continuing as the anchor destination within the show’s footprint. It isn’t confined to a single hall; instead, each site offers easy access for visitors, with the Miami International Boat event sprawling across multiple iconic locations in Miami Beach and downtown Miami.
This year, the show will feature a new in-water yacht showcase called the Miami Beach Yacht Collection along Indian Creek on Collins Avenue, as well as a dedicated sailing show on Watson Island. Transportation upgrades will improve flow and reduce travel time between show destinations, with a large network of shuttles and golf carts to facilitate movement. Free shuttle services will connect the venues and the Brightline station to the Miami Beach Convention Center and IGY Yacht Haven Grande, while a new parking lot at Sailor’s Cove has been secured to improve connectivity and easy access between sites.
The show runs for five days, typically starting on a Wednesday and concluding on Sunday. The first two days are often quieter, making them ideal for serious buyers who want uninterrupted time with dealers. The weekend brings larger crowds and a festive atmosphere, perfect for families and casual browsers.
Key Venues to Explore at the 2026 Miami Boat Show
The show’s multi-venue layout allows different sectors of the industry to shine, with each site offering unique opportunities and experiences. Key venues include the Miami Beach Yacht Collection, located along prestigious Indian Creek on Collins Avenue, which offers exclusive access to superyachts for qualified buyers and showcases some of the most impressive vessels in the world. This new in-water yacht showcase is designed to attract discerning buyers and provide a premium experience.
SuperYacht Miami is another highlight, featuring some of the most impressive yachts in the world and included with general admission to the boat show. Yacht Haven Grande stands out as a premier luxury marina and event venue, hosting high-profile yacht shows and providing extensive marina facilities.
Exhibitors and brands use these venues to create standout displays and engaging experiences, ensuring their presence is both strategic and impactful for visitors and industry professionals alike. Here is where you should focus your time based on your interests.
Miami Beach Convention Center
The Miami Beach Convention Center serves as the nerve center for the show and is organized by Informa Markets, which manages exhibitor participation and event arrangements. This massive indoor space is fully air-conditioned—a welcome relief from the Florida sun. The convention center provides comprehensive service and amenities for both attendees and exhibitors, including full-support facilities, expert assistance, and luxurious accommodations. It hosts over 1,000 exhibitors showcasing the latest in marine technology, engines, electronics, and accessories. Here, you will find thousands of powerboats up to 49 feet, engine manufacturers, marine accessories, electronics, and retail pavilions. It is the best place to see the latest in marine technology and gear.
Miami Beach Yacht Collection
For those in the market for something larger, the Miami Beach Yacht Collection is a must-see, located along Indian Creek on Collins Avenue. This new in-water showcase for 2026 features an incredible lineup of luxury yachts and superyachts, offering exclusive access to these vessels in a prestigious setting. The Miami Beach Yacht Collection is designed to attract qualified buyers and provides a secluded, premium environment for discerning visitors. Walking the docks here offers a glimpse into the pinnacle of marine craftsmanship.
Sailor’s Cove
If you prefer wind power over horsepower, head to Sailor’s Cove at IGY Yacht Haven Grande. This venue is the show’s first dedicated showcase of sailing, focusing on sailboats and catamarans.
As a premier section of the Miami Boat Show, Sailor’s Cove at Yacht Haven Grande highlights the best in sailing, offering a wide variety of sailboats and catamarans for enthusiasts and buyers. It is also a hub for education, featuring seminars on cruising, rigging, and navigation. A new parking lot has been secured at Sailor’s Cove to improve connectivity for visitors.
Discover Boating and the Progressive Boat Show Experience
The event is part of the larger Discover Boating Miami International initiative, designed to make boating accessible to everyone. The Progressive Boat Show Experience at Pride Park (adjacent to the convention center) is the ultimate lifestyle zone, running throughout the show hours.
This area features the Discover Boating educational center, where guests can participate in educational seminars covering topics like yachts, boating techniques, and destinations. The show includes a full slate of seminars, including kids’ fishing clinics for younger guests. Guests can also enjoy interactive experiences such as the 40,000-gallon AquaZone, which hosts on-water demonstrations and showcases the latest marine innovations.
The Progressive Boat Show Experience is themed like a boardwalk beach town, offering interactive games, storytelling characters, and various lifestyle activations at Pride Park. Guests have the opportunity to tour boats, participate in hands-on activities, and enjoy family-friendly entertainment throughout the event. It’s also home to fun activations like the nautical fashion show, experimental culinary zones, and a pool for watersport demos. It’s the perfect spot to relax, grab a drink, and soak in the culture of the boating life.
Boats, Brands, and What You’ll See on Display
The variety at the Miami International Boat Show is unmatched, with over 1,000 yachts on display alongside cutting-edge marine technology and luxury lifestyle products. This is a must-see event where visitors won’t want to miss standout models from top brands.
Guests can tour a wide variety of vessels, including kayaks, center consoles, fishing boats, powerboats, luxury motor yachts, and superyachts, experiencing firsthand the latest innovations and designs.
You can expect to see:
- Performance Powerboats: From center consoles to speedboats built for offshore racing.
- Sportfishing Yachts: Rigged and ready for tournament action.
- Luxury Cruisers: Designed for comfort and long-range travel.
- Personal Watercraft: The latest jet skis and wave runners.
US buyers are increasingly seeking yachts that reflect individuality, combining luxury with environmental responsibility.
2026 is expected to be a big year for electric propulsion and sustainable boating technology. Keep an eye out for hybrid engines and solar-assisted vessels making their debut.
Why Buyers Come Ready to Purchase
Many attendees visit simply to browse, but smart buyers come ready to sign. Manufacturers often offer “show special” pricing and incentives that aren’t available at local dealerships. Furthermore, seeing the boats in the water allows for sea trials (usually by appointment), giving you confidence in the vessel’s performance before you commit.
NMMA members are eligible for special benefits and participation at the Miami Boat Show, making it an important event for industry professionals and stakeholders.
To attend, you’ll need to purchase tickets online, as there is no onsite box office. For 2026, Adult General Admission tickets (Thursday–Sunday) are $45 for a single day or $78 for two days, and Prime Time Preview tickets (Wednesday) are $66 for early access.
General admission tickets grant access to all five venues of the Miami Boat Show. Children aged 6-12 can enter for $17 per day, while children under five are admitted free. Active military members and veterans receive free admission on Sunday with early registration.
While at the show, be sure to speak with the team of experts on site for personalized advice and guidance to ensure a seamless buying experience.
However, buying the boat is only the first step. The logistical challenge begins the moment the ink dries on the contract.
Photo by Shawn Henley on Unsplash
What Happens After You Buy a Boat at the Miami Boat Show?
The excitement of buying a new boat can sometimes overshadow the practical question: “How do I get this home?”
If you live locally, you might pilot the boat to your dock. But for the thousands of buyers visiting from out of state, or even internationally, transportation is a critical piece of the puzzle. Driving a large boat trailer yourself across state lines can be stressful and dangerous if you lack the proper equipment and experience.
Planning Boat Transport After the Miami Boat Show
Whether you’ve purchased a 30-foot center console or a vintage refurbishment project, you need a plan to move it. Waiting until the last day of the show to arrange transport often leads to delays, as carrier schedules fill up quickly during this high-demand week.
Securing professional transport early ensures your investment is handled with care. It protects the vessel from road wear and guarantees that it arrives ready for the water, rather than needing repairs from a mishandled tow.
How Interstate Haulers Supports Miami Boat Show Buyers
At Interstate Haulers, we specialize in moving high-value assets. We are a family-owned company that has built a reputation for reliability since 1997. We don’t just haul freight; we understand boats.
- Specialized Expertise: We have the equipment and know-how to transport boats with or without trailers.
- Nationwide Reach: Whether you need your new purchase moved to the Great Lakes, the West Coast, or New England, we have the network to get it there.
- Safety First: Our drivers are experienced professionals. We maintain full FMCSA compliance and carry the necessary insurance to give you total peace of mind.
Attending the Miami Boat Show for the First Time?
If this is your first trip to the Miami Boat event, here are a few quick tips:
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You will walk miles of docks and convention floors.
- Use the Water Taxi: Traffic in Miami can be heavy; the water taxis connecting the venues are scenic and efficient.
- Book Appointments: If you are serious about a specific boat, contact the dealer ahead of time to schedule a boarding.
- Think About Logistics: Have a transport partner in mind before you buy.
Ready to Turn a Boat Show Purchase Into a Smooth Delivery?
The 2026 Miami Boat Show is an incredible experience that every boater should witness. It celebrates the freedom and joy of life on the water. But the best part of the show isn’t walking the docks—it’s getting your new boat out on the water back home.
Don’t let logistics dampen the excitement of your new purchase. Trust the experts who have been hauling boats safely for nearly 30 years.
Planning to buy at the show? Contact Interstate Haulers today to request a quote or discuss your transport needs. Let us handle the road so you can focus on the water.
Here are 7 helpful links and resources for anyone planning to attend the 2026 Miami Boat Show:
- Official Miami Boat Show Website Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show: The official site for the event, featuring ticket information, schedules, and event highlights
- Complete Guide to the 2026 Miami Boat Show Supremarine’s Guide: A comprehensive guide with tips on yachts to see, hotel recommendations, and planning advice.
- What to See at the Miami Boat Show: Miami Boat Show Page Highlights of featured yachts and expert advice for attendees.
- Event Overview and News: Superyachts’ Miami Boat Show Event Page. An overview of the event, including key details and updates for yachting enthusiasts.
- Visiting the Miami Boat Show: Tips and Tricks: SI Yachts’ Visitor Guide: A helpful guide covering nearby attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.
- Travel and Accommodation Tips: Supremarine’s Hotel and Travel Advice. Specific recommendations for hotels and travel arrangements during the show.
- Event Highlights and Features: Superyachts’ Event Highlights A detailed look at the event’s key features, including industry leaders and marine professionals.
These resources will help you make the most of your visit to the 2026 Miami Boat Show!
