A Round-up From the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Across an area of more than three million square feet, boats from tenders to impressive superyachts for sale such as M/Y Paraffin, one of the most exclusive luxury yachts in Fraser Yachts’ portfolio, were showcased to tens of thousands of spectators. The 60 metre superyacht for sale with an asking price of €34,750,000 was a top attraction at the boat show, as were many of Fraser Yachts’ other vessels on display such as the highly specc’d 38 metre Sunseeker Never Say Never and the stunning 50m motor yacht Satori. Exhibitors were unanimous in their positive appraisal of the show, which was launched on Halloween with a dramatic and colourful fireworks display. Henk de Vries, CEO of Royal Dutch shipyard Feadship, said in a recent interview: “For us it’s a reunion. This is where Feadship started, in 1976, and we belong here. Even though Monaco for us is, commercially speaking, a more important show, America is where we’ve done so much business and we have so many old friends here.” Meanwhile, John Lance, Marketing and Advertising Director of US shipbuilders Christensen said: “The 54th Boat Show has been great for us; the weather’s been fantastic the traffic’s been up and it’s really been a great experience for us this year.” James Brewer of another US shipyard, Derecktor was even more ebullient. “It’s been outstanding. We’ve had a very successful show and generally the sense of optimism in the air is much improved from last year. There’s actual tangible business being done, so we’re very happy, it’s been an outstanding show for us.”