Fort Lauderdale, American boating rendezvous
In the United States, the situation is contrasted. The opening of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) on 28 October 2020 is a relief for the maritime sector. Like the Genoa boat show, the only major yachting event for autumn 2020 in Europe, the American event marks the start of the new season. Informa, the events company at the head of the show, succeeds in focusing on FLIBS, after the cancellation of the Monaco Yacht Show, its other major event in the boating industry. Despite a drop in the number of exhibitors, the organisers are betting on success.
Nevertheless, the American situation remains critical. The National Marine Manufacturers Associations (NMMA), the main association of yachting professionals, which is also at the head of many boat shows, has announced at the same time the cancellation of 9 shows in the country for the winter of 2021, including the Miami International Boat Show. Only the Atlantic City Winter Boat Show and the Northwest Sports Show are being maintained, while the New England Boat Show in Boston is being postponed pending dates.
The Boot Düsseldorf, the last European survivor?
The rapid deterioration of the health situation in Europe has broken the revival of boat shows on the old continent. Some small outdoor events had been able to take place in early autumn, such as the Occasions du Multicoque in Canet-en-Roussillon. The announcement of a new confinement in France was the reason for the Mille Sabords du Crouesty boat show on the eve of its opening. As the restrictions on gatherings seem set to last, the restart of boat shows will probably be via the local events planned for the spring.
In the meantime, the last major yachting event officially maintained for winter 2020 in Europe is the Boot Düsseldorf. If the organisers continue to show their determination, the question of maintenance will certainly be raised at the next press conference scheduled for 4 November. As a sign of the times, it will be held online. What will happen to the exhibition?
