Sea-ing stars: Inside the 85th annual Discover Boating International Miami Boat Show

Miami's most glamorous floating showroom is reclaiming the beachfront for the first time since 2018.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Cue the champagne, slather on the sunblock: Miami's most glamorous floating showroom, the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show (MIBS), is sailing back to Collins Avenue in Miami Beach for the first time since 2018. The 85th annual event runs from February 11-15 and features the latest yachts, personal watercraft, and boating technology innovations.

Why it matters

The return of MIBS to the iconic Collins Avenue location is expected to provide more organic networking opportunities for the boating community, which was lacking in recent years when the show was held in a more scattered layout. The 85th anniversary milestone and the 100th anniversary celebration for local boat dealer Bob Hewes Boats add to the significance of this year's event.

The details

The show's three primary venues are now markedly closer together than in previous years, with the sailboat display moving to the IGY Yacht Haven Grande, less than 5 miles from the Miami Beach Convention Center, the central hub. Attendees can expect a range of new boat and personal watercraft models, including the 2026 Yamaha CrossWave, a 'groundbreaking' 4-person PWC, and innovative catamarans from brands like Leopard, Lagoon, and Aquila. Smaller 'micro' or 'pocket' yachts in the 20-50 foot range are also gaining popularity, offering luxury experiences with lower maintenance and operating costs.

  • The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show runs from February 11-15, 2026.
  • Bob Hewes Boats is celebrating its 100th anniversary during the show.

The players

Andrew Doole

President of US Boat Shows at Informa Markets, the organizer of the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show.

Oriana Schneps

Owner of the Yacht Edit, a Fort Lauderdale-based yachting industry insider.

Noah Holtgraves

Lead data journalist at Yacht.com.

Alix Earle

A social media figure who has shared her onboard experiences on yachts.

Bob Hewes Boats

A Miami-based boat dealer celebrating its 100th anniversary.

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What they’re saying

“There's nothing quite like seeing the finest yachts in the world against the backdrop of iconic hotels like the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc.”

— Andrew Doole, President of US Boat Shows at Informa Markets (nypost.com)

“Recently, 'MIBS has lacked organic networking opportunities. Unlike the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and the Palm Beach International Boat Show, which naturally bring people together at local restaurants, previous MIBS events felt more scattered, and being on Collins should make it easier for the community to connect.”

— Oriana Schneps, Owner of the Yacht Edit (nypost.com)

“Today's features make it easier for more people to have a fun day out on the water.”

— Andrew Doole, President of US Boat Shows at Informa Markets (nypost.com)

“Twin hulls offer more horizontal space per foot than single hulls. They are more stable and, because of their lighter displacement, are also much more fuel-efficient.”

— Noah Holtgraves, Lead data journalist at Yacht.com (nypost.com)

“Interest in compact yachts and high-end day boats has increased, driven by buyers seeking more flexible, low-maintenance options that still offer luxury experiences. Shorter trips, easier handling and lower operating costs make these vessels appealing, while their stylish design and performance features keep them desirable for social and recreational use.”

— Oriana Schneps, Owner of the Yacht Edit (nypost.com)

What’s next

The 85th annual Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show will run from February 11-15, 2026, with the next event expected to take place in 2027.

The takeaway

The return of the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show to its iconic Collins Avenue location signals a renewed energy and community focus for the boating industry in Miami. With a mix of luxury yacht debuts, innovative personal watercraft, and a growing interest in more compact and fuel-efficient boat models, the show promises to offer something for every level of boating enthusiast.