Palm Beach International Boat Show numbers are up

After its annual audit of the Palm Beach International Boat Show, organizers report that compared to last year’s show, in-water boat displays were up 27.7 percent, land display area increased by 21.8 percent, and overall attendance was up 3.7 percent.

“The Palm Beach International Boat Show continues to grow in size and appeal year after year,” said Efrem “Skip” Zimbalist III, president and CEO of Show Management, organizers of the event. “It has become an economic driver in the global marine industry and the state of Florida, as well as a lifestyle event that more people enjoy attending every year.”

The 223-foot Lurssen M/Y Kismet, the largest yacht ever to exhibit at the show, drew attention throughout the show. Part-time Palm Beach resident Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, enjoyed a personal tour.

“This was the most positive atmosphere during a boat show in the past five years,” said Kevin Callahan, broker for Kismet with Moran Yacht & Ship. “We met a number of very qualified clients who appreciate the wonders of the yachting lifestyle.”

HMY Yachts had 61 boats on display ranging in size from 32 feet to 162 feet, the largest display in the show.
“Sold signs were evident on over a dozen yachts, and the follow-up results are even better,” said Steve Moynihan, owner of HMY Yachts. “All indicators from traffic, contracts, offers and inquiries point to a banner spring season.”