With the goal of developing the largest catamaran show in the world, organizers of the 56th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show announced the addition of Catamaran Cove.
Located at the Pier 66 show location, the dedicated catamaran section will feature power and sail catamarans. There will be about 20 catamarans on display, ranging from 35 to 95 feet, from manufacturers that include Gemini, Horizon and Gunboat.
“This segment of the market has very dedicated enthusiasts, and this new ‘show within a show’ will be a fun and convenient place for them to experience a big selection of both new and pre-owned, power and sail cats, all in one place,” Show Management vice president of consumer marketing Brett Keating said in a statement.
Show Management, the company that has produced FLIBS since 1976, and Trade Only are part of the Active Interest Media Marine Group.
Organizers said the recently renovated Pier 66 Marina is well equipped to accommodate Catamaran Cove. It features multiple restaurants, including Grill 66 & Bar and Pelican Landing; a Water Taxi pick-up and drop-off dock; valet parking at the Hyatt Pier 66 hotel; and nearby self-parking at the Sails Marina directly across the street. The location also allows brokers to schedule daily sea trials for serious buyers.
“Catamarans are one of the fastest-growing segments of the industry, both power and sail,” said Staley Weidman, CEO of The Catamaran Co., which will have many boats on display in the new section of the show. “Every major catamaran dealer and brokerage firm has an office in Fort Lauderdale, so of course we would host the largest catamaran show here.”
