Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Wrap-up

Fort Lauderdale Boat Show Wrap-Up:

In anticipation of this year’s Ft. Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS), expectations were mixed coming into the show for all. Having been to almost 20 major shows over the last year, nationally and internationally, and seeing all shows slightly better than the one before, my expectations were higher than most. The crowds were tempered in volume, but true to form as per the last 2 years shows, volume was lower, but quality of the clientele was much stronger.  We saw steady crowds and many follow up customers.  Even with the torrential rains of Saturday and Sunday, the serious shoppers were still out.  

We sported a new display this year with a very open and inviting “café style” atmosphere.  Everyone seemed to be pleased with the new display.  Special thanks to Colleen and staff for pulling this all together.  On display we had an Outer Reef 800, 700 and 650.  The Outer Reef 700 was the debut for this model in the US and was a smashing success. This new model had something for everyone and the accolades were resounding. Friday evening was the christening ceremonies for “GOODTIMES”, where we officially welcomed Ward and Kim Young into the Outer Reef “Family”.  A good time was had by all and the rain held off for the ceremonies and the cocktail reception.

The show had the noticeable feeling of pent up demand after years of stagnant malaise.  With the purchase of Passagemaker Magazine and Trawlerfest events by the parent company of Show Management, Active Interest Media (AIM), the show was organized with all Trawlers and Long Range Cruisers, located in one general area within a “Trawlerport” venue at the show. This made for easy comparison of different brands all in the same area and put competitors side by side. I very much liked this format as we encourage our clients to see what our competition has or has not to offer as compared to Outer Reef.

We came away from this year’s show with 2 signed and funded contracts, one for an 860 Cockpit Motoryacht and a 700 Motoryacht.  It is very rare in our business model to sign, let alone fund a contract at the show, which is a positive  sign moving  forward.  As I write this we are formalizing 2 additional contracts, one for an 860 Motoryacht and one for our new model a 630 Motoryacht, all as a result of this year’s FLIBS. 

On behalf of all the staff at Outer Reef Yachts I want to extend to all our clients, friends and their families, a very prosperous and healthy Holiday Season. 

Cheers,

Jeff