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The 5 Most Anticipated Debuts at FLIBS 2024

October 11, 2024

Once again, Fort Lauderdale is set to host the maritime industry’s biggest event—the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. As the world’s largest in-water boat show, FLIBS 2024 will feature over 1,000 yachts, welcoming more than 100,000 visitors from around the world. For builders, brokerages and OEM’s, it’s the platform to showcase their latest additions, products and services. For enthusiasts, it’s a chance to see exciting new launches firsthand, explore maritime innovation and network with likeminded individuals.

However, with such a diverse lineup and an abundance of highlights during the show, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. To help you navigate the show, Nautical Network has curated a list of five of the most awaited vessels to debut at FLIBS 2024 that you cannot miss. Whether you’re attending in person or following along online, these are the yachts you’ll want to keep on your radar.

Let’s dive in!

1. ‘’King Benji’’ by Dunya Yachts

FLIBS 2024 King Benji Dunya Yachts

Built by the Turkish shipyard Dunya Yachts, the 154-foot superyacht ‘’King Benji’’ is arguably the most anticipated debut at FLIBS 2024. Designed by Gregory Marshall, King Benji breaks the mold with its innovative use of space and refined layout. Delivered earlier this year, she’s been in the center of attention for the blend of social spaces and private retreats, making her the perfect vessel for extended voyages.

 

King Benji’s interior, penned by Design Unlimited, draws on natural themes—evident in the lush botanic garden-inspired main saloon and the owner’s suite. To further enhance the feeling of nature, large glass panels and sliding doors blur the line between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring guests feel constantly connected to their surroundings.

 

What sets King Benji apart is the detailed craftsmanship and thoughtful design. The seamless integration of dining and lounging areas offers a cohesive setting for socializing and relaxation is just one of many features that resulted in a nomination for Best Displacement Motor Yacht below 500GT at the 2024 World Superyacht Awards.

2. ‘’Half Irish’’ Mangusta Oceano 44

Half Irish Mangusta Oceano 44

Next on our list is ‘’Half Irish’’, the latest addition to the Mangusta Oceano 44 series by the Italian shipyard Overmarine Group. Delivered earlier this year, it’s set to make its eagerly awaited U.S. debut at FLIBS 2024. Designed by Alberto Mancini, Half Irish’s sleek profile stretching 144 feet is defined by expansive glazed surfaces and sweeping lines that seamlessly merge the interior with the surrounding seascape.

 

Among an abundance of highlights, the two infinity pools stand out. One is located on the sundeck, offering sweeping views of the horizon, and the other one is located on the main deck with a glass bottom that filters light into the master suite below, creating a serene atmosphere.

 

Furthermore, the beach club located on the edge of the water is truly a sight to behold. With 180-degree ocean views and a spacious layout, this area is perfect for lively gatherings or quite relaxation. Fold-down terraces, a well-stocked bar, and plush seating options allow it to transform effortlessly from a serene retreat to an entertainment hub.

3. Ocean Alexander 28L

Ocean Alexander 28L

The Ocean Alexander 28L is the latest addition to the brand’s Legend series, offering the same level of sophistication as its predecessors, but in a compact 98-foot package. With sleek exterior lines and generous glass panels, the all-new 82L is designed to maximize natural light, enhancing its bright, open interiors.

 

The spacious main saloon features a custom bar that flows into a welcoming lounge area, making it ideal for entertaining. Above, the raised pilothouse sky lounge offers panoramic views, while the expansive aft deck is perfectly suited for al fresco dining or relaxed gatherings.

 

What makes this debut so exciting, is that the Taiwaneese shipyard has incorporated its two newly introduced interior themes into the 28L—Eden Dusk and Eden Mist. Each theme utilizes eco-conscious materials, such as carbon-neutral TABU wood veneers and energy-efficient solar power systems, providing an elegant yet sustainable touch.

4. Pearl 82

Pearl 82

Following the world premiere at the 2024 Cannes Yachting Festival, the second hull of the Pearl 82 is ready to make its U.S. debut at FLIBS 2024. Featuring design penned by Bill Dixon and interiors crafted by Kelly Hoppen, the Pearl 82’s raised pilothouse configuration enhances both its sleek profile and interior space.

The main deck master suite is a standout feature, with large windows that offer surrounding views and sliding glass doors opening onto a private foredeck terrace—providing an uninterrupted connection to the outside environment. The layout also includes four additional en-suite guest staterooms, providing a unique configuration for the 80-foot category.

With customization at heart, owners can choose between two aft deck configurations tailored to their preferences. The Riviera option is ideal for sunbathing, featuring integrated sun pads and a dedicated al fresco dining area, while the Veranda setup offers more seating for a laid-back, lounge-style atmosphere. Both options include fold-down bulwarks that extend the cockpit area, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.

To learn more about this model, read our detailed walkthrough of hull No. 1 here!

5. Viking 82

Viking 82 Covertible

Last but not least on our list, is the Viking 82. The 82 is the latest evolution in a long line of celebrated sportfishing yachts from this iconic builder. As an enhanced version of the popular Viking 80, the Viking 82 offers three configurations—Open Bridge, Enclosed Bridge, and Skybridge—each designed to cater to different owner preferences and boating styles.

 

Making its debut at FLIBS 2024, the Open Bridge model features a custom-built tuna tower and a striking Pamlico Blue finish. Inside, Viking’s meticulous attention to detail is showcased through horizontal-grain walnut joinery with ebony inlays and a high-gloss finish, highlighting superior craftsmanship.

 

The full-beam master suite is a standout, offering a king-size walk-around berth, a vanity, and a comfortable seating area. The gourmet galley is equally impressive, featuring Sub-Zero refrigerators, a stainless-steel sink, and high-end appliances—ideal for everything from casual gatherings to extended trips offshore. For those seeking a sportfishing yacht that combines performance with luxury, the Viking 82 is set to turn heads at this year’s show.

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