Editorial

The crew guide to Palm Beach International Boat Show 2026

By Chloé Braithwaite
18 March 2026

Show dates, access, practical accommodation, and where Hill Robinson’s team will be

If you’re berthed at Palm Harbor Marina, you’re already at the centre of the Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS).

The Superyacht Show runs 25-29 March 2026, with yachts exceeding 30 metres (or 100 feet) on the dock alongside you. The main PBIBS show runs concurrently along Flagler Drive, a short walk south.

This guide covers what matters to you: the show layout from Palm Harbor, where the crew spaces are, what’s worth attending during the week, and how to find the Hill Robinson team.

The show from Palm Harbor Marina

Palm Harbor sits at the northern end of the show. The main Flagler Drive docks—where production boats, tenders, and marine accessories are concentrated—are a 10-minute walk south along the waterfront. The show entrance closest to Palm Harbor is the Banyan Entrance on Flagler Drive; this is also the designated entry point for Windward VIP ticket holders during Preview Day.

That will be held on Wednesday, 25 March, opening at 12:00 pm—a quieter window before the show reaches the full pace from Thursday. If you need to move around the Flagler Drive docks for any operational reason, Wednesday afternoon is the most practical time to do it. Thursday through Sunday are peak visitor days; foot traffic around Palm Harbor increases considerably from midday onward, which is worth factoring in for guest boarding and gangway management.

Sunday closes at 5:00 pm.

Palm Harbor Marina facilities

Palm Harbor’s permanent facilities include a clubhouse, fitness centre, and business centre, all available to crew throughout the show period.

The marina accommodates vessels up to around 90 metres (300 feet), and has a well-regarded on-site team.

For operational queries during the show—shore power, water, waste, or logistical support—the marina office is the first point of contact.

Crew spaces & networking

YATCO Lounge at The Ben

Hill Robinson is sponsoring the YATCO Lounge at The Ben Hotel, a 10-minute walk south of Palm Harbor along Flagler Drive. For captains who want a quieter setting for a professional conversation away from the docks and the general show, this is the practical option.

The Moravia Yachting team from our sister company will also be based here.

The Oasis Captain & Crew Lounge

The Oasis Lounge is a dedicated space for captains and crew, hosted by GMT. Separate from the general show, it provides a base to network, rest, and connect with others in the industry away from the public-facing docks.

Open Wednesday through Sunday during show hours.

Seminar programme

PBIBS runs a seminar programme throughout the week. Topics relevant to working professionals include safety, mental health in yachting, and industry developments. Captain Kelly Gordon of Yachtie Minds Matter is among the confirmed speakers.

The full schedule is available on the PBIBS website and is worth reviewing in advance.

Off the dock: getting out during show week

Five days alongside at a show is a long stretch. Palm Harbor’s location puts you close to several options that have nothing to do with the show circuit.

Rosemary Square on Clematis Street—a 10-minute walk south—is the most practical cluster for food and coffee. Rocco’s Tacos on Clematis Street is a reliable option for all-day dining, well-priced and easy to get into on a weekday. For an evening out, Tropical Smokehouse on South Dixie Highway is the local recommendation: a James Beard-nominated craft barbecue restaurant with no connection to the boat show crowd and a loyal following for good reason. Well worth the short rideshare. The nightlife in Palm Beach—or just over the bridge in West Palm Beach—is vibrant with numerous bars and nightclubs.

How Hill Robinson can support you

Show week is a practical opportunity to speak with the Hill Robinson team face-to-face. Whether you’re looking to discuss an ongoing management programme, explore crew placement options, or get clarity on compliance requirements, the team will be available throughout the show.

Key areas where Hill Robinson works with superyacht captains and crew include:

You’ll find our US-based recruiter, Lucie Fox, installed at the YATCO Lounge at The Ben, for the duration of the show.

The rest of our Hill Robinson team will also be present at the YATCO Lounge at The Ben, or on the dock onboard WABASH in Palm Harbor Marina (Slip #C209, Dock C).

Want to arrange a meeting at the show?

The Hill Robinson team is available throughout PBIBS for conversations on yacht management and crew services. Get in touch ahead of the show to arrange a time or come and find us on the day.

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