Miami is about to be abuzz with boats - even more than normal! That's because the city is set to host the Miami Boat Show (MIBS) from February 15 - 19th, 2023. This year will see over 100,000 boat show attendees and over 1,000 boats on display with thousands of marine products to see and experience. Organized by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) in partnership with the International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA), MIBS is the world's largest boat and yacht show and is a can't miss event for boating enthusiasts. The show is spread across six different locations including the Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, Herald Plaza, Venetian Marina, Museum Park Marina and Superyacht Miami at Yacht Have Grande Miami. Here are some of the boat debuts and highlights for attendees to keep an eye out for:

Sea Ray SLX 280 Outboard


Sea Ray has announced a new model to be revealed at MIBS 2023. The company's latest SLX 280 Outboard model will be on display at the Miami Beach Convention Center, showcasing modern, athletic hull-side sculpting and a wide range of features that enhance the boating experience. The luxurious and ergonomic cockpit has been updated to offer more room, improved seating, and seamless storage. The U-shaped bow provides a social area with lounge-style seating, while the optional Power Tower offers sun coverage and easy access to wakeboard racks. The optional cockpit table provides flexible storage. The expanded sunpad offers a place to relax, complete with an integrated cooler and storage for inflatables and gear. Sea Ray will also showcase 10 models from its Sundancer, SLX, SDX, and SPX families, including the SLX 260 Surf and SLX 260 Outboard, making their MIBS show premieres.

Grady-White 281 Coastal Explorer


When Grady-White, a renowned fishing boat manufacturer, debuts a new vessel, it attracts the attention of anglers globally. At MIBS 2023 the iconic builder will introduce its all-new 28-foot 281 Coastal Explorer center console. The boat has been designed with the fisherman in mind, including a bow-mounted casting deck with low sides for battling fish, as well as an electric fold-down terrace on the port side of the cockpit to accommodate larger catches. Built to handle both shallow inshore waters and rough offshore conditions, the 281 boasts Grady-White's successful SeaV2 hull design, which can effectively cut through waves. It comes with a standard 425 horsepower Yamaha outboard engine, with the option of twin 300s.

5 New Models From BENETEAU


BENETEAU will be introducing 5 new models at MIBS 2023, including 2 models for sea trials. These include the First 44, Oceanis Yacht 60, Swift Trawler 41 Sedan, Antares 7 and Flyer 8 SUNdeck. The FIRST 44 embodies a natural link between the FIRST 36 and FIRST 53, equally refining and redefining performance, elegance and comfort - a new Biscontini/Argento creation that truly denies itself nothing. Designed specifically for the family leisure market, Antares 7 adopts innovative solutions that make it the perfect choice for longer excursions. The fittings are designed to make sailing and life on board as comfortable as possible, making this a relaxing, versatile weekender. SUNdeck displays the character and elegance that typifies this new generation of BENETEAU dayboats. With great livability and panoramic views, it benefits from all BENETEAU's expertise in terms of fixtures and fittings.

Viking 90 Sportfisher


The new flagship model from Viking, the Viking 90, draws inspiration from its predecessors, the Viking 92 and Viking 80. It features the latest lifting-strake design and advanced propulsion systems, delivering a refined driveline. The sportfishing yacht boasts a sleek profile with the option of either an enclosed or open bridge, and has a one-piece, wraparound enclosed bridge windshield for improved visibility. The Viking 90 offers a full-beam master stateroom, complete with dual bathrooms and a spacious maple-lined walk-in closet. The sky bridge helm and companion chairs are elevated on a raised platform, while guests can lounge in an L-shaped area in front of the console.

Hylas M49


Hylas Yachts' latest offering, the M49, is being constructed in Taiwan using a design from a New Zealand-based studio, aimed at tapping into the thriving market for New England-style Down East cruisers. This 48-foot sea-faring vessel, which is the larger sibling to the popular Hylas M44, combines fast performance, with a top speed of 36 mph, and robust capability in rough weather and offshore conditions. The interior of the M49 boasts a comfortable saloon under a large-windowed hardtop and an open rear lounge perfect for entertaining. It is powered by dependable 370 horsepower Yanmar diesel engines. Hylas had initially planned to launch the M49 two years ago, but the launch was delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. After some refinements, it is finally ready for its public debut.

Solace 30 HCS


The first hybrid Bay boat in the 30′ range, the SŌLACE 30 HCS is designed to be a solid offshore performer but with the added ability to run in skinny water. The transom layout allows for versatility and a lower gunwale makes fishing easier. Put this hybrid center console on your list if you’re looking for a family boat that anglers will love as well.

Galeon Yachts, Two New Models: 440 FLY & 560 FLY


Galeon Yachts will be debuting two new models at MIBS 2023. With its extensive boatbuilding expertise, Galeon has crafted the 440 FLY - a medium-sized yacht filled with intelligent features and a unique approach to interior space utilization. The yacht boasts a sleek exterior design that is distinctively Galeon and can be customized with either a two or three cabin configuration, as well as a range of luxurious finishes and additional options. The 560 FLY is visually stunning with its muscular and playful lines, a wide beam that gives it a commanding presence and unmatched interior volume. The yacht also features ample glazing along the hullsides and large windows on the main deck, giving it a light and modern appearance. Furthermore, the creatively designed bridge accents appear to defy gravity, making the 560 FLY a yacht with unforgettable design elements.

AQUILA 42 Catamaran Debut


Aquila Yachts will be premiering their new 42-foot power catamaran, the Aquila 42. The model is built to CE Certification Category A and is overflowing with features that will thrill everyone from the saltiest captain to the most leisurely of sun-worshippers. The Aquila 42 Yacht offers two spacious staterooms with multiple configurations, a utility cabin, engine options from Volvo Penta, loads of storage and comfortable spaces in the cockpit, flybridge, and foredeck. 

Stay tuned for more boat debuts and announcements here soon.

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