Your Insider’s Guide to the 2025 Newport Beach International Boat Show | May 1-4

Ever dreamt of stepping aboard a gleaming mega-yacht with the salt breeze in your hair and a glass of bubbly in hand? If you’re a yacht buyer, boating enthusiast, broker, or seller, the 2025 Newport Beach International Boat Show (NBIBS) is the place to turn those dreams into reality. This insider’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know – from show highlights and the debut of the 2025 Hanover 387 Luxury Edition to local tips about Newport Beach attractions, travel, and more. Let’s set sail!

The Newport Beach International Boat Show 2025 (May 1-4) is a must-see for yacht lovers. Expect 200+ boats from 40+ builders and brokers on display, live entertainment, VIP lounges, and family-friendly fun. WS Yacht Brokers will be there debuting the 2025 Hanover 387 Luxury Edition, an exciting 38-foot luxury cruiser making its West Coast premiere. Plan for sunny days at Lido Marina Village, enjoy waterfront dining and shopping, and don’t miss nearby Newport Beach attractions. Below, find insider tips, event highlights, a comparison of standout yachts, and answers to FAQs to make the most of your boat show experience!

Welcome Aboard: Why NBIBS 2025 is THE Boat Show to Attend

The 2025 Newport Beach International Boat Show isn’t your run-of-the-mill boat show – it’s a full-on yachting lifestyle festival. After a successful reimagining in recent years, NBIBS 2025 returns with a bold, elevated experience that captures the sophisticated yet laid-back spirit of Newport Beach. Think ultra-luxury yachts, immersive activations, live music, VIP lounges, family fun, and a chic coastal ambiance all rolled into one.

What makes 2025 special? For starters, the numbers speak volumes. This year’s show features over 200 vessels (from sleek 30-foot day boats to 190-foot superyachts) and nearly 150 exhibitors on site. More than 40 world-class boat builders and brokerage houses (including big names like Alexander Marine, Denison Yachting, Sun Country Marine, and local specialists) are showcasing their finest. Organizers anticipate around 20,000 attendees over the four-day event – a testament to its draw as the West Coast’s premier boating extravaganza.

But NBIBS isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned yachtsman hunting for your next purchase or a family looking for weekend fun, the show offers something for everyone. “The show is for everyone,” says Hany Ghabour, co-founder of the show’s organizing team, Revel Republic. The aim is to create “different elevated experiences for the family to enjoy their entire day at the show,” transforming the boat show into an inclusive festival atmosphere. In short, NBIBS 2025 is part yacht showcase, part luxury lifestyle event – and 100% worth your time.

When and Where 🚩

Dates: Thursday, May 1 – Sunday, May 4, 2025 (4 days) Pre-Show VIP Preview on May 1 (invite-only), followed by public show days May 2-4.
Times: Thursday (Pre-show) 2:00pm – 7:00pm; Friday & Saturday 10:00am – 7:00pm; Sunday 10:00am – 5:00pm.
Location: Lido Marina Village, Newport Beach, CA – Address: 3432-3434 Via Oporto, Newport Beach, CA 92663. Lido Marina Village’s picturesque harbor setting is the perfect backdrop – think luxury boutiques, waterfront restaurants (yes, there’s a Nobu on-site), and beautiful bay views as you stroll the docks.

With those basics covered, let’s dive into the insider details that will make your visit unforgettable.

Show Highlights: What to See & Do at NBIBS 2025

So, what can you expect to experience at the Newport Beach Boat Show? In a word: plenty! Here are the major highlights and attractions that have everyone buzzing:

🛥️ 200+ Boats & Yachts on Display: Explore an incredible range of vessels, from high-performance powerboats and sporty RIBs to elegant sailboats and luxury megayachts . Whether you’re into a 38-foot coastal cruiser or a 150-foot tri-deck superyacht, you’ll find it here. On-water exhibits allow you to step aboard many of the yachts – take a peek at lavish interiors, talk to crew and brokers, and maybe even picture yourself cruising into the sunset. (Insider tip: wear boat-friendly shoes – many yachts will ask you to remove or cover shoes to protect their decks.)
🎉 Live Entertainment & Immersive Experiences: NBIBS has leveled up the fun factor with live music, entertainment, and interactive exhibits throughout the venue. You might catch a local band playing chill tunes by the docks or stumble upon a virtual reality sailing experience. There are also immersive activations – think luxury auto displays, art installations, and hands-on demos of the latest marine tech. It’s not just a show, it’s a social event!
🍹 VIP Lounges & Sponsored Experiences: If you’re looking for the VIP treatment, NBIBS has you covered. The show’s VIP offerings include a swanky Lido Deck VIP Lounge (21+ only) that opens from midday on certain days. For example, on opening day (Friday, May 2) VIP ticket-holders can enjoy a curated experience from 12pm-6pm on the Lido Deck – complete with complimentary cocktails and gourmet bites by Nobu (yes, that Nobu). VIPs also get perks like a Water Taxi to ferry you around the harbor and a luxe VIP gift bag full of goodies. It’s a taste of the first-class yachting lifestyle in an exclusive waterfront setting.
🌊 Family Fun & Outdoor Activities: Bringing the family? Fantastic – NBIBS is family-friendly. Kids 12 and under even get free admission. There’s a Mercury Racing Garden on site – essentially a pop-up outdoor lounge with turf where kids can play and adults can relax with snacks and craft beer. Expect to see little ones delighting in bubble machines, face painting, or other kid-friendly surprises (last year’s show famously had children chasing bubbles by the yachts). It’s a refreshing twist: a boat show that keeps everyone entertained.
🛍️ Luxury Lifestyle Exhibits: Newport Beach is known for its luxury lifestyle, and the boat show integrates that vibe. As you wander, you’ll also find on-land exhibits showcasing premium marine accessories, cutting-edge water toys (foiling surfboard, anyone?), and marine services from 90+ exhibitors. Plus, check out the chic boutiques and sponsored lounges around Lido Marina Village. You can actually shop for high-end coastal fashion, jewelry, and art between yacht tours. Don’t be surprised if you end up buying a stylish captain’s hat or a piece of nautical art as a show souvenir!

To make the most of your day, be sure to grab an event program or map at the entrance. This will list scheduled demonstrations, live performance times, and locations of everything. The show sprawls across both land and water areas, so a map is handy to ensure you don’t miss the Hanover 387 (more on that beauty below!) or that cool new tech demo you wanted to see.

Daily Schedule & Special Events

Let’s break down a few daily highlights in a quick-glance table so you can plan your visit:

Day & Date	Highlights & Key Events	Time
Thursday, May 1	Pre-Show (Invite-Only Preview) – Exclusive broker and VIP reception. Highlight: Intimate first look at yachts, industry networking.	2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Friday, May 2	Opening Day (Public) – Show opens to everyone. Highlights: Opening Ceremony; Exhibits 10am-7pm. VIP Lounge on Lido Deck with Nobu catering (VIP ticket required); Live music in evening.	10:00 AM – 7:00 PM(VIP Lounge 12–6 PM)
Saturday, May 3	Weekend Rush – Typically the busiest day. Highlights: Full day of yacht tours and demos; Family Day activities (kids’ fun at Mercury Racing Garden); Possibly special evening entertainment or after-parties at nearby venues.	10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday, May 4	Closing Day – Last chance to see the show. Highlights: Morning yacht hops with lighter crowds; some exhibitors offer final-day deals. Show wraps at 5pm – don’t miss that last walkthrough of your favorite yacht!	10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

(Note: Schedule subject to change; check the official program for up-to-date event times.)

Each day has its own vibe – Friday is exciting with the kickoff buzz, Saturday is high-energy with big crowds and parties, and Sunday is more relaxed, great for deeper conversations with brokers or a second look at a yacht you’re serious about. No matter which day(s) you attend, there will be plenty to see and do.

Spotlight: WS Yacht Brokers & The Hanover 387 Luxury Edition Debut

One of the most anticipated premieres at this year’s show is the 2025 Hanover 387 Classic – Luxury Edition. We’re extra excited about this one, and not just because it’s drop-dead gorgeous – it’s also being brought to you by WS Yacht Brokers, making its West Coast debut right here at Newport Beach!

Meet the Hanover 387 Luxury Edition

If you haven’t heard of Hanover Yachts yet, get ready to be impressed. The Hanover 387 is a 38-foot luxury express cruiser with a sumptuous design and clever engineering that sets it apart in its class. First impressions count, and the 387 makes a statement with its sleek profile and distinctive hard-top. The hard-top isn’t just for looks – it provides shade and comfort, effectively turning the deck into an all-weather entertaining space. Picture yourself lounging on deck in the ocean breeze, with the option to duck under the hard-top when the sun is at its peak.

Inside and out, the Hanover 387 exudes luxury and comfort. The cockpit and saloon area are designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living – think plush seating, a well-equipped wet bar, and panoramic windows. Down below, you’ll find a surprisingly spacious cabin with fine finishes. The layout comfortably sleeps up to 5 guests overnight (yes, you can actually weekend on this 38-footer!), with a private head (bathroom) and all the amenities needed for extended cruising. As Hanover puts it, this yacht “delivers comfort, great design, and durability, making your voyage truly unforgettable.”

Performance-wise, the Hanover 387 is no slouch either. With a choice of twin inboard engines or outboard configuration, it can hit speeds in the mid-40 mph range at wide open throttle – perfect for zipping to Catalina Island for a quick getaway. Cruising speed is a relaxed 22–24 mph , balancing speed and fuel efficiency. And speaking of fuel – she carries 250 gallons of fuel , plenty for extended coastal cruises, and has a 50-gallon freshwater tank to keep the comfort levels high. All Hanover models come with a 5-year Premier Level limited component warranty – a nice peace-of-mind bonus that underscores the brand’s confidence in its quality.

What truly makes the 2025 Hanover 387 Luxury Edition special at NBIBS is that this is the first one available on the West Coast – it’s a show debut. Early adopters and enthusiasts, this is your chance to see it up close before anyone else. WS Yacht Brokers is proud to be the first dealer in the Lower 48 states to have a Hanover 387 in inventory, and they’re pulling out all the stops to showcase it.

WS Yacht Brokers: Your Hosts and Yacht Guides

WS Yacht Brokers (that’s us, your friendly insiders writing this guide!) are thrilled to be part of Newport Beach’s premier boat show. We specialize in connecting clients with exceptional yachts, and this year our booth is all about the Hanover 387. When you visit, you can:

Step aboard the Hanover 387: We’ll be offering guided tours on board so you can experience the Luxury Edition’s plush interiors, advanced helm station, and spacious deck first-hand. Ask all the questions you want – our brokers are eager to chat about every feature, from the joystick docking to the premium sound system.
Meet our experienced team: Our WS Yacht Brokers team will be on hand to share insights not just on the Hanover, but on the market in general. Thinking about selling or upgrading? Chat with us about brokerage services. New to yachting? We’ll happily give you pointers on what to look for in a first boat. Consider us your resource and fellow enthusiasts – we love this stuff as much as you do.

By the way, if the Hanover 387 piques your interest but you’re looking for something a tad different, let us know. WS Yacht Brokers represents a range of quality yachts – we can compare options and even arrange private showings or sea trials after the show. Our goal is to help you find the boat that fits your lifestyle and dreams.

Newport Beach Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Visit

Coming to the boat show from out of town? You’re in for a treat – Newport Beach is a fantastic destination. Here’s how to do it right:

Getting There

By Air: The closest airport is John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, just about 15 minutes away – super convenient. Long Beach Airport (LGB) is around 30-40 minutes, and Los Angeles International (LAX) is about 1 hour (traffic willing). Flying in via private jet? SNA accommodates those too, you fancy thing.
By Car: Newport Beach is easily accessible via the 55 Freeway or Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1). If you’re local to SoCal, you probably know the drill. Parking, however, can be a challenge in Lido Marina Village during show days – the on-site structure fills up and does not validate for the event (it’s $40 max). Instead, take advantage of free parking at Hoag Health Center (500-538 Superior Ave), where a complimentary shuttle will run you over to the show entrance every 20 minutes. Uber/Lyft are also good options to avoid the parking hunt.
By Boat: Yes, you can arrive by your own boat! Newport Harbor has guest docks. During the show, there will be guest slips available at the “Dock & Dine” area in front of Nobu, as well as the public docks near the Elk’s Lodge. These are first-come, first-served and might have time limits, so have a backup plan. (Unauthorized boats that just tie up randomly will be towed – so stick to the designated guest spots.)

Where to Stay

Newport Beach has no shortage of great accommodations, from lavish resorts to cozy boutique hotels:

Lido House Hotel – You literally cannot stay any closer to the show. Lido House is a stylish boutique hotel just a 2-minute walk from the Marina Village. It’s themed with Newport’s nautical charm and has a fun rooftop bar (Topside) to unwind after the show.
Balboa Bay Resort – A luxury resort right on Newport Bay, about 5 minutes drive from Lido. It has its own marina, so you can even dock your boat there if you’re cruising in. Upscale dining, a spa, and bayfront pool – pure luxury.
Island Hotel Newport Beach (Pendry Newport Beach) – Newly rebranded as Pendry, this is in nearby Fashion Island (about 15 min away). Swanky and modern, with great shopping next door at Fashion Island mall.
Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals – If you’re coming with family or a group, consider renting a beach house on Balboa Peninsula or a bayfront cottage on Balboa Island. Waking up to harbor views and having your own space can be wonderful. Just book early – May is a popular time.

(Insider tip: If hotels in Newport Beach are booked or pricey, look at Costa Mesa or Irvine – both are within ~20 minutes and often have more availability.)

Local Eats & Things to Do

One does not live on boat shows alone! Newport Beach is a vibrant town. Here are some off-show activities and eateries to consider:

Waterfront Dining: Since you’ll be around Lido Marina, treat yourself to a meal on the water. Nobu Newport Beach is at the show venue (famous for sushi and celebrity spotting). Circle Hook is a casual fish spot in Lido Village known for lobster rolls. Across the harbor, Balboa Peninsula has classics like The Crab Cooker (a local seafood institution) and Louie’s by the Bay (Italian steakhouse with bay views).
Balboa Fun Zone & Balboa Island: Take a short ferry ride (yes, your car or on foot) over to Balboa Island and the Fun Zone. There’s a Ferris wheel, arcades, and nostalgic charm for the kids, plus the iconic Balboa Bar (ice cream dipped in chocolate and toppings – a must-try!). Stroll the cute shops on Marine Ave. You can even rent a small electric boat (Duffy boat) by the hour to cruise the harbor yourself.
Beaches & Water Activities: Newport Beach is famous for its beaches. The Wedge at the tip of Balboa Peninsula is famous for huge surf (spectating only unless you’re an expert surfer). Newport Beach Pier area is great for a beach walk or bike ride on the boardwalk. Feeling adventurous? Schedule a whale watching tour or a sunset cruise – boats depart from nearby Newport Harbor, and May is a good time for spotting dolphins, sea lions, and maybe migrating whales.
Shopping: Forgot your sunglasses or need a yacht-chic outfit? Fashion Island is an open-air upscale mall a short drive away, with everything from Neiman Marcus to surf shops. Closer by, Lido Marina Village has a curated selection of boutiques (Warby Parker, Jenni Kayne, etc.) to satisfy your shopping itch in between boat tours.

Newport Beach offers a perfect blend of luxury and laid-back coastal living. So whether you have a spare afternoon before your flight home or just want to make a full weekend out of the trip, you won’t run out of things to do.

Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Boat Show Experience

To wrap up our guide, here are some pro tips and FAQs to ensure you navigate the Newport Beach Boat Show like a seasoned insider:

Plan Your Attack: There’s a lot to see. Prioritize must-see booths or yachts (like that Hanover 387 at WS Yacht Brokers 😉) early in the day to avoid crowds. Weekday and early morning tend to be quieter.
Dress Comfortably & Smart: You’ll be on your feet and walking docks. Opt for boat shoes or sneakers (heels + docks = nope). Dress in smart casual – you might be climbing ladder-like stairs on yachts, so skirts or delicate outfits might be challenging. And don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat – the SoCal sun is real.
Network & Learn: Don’t be shy to chat with brokers and exhibitors. They are there to share knowledge. Whether you’re curious about the latest marine tech or the market trends for used yachts, ask away. Collect business cards. The boating world is a tight community – today’s conversation could be tomorrow’s deal or friendship.
Stay Hydrated & Fed: There will be food trucks, beer gardens, and the Mercury Racing Garden for snacks. Carry a reusable water bottle. Perhaps plan a lunch break at one of the Lido Village restaurants (pro tip: make a reservation ahead if you can, especially for Nobu or Lido Bottle Works).
Respect the Boats: Treat every yacht as you would a luxury home. Ask permission before boarding, be mindful of any “no shoes” requests, and always ask before taking photos inside. Brokers will happily oblige, but it’s polite to ask – plus it sparks conversation.
Bring the Kids (or Not): If you have young future boaters, the show can be a blast for them with the kid-friendly activities. Just keep a close hand on little ones on the docks (life jackets for small children are wise). Strollers might be tricky on floating docks, but on-land areas are fine. If you’re looking to seriously shop for a yacht, you might prefer to leave the toddlers at home so you can focus.
Check Weather & Go With the Flow: Newport in May is usually gorgeous (70s°F and sunny). Still, mornings can be cool and afternoons bright. Dress in layers. If by some chance it rains (rare), note that the show goes on – just bring a rain jacket. Also, as with any big event, expect some lines (especially for VIP events or popular superyachts). Patience and a smile go a long way.

FAQs

Q: How do I buy tickets for the Newport Beach Boat Show 2025?

A: Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gate. General Admission is about $40 (per day), and VIP packages are available at higher rates if you want those extra perks. Kids 12 and under are free. Once you buy online, you’ll get a QR code by email to scan at the entrance. It’s super quick.

Q: What does the VIP ticket include? Is it worth it?

A: VIP gets you all the general admission access plus entry to the VIP Lounge (21+) on the Lido Deck with complimentary drinks and gourmet bites, a water taxi service around the harbor, and a snazzy VIP gift bag. Also, some VIP events like the opening night party with Nobu catering are only for VIPs. If you love the luxe treatment (or hate lines and want a breather space), VIP is worth considering for at least one day.

Q: Can I bring my own boat to the show?

A: You can arrive by boat and use designated guest docks – specifically near Nobu at Lido Marina or the public dock by the Elk’s Lodge. It’s first-come, first-served and space is limited, so have a backup. Note that you can’t park your boat in the show itself unless you’re an exhibitor (and no sneaking in – they will tow unauthorized vessels). But arriving by boat is a fun way to make an entrance and skip the car parking shuffle.

Q: Are pets allowed at the boat show?

A: Pets are partially allowed. You can have leashed pets on the land side (Lido Village), but not on the docks or boats. This is for safety and sanitation – no one wants a pup overboard or scratches on teak decks. If you bring Fido, have a friend hang back on land with them while you board boats, or take turns.

Q: I’m in the market for a yacht. Can I do more than just look at the show?

A: Absolutely! Boat shows are a prime time to shop. If you’re serious, use the show to your advantage: compare multiple models side by side, take tours, and talk to brokers. Many boats at the show are actually for sale (new models and brokerage listings alike). You can often schedule a sea trial for after the show or even put down a deposit on the spot. For the new models like the Hanover 387, dealers (like WS Yacht Brokers) will be taking orders and can discuss customization, delivery times, etc. Pro tip: if you fall in love with a yacht, express your interest early – sometimes there are show specials or a queue of buyers. And if you’re selling, talk to brokers here; it’s a great time to get a valuation and list your boat when enthusiasm is high.

In summary, the 2025 Newport Beach International Boat Show promises an incredible blend of yachts, lifestyle, and community. It’s not just about seeing boats – it’s about living the boating dream for a day (or a whole weekend). From the thrill of stepping aboard a brand-new Hanover 387 to the simple joy of watching the sunset over the harbor with live music in the air, NBIBS 2025 will be an experience to cherish.

We at WS Yacht Brokers can’t wait to welcome you to our display. Whether you’re coming to seriously boat shop, to daydream and network, or just to have a fun day by the water, we’re here to make your experience special. Come say hello, grab an insider tip or two from our team, and maybe even begin your next grand adventure on the water.

See you dockside in Newport Beach – and happy boating! 🏖️🛥️✨