Newport International Boat Show Acquired By South Florida Ventures

Newport International Boat Show joins the growing portfolio of best-in-class
boating and yachting events managed by the South Florida Ventures
Newport, R.I. – The Newport Restaurant Group (NRG) owner and producer of the annual
Newport International Boat Show (NIBS) announced today that the Show was acquired by
South Florida Ventures to expand and deliver enhanced value to participating marine
industry businesses and a seamless and unparalleled experience for attendees.
With a rich 53-year heritage deeply rooted in the Newport community, the Newport
International Boat Show occupies over thirteen acres of historic downtown Newport, Rhode
Island. Under the stewardship of Paul O’Reilly and his dedicated team, NIBS stands as one
of the nation’s premier boat shows and the foremost event of its kind in the Northeast.
Boasting a lineup of over 600 exhibitors and the largest in-water display in New England, the
show showcases an impressive array of power and sailboats, marine accessories, products,
and services.
South Florida Ventures has seen rapid expansion over the past five years, acquiring and
launching specialized businesses and brands catering to the luxury lifestyle sector, including
most recently the esteemed Miami International Boat Show. With successful ventures like the
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, Palm Beach International Boat Show, the St.
Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show, and the Suncoast Boat Show under their belt, the
team is well-positioned to propel the Newport International Boat Show to new heights. The
partnership between these two entities has been forged through extensive deliberations,
focusing on strategies to elevate industry standards and cultivate an unparalleled boat show
experience.
Andrew Doole, President of US Boat Shows, South Florida Ventures, expressed excitement
about the union, stating, “We are delighted to welcome NIBS into the South Florida Ventures
NEWPORT INTERNATIONAL BOAT SHOW (NIBS) EMBARKS ON EXCITING PARTNERSHIP
WITH SOUTH FLORIDA VENTURES TO GROW THE NIBS BRAND family. NIBS is a standout show, reflecting the vibrancy of the boating community in the Northeast. This partnership signifies a true collaboration, driven by a shared dedication to customer satisfaction, community, and a mutual interest in the future growth of NIBS and its
brand.”
Lisa Knowles, Show Director for NIBS, remarked, “South Florida Ventures is the ideal partner
to lead the Newport International Boat Show into its next evolution. This collaboration
ensures that NIBS will maintain its renowned quality while gaining access to innovation,
insights, and cutting-edge technologies, enriching the experience for exhibitors and
attendees alike. We eagerly anticipate welcoming everyone to an even more remarkable
2024 show in September!”
Paul O’Reilly, CEO of Newport Restaurant Group, stated, “For over 50 years, the Newport
International Boat Show has been the pinnacle of boat shows in the Northeast. While it is
bittersweet to bid farewell to NIBS, I am assured that it is in the most capable hands with the
NIBS leadership team and South Florida Ventures at the helm. With the maritime sector
experiencing a surge in demand post-pandemic, this marks the perfect time for the next
chapter in the illustrious journey of the Newport International Boat Show. I am certain that
Lisa and Andrew will maintain its great integrity and esteemed reputation for years to come.”
The Newport International Boat Show will be the first Northeast addition for South Florida
Ventures’ boating portfolio. The NIBS event will take place September 12-15 in the historic
waterfront of downtown Newport, Rhode Island. Exhibitor and Sponsor space contracts are
actively being accepted as of January 15, 2024, and tickets will go on sale to the public June
1st, 2024. Visit newportboatshow.com for the latest information and registration details.