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Newport Elegance Reimagined: The 2025 Newport Beach International Boat Show Stuns in Style and Scale

  • Writer: Bill Bakho
    Bill Bakho
  • May 12
  • 3 min read

It was a sight that shimmered like champagne in the sunlight, the sleek hulls catching the coastal breeze, polished engines humming, and the subtle clink of glasses echoing across the Lido Marina Village. The 2025 Troutman Amin, LLP Newport Beach International Boat Show (NBIBS), produced by experiential tastemakers Revel Republic, wasn't just an event—it was a proclamation: the new era of luxury on water has arrived.



Cementing its status as a cultural and nautical phenomenon, NBIBS 2025 has officially been named the #1 Boat Show in the United States by USA Today. This prestigious accolade underscores what industry insiders and style-setters have long suspected: this is the show where vision, innovation, and opulence meet.

From May 1st to May 4th, the harbor transformed into a floating gallery of the world's most exquisite vessels, boasting a record-breaking exhibition of superyachts, cutting-edge marine technologies, and immersive lifestyle activations. Tens of thousands of guests from around the globe, including industry captains, fashion icons, and yachting aficionados, descended upon Newport Beach to experience firsthand what happens when "luxury" is not merely promised but delivered.


"This recognition as the nation's top boat show is not just a win for Revel Republic, but a win for Newport Beach and the entire marine community," said Hany Ghabour, Co-Founder and President of Revel Republic.


And a win it was. Revel Republic didn't just raise the bar, they redesigned it entirely. Under the creative leadership of Bernard Kida and Anthony Trimino, NBIBS 2025 achieved the rare feat of being both aspirational and inclusive. Picture curated dockside lounges, designer pop-ups, curated dining experiences, and VIP yacht tours that flowed seamlessly with panel talks, family-friendly activities, and ocean conservation showcases.


Luxury was not limited to the vessels. Guests indulged in a culinary voyage of the highest order:

  • Signature cocktails from Golden Eagle Vodka lit up the sunset hour, with bespoke martinis and handcrafted infusions flowing from custom bars.

  • Casamigos brought an elevated tequila tasting experience that married elegance with edge, while Peroni's crisp Italian beer offered a refreshing nod to the European yachting lifestyle.

  • Nobu wowed with signature dishes—think yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño and black cod miso—served from a chic waterfront pavilion.

  • California Bar & Grill delivered refined coastal classics with a modern twist, and Golden Reserve's exclusive caviar tastings added a decadent touch to the dockside experience.



As the sun dipped into the Pacific, the atmosphere ignited—Chastity Ashley, the globally acclaimed DJ Neon Pony, took center stage. Known for her high-octane fusion of live percussion and pulse-pounding electronic sets, Ashley elevated the evening into a full-blown celebration. Her performance was not just entertainment; it was an exclamation point, perfectly punctuating the luxury and electricity of the show.



"NBIBS 2025 reflects what happens when passion meets precision," added Bernard Kida, capturing the meticulous planning and flawless execution that defined every square foot of the show.


A defining feature of this year's success was the robust support from world-class sponsors who embody excellence in their industries. Guests experienced the elegance of Falcon business jets by Dassault Aviation, admired the performance innovation of Ken Grody Ford, and explored aspirational lifestyles with Sotheby's Realty. Visit Newport Beach brought local flair and hospitality that grounded the global glamour in authentic Southern California charm.


A collective effort was at the heart of everything, from presenting partner Troutman Amin, LLP, to an exceptional network of dealers, exhibitors, and brokers. Special thanks were extended to the City of Newport Beach and a tireless team that included hospitality dynamo Kamber Jones, event strategist Rachael Lopez, and creatives like Shannon Clark, Mike Rawlings, and Jordan Wachter, whose behind-the-scenes brilliance brought the show to life.


The ripple effects of NBIBS 2025 stretch far beyond the Pacific. Already, all eyes are on Revel Republic's following productions, the San Diego International Boat Show (SDIBS), newly ranked #10 by USA Today, and CHIBS at Navy Pier Marina in Chicago. If Newport is any indication, these events promise to redefine the standard for marine luxury nationwide.


"The best is still yet to come," teased Trimino, and if NBIBS 2025 was the preview, we can only imagine what's next.


For more information on upcoming events and partnership opportunities,

Contact: Kamber Jones, Director of Hospitality | kamber@revel-republic.com


Writen by IG @BillBakho


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