Site Plan For a Big Boat Show as an Illustrated Map
Client: Show Management
For information about the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show visit FLIBS.com
For the 2016 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, I continued my long standing role updating the illustrated site map covering Bahia Mar, Las Olas Marina, and the International Swimming Hall of Fame. This map functions as a primary navigation resource for one of the largest in water boat shows in the world, guiding thousands of attendees through a complex, multi venue waterfront setting.
Client: Showboats Magazine
Each annual edition requires careful revision to reflect changes in the show layout. The 2016 map included significant updates to dock configurations, exhibitor locations, hospitality areas, and access points. Sponsor logos were reviewed and adjusted to ensure accurate placement and clear visibility throughout the illustration. From a design standpoint, the 2016 edition introduced a lighter, brighter color palette with reduced visual texture compared to the previous year. Subtle refinements were also made to the boat silhouettes, shifting to darker forms on lighter backgrounds to improve contrast and legibility.
To further enhance readability, docks are labeled with clear letter identifiers, land based features are keyed numerically, and shared amenities such as restrooms, services, and transportation points are represented through a consistent icon system. These design choices ensure the map performs effectively across a wide range of formats, including printed show guides, large format signage, mobile devices, and digital platforms. This project highlights the value of custom illustrated maps as both essential wayfinding tools and strong visual assets for large scale marine events.
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Maps:
- About Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
- Bahia Mar, Swimming Hall of Fame & Las Olas Marina Maps: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010
- Parking and Transportation Maps: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2015 Bus | 2015 Water Taxi | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011
- Broward County Convention Center Maps: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2017 Sailfish Pavilion | 2017 | 2016 Sailfish Pavilion | 2016 | 2015 Sailfish Pavilion | 2015 | 2014 Sailfish Pavilion | 2014 | 2013 Sailfish Pavilion | 2013 | 2012 | 2011 | 2010
- Marinas Maps: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2019 | 2016
- Program Layouts: 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022
- Signs: 2013 looking north | 2013 Yachting Tent
- Video: 2013 54th Annual
- Illustrations (not maps): 2014A | 2014B
BROWSE MY WORK
- Illustration: Browse custom illustrations, book cover art, illustrated maps, and architectural renderings.
- Fine art: View original paintings and drawings, the Custom Halftone Series, and mural commissions.
- Graphic design & motion: See design projects, then watch motion reels and animated pieces.
- Maps by use case: Explore illustrated maps created for boat shows, resorts, marinas, real estate, transportation & parking, cities & towns, parks, and wayfinding.
- Specialty projects: Also check out cover design, vinyl & vehicle wraps, proposal renderings, and street art.
- Style & technique: Discover vector, isometric, painterly, monochrome, data-driven, bird's-eye, and halftone approaches.
- Tools I use: Everyday software includes Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, and InDesign; motion work relies on Premiere & After Effects.