FLIBS 2025: Lights. Linens. Action.
- Cris Clifford
- Nov 9
- 10 min read
Updated: Nov 17
THE VIRTUAL TOUR
The spotlight was on at this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show as Top Notch Tabletop once again celebrated the artistry, creativity, and heart of yacht crew from around the world (including a Tica- yes, I was bursting at the seams). 29 exceptional crew stars, 11 yachts, 7 categories, 3 expert judges, and 9 generous sponsors came together for one unforgettable showcase of onboard design excellence.
From “Prosecco & Pearls” to “Poker Run,” “Harvest,” “Asian,” “Mexican,” “Beachy,” and even “New Year’s Vibes,” every table told a story — rich in imagination, layered with intention, and polished with each crew’s unmistakable signature of hospitality.
The details dazzled — a hydrating Electrolyte Shot that stole the show, a Pumpkin Spice Martini that stole our hearts, refreshing sips of Sake Mint Julep and Spicy Mango Margarita were favorites. (Recipes to follow — trust us, you’ll want to try them all.)
Captains, brokers, and crew agents, take note: these are the crews who go beyond service — who anticipate, elevate, and transform the onboard experience from the very first greeting.
In order of size, starting with the smallest vessel participating:
M/Y Carpe Diem 32m/105' Azimut |
Sole Stewardess Taylor Nicholls charmed us with a tablescape that exuded understated elegance and thoughtful hospitality.
Each place setting shimmered with silver placemats, crisp napkins tied with pearl napkin rings, and sparkling glassware that caught the light beautifully. The look was modern yet warm — a seamless balance between yacht sophistication and approachable charm.
Taylor’s radiant smile and welcoming presence reminded us that great service begins long before the first course is served. A perfect example of Top Notch Tabletop’s spirit — poised, polished, and genuinely guest-focused.
M/Y Risk Taker 33m/105' Hargrave |
Solo Stewardess Sarah Murphree aka Sarbie, captured everyone’s attention and senses with her thoughtful touch — welcoming us with an electrolyte shot of fresh pineapple, tangerine, salt, and magnesium. It was the perfect blend of wellness, creativity, and hospitality — an experience that instantly set the tone.
The “Garden of Eden” floated gracefully from above, centered by a stunning composition of braided fabrics in warm fall hues, creating a runner that was both artistic and inviting. Every detail felt intentional — natural, balanced, and beautiful.
Sarah, your passion for wellness and sustainability shines through in everything you do. Congratulations on launching your organic line of cleaners — an extension of your thoughtful approach to living and stewarding. I will encourage everyone to visit sarbie.com to check out her wonderful work.
Thank you for inspiring us all with your creativity, warmth, and authenticity. You reminded us that even a solo stew can create a table that feels like an entire experience — heart, health, and hospitality all in one. Sarbie won Best Beverage Presentation sponsored by Julie Perry and the Cocktail Guru.
M/Y LL - Lady Lene 34m/111' Van Der Valk |
On M/Y Lady Lene, Chief Stewardess Luiza Miranda and Elizabeth Andrews embraced the yacht’s refined interior by creating a table that spoke the language of quiet sophistication. The owners had requested a classic, minimalist setting that allowed the vessel’s sculptural art to remain the focal point — and the duo delivered with masterful restraint.
Every element served a purpose, and simplicity became its own form of luxury. Luiza and Elizabeth’s attention to proportion, symmetry, and guest flow showcased not just design awareness but service intuition.
M/Y Optimism 37m/111' | Magesty Yachts |
Though Chief Stewardess Mairi Shaw couldn’t be present, her influence was felt in every polished detail, while Amber Chartrey graciously hosted with confidence and charm — the very essence of poised service.
Their table unfolded in curated vignettes of coastal treasures — seashells, coconuts, and coral accents artfully arranged along a soft cascade of white, beach-foam draping that rippled like the tide.
Each place setting was a statement of precision: white napkins folded into refined fans, resting on patterned plates trimmed in ocean tones. Tall taper candles in sleek black holders added height and drama, echoing the rhythmic geometry of the yacht’s sculptural wall panels behind. The result was a scene of timeless coastal romance.
M/Y Patience 40m/132' Benetti |
Chief Steward's Gerhard Pretorius’ setting stood out in every way. From the elegant fall palette to the flawless pumpkin display, his table radiated warmth, harmony, and refined seasonal charm — a true celebration of autumn elegance at sea.
Touches of texture and tone blended effortlessly: rich oranges and burnished golds, layers of linen and glass catching the soft light, and an atmosphere that felt inviting yet impeccably curated. The hospitality extended far beyond the visuals — complete with a pumpkin spice martini that has became my personal favorite.
Gerhard’s charter-on energy set the tone for the entire experience — animated, polished, and full of heart. His ability to merge creativity, service, and storytelling turned the table into more than a design; it became an unforgettable experience — one that lingered long after the last sip of martini.
He has, without question, earned his title as a Designer of Unforgettable Experiences and won Most Inspiring Interior Top Notch Tabletop sponsored by Savvy Maritime Academy and Aqualuxe Outfitting.
M/Y Rena 44m/145' Quea |
“Prosecco & Pearls” shimmered to life aboard M/Y Rena, where Chief Stewardess Amanda Jordaan & Elise Fraone presented a table that embodied refined coastal glamour.
The composition felt immersive — a graceful interpretation of life beneath the waves, imagined through textures of glass, shell, and shimmer framed by the coral design on the chair upholstery.
A setting that didn’t just evoke the ocean — it reflected its grace, its rhythm, and its sparkle. Well done! This team gets bragging rights for Menu Design.
M/Y Amica Mea 46m/152' Royal Hakvoort |
Chief Stewardess Beth Pendrous and Gemma Walker took creativity to dazzling new heights with a tablescape that celebrated innovation, intention, repurposing and a spirited sense of fun. Their Asian-inspired design, alive with a lilac-and-metallic palette, brought us closer to the garden of this pensive Buddha and immediately invited us to gather around this magnificent display of artistry.
And just when guests thought they’d seen it all, the duo surprised everyone with a Sake Mint Julep — a crisp, aromatic cocktail that awakened the senses and tied the theme together with unexpected flair.
Their table embodied everything Top Notch Tabletop celebrates: creativity, hospitality, and heart. Take note of every single piece on their display — the impressive rock layering, the rich mix of textures blending roses, bronze statues, metallic vases, and gold lily-pad placemats, all perfectly coordinated with twine-style cutlery — it was truly next level.
This vessel is charter-ready! Earning them Most Inspiring Top Notch Tabletop Deck Sponsored by Savvy Maritime Academy and Florist Lorrie Sanon of Indigo Hues Designs.
M/Y Reverie 50m/165' | Feadship |
The M/Y Reverie team ushered in their New Year tablescape, worthy of a midnight toast. Chief Stewardess Megan Rademeyer, Anna Dobrydnio, Karlie Livingstone, and with a hand from Deckhand Olivia, designed a setting that was pure celebration — a symphony of gold, sparkle, and flawless coordination.
Glamorous vignettes of gilded accents and candles shimmered at varying heights along a black textured runner, creating depth and movement that caught the light with every flicker.
The metallic chargers and beaded napkin rings echoed the golden glow above, while delicate hanging glass orbs suspended in the air added a touch of modern enchantment.
It was the perfect blend of elegance and energy — timeless yet bold, sleek yet full of soul.
A table designed not just to mark the end of a year, but celebrate the spirit of new beginnings. Another Charter-Ready team! Stunning!
M/Y Goldeneye 177'2 / 54m | Overmarine |
Both the interior “Poker Run” and deckside “Beach Luncheon” aboard M/Y Goldeneye were standouts in creativity and execution. Chief Stewardess Erin Wilson and Cate Linsley delivered not one, but two distinct settings — each a masterclass in theme, style, and service.
The Poker Run tablescape was pure cinematic glamour: black and gold elegance, perfectly balanced with playful sophistication. Every detail — from the cards and martini glasses to the rich textures and gleaming candlelight — captured the thrill of the game. You couldn’t help but want to sit down and shout, "Who’s dealing?"
Then came the Beach Luncheon, a refreshing contrast of natural texture and coastal ease. The collaged table runners layered burlap, jute, and woven fibers, creating visual depth and practical protection from the bottom layer up. The symmetry and simplicity made it effortlessly striking — and that custom dining table itself was a showpiece worth its own applause.
To complete the experience, a perfectly placed beverage station greeted guests with refreshing flair — a finishing touch that tied both scenes together beautifully. This team took bragging rights for Top Creative Centerpiece Design. Congratulations!!
A heartfelt thank you to Erin, Cate, Captain, and Crew for sharing not only your artistry but also the genuine spirit of onboard hospitality that defines Goldeneye. Truly, a five-star experience from start to finish. Thank you captain for hosting our group photo on your bow. Thank you.
M/Y Casino Royale 74m/242' Amels |
A beaded fest of brilliance — that’s the only way to describe the artistry aboard M/Y Casino Royale. Chief Stewardess Martina Adler and her team — Dani de Freitas, Olivia Villotti, Jordan Michel, Monique Hunley, and Dody Febrianto — brought to life their “Under the Sea” theme with cascading pearls, glowing candles and playful pink florals perfectly balanced against turquoise fans. The entire table shimmered with light and texture, while the dining room chandelier above echoed the look of rising bubbles underwater, tying every element together in one seamless aquatic dream.
The napkin fold, pressed and styled to mimic fish gliding across the table, was pure artistry — a perfect example of how skill and imagination can transform simple linen into sculpture — earning them the award for Most Artistic Napkin Fold, sponsored by Alene Keenan, Etiquette Uncorked, and The Cocktail Guru. Every layer, every sparkle, every color choice felt intentional and inspired.
Their deck table, centered with a magnificent oversized floral arrangement in rich autumn hues, carried the same energy outdoors — vibrant, balanced, and beautifully bold.
M/Y Sur La Mer 44m/147' | Benetti |
And we left the most complete table setting for last. The A-Team showcasing Lights, Linens, Action! right before our eyes — Chief Stewardess Ella Scott, Bianca de Lange, and Julissa Wilson delivered a showstopping performance aboard M/Y Sur La Mer.
With a set straight out of Coco’s “Day of the Dead” theme, they brought to life the four elements — Fire, Water, Wind, and Earth — complete with a heartfelt altar adorned with photos of loved ones who have passed. A majestic floral installation crowned the ceiling, framing the scene where a pair of playful singing skeletons came to life with a round of applause. And that’s your ACTION!
What a delight to discover that Julissa is Costa Rican — a Tica! My heart was bursting with pride. Under Ella’s seasoned leadership, this creative team transformed the dining space into an unforgettable cinematic experience.
The service deck onboard Sur La Mer is like no other — complete with an incredible bar setup where Ella crafted her signature Spicy Mango Margaritas, the perfect finale to an evening of artistry, laughter, and heart. Thank you, ladies, for setting the bar — and the stage — for true onboard brilliance.
This masterpiece won Utmost Inspiring Top Notch Tabletop sponsored by Savvy Maritime Academy and The Cocktail Guru. Congratulations!
Let's recap -
✨Tips for the Season and Beyond
Drawing inspiration from the creativity, craftsmanship, and heart behind this year’s Top Notch Tabletop FLIBS 2025 participants — here are design takeaways to elevate your onboard service all season long:
1. Layering & Texture Play: Go beyond flat settings — this year’s tables came alive through the interplay of fabrics, woven mats, metallic chargers, and soft runners. Layering added depth, warmth, and visual storytelling to each theme.
2. Menu Design & Beverage Stations: Think presentation beyond the plate. From electrolyte welcome shots to elegant menu displays and sake-mint juleps, thoughtful beverage stations and printed menus transformed hospitality into an experience.
3. Napkin Artistry: A simple fold can make a statement — from fans and fish-inspired folds to shell-shaped and bow-tied designs. Precision pressing and symmetry were key to every standout setting.
4. Centerpiece Creativity: Centerpieces told the story this year — glam, poker face, harvest, cascading florals and vignettes of coastal treasures. Use what’s onboard — shells, candles, playing cards, seasonal fruit — and make it intentional.
5. Elevation & Whimsy: Design doesn’t stop at the tabletop. Hanging florals, glass orbs, and floating lights created dimension and a sense of wonder. Just remember: keep sightlines open and everything safely secured.
6. Monochrome Elegance: Black-and-gold, all-white, or soft tonal pairings — monochrome palettes proved that simplicity can be striking. Balance it with rich textures and one focal accent for a polished, modern feel.
7. Sustainable & Resourceful: Repurpose, restyle, reimagine. Many teams impressed by giving new life to existing items — from metallic vases used as sculptural elements to linens re-layered in unexpected ways. We encourage creativity to begin with what’s already aboard.
8. Teamwork Makes the Magic: Every great table has collaboration at its heart. Use themed setups as opportunities for your interior crew to brainstorm together, ask your deck crew for help with aerial designs — the results always show.
9. Ambiance & Flow: Music, lighting, and a sincere smile complete the experience. Whether it’s a morning brunch or a sunset toast, curate the mood as thoughtfully as the table itself.
FLIBS 2025: LIGHTS LINENS ACTION - TIP OF THE DAY
‼️📢🍽️🚨FLIBS 2025: Lights. Linens. Action. Best interior Tips of the boat show! Thank you to all our participants 💖
Eleven vessels — guided by interior tablescape artists who consistently go above and beyond — elevated the guest experience. Participants showcased unparalleled creativity at Top Notch Tabletop FLIBS 2025.
One of the biggest highlights of the show was our judging panel — a powerhouse of experience, heart, and hospitality excellence. Judge Julie Perry flew in all the way from Indianapolis just to join us, alongside Judge Irma Malabanan, interior trainer at Savvy Maritime Academy, and myself, proudly hosting and representing Aqualuxe Outfitting.
A special thank-you goes to Suki Finnerty of YachtingToday.tv, our incredible videographer who captured every detail and story behind the scenes.
And of course, heartfelt thanks to Keith Clifford from ReliefChefServices.com, Kat Perry and Jayne McManus for their invaluable assistance throughout the event, and to all our sponsors (shout out to Alene Keenan, from Etiquette Uncorked- we missed you and The Cocktail Guru) for helping make this celebration of creativity and service possible.
We extend our best wishes for a successful season ahead, filled with numerous charters and generous tips. Most importantly, we wish safe travels to all crew members and their guests.
Thank you for participating! Thank you for sharing! We hope this inspires all our readers!
Send us your favorite table settings to info@topnotchtabletop.com
SPECIAL SHOUT OUT
Special shout-out to Captain Karl Joseph Alvik of M/Y Goldeneye, for graciously hosting our final group photo with some of the participants. A true example of what it means to lead with heart — celebrating his interior team, instilling pride, and showcasing the very essence of onboard hospitality.
We’re truly grateful for your support and for setting such a shining example of what crew unity and appreciation look like in action.
To the Participants:
Thank you to the incredible crew (🌟⭐🌟⭐🌟) who participated — you are the ones moving the needle, setting the standard, and shining bright. Your creativity, teamwork, and heart continue to elevate what onboard hospitality is all about.
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Thank you, Grazie mille, Merci, Muchas Gracias, Pura Vida!
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