See Why This Florida City has been Named the “Yachting Capital of the World”

aerial of marina in fort lauderdale and ocean skyline

October 25, 2022 | Read Time: 3 minutes

With a year-round temperate climate, beautiful azure waters, and miles of canals and waterways throughout the city, Fort Lauderdale, Florida has long been a mecca for boaters. Known as the “Yachting Capital of the World,” this tropical destination on Florida’s Atlantic Coast is a beacon for yachtsmen and avid fishermen desiring a vibrant waterfront lifestyle. From deep-sea fishing in the Atlantic Ocean to cruising along the Intracoastal, see how Fort Lauderdale provides fun on the water for enthusiasts of all ages.

Endless Waterways Woven into the Fort Lauderdale Landscape

Known by the locals as “The Venice of America,” Fort Lauderdale is built around endless canals, with over 300 miles of waterways connecting the Intracoastal Waterway, Atlantic Ocean, and Gulfstream waters. Lined with palm trees, restaurants, and attractions, these canals ensure seamless travel both throughout the city and beyond. For a weekend getaway, day trips south to The Bahamas or The Florida Keys are a breeze. The Intracoastal Waterway also travels all the way up the north coastline, making travel up to Massachusetts and back seamless. No matter where boaters choose to go, they will surely enjoy cruising through Florida’s stunning natural beauty.

Take a Water Taxi Home

These plentiful waterways surrounding the city provide a paradise for waterfront activities in Fort Lauderdale. A hop-on, hop-off water taxi service makes it easy to get around the city in style, with 11 stops including Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, the Hilton Marina and Convention Center, Hollywood Beach’s Margaritaville, and close beach access. Additionally, authentic venetian gondola tours glide guests through glistening waters for a tranquil and scenic ride.

Just offshore, Fort Lauderdale’s lively coral reef systems and shipwrecks create a huge attraction for scuba divers, while thrill seekers love the area’s jet ski rentals and sailing excursions. Deep-sea sportfishing is also very popular in the Gulfstream waters, with blackfin tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and more that can be caught year-round.

More Than 100 Marinas

When it’s time to take off or come home from a waterfront adventure, over 100 marinas provide plentiful docking for residents and visitors alike. From 70′ to 200′ feet, docks including Hall of Fame Marina, Sunrise Harbor, and Boathouse Yacht Facility are within walking distance of an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. A redevelopment project on the Las Olas Marina will make it accessible to mega yachts up to 250 feet in length, while the Bahia Mar Yachting Center with 300′ docks is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

One of the World’s Largest Boat Shows

Fort Lauderdale is also known for its events celebrating Florida’s water-oriented lifestyle. Every October, the highly anticipated Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is one of the biggest boat shows in the world, attracting more than 100,000 yacht enthusiasts every year. The five-day event celebrates the very best of yachting, encompassing seven venues, three million square feet of exhibition space, over 1,000 exhibitors, and more than 1,300 boats on display.

Original article publsihed by Selene Residences