Fort Lauderdale is one of Florida’s most classic boating spots. It’s affectionately called the “Venice of America,” named after the canal system that runs through the city. Boats make up a huge part of everyday life in Fort Lauderdale, and visiting boaters always feel right at home.
With comfortable weather year-round, there’s never a bad time to take a trip. You’ll be greeted by well-maintained marinas all over the city, and countless dock and dine options make for easy stops. Anchoring options are limited, though, and most visitors rely on marinas for overnight stays. Links to each featured location are included in Argo, making it easy to plan your stops before you head out.
Guide Contents:
- The City at a Glance
- Getting there (Navigation Advice)
- Marinas and Boat Facilities
- Anchorages
- Dock and Dine & Waterfront Restaurants
- Things to Do on Shore
- Tips for Visiting by Boat
- Frequently Asked Questions
The City at a Glance
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Type of boating: ICW cruising, canal, coastal
Navigation difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best season to visit: November – May
Marina availability: Excellent
Dock and dine restaurants: Shooters Waterfront, Coconuts, 15th Street Fisheries, Boatyard
Notable attractions: New River, Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale Beach
Getting There by Water
Fort Lauderdale is most easily reached through Port Everglades Inlet. It’s deep, well-marked, and heavily trafficked. Once inside, boaters usually use the Intracoastal Waterway or continue inland via the New River.
The Intracoastal Waterway runs straight through Fort Lauderdale. It connects the city to Miami to the south and Palm Beach to the north. Expect heavy traffic during peak seasons and on weekends. Bridge schedules also have a big impact on navigability, so it’s worth planning around them.
Navigation Notes
- Primary Inlet: Port Everglades Inlet – deep, well-marked
- Secondary Routes: Intracoastal Waterway, New River
- Bridges: Numerous fixed bridges and drawbridges
- Hazards: Heavy traffic, narrow canals, strong law enforcement presence
Marinas and Boat Facilities
Las Olas Marina
Las Olas Marina is one of the most convenient options in Fort Lauderdale. It sits right by downtown near Fort Lauderdale Beach, making it an easy spot to access restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Reviewers note that it’s a great choice for overnight stays and quick visits alike.
Key Facilities: Fuel, pump-out, restrooms, showers, transient slips
Bahia Mar Yachting Center
Near the Port Everglades Inlet, the Yachting Center is great for boaters planning trips offshore or traveling along the coast. Reviewers appreciate the kind and accommodating staff, as well as the marina’s ease of navigation.
Key Facilities: Fuel, pump-out, restrooms, showers, transient slips
Port 32 Fort Lauderdale Marina
For those looking for a full-service marina away from the busiest areas of the city, Port 32 is the perfect stopping point. Reviewers consistently highlight the calmer atmosphere and well-kept facilities.
Key Facilities: Fuel, pump-out, restrooms, showers, laundry, transient slips
Anchorages Near Fort Lauderdale
Lake Sylvia
Lake Sylvia is the most commonly used anchorage in Fort Lauderdale, and one of the few true overnight anchoring options in the immediate area. It sits just off the Intracoastal Waterway. With calm, well-protected waters and easy dinghy access to Las Olas and nearby neighborhoods, it’s hard to find a better anchor spot in the area. Reviewers note that it fills up very quickly during peak seasons, but gives unbeatable access to downtown.
Quick Facts
- Depth: 8-15 ft
- Bottom: Mud and sand, good holding
- Protection: Good
- Facilities: None
- Crowds: Busy in season
Hillsboro Inlet Anchorage
To the north of Fort Lauderdale, Hillsboro Inlet is commonly used as a short-term anchorage for boaters planning offshore runs.
Quick Facts
- Depth: 8-14 ft
- Bottom: Sand and mud, decent holding
- Protection: Limited, depending on the weather
- Facilities: None
- Crowds: Light to moderate
Dock and Dine & Waterfront Restaurants
Shooters Waterfront
Shooters is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most popular dock and dine. It sits directly along the Intracoastal Waterway and is a perfect stop for lunch or dinner while watching countless boats pass by. Reviewers rave about the lively atmosphere and recommend dropping by midweek if you want a more chill experience.
- Vibe: Casual, lively
- Cuisine: Seafood, American
- Dockage: Dock access along the ICW
- Crowds: Busy weekends, steady weekday traffic
Coconuts
A laid-back waterfront favorite, Coconuts is well known for fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere. It sits right on the water and is beloved by boaters cruising the ICW. Reviewers appreciate the spot’s consistency and relaxed vibe, making it a great stop any time of the day.
- Vibe: Casual
- Cuisine: Seafood, American
- Dockage: Dock access available
- Crowds: Steady throughout the day
15th Street Fisheries
15th Street Fisheries is a classic dock and dine near Port Everglades. Boaters often stop by to watch fishing boats unload daily catches right from the docks. Sitting on the Lauderdale Marina, it’s a popular spot before or after offshore trips.
- Vibe: Casual
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Dockage: Dock access at the marina
- Crowds: Busy evenings and weekends
Things to Do on Shore in Fort Lauderdale
There’s plenty to do in Fort Lauderdale once you step off the boat. Waterfront areas are famously walkable and filled with lively neighborhoods and attractions. The city makes it easy to fill a day on land without straying far from the water. Many spots are just minutes away from major marinas.
Las Olas Boulevard
As the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s onshore scene, Las Olas Boulevard is packed to the brim with restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries, making for a must-stop for boaters docked downtown. Las Olas is active throughout the day and well into the evening and has quickly grown into one of the prides of Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale Beach
With calm, warm waters, a trip to the beach is almost mandatory for anyone who wants to swim or lounge. It stretches about two miles, and the city offers plenty of amenities to make the stop even better.
New Riverwalk
The Riverwalk follows the New River through downtown. It connects parks, museums, bars, and marinas. A fantastic choice for jogging and sightseeing!
Museums and Historic Sites
The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a calmer look into the city’s early history. The preserved estate’s architecture is gorgeous, and its surrounding gardens are pristinely maintained.
Similarly, the Stranahan House is the oldest surviving building in Fort Lauderdale. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s roots and earliest developments.
Near the Riverwalk sits the Museum of Discovery and Science. It’s a fun family option, and equally great for visitors wishing to head indoors. The museum is close to downtown marinas, making it a convenient spot for an afternoon of exploration.
Tips for Visiting by Boat
The waters of Fort Lauderdale are busy year-round, with the peak traffic season being from November through April. Weekends are especially crowded along the ICW and canals, so plan routes ahead of time to stay on track.
Bridge schedules also play a major role in navigating the city. Drawbridges open frequently, but traffic often stacks up fast. Keep an eye on opening times and frequently check local VHF channels to avoid delays when possible.
No wake zones are strictly enforced, especially in residential areas and along the New River. Law enforcement patrols are frequent, and speed limits are always closely monitored. Always take it slow through residential areas to avoid fines and keep traffic moving smoothly.
Commercial traffic is also common, especially near Port Everglades and the New River. Make sure to give larger vessels plenty of room, and don’t linger in marked channels. Use updated charts, and pay careful attention to signage, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Finally, docking is often tight throughout Fort Lauderdale. Prepare in advance, and be ready for close-quarters maneuvering, especially during the peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to boat in Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale is a great boating spot year-round, but the best conditions are from November through April. Temperatures and humidity are more comfortable, and the seas are generally calmer. Summer boating is very popular as well, though afternoon storms are much more common and heavier.
Can I dock downtown in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes. There are several marinas available near downtown and along Las Olas Boulevard. They provide easy access to restaurants, nightlife, and beaches. Docking downtown is popular, so many boaters recommend reservations during the peak season and on weekends.
Is Fort Lauderdale part of the Intracoastal Waterway?
Yes. The ICW runs directly through Fort Lauderdale and is one of the city’s primary boating channels. It connects the city to Miami to the south and Palm Beach to the north.
What boating regulations should I know?
Fort Lauderdale is heavily patrolled. No wake zones are strictly enforced, especially in residential areas and on the New River. Florida law requires children under six years old to wear life jackets, and operators born after January 1, 1988, need to complete a state-approved boater safety course.
Where can I launch my boat or trailer?
Public boat ramps are available throughout the city. Availability can be limited during the peak season, so make sure you arrive early.
To Sum Up Boating in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Among South Florida’s plentiful boating destinations, Fort Lauderdale stands out as an accessible and rewarding option for all. Boating feels natural here, with the city and water fully integrated into daily life. It’s a super comfortable stop, and each visit will have you wanting more!
