Enjoying a Fort Lauderdale boat cruise is an excellent way to explore the city’s waterways and its stunning architecture, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife. Known as the “Venice of America,” the city features an extensive network of canals that cut through the landscape. With so much to explore, it’s no surprise that boating has become a pillar of our culture. Choosing a Fort Lauderdale river cruise offers the experience of gaining a unique perspective of the area that many visitors never get the chance to see
If you’re up for the adventure, take a trip down to the Haulover. This iconic trip takes passengers on a scenic cruise through the Intracoastal Waterway. Along the way, passengers can enjoy music, snacks, sunshine, and a glimpse into the state’s rich history and culture.
Fort Lauderdale River Cruise
Also recognized as the Las Olas River cruise (named after the iconic street that runs parallel to the river), our standard route takes you through the renowned New River. The New River got its name early in US history when settlers were still mapping the area. The mouth of the river would constantly change, leading surveyors to mark it as a “New River.” Or so the story goes, at least. What isn’t up for debate is that the New River cuts right through the heart of downtown, acts as a vital transportation waterway, and is the perfect location for day cruises in Fort Lauderdale.
A New River cruise is the perfect place for anyone who wants to take in the sites of multi-million dollar yachts and houses. As the river approaches downtown, luxury homes disappear while restaurants and other attractions take their place. A collection of restaurants and bars occupy the sides and is visited by tourists and locals alike. The Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk borders part of the river and is a hotbed for local events and shops. Parks dot the sides of the river and break up the urban sprawl to provide plenty of visual variety.
Explore
Explore the river’s edges while on your yacht cruise in Fort Lauderdale. You will see a few famous landmarks as you go down the river. A favorite amongst many is the Stranahan House. Initially built as a trading outpost over 100 years ago, this is the oldest standing building in Broward County. Next to it, you’ll find the Riverside Hotel. Opened in 1936, the hotel has been a landmark of Las Olas Blvd since its inception. Its Mediterranean style would serve to influence many of the buildings that followed.
Sightsee
Along with a rich history, our Fort Lauderdale boat cruises put on display a level of opulence that is hard to come by in other parts of the country. As you pass downtown, you’ll reach the beginning of what is colloquially known as the Millionaires’ Row boat tour. Owners of these mega-mansions range from lawyers, business owners, executives of billion-dollar companies, lucky children, and everything in between. With each house displaying the tastes of their wealthy owners, uninhibited by finances, there’s a great collection of properties to see.
Continue the Boat Cruise
Your Fort Lauderdale boat cruise doesn’t have to come to an end at the end of the river. The surrounding city has much to offer. Whether looking to visit the sandbar on one of our party yachts. take a snorkeling tour, or even a tubing adventure, the list of water activities in Fort Lauderdale is nearly endless.
Adventure
While the New River terminates near the sandbar, the Intracoastal Waterway extends up and down the coast, separated only by South Florida’s barrier islands. If you’d like to continue a calm boat cruise, this waterway is another great candidate to take in the sights and sounds of Florida. Alternatively, you can venture through the nearby Port Everglades and continue your adventures into the Atlantic Ocean.
Dine
As boating is so prevalent in the area, it’s unsurprising that waterfront restaurants cater to boaters. Taking advantage of their waterfront locations, a handful of restaurants offer dockage, allowing your Fort Lauderdale river cruise to transform into a dinner cruise. If you’re unsure of what’s in the area, don’t hesitate to ask your captain for recommendations so that you can have the perfect meal.
Evening Cruises in Fort Lauderdale
With the sun beginning to set, your adventure turns into a leisurely evening cruise in Fort Lauderdale. The hues of our sky become a vibrant mix of pastels, blanketing our city in serene beauty, the perfect backdrop for a private boat cruise for two. Our Fort Lauderdale sunset cruises come unmatched, offering luxury boats for rentals above the rest.
Cocktail Cruise
With our courtesy concierge service, you can place an order at TotalWine and have our crew pick up your order. Everything will be chilled and prepared for your arrival, building the perfect Fort Lauderdale cocktail cruise. Our vessels are fully stocked and ready to go with cups, ice, and everything else in between.
Romance
It’s hard to find a more romantically secluded place than in the middle of the water underneath a sky littered with stars. Anyone on a Fort Lauderdale night cruise will have no shortage of opportunities to share an intimate moment with their partner. Whether celebrating an anniversary or planning a proposal, our team can help with any special requests.
The Best Day Cruises in Fort Lauderdale
Whether it’s a short 4-hour cruise in Fort Lauderdale or an entire day trip, Flamingo Yacht Charters strives to lead the industry. Our team goes above and beyond the rest, assuring you the perfect getaway. With a half-day trip, explore everything the city has to offer, or take a one-day cruise in Fort Lauderdale and explore beyond the city’s boundaries.
About The Boats
While we have many vessels available for a Fort Lauderdale boat cruise, each will come with its benefits. If you’re looking for a stop at the sandbar, our smaller Monterey 328SS allows for shallow water travel. If you’re looking for a larger yacht capable of comfortably holding a bachelorette party, our 51′ Sea Ray is more than capable. For an excellent middle ground, hop on board our Fairline, with sun pads on both the bow and stern.
Fairline
The Fairline Targa 48 stands as the favorite among our extensive boat fleet. Boasting a remarkable fusion of cutting-edge technology and luxurious comfort, this yacht is the product of the British-based Fairline brand. This Fort Lauderdale boat cruise proudly features an expansive open-air cockpit, inviting you and your guests to bask in the invigorating ocean breeze.
Aboard this splendid vessel, you’ll discover an array of enticing amenities, including generous seating arrangements, sun pads on both the bow and stern, an ice maker, a fridge, and two dedicated coolers. The cabin houses three spacious bedrooms, two elegantly appointed bathrooms, and an expansive entertainment area.
Sea Ray
The Sea Ray 480 Sedan Bridge is one of the largest vessels in our fleet and an excellent cruiser. A sliding glass door leads you into a spacious air-conditioned cabin with a dinette, a fully-equipped entertainment center, three staterooms, and two heads. The cabin’s wraparound windows allow you to enjoy the views of your cruise even while you sit inside.
With a second floor, this vessel lets you view the city from a new angle. The Sea Ray also has plenty of space on the exterior with a sizable stern and plenty of lounging areas on the bow, which is the perfect seat for anyone trying to take in the views with a calming breeze.
Fountaine Pajot
Cruise through the waters of Fort Lauderdale in style aboard our spacious Fountaine Pajot, a French catamaran that stretches almost 60 feet. Enjoy the freedom to stand anywhere on the expansive exterior, featuring scattered lounge beds and a spacious dining table at the stern with a picturesque waterfront view. Upon entering, you’ll discover a generous living area, perfect for kicking back while still taking in the views. It’s furnished with a couch, TV, and a galley equipped with a full-size fridge to keep all your snacks and drinks chilled. Descend on either side of the living area to access five bedrooms and bathrooms, ensuring ample space for you and your guests.
Monterey
The Monterey 328SS stands as the epitome of versatility within our esteemed yacht charter fleet. As a prime choice for groups of moderate size, it offers exceptional value without significant trade-offs. Its size makes it the best boat for going to the shallow sandbars, allowing you to modify your cruise into something more adventurous.
With a capacity to comfortably accommodate up to ten passengers, it ensures a spacious and relaxing experience, all complemented by the convenience of a fully equipped restroom.
Our Private Fort Lauderdale Booze Cruise
For those who want a more lively time on the water, you can enjoy our private booze cruise in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy the sun with a cold beer or cocktail in your hand. Unlike other booze cruises in Fort Lauderdale, our vessels are private. Enjoy a day on the water with endless drinks around friends, not strangers.
Sandbar
Sandbars are the perfect destination for any Fort Lauderdale booze cruise. Typically centralized in bays, sandbars allow boaters to wade in waist-deep water and mingle with one another. Expand your party with new friends or take the opportunity to people-watch as you lounge on the boat or in the water.
Bar Hop
If you’d prefer to avoid the bustle of the sandbars, our Fort Lauderdale boat cruise can also take you through the assortment of restaurants and bars on the water. For those who want to sample the local cuisine and drinks, this is a great way to go through our offerings.