Southern Boating covers marina openings, boat shows, mergers and other events in the marine industry, and more. Southern Boating attends renowned shows and events and shares the experiences with you. Informative articles will keep you updated on everything from yacht auctions to fishing tournaments and industry charity events.
Tom Hanks Narrates “An Untold Tale of 9/11 Resilience”
BOATLIFT is a moving documentary that honors the untold story of marine heroes on 9/11. Narrated by Tom Hanks, the documentary recognizes the hundreds of boats and mariners who took great risks that day to save hundreds of thousands of people.
While most people know about the heroes on land, many are not aware of the 9/11 boatlift the largest maritime evacuation in history. Please join us to commemorate the heroes from this historical date.
Full Steam Ahead For The Palm Beach International Boat Show
The 35th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show (PBIBS) takes place Thursday, March 25 through Sunday, March 28 along Flagler Drive in downtown West Palm Beach, directly across the Intracoastal Waterway from Palm Beach Island. The show will feature more than $1.2 billion worth of yachts and accessories, including hundreds of boats ranging from 8-foot inflatables to super yachts nearly 300 feet in length. In addition to the large selection of boats and exhibits, the show will offer fun and educational activities, including The AquaZone, an upfront experience with a variety of water sports and innovative products, and kid’s fishing clinics by Hook the Future.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Informa Markets has worked closely with the City of West Palm Beach to enhance safety measures, updating the layout so the entire event is open-air. There will also be four entrances and exits to ease the flow of pedestrian traffic and promote social distancing. All attendees will also be required to wear masks.
“The health and safety of our staff, exhibitors, visitors, and community remains our number one priority,” said Andrew Doole, president of Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows. “We also recognize the importance of our boat shows to the local and state economy, and the marine industry at large. We look forward to safely welcoming boating enthusiasts and marine businesses to the Palm Beach show, in a world-famous destination during the most beautiful time of year.”
PBIBS will be organized in accordance with Informa’s newly adopted AllSecure health and safety standards, as well as all official government and local authority guidance and regulations. Informa coordinated the AllSecure standards in coordination with its association partners, peers, venues, suppliers, contractors, health officials, and federal and local authorities. Adopted industry-wide, the AllSecure standards raise the bar on safe, hygienic, productive, and high-quality organized event experiences.
The NMMA announced today a landmark partnership with Informa Markets to create the first joint production of South Florida’s preeminent winter boat shows—the Miami International Boat Show (MIBS), Miami Yacht Show (MYS) and Superyacht Miami. Set to debut Wednesday, February 16 through Sunday, February 20, 2022 over Presidents Day weekend, the joint event—which will carry the Miami International Boat Show name—will deliver enhanced value to participating marine industry businesses and a seamless and unparalleled experience for attendees.
Under the partnership, Informa Markets, with direction and guidance from NMMA, takes on management of the in-person experience, while NMMA oversees the digital experience. Additionally, NMMA retains ownership of MIBS, and Informa Markets maintains co-ownership of MYS and Superyacht Miami with the International Yacht Brokers Association. The partnership is the result of long-standing conversations between the two organizations on how best to serve the industry and cultivate a best-in-class boat show experience.
“For 80 years, the Miami International Boat Show has served as the recreational boating industry’s flagship event and a prized platform to showcase world-class products and innovations to nearly 100,000 people across the globe. With NMMA’s new partnership with Informa Markets, together, we will take the show to the next level and deliver an unforgettable experience for our members, attendees, exhibitors, and the local community for decades to come,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president. “Our industry and organization are incredibly grateful to the City of Miami for providing a home for our show these last five years at the Miami Marine Stadium and Park, and we look forward to bringing this exciting new event to both Downtown Miami and Miami Beach.”
Bringing the events together will offer numerous benefits for exhibitors, visitors, and the greater Miami community, specifically Miami Beach and Downtown Miami. The on-land portion of the event will take place at the newly reimagined Miami Beach Convention Center, while the featured in-water activities will be offered at Sea Isle Marina, One Herald Plaza, and Island Gardens Deep Harbour on Watson Island. The combined event will include several new elements to enrich the experience for attendees, including a live concert series, an expanded educational offering, a digital component, and the return of Miami Dealer Days, February 14-15. Miami Dealer Days allow exhibitors to gather at the Miami Beach Convention Center prior to the show, providing a unique opportunity for marine manufacturers to connect and discover partnership and growth opportunities.
The joint Miami show will allow residents and visitors to streamline their trips to the signature event and participate in a unique experience with never-before-seen attractions and activities. A comprehensive traffic management plan will be developed in collaboration with the City of Miami and Miami Beach to ensure a smooth traffic flow for visitors and the surrounding areas. The MacArthur, Venetian, and Julia Tuttle causeways will offer unrivaled access for guests crossing over to the MBCC, where they will find ample parking on the grounds. Both event locations will have a variety of transportation options for exhibitors and guests, including water taxis, ride share hubs, and public transit modes.
Added Hugelmeyer, “These three events will now be combined under the Discover Boating banner to set the stage for NMMA and Informa, as the two largest boat show producers in the world, to deliver the world’s largest boat show and boating lifestyle experience in Miami, putting this event on course to be on the global leading edge of boat shows under NMMA’s new hybrid model.”
“The marine industry is a truly special community, and one we are dedicated to nurturing and growing. This year, despite innumerable challenges, our community proved its resilience, and the passion we have seen from manufacturers and buyers alike has strengthened our resolve to create even more meaningful experiences for boating and yachting professionals and enthusiasts. We are appreciative that the NMMA shares common goals, and we are honored to work with them to enhance our collective events, including an unbelievable week-long experience for recreational and luxury boating enthusiasts in Miami,” said Andrew Doole, president, U.S. Boat Shows at Informa Markets. “We could not have done this without the support of the International Yacht Brokers Association, and we thank them for their commitment to the community. We are ready to bring a safe, memorable and fun-filled event to South Florida next year and are thrilled to be entering this partnership.”
Additionally, the agreement places NMMA’s Tampa Boat Show in a similar owner and operator structure, aligning more strategically with Informa’s St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show and Suncoast Boat Show, creating a cohesive experience between the organizations’ three collective Central Florida events.
“There remains no better place to attract and engage consumers while promoting the boating lifestyle than boat shows. At the same time, to continue doing so, boat shows must evolve,” said Hugelmeyer. “Our customers increasingly consume information and shop online, and even before COVID, they began seeking more engaging and rewarding in-person experiences. How we address these shifts as an industry is vital. With this in mind, NMMA is reshaping its boat shows across the country to better support the consumer at every turn with a hybrid approach that delivers a more interactive experience both online and in-person.”
The 61st Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
IT’S SHOWTIME!!! The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) is determined not to let a pandemic stand in the way of the 61st edition of the world’s largest in-water boat show.
Scheduled from October 28th to November 1st, organizers have new safety protocols in place, including contactless ticketing, mandatory face coverings, temperature checks at entry, all lines marked out in six-foot increments, and deep cleaning before, during, and after each day’s events. In addition, the main docks will be widened up to 30 feet with one-way pedestrian traffic flow implemented.
But not all builders are on board, so alongside our show preview, we’ve included the newest models to hit the water as well as the fall model debuts from builders who are showing their wares virtually or through semi-private showings.
Regardless, 1,300 boats and 900 exhibitors are expected in “the Venice of America” over seven locations hugging the Intracoastal Waterway, from the Convention Center south to the Las Olas Marina north. Bahia Mar remains the center of the action. The popular Windward VIP Club will be and indoor/outdoor arrangement with outside terraces on the main face dock at the Captain’s Lounge and Tower Building. A premium open bar, gourmet food, and concierge to book yacht tours will be on hand as always. For ticketing, parking, and hospitality packages, visit flibs.com.
Here’s a pre-show glance at some of the most exciting new boats!
Miami, Fla., June 17, 2020 — Over 100 yachts and luxury recreational vessels with a heroic passenger manifest of nurses, doctors, firemen, emergency medical technicians, 911 dispatchers, and law enforcement first responder heroes will cruise the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway to Haulover Cut in Miami, Fla. in an inaugural flotilla event on Saturday, July 11, 2020.
First Responders Freedom Flotilla: Hospitality for Heroes salutes first responders by celebrating the great outdoors with a relaxing day on the water in beautiful South Florida. The flotilla is organized by Capt. Tony Estrada, a yacht captain and administrator of the Captains On Call volunteer network. The event benefits First Responders Children’s Foundation, the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed in New York City following 9-11 to benefit children of first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice.
With a national scope, First Responders Children’s Foundation (FRCF) grants college scholarships for children of first responders killed in the line of duty and helps first responder families experiencing hardship in every economy, including Covid-19 pandemic. FRCF is financially supported by Elton John, Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Ryan Seacrest and celebrities giving back in appreciation to front-line heroes.
A portion of all donations will benefit Baby Mehaffey, the soon to arrive child of the late first responder, Kevin Mehaffey. Mehaffey passed away after a car fatality in South Florida on May 15, 2020 at age 30. However, he lived life to the fullest, having contributed to his community as a firefighter and EMT, as well as a certified commercial and rescue diver, 100-ton USCG captain and yacht broker.
The yachting community hosts this free flotilla honoring Mehaffey and all first responders. No registration is required for safe mariners practicing social distancing and marine industry sanitization protocols. This event will be streamed as an interactive experience with live feed from participating yachts.
All first responders are welcome to enjoy the day on the water; get details and register to be on a boat at www.1stRCF.org/flotilla. All boaters are welcome to join the flotilla cruise emanating from The Wharf’s locations in both Fort Lauderdale and Miami, departing at 11AM for the Haulover rendezvous. Check route updates at www.1stRFC.org/flotilla. In the event of inclement weather, the flotilla will be moved to the soonest available day.
Thank you for supporting service-based industries and front-line workers to rebuild our local communities. “Individually we are one drop. Together we are an ocean.” – Ryunosuke Satoro
Shoreside supporters can donate or purchase a burgee, t-shirt or commemorative item on the website at www.1stRFC.org/flotilla. Text FLOAT to 76278 to donate now. Top-tier donors will also enjoy the inaugural cruise on 7-11 as a sponsorship perk.
For more information, direct media inquiries to Lisa Overing of Megayacht Media at 504-579-2021 or megayachtmedia@gmail.com. For marine vessel information, contact Capt. Tony Estrada at 224-805-1963 or tony@bookouryacht,com. For charitable donations and grant requests, please contact Joanna Black of First Responders Children’s Foundation at 646-912-2681 or joanna@1stRFC.org. Use #FLOAT4HEROES and #FirstRespondersStrong in social media. Thank you to our early sponsors including Ballyhoo Media, Megayacht Media, and BookOurYacht.com.
Historic cars, classic yachts, and antique aircraft took center stage at Ocean Reef Club’s 24th Annual Vintage Weekend.
By Bonnie Schultz, Southern Boating January 2020
If you set the bar high, you create great expectations—and the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida, certainly did not disappoint. The 24th Annual Vintage Weekend, December 5-8, 2019, showcased a wide array of extraordinary vintage transportation by sea, land, and air for aficionados of any or all to enjoy. And while P.T. Barnum’s circus theme was only supposed to apply to the Saturday night gala, it was the vintage cars, classic boats, and spectacular aeronautical performances that became The Greatest Show on Earth.
Surrounded by mangrove waterways and the natural beauty of several state and national parks, The Ocean Reef Club is a 2,500-acre private, all-inclusive, resort-style community that provides property owners and members a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the “outside” world. This boating, fishing, and diving paradise has a full-service 175-slip marina for yachts up to 175 feet, a private airport, Buccaneer Island (that includes a private beach surrounding a saltwater lagoon, two oceanfront freshwater infinity pools, a restaurant, and a bar), two 18-hole championship golf courses, tennis courts, a full-service spa and salon, 12 restaurants and lounges, shops and boutiques, a medical center, and a public safety department that provides 24-hour fire, security, and medical services. Once you’re on site, you never have to leave—everything is just a golf cart ride away.
With temperatures in the high 70s and blue skies above, the weather was perfect for the kickoff classic car road rally over the bridge on Card Sound Road to Alabama Jack’s, an open-air waterfront restaurant at the northernmost part of the Keys, for lunch and a chance to mingle with some old (and new) friends. Later that evening, guests met on Buccaneer Island for cocktails and dinner, hosted by Vicki and Alan Goldstein, and were treated to the AeroShell Aerobatic Team’s thrilling night show. Red and green lights flashed on the wings and tails of the four North American AT6Gs while they chased each other through the dark sky, at one point lining up in formation like Santa and his reindeer. You could almost hear the last plane yelling, “On Dasher, on Dancer, on Prancer, on Vixen…” as they raced past the excited onlookers.
The next morning, the cars were once again in the spotlight as each made its way across the red carpet. A 1926 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Piccadilly Roadster, winner of the Most Elegant Early Touring, and a 1953 Jaguar C-Type Open Racer, winner of the Most Significant Race Car, were among the many classic vehicles that dazzled the crowd. Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Bentley, a 1927 dark green Bentley 4.5 Open Touring won the Spirit of Bentley award, but Best of Show went to a 1938 silver Peugeot 402 Darl Mat Special Roadster.
Later, attendees walked along the pristine Ocean Reef Channel face dock for a chance to climb aboard each of the elegant vintage yachts on display. From truly maintained classic interiors to a few that have been recently updated with some modern touches, every boat upholds the tradition she’s carried over the years since she was built. This year, four yachts were awarded Better Than Best Restoration: the 1971 58-foot Trumpy Somerset, the 1972 26-foot Aurelia, the 1961 23-foot Pepper Pot, and the 1985 41-foot Apache. The John Trumpy Award went to the largest yacht on the dock, Blackhawk, the 1971 123-foot Feadship owned by the Chicago Blackhawks hockey team owner (the team’s logo is displayed in several places throughout the boat). But the People’s Choice Award went to Buckpasser, a 1985 120-foot Perini Navi, that had an interior restoration three years ago. Before and after pictures were placed in each of the four staterooms to show the transformation of the accommodations, most of which was paint, flooring, and décor. Teal walls are now cream-colored, floral bed coverings are gone, carpet has been replaced; simple touches that can really make a difference. She was definitely popular among the crowd—there was a very long wait line to climb aboard. Her owners were on board graciously greeting guests, and no room was off limits.
Back at Buccaneer Island, attendees gathered for an outdoor buffet lunch and another extravagant air show under clear skies. It was no surprise that Patty Wagstaff, flying a 1990 Extra 300L, won the Spectator’s Choice. She spun that aircraft around and around until even the crowd got dizzy. The plane danced in the air doing twist and turns as the DJ played Steve Miller Band’s “Jet Airliner” on land. It was perfectly choreographed although Wagstaff likely didn’t hear any of the music.
Guests donned their magnificent costumes for the Saturday night circus-themed gala and after dinner, bearded ladies, trapeze artists, ringmasters, and more danced under the big top until the wee hours.
“Vintage Weekend is a remarkable and very fun gathering of those who share a passion for vintage vehicles, yachts, and planes, in a community as special and rare as the conveyances it honors,” said Richard Weinstein, Ocean Reef Club’s senior vice president of membership and marketing. “It is a beloved annual tradition which has really grown over the years into a tremendous four-day celebration.” Plans are already underway for next year’s 25th anniversary of the event. oceanreef.com
’Tis the season. Watch a lighted boat parade or light up your vessel and win a prize. Ask friends to come aboard to see New Year’s Eve fireworks from the water. If you’re in Key West that day, you can hoot ‘n’ holler as pirates lower their wench down the mast of the America 2.0 schooner, built in 2011.
All that said, here are some Gulf Coast events near marinas that are also worth considering:
• December 18-24: Pensacola’s Winterfest in Florida includes uplifting historic street tours on The Polar Express trolley. Along the way, you’ll greet characters from the movies The Polar Express and A Christmas Story. Meet Elfie; take a selfie. The Grinch steps on board and so does, yes, Elvis. Merry Christmas, Baby. pensacolawinterfest.org
• December 22nd: As darkness falls on New Orleans’ French Quarter, you can become part of a seasonal sing-along at Caroling in Jackson Square. This event is for all ages. Candles and song lyrics are passed around at 6:30 PM. Carolers meet carolers. Candles light candles. Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis overlooks hundreds of glowing singers and starting at 7 PM, their inspired voices sail across the Vieux Carré. experienceneworleans.com
• Through December 31st: Gulfport Harbor Lights Winter Festival on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast continues daily from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM at Jones Park next to Bert Jones Yacht Harbor. Take the walking tour or ride the free, heated trolley. The lighthouse has never looked this bright, and the lights change colors, too. gulfportharborlights.com
• December 31st: First Night St. Petersburg is a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration spotlighting the art of performers and musicians along St. Pete’s waterfront and downtown business center on Florida’s west coast. firstnightstpete.com
The 60th Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
Two hundred and thirty trucks deliver six miles of floating docks. One thousand, two hundred exhibitors set up displays. One thousand, five hundred boats fill the labyrinth of in-water docks. Nine megawatts of power (more than twice required for the Super Bowl) is generated, 25,000 credentials are issued, 1,000 private planes arrive, 13 water taxis stand by….Get ready for the greatest show on water: the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.
Celebrating its 60th year in 2019 from October 30-November 3, the world’s largest in-water boat show sure didn’t start out that way. Back in 1959, it was a humble group of 13 boats. The next year, twice the number of exhibitors signed up, and it grew monumentally each year thereafter. By its 10th anniversary, 50,000 visitors were walking the docks. Fifty years later, the show fills seven locations from Las Olas to Port Everglades and has something for every boating enthusiast.
Enter to win 4 FREE Tickets to The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show
New this year is the Superyacht Village, located at Pier 66, where the largest yachts will be sparkling alongside the coolest new water toys. Another addition is the Anglers’ Lounge at the Convention Center. With a bird’s-eye view over the exhibits, guests with upgraded tickets can enjoy a meal from the Key West tapas-style menu, one complimentary drink, entertainment, and cash bar. Those needing respite at Bahia Mar can turn to the Windward Club on the main dock which offers a VIP experience of a premium open bar and gourmet food.
Another stat: 110,000 attendees are expected and 110,000 beers are typically consumed. Coincidence? We don’t think so. Have a cold one and check out these 50 builders showing off their newest models. flibs.com
The 23rd Annual Marlow Spring Rendezvous, hosted by Marlow Marine Cruising Club’s was one for the record books.
Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club hosted the Marlow Marine Cruising Club’s (MMCC) 23rd Annual Spring Rendezvous that coincided with the 145th running of the Kentucky Derby. Yep, the one that will forever go down in the record books as the first time a Kentucky Derby-winning horse was disqualified for an in-race foul. Imagine the wagers affected after that decision.
And They’re Off
From the Welcome Reception on Thursday, May 2nd to the Awards dinner on Saturday, May 4th, all bets were off. Marlow Yachts provided owners with an entertainment-filled weekend. The benefit of networking with fellow Marlow owners is to learn and share ideas and experiences about what the boat can do, where it can go and solutions to any problems that occur.
Roses all around at the Derby party.
Some ice queens at the 23rd Annual Spring Rendezvous.
Vikings take center stage at the theme party.
Derby attire? Check!
On top of that, the MMCC invites a number of technology companies to hold seminars on products that can make cruising more enjoyable through new technology and
how to care and maintain engines as well as air conditioning and desalination systems. Owners learned about the Internet connection at sea, wireless docking remotes and the joint venture between Garmin and The Yacht Group for the OneHelm integration.
The highlight of the seminar schedule was David Marlow’s roundtable discussion when he provided insight about new design ideas; changes made to simplify systems, such as
separating the heat exchanger from the chiller system, and what technologies, structural materials, and heating and climate-control systems were invented for the new Marlow
Voyager 100 that has plans to cruise to Antarctica. All these ideas benefit future and present Marlow owners with better materials and improved systems.
One change that will keep the popular 58-foot Marlow viable today is the addition of an aft beach club that allows owners and guests to enjoy an indoor-outdoor lounge area along the waterline. The space will also serve as the crew quarters as the beach club will
replace the designated crew cabin in previous models.
A question on solar power was raised, but the discussion quickly turned to new battery technology because solar power won’t progress until battery storage improves. Thin-plate technology, such as NorthStar’s Absorbed Glass Mat batteries, is leading the way with companies trending toward lithiumiron, lithium-polymer and lithium-carbon instead of the lithium-ion technology. Marlow Yachts has always pushed the envelope to test and develop new ideas which coincide with the company’s motto: Each one better than the one before.
Nothing But Winners
The weekend was filled with fun activities, parties and the christening of new yachts to the “club.” This year’s event included some new activities that appealed to the athlete, the animal lover and the artist. Active early birds joined a sunrise yoga session Friday and got their hearts up to speed with a 5K sunrise run on Saturday— that was after the Fire & Ice theme party the night before, where the costumes were smokin’ hot and crazy cool. For the backyard athletes, there was hula-hoops, badminton, and cornhole with a few water balloons mixed in.
No need to BYOB! Marlow provided all the brushes for a painting contest.
Artists sat in front of easels with brushes in hand to paint an underwater turtle or seahorse scene. This was no finger paint mish-mash, but the real thing. In fact, during Saturday’s “Run for the Roses” dinner, the third-place painting by Eric Schoenfeld was auctioned off to benefit the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, raising $4,000 within 15 minutes. The yacht Paws for Life was proud and happy to make the donation for such a good cause. Over the weekend, a number of owners, families, and guests visited the Turtle Hospital to see their work rehabilitating endangered sea turtles.
Lots of backyard fun
Mint Juleps were the featured cocktail, and fascinators, spring colors, and flowers were Saturday evening’s style that led up to the Kentucky Derby. Those two minutes were a blur before the evening’s celebration of an incredible weekend. Awesome weather, magnificent boats, and as one owner said, a Marlow staff in that embodies the family lifestyle all make the company great to its owners. It shows.
Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club
The Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club in Marathon, Florida, offers an ideal setting just east
of the Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys where yachts are secure in the protected
marina marked by a landmark lighthouse. Facilities include 74 state-of-the-art slips, each equipped with waste removal, water and up to 100-amp power connection. The marina also offers onsite ValvTect fuel, 24-hour security, wireless Internet, dockside ship’s store, concierge services, onsite pool and fitness center, bar and restaurant, and accommodations through Hyatt Place.
It’s Palm Beach, baby! We came, we saw, and we awed at the 34th Annual Show.
The Palm International Beach Boat Show ran for four days (March 28th – March 31st) and featured more than $1.2 billion worth of yachts and accessories. There were hundreds of boats ranging from 8-foot inflatables to superyachts nearly 300 feet in length.
In addition to the large selection of boats and exhibits, the show offered free youth fishing clinics by Hook The Future and IGFA School of Sportfishing seminars to attendees.
If you couldn’t make the show, here’s what you missed: pbboatshow.com
The official Nap Zone of the show.
The belle of the ball– HCB and their famed line of center consoles.
Tiara brought along their popular SPORT line to the show.
Formula, busy and as popular as ever.
Hard to describe this sailing yacht, so take a look for yourself.
The Coastal Queen brought a classic moment to a show filled with modern amenities.
I spy with my little eye…
Coming in for a landing.
So many yachts, so little time.
Modern is as Modern does.
A classic cruiser from Grand Banks.
It wouldn’t be Palm Beach without extravagant displays.
There were pletny of large brokerage boats, including SILVANA from out friends at Yacht Connexion.
A classic twist on a modern boat from Grady White.
Cobia brought their lineup a center consoles, ready to fish.
A stunning swim platform is so large it can double as a beach club.
Greenline brought along a few in their eco-friendly line.
Robalo Boats had a large display out on the docks.
Invincible brought their best and shiniest center consoles.
Not just for boats. We found nautical art from local artist Steve Diossy.
Vicem had a great day on the docks.
Is it even worth going on a boat if it doesn’t have a SeaKeeper?
Our pals at Pathfinder Boats found themselves busy at the show.
Fort Lauderdale’s expansive waterway lends perfectly to leisurely cruising for locals and serves as a dream destination for visitors. More than 300 miles of waterway weaves through Broward County, where anchorages, full-service marinas, hotels, restaurants, and extravagant waterfront homes line its banks.
Southern Boating has indulged in this water wonderland since 1972, it’s our lifestyle, and we felt it was high time to highlight Fort Lauderdale’s waterway landscape in our annual swimsuit issue. When the opportunity to showcase the glamourous Bontona Peninsula property arose, there wasn’t a doubt that this was the perfect backdrop for our 32nd annual swimsuit photo shoot. How could we say no to a newly redesigned home in the Las Olas Isles with 700 feet of dockage along the New River just off the famed Las Olas Boulevard and a short boat ride to the Atlantic Ocean? We didn’t.
The home highlights Fort Lauderdale’s best assets: sweeping waterway views, ample sunshine, and lavish accommodations. Around every highly stylized corner was another opportunity to photograph stunning swimwear and ravishing resort wear, and no Southern Boating photoshoot could go without a dock, a yacht, and water—luxury at its finest.
But we had some fun too. Check out these behind the scenes photos and videos.
Alexandra at the entrance of Bontona Peninsula.
Photographer Joey Wright gets low for the perfect shot.
Views from Bontana Peninsula.
Joey shows his commitment to the craft.
Some of the amazing swimwear we had on hand.
Jungle Queen rolls through.
Alexandra is all giggles.
Reagan enjoys her delicious lunch from Farm to Fork.
Joey gives Reagan a quick tutorial on day one,
Dino, an African Savannah Cat, makes a surprise visit on set.
Sunny, a hundred foot motoryacht from Hargrave, graced the deepwater dock.
A different type of angle.
Reagan stuns in a swimsuit and kimono from Jypsea Local.
Raquel rocks it inside the property.
Inside the property, we found even more places to shoot.
Alexandra checks her photos with photographer Joey Wright.
We’d like to give a special shoutout to all who helped produce this shoot.
If you’ve never tried it, participating in a Caribbean sailing regatta is a thrilling experience and one that we highly recommend.
No matter how much you love your powerboat, there’s no denying the beauty and draw of sailboats, especially when they’re racing on a clear day, their colorful sails filled with the wind.
Sailing schools can be found in nearly any coastal city in the U.S. as well as in the Caribbean, and course programs are offered to accommodate all levels of interest. If you’re not ready to fully jump in the deep water but simply want to dip your toe in the shallow end of sailing, a great option is to join one of the many Caribbean regattas in which you pay to play. Based on Antigua, Ondeck Sailing lets guests reserve a spot (for a fee) on one of the yachts in the regattas. (Prices range depending on the event, yacht, and other factors.)
Foilers, dinghy sailors, superyacht owners and crew, sport boat enthusiasts, racer-cruisers and race charterers will all find something to love in the Caribbean this month. The fun starts off with Martinique International Sailing Week March 1-5. Hosted by the Nautical Center of Schoelcher, located near the French island’s capital of Fort-de-France, this event features large European participation with a focus on small boats, such as Optimist, Laser, and Sunfish. New this year is the addition of windfoils.
The next weekend, March 8-10, the St. Croix International Regatta takes place in the Buck Island Channel off the northeast shore of this U.S. Virgin Island. There’s a highly competitive Rhodes 19 fleet plus classes for racers and cruisers. The winning skipper earns his or her weight in island-made rum.
Over 60 Optimist dinghies will sail in the shadow of cruise ships on San Juan Bay in Puerto Rico for the Pan Pepin International Regatta March 17-18. This highly competitive event offers a Laser class too.
Yachts at the opposite end of the size spectrum are the focal point of the St. Barths Bucket Regatta March 21-24. Entries include the 220-foot Baltic Yachts-built, Dykstra/Reichel/Pugh-designed Hetairos, the 154-foot Perini Navi Aquarius and the 111-foot Royal Huisman-constructed, Frers-planned, Spiip. The prize-giving Bucket Bash is at the Hotel Collectivité.
Racers, cruisers and beach cats cast off in the St. Thomas International Regatta March 22-24. The one-day warm-up Round the Rocks Race, a circumnavigation around the
neighboring U.S. Virgin Island of St. John, takes place March 21st. Nearly a dozen race charter companies based in Europe and the U.S. are offering yachts for both events.
Finally, March Madness Caribbean regattas wrap up with the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival March 25-31 at Nanny Cay Resort & Marina. The Round Tortola Race on March
26th and Scrub Island Invitational on March 27th preface the traditional three-day regatta. Over a dozen bareboat charters from companies such as The Moorings and Sunsail are expected to race in a class of their own. While March is likely to be the busiest month, Caribbean regattas take place every month of the year.
Plan an outstanding cruising season and include a stay at these top 12 marina resorts.
While most cruisers enjoy the solitude that comes with anchoring in a remote bay, there’s nothing like securing your boat to a sturdy new dock at a world-class marina to ensure a restful night’s sleep. When the marina is part of a high-end luxury resort that offers every amenity imaginable, a basic boating weekend magically transforms into a dream vacation.
Our editors and contributors have the enviable job of traveling to dozens of marina resorts throughout the year and writing about the ones they deem worthy.
These are some of their top picks.
(Use the arrows left and right to see the Top 12 Marina Resorts)
Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas
Most everyone has heard of the legendary coral-colored Atlantis Resort. But many are unaware that the famed luxury property with attractions that rival extravagant theme parks is also an Autograph Collection Hotel. For those who prefer the privacy of their boat’s accommodations, the good news for marina guests is that they get to experience
the entire range of services offered by the Atlantis facilities. Atlantis Marina is one of the few in The Bahamas that accommodates megayachts up to 240 feet and a 37-foot beam— the channel and marina both have a minimum water depth of 12 feet.
EDITOR ADVICE: Take advantage of seasonal rate specials for a memorable family vacation your cruising budget can afford. atlantisbahamas.com
Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour MarinaMarsh Harbour, Great Abaco Island, Bahamas
The 700+ islands of The Bahamas are known for gin-clear water, pink sand beaches, and
secluded anchorages. But even the most private of cruisers appreciate the type of top-shelf amenities an upscale marina resort provides. Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina offers an authentic, Out Island experience in a tropical setting that will delight honeymooners, your small crew or large family. Here, world-class anglers, yachtsmen and island explorers escape the cruise ship crowds prevalent on the more populated islands. Boat Harbour Marina is one of the largest in The Bahamas with nearly 200 slips available to boaters all year long.
EDITOR ADVICE: Make this marina your luxury base from which to island-hop the nearby islands of Man o’ War and Green Turtle Cay.
Wentworth by the Sea MarinaNew Castle, New Hampshire
Wentworth by the Sea is a Marriott Hotel & Spa that has historic, grand Americana elegance with modern conveniences. Intimate restaurants, a full-service spa to enhance your wellbeing, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, and tennis courts are available to guests of the adjacent Wentworth Marina to provide the ultimate marina experience. The marina offers 150 slips for vessels up to 250 feet with complimentary, secure Wi-Fi, cable TV, power hookups up to 100-amp, triple-phase, ValvTect Marine fuel, laundry, ice, bait, showers, pump-out, courtesy cars, barbecue gas grills at the head of each dock, and is dog-friendly. Nestled on an island along Little Harbor on the Piscataqua River, Wentworth by the Sea is less than three miles from downtown Portsmouth and a variety of parks, golf courses, beaches, arts, and entertainment.
EDITOR ADVICE: Bring your racquets. Tennis is a great way to stretch your legs and increase your aerobic fitness.
The island of Bimini is only 50 miles east of Miami and tucked on the backside of the
island’s western shore lies the largest marina complex in The Bahamas and accommodates yachts up to 200 feet.
Step from the docks to Resorts World Bimini, a 750-acre luxury beachfront resort that spans approximately half the length of North Bimini, where infinity pools welcome guests at ground level and up on the roof, 10 diverse restaurants showcase world-renowned chefs and a casino tickles the roll of the dice or the flip of a card. Add the white sand beaches and turquoise waters, the Serenity Spa and Salon, and world-class fishing grounds, and you have the makings for the ultimate in relaxation and adventure. Rent a golf cart and discover the island, explore the Sapona shipwreck or head over to Honeymoon Harbor to interact with stingrays. Nature
has no bounds on a visit to Bimini.
EDITOR ADVICE: Go beyond your comfort zone and head to Honeymoon Harbour on
Gun Cay to interact with the stingrays.
Waterline Marina Resort & Beach ClubAnna Maria Island, Florida
On Florida’s southwest coast lie narrow strips of barrier islands, each with its own history, culture, and vibe. Some are sparsely populated with casual beach cottages, while others flaunt luxury resorts with fi ne dining and spas. Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club is Anna Maria Island’s only full-service resort and offers the best of both worlds—small enough to feel personal and large enough to feel pampered at this Autograph Collection Hotel property. The 50-slip marina accommodates boats up to 45 feet and dining at Eliza Ann’s Coastal Kitchen, where seafood served with Southern charm, is a not-to-be-missed
culinary experience.
EDITOR ADVICE: Make reservations for both brunch and dinner—you will not be disappointed!
Tucked up in the coves of Irvington, Virginia, off the Rappahannock River just northwest of the Chesapeake Bay lies the Tides Inn, a timeless resort on its own peninsula with lush native landscaping, sweeping water views and a full-service marina. The Tides Inn Chesapeake Bay Marina sports new floating docks in a secluded harbor with the facilities of a world-class destination resort, yet is tranquil and peaceful. Located on Carters Creek, 11 statute miles from Windmill Point, the marina accommodates 24 vessels up to 150 feet and offers full marina services as well as the resort’s exceptional amenities.
Start your day ashore with a little tennis, a morning bike ride or complimentary golf (clubs included) on a par-3 course (or tee it up at nearby Golden Eagle Golf course). Spend the afternoon at the beachside pool or pamper yourself at the Journey Spa, and
choose from five great restaurants that emphasize the tide to table concept. Then take a few nights off the boat and stay in the resort’s spacious suites.
It’s all good at the Tides Inn.
EDITOR ADVICE: If you’re a golfer, the complimentary golf on a par-3 course is a no-brainer.
Faro Blanco Resort and Yacht ClubMarathon, Florida
The Faro Blanco lighthouse has been a beacon to boaters and visitors to Marathon in the Florida Keys since the 1950s. Awarded Valvtect’s 2016 Marina of the Year, the Gulf-side facility has 74 slips and full services, including 24-hour security, Wi-Fi and amenities at the adjacent Hyatt Place. First-class accommodations welcome those wanting to spend
a night on shore, and two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness club, and waterfront restaurant make relaxing easy. The restaurant’s veranda bar is the perfect spot to view the marina and the Gulf waters beyond and whether enjoying lunch or dinner, the unique
atmosphere keeps you in sync with the Keys’ lifestyle.
EDITOR ADVICE: Take advantage of the resort’s activities from paddleboard yoga to Hobie Cat and from Jet Ski rentals to croquet.
Longboat Key Club Marina and MooringsNear Sarasota, Florida, MM79.5
If a large resort with easy access to lots of activities and events is more your style, look no further than the Longboat Key Club on the Florida Gulf. The deep-water and protected marina basin offers dockage to transient cruisers on vessels up to 150 feet with
complimentary Wi-Fi and shuttle service to The Resort at Longboat Key Club. A marina
concierge ensures cruisers have everything hopping and hipster town of Sarasota is only
six miles away—an easy bicycle ride or even easier Uber.
EDITOR ADVICE: Take full advantage of the pool and tennis courts at the Marina Village.
If you spot the Montauk Lighthouse on Montauk Point as you sail west on Block
Island Sound from Block Island, keep to starboard and follow the northern coast
of Long Island to the Lake Montauk channel. Once inside, keep to port with Star
Island starboard until you see the Montauk Yacht Club lighthouse. There you can tie
up at Gurney’s Montauk Yacht Club & Resort.
A premier destination for summer getaways, the 15-acre property boasts 107 luxury waterfront hotel rooms, suites, and villas, outdoor amenities and an array of restaurants and bars. The full-service marina accommodates yachts up to 220 feet with a maximum 12-foot draft and offers guests full access to the resort’s amenities and activities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, Har-Tru tennis courts, private beach, complete wellness treatments in the spa, and casual and upscale dining.
EDITOR ADVICE: For a different take, head out to Rita’s Stables or Deep Hollow Ranch for a scenic trail ride or a trot along the beach on horseback.
Just two blocks from Key West’s famous Duval Street lies the Galleon Marina and
Resort. The marina offers power, freshwater, cable TV hookups, and the usual services.
The docks are well protected on the Gulf side and can accommodate boats up to 150 feet. Water depth is nine feet, and wet slips are available for both seasonal and transient vessels. But don’t hang out on the boat too long as there are exclusive marina and resort amenities.
Enjoy the pool, private beach, sauna, fitness center, Tiki Bar lounge, and bike and moped rentals are on site to help you explore all that the town of Key West has to offer. The waterfront resort has a wide range of accommodations including condo-style units and penthouses with fully equipped kitchens and that tropical, Key West décor.
EDITOR ADVICE: Never miss a sunset, and take a float plane or ferry to Fort Jeerson at Dry Tortugas National Park.
River Dunes Resort & MarinaOriental, North Carolina, MM173
On the Atlantic Coast, snowbirds heading north in the spring or south in
the fall appreciate an extended mid-way stopover where the dockage is first-rate,
the pool is warm and the dining is delectable. Just north of Oriental, North Carolina, on the ICW, River Dunes Marina on Grace Harbor offers world-class amenities to transient cruisers.
So, after days of cruising, if you or the first mate need eggs benedict and hashbrowns, coffee by one of the nine fireplaces, a soothing massage or an exfoliating facial, everything is on premises. Need provisions or boat supplies? Use the marina car for a 10-minute ride to Oriental, stock up at the Piggly Wiggly and West Marine, and take some extra time to explore the sailing capital of North Carolina.
EDITOR ADVICE: Rent a bike to cruise the resort’s 1,300 waterfront acres.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & MarinaThe British Virgin Islands
A charter in the British Virgin Islands should be a top item on every boater’s cruising bucket list. The many anchorages and moorings are well-marked and protected, but after several days on the hook, treat yourself to a high-end resort on a private island before you fly back home.
Scrub Island is just off Tortola and is close to your charter base, making it a convenient location for the last night of your charter. The Autograph Collection property maintains the highest standard of excellence in service and services, and the view from every spot on the island is sublime.
If family or friends are flying in for part of the charter, the idyllic location offers two- to six-bedroom villas. The resort and marina were fully renovated in the summer of 2018.
EDITORADVICE: Release your inner child and take a ride on the pool slide. Then, reclaim your adulthood and enjoy an alcoholic beverage at the swim-up bar.
The Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show and the Miami Yacht Show bring everything needed to enjoy the boating lifestyle.
For the first time in many years, the Miami International Boat Show brings together both power and sail enthusiasts to one location. The ultimate boat show experience highlights more than 170 boat brands and thousands of marine-related products and accessories at the Miami Marine Stadium on Virginia Key February 14-18. In addition, the Miami Yacht Show, showing off the ultimate in large luxury yachts, has moved from its Miami Beach location to downtown Miami next to the Adrienne Arscht Center and the Sea Isle Marina.
The move gives the Miami Yacht Show 3,500 parking spaces, additional on-land exhibit space, including the new AquaZone, and is closer to the Super Yacht Miami show at Island Gardens Deep Harbour on Watson Island. Visitors have an option to purchase one ticket for both shows.
A sail-exclusive area on Pier 9 and a special section of Tent F at the Miami International Boat Show add to the show’s educational features held in the new Sailor’s Cove. Two seminar tents are dedicated to sailing and boating education, including Fred’s Shed Interactive Learning Center, Discover Boating Hands-On Skill Training courses, DIY and cruising seminars, and on-water classes.
This year’s Progressive Insurance Miami International Boat Show along with the Miami Yacht Show offers visitors a more comprehensive boat show experience. Here are a few of the boat builders introducing their new designs and where you can see them.
Combo Miami Yacht Show & Miami International Boat Show Adults: $53.00
Transportation: Free shuttle bus and free water taxi services are available to make getting to and from the shows easy. Shuttle bus Thursday-Monday 9AM-7PM; Water taxi at Bayfront Park and American Airlines Arena 9:30AM-7PM
February 14-18
Thurs-Mon: 10am-6pm
Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, Virginia Key
Premier Day, Thursday Feb. 14: $40.00
General Admission
Adults 13 and older: $25.00
Two-Day Pass: $45.00
Five-Day Pass: $100
Children 12 and younger: FREE (when accompanied by a paid adult)
No pets, service animals only
Miami Yacht Show
One Herald Plaza, Miami, FL
Feb 14-17: 10am-6pm
Feb 18: 10am-5pm
General Admission
Adults 13 and older: $28.00
Children 12 and under: FREE
Mardi Gras’s Fat Tuesday may not begin until March 5th, but festivities start in February.
Marching bands and floats brighten up many Gulf coastal towns. Masked krewe members carry armloads of plastic beads. Wave your arms and scream, “Hey Mister!” Ground zero for Mardi Gras is New Orleans’ French Quarter. If you’ve never been, go. But even before the big day, you can holler for trinkets at parades in the Old Quarter and in the Uptown section.
Galveston Island has been doing Mardi Gras for 108 years, and it has grown to a
14-day calendar of activities that bring about 350,000 to parades and festivals with live
bands and delicious food.
Just about every Mississippi Gulf Coast town from Bay St. Louis to Pascagoula has eat-drink-and-be-merry festivals and parades. Some have unique parade themes. Biloxi, for
example, will crown the “King and Queen of the Krewe of Barkloxi.” Dog owners and
their dogs wear lookalike costumes.
Mobile, Alabama, deservedly calls itself the birthplace of Mardi Gras celebrations
in North America. Mobile Carnival Museum displays old floats, crowns, gowns, and
photographs dating back to 1886. The history-rich city at the top of Mobile Bay hosts
almost 50 parades in February and in the first five days of March.
The four-day Mardi Gras weekend at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach includes a 12-mile
boat parade via the ICW from The Wharf Marina in Orange Beach to Homeport Marina.
Lucy Buffett’s restaurant, Lulu’s, next to Homeport, welcomes all to “keep the party
going” with live music. Costumes and masks might get you a spot closer to the band, so
laissez le bon temps rouler!
