Tag: FL

Sea Force IX Sport Center Console

The Sea Force IX 41.5 Sport Center Console is a tournament-ready boat that is equally suited to be a yacht tender.

Big center consoles often must fill many roles—one day a serious sport fisherman, the next a shuttle tender to a yacht, then a pleasure cruiser and, after that, a dive boat with easy reboarding access. Fortunately, owners of the Sea Force IX Sport Center Console have everything they need for those multiple roles already built into the boat.

Designers of the 41.5 Sport are accustomed to drawing up much bigger vessels for the team to build at the Palmetto, Florida, facility. The Sea Force IX model lineup starts with the 41.5 Sport (41’8″ LOA, 12′ beam) as the first in the new Performance Sport Outboard center console line and climbs up to the 131.5 Luxury Performance Skybridge Sport Yacht (131’8″ LOA, 26’10” beam).

“This is the smallest boat we have ever built,” explains Rick Hyer, design engineer at Sea
Force IX, during the launch of the boat at the 2017 Fort Lauderdale International Boat
Show. “Our primary market is from 81 to 94 feet with inboard sportfishing boats. Now we have ventured into this larger center console market, with a 55-footer next. The construction is all composite, all vinylester resin.”

Powered by triple Yamaha 350-hp four-stroke outboard engines, the Sea Force IX 41.5 Sport is a wave crusher and offers a smooth ride in rough conditions. She also carries some heft at more than 21,000 pounds. However, with a full load and five passengers, she still can run to the 55-plus-mph top speed and cruise comfortably in the 40-mph range.

“This is a bottom design that Sea Force IX has proven to be successful with,” says Todd Albrecht, sales and marketing manager for Sea Force IX. Prior to his current position, Albrecht had long been with Jupiter Marine, and his experience with larger center consoles helped guide Sea Force IX with its new center console line. “It has been modified to get a little more deadrise, from a traditional 17-degree deadrise to a 23-degree bottom. The boat creates lift for the entire running surface with twin lifting strakes on both sides, no steps, and large chines. The faster you push the throttles, the higher it gets out of the water, and reduced wetting surface increases the fuel efficiency.”

A boat this big is a prime candidate for both the Yamaha Helm Master system and the Seakeeper 5 gyro stabilizer. Both are options, but neither product was on this boat, which was hull No. 1 of the 41.5 Sport line. However, Yamaha’s service network can now add the Helm Master system after the boat is purchased. While the joystick control may be what everyone talks about when discussing Helm Master, there’s much more to the system.

Because Helm Master now works with twin, triple and quad engine setups, it’s suitable for a variety of boat types and sizes. For 2018, Yamaha added a new feature with Helm Master called SetPoint. The feature’s three modes— FishPoint, DriftPoint, and StayPoint—provide even greater control for situations such as fishing, waiting for a bridge and controlled drifting.

Paying homage to the builder’s fishing background, the 41.5 Sea Force IX Sport Center Console has twenty (yes, 20) rod holders and rocket launchers. There’s also a 60-gallon livewell, custom outriggers, icemaker, abundant tackle storage, and a cockpit nearly big enough for a fighting chair. “We installed a diesel generator with a 30-gallon fuel tank,” Albrecht adds.

“For a weeklong trip to The Bahamas, that’s going to be enough fuel to power the generator so you can run everything, including the 16,000-BTU air conditioning, which offers two additional vents plumbed to the helm area.”

The two front-seat passengers and the captain ride in style on Llebroc helm chairs with footrests, while the captain looks forward to an elegant Edson wood steering wheel and twin Garmin GPSMAP 7616 multi-function displays. The Yamaha throttles and shifters are in a comfortable position and teak wood lines above decks. The helm is protected by an expansive hardtop. “The hardtop arch is an aluminum frame, and then the top is cored fiberglass,” says Albrecht. “We then paint the aluminum in house. The only way to give it this custom look was to do it ourselves.”

Below,  the cabin of the Sea Force IX Sport Center Console has teak woodwork and a cabin that features a dining table that lowers on an electric actuator and converts the dinette to a queen berth. The cabin also features UltraLeather for all the fabric surfaces and Staron countertops. Accessories include an AC/DC stainless steel drawer-style refrigerator, microwave and freshwater sink. A stand-up head is much appreciated as is the abundant storage. In addition, access to the air conditioner and other ship’s systems is all easily achieved down below. A Bomar deck hatch allows for plenty of natural light and ventilation.

“We considered how someone is going to use this boat. They are going to fish, but they are also going to cruise, so it needs to be a yacht-style boat,” says Albrecht. “Here in
the bow, you have two big, comfortable lounge seats and a nice clean anchor setup.” Sea Force IX went with the shoot-through-the-bow-style anchor design that offers a crisp look
as well as shaving off overall length. “It started with our clients up north who are paying by the foot for dock space. “Having that anchor hanging is an extra foot of cost to them
at the dock. It’s a cleaner look to tuck it into the bow.”

The design of the Sea Force IX Sport Center Console includes a removable swim ladder,  deployable from either side of the aft teak platform. The ladder attachments are built directly into the hull. “We built a boat that can be customized and used for many different activities,” Albrecht states. “That’s the goal with this center console line, and we’re looking forward to offering boats with even more utility and performance.”

SPECIFICATIONS

LOA: 41′ 8″
Beam: 12′
Draft: 2′ 8″
Displacement: 21,000 lbs.
Fuel/Water: 500/60 gals.
Power: 3x Yamaha
350-hp outboards
Cruise/Top Speed: 41/55 MPH
Range @ cruise: 375 nm
MSRP: Price upon request
Contact: Sea Force IX
(941) 721-9009
seaforceix.com

By Doug Thompson, Southern Boating April 2018

Sea Force IX 41.5 Sport Center Console

The Sea Force IX 41.5 Sport Center Console (41’8″ LOA, 12′ beam) comes loaded with features like dual transom dive/boarding doors and an electric head. Other features include the 16,000 BTU air conditioning in the cabin/console, which also is plumbed to the helm area, refrigerator and 440-pound-per-day ice chipper with above-deck dump.

Stay comfortable in three-wide helm seating with flip-up bolsters and armrests, recessed seating across the transom and additional lounge seating in the bow. Intended to get
you there in style, this tournament ready sportfish will be equally well suited to the yacht tender and Caribbean cruising markets. Powered by triple 350-hp Yamahas, she runs to a top speed of 55 mph and cruises at 35 mph with a 400-mile range.

seaforceix.com

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Adler Suprema Hybrid

The Adler Suprema Hybrid (75′ 10″ LOA, 19′ 10″ beam) is a semi-custom, carbon fiber, hybrid motor yacht from Swiss-based Adler Yacht. Built in Italy, the new HMS hybrid
propulsion system offers transatlantic range. Powered by twin Caterpillar C18 1,180-hp diesels and twin HMS E-Unit 100kW electric motors, the yacht has a top speed of 30
knots and cruises 3,400 nm at 8 knots.

Under battery power the Adler can stay a full day in a bay, offering all amenities on board without generator or engines—no noise and fume and vibration free. Designed by Nuvolari-Lenard, the layout is elegant and spacious, combining interior comforts with the large exterior space and different layouts between three and five cabins.

adleryacht.com / hms-hybridmarine.com

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Grady-White Freedom 325

The Grady-White Freedom 325 (33’1″ LOA, 10’9″ beam) offers versatility, ease of use, and friendly features including a port-side cockpit door, accessible roomy head and standard hardtop with self-contained retractable SureShade. The 325 is equipped for a full day offshore with signature Grady-White details like large bow boxes (a 180-quart starboard insulated box and extended dry storage to port for rods), a 32-gallon livewell and a 254-quart aft insulated fish box.

The Freedom 325 rides on Grady’s exclusive SeaV2® hull and is powered by twin Yamaha 350-hp engines. Top speed is 48.5 mph, and cruising speed is 29.3 mph with a range of 443.5 miles.

gradywhite.com

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Marlow Explorer 75E

The Marlow Explorer 75E (86’1″ LOA, 20’6″ beam) is an enclosed command bridge model
selected by a cruising couple who wanted comfort, style and entertainment flexibility while on board. A spacious salon with satin finish teak and holly flooring features double ultra-leather settees with an elegant teak, large built-in bar. Forward of the galley is a large custom-designed dining area.

With four staterooms in addition to crew quarters, there are no crowded spaces. On the upper aft deck, beautiful sunsets will be enjoyed from the custom built-in bar and exquisite settee. The Explorer 75E achieved over 30 knots on sea trials and can cruise from West Palm Beach to Newfoundland at 10 knots average speed.

marlowyachts.com

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Cobia 320 CC

The Cobia 320 CC (32′ LOA, 10’3″ beam) builds on the company’s success in the center console segment with a combination of advanced styling, a smart double-duty fishing and family layout, and big-water running performance.

With a maximum horsepower of 700 and a 275-gallon fuel capacity, the Cobia 320 CC is a spacious fishing platform with a range that can still be easily trailered to fishing tournament locations or inland lakes. Twin 35-gallon pressurized livewells, more than enough tackle storage, and holders for more than 20 rods mean you’ll be ready when you reach the long-distance fishing grounds where the big ones are biting.

For those looking for the finer touches, the 320 CC has a hidden bow table with electric lift, an elegantly featured step-down head with 6’2″ of headroom, and a deluxe cushion package available in four color styles.

cobiaboats.com

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Grand Banks 60 at MIBS

See the Grand Banks 60 at MIBS. The GB60 (65’4″ LOA, 19’2″ beam) features leading-edge construction, reliable propulsion, and state-of-the-art maneuvering systems. The yacht is relatively light yet strong due to the carbon fiber-infused deck and cabin house. The Grand Banks 60 sports two 800-hp Volvo Penta D13 diesel engines that give the yacht a top speed of 36 knots and a range of 2,500 nm at 10 knots.

The large, well-protected flybridge, wide side deck with high bulwarks and handholds and an extended boat deck are built for ocean voyages and ensure protection from the elements. The large salon with electric windows provides space for families and friends, with an interior helm station designed for long-distance passage making. Three large staterooms and space for optional crew accommodations are well suited for adventure.

grandbanks.com

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Bonadeo 37 WA

The Bonadeo 37 Walkaround (LOA 37′, beam 9’10”) is built of composite, resin-infused Kevlar carbon fiber. Built as a collaboration between Bonadeo Boat Works and a client from Long Beach, Calif., the boat is rich in woodwork with teak decks, coamings and high-gloss Imron-coated teak toe rail and helm pod.

The air-conditioned cabin offers 6’5″ of headroom and includes a queen berth, galley, and head. Forward of the helm is a large sunpad with an aft facing teak seat for two that includes a built-in cooler and livewell.

The helm seat hosts four custom tackle stations with an abundant amount of storage. The
cockpit features two oversized fish/storage deck boxes, and the transom has a built-in
50-gallon livewell. Powered by triple Mercury Verado 350-hp engines, this boat hits a top
end of 55 and cruises in the mid 40-mph range.

bonadeoboatworks.com

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EVO 43 at Miami Yachts Show

The EVO 43 (43’1″ LOA, 20’7″ beam) is the first model from the EVO brand and built by Blu Emme Yachts. Twin Volvo Penta IPS 600 engines offer a top speed of 38 knots, 30-knot cruise and range of 300 nm. The boat features a straight bow and high topsides that flow harmoniously toward the stern.

The cockpit, like the rest of the Evo 43, is entirely covered in teak and features an area that can be easily arranged through modular cube-shaped seats. The stern features the “XTension” bulwarks that open to increase usable space by 40 percent. Belowdecks accommodation is air-conditioned and features a double cabin to port, with its own entrance door, stowage area and wardrobe. The starboard head features a full-height shower and sink, and forward is a V-shaped dinette with a foldaway table that converts to another comfortable double bed.

evoyachts.com

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Sunseeker Debuts Three Yachts at Yachts Miami Beach

Sunseeker debuts three yachts: the 76 Yacht (77’5″ LOA, 19’6″ beam), the Manhattan 66 (68’3″ LOA, 17’3″ beam) and the Predator 57 MK II (59’10” LOA, 15’5″ beam). The 76 Yacht’s innovative use of glass enhances natural light, making this a bright and airy boat in which to relax and unwind with family and friends.

Power via shaft drive is aplenty with two MAN V12 engine options providing speeds of up to 32 knots. The Manhattan 66 offers either twin fixed-pitch propellers or IPS drives providing speeds of up to 32 knots and a range of 500 nm. The flybridge creates the feeling of a much larger craft and has been designed with extensive seating throughout, large forward sunbathing areas and a well-equipped wet bar.

The Predator 57 MK II’s exterior boasts sleek yet oversized pillarless windows down to the side deck, which floods the interior with light and provides uninterrupted views from the salon.

sunseeker.com

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Ocean5 Naval Architects 27′ Stuart Boatworks

The Ocean5 Naval Architects 27′ Stuart Boatworks Technology Demonstrator (26’10” LOA, 8’8″ beam) showcases the latest technology in a top-flight center console. The technology aboard the boat includes virtual anchor via Seastar Optimus 360 Joystick steering, and GPS station keeping and roll-stabilization with a Seakeeper SK3 Gyro.

Other features include a Lenco Auto Glide system and dual 400W solar array with C-Zone networked 17-inch Garmin chart plotter. Twin 200-hp Mercury outboards power the hull to a top speed of 48 mph, with a 37-mph cruising speed and a range of 300 miles.

ocean5.com

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Palm Beach 45

The Palm Beach 45 (49′ LOA, 14’8″ beam) offers a contemporary design and high-tech construction to provide a versatile yachting experience suited for cruising and family-focused outings. Twin 435-hp Volvo Penta IPS 600s provide control and performance, whether running an inlet in a down-sea swell or slicing through a chop.

High-tech construction uses resin-infused carbon fiber in the deck and superstructure and vinylester resins and a cross-link, closed-cell foam core for durability in the hull. The result is a stronger, lighter yacht with a top speed of 32 knots and a cruising speed of 26 knots. Inside, the craftsmanship and attention to detail are shown in several interior layout options that allow the owners to create the ideal family cruising yacht.

palmbeachmotoryachts.com

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Trendy Tampa

This boating-friendly city on Florida’s Gulf Coast looks toward the future without forgetting its past. Just another reason to visit Tampa.

Larry Falkif looked up and spotted an osprey off the port side and another over to starboard. “We rarely used to see these birds; now there are so many I don’t count them. They’ve more than made a comeback—they are flourishing, just like Tampa itself.” Falkif, who operates Tampa Water Taxi Company and runs a series of local voyages—a harbor tour, sunset tour, history tour, and homes of famous people tour—has witnessed the city’s rebirth over the past dozen years. Indeed, the City of

Indeed, the City of Tampa is thriving these days. Clearly on the rise, this port of call of nearly 400,000 draws boaters of all ages from across the country. It’s hip, dynamic and all about protecting its marine environment. From sightseeing and dining to shopping, fishing and catching a pro sports game, Tampa pleases even the most persnickety visitor. Better still, you can access these prospects from your own cruising platform all year long.

Falkif is happy to detail the changes and improvements he sees while sailing Tampa’s perimeter. He’ll point out small stuff that often goes unnoticed: ospreys, the latest waterfront bar or oysters growing on docks that were barren a decade ago. It’s great to have a guide to cut the learning curve, of course, but any captain worth his or her salt can sense the general vibe: This is a boating-friendly city that’s cruising in the right direction.

Situated near the mid-point along Florida’s Gulf Coast, the City of Tampa is tucked back into the protected waters of Hillsborough Bay, which itself is folded inside Tampa Bay. The downtown section is lined with newish-looking skyscrapers and attractive modern architecture. Numerous marinas provide plenty of dockage as well as easy access to the
waterfront. Edging the western shore, a Riverwalk area links high-end hotels, restaurants, museums, and parks like gems on a string. It bustles with activity yet never appears overcrowded despite both the Tampa Bay Convention Center and the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina bordering this stretch.

Also along the waterfront you’ll spy abundant riverside dining opportunities, five (soon to be nine) bridges featuring dazzling lighting after dark, the pirate ship replica Jose Gasparilla  at the mouth of the Hillsborough River, the University of Tampa, and The Florida Aquarium, among other venues.

History buffs will absolutely love this place; the City of Tampa makes no bones about putting its past on display. From its first native inhabitants to Spanish conquistadors and buccaneers—several pirates have been associated with the bay although details are sometimes sketchy—you’ll find museums, theme restaurants, and venues recounting its yesteryears, often with a nautical twist.

The central point for all things historical is the Tampa Bay History Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum with three floors of exhibits exploring 12,000 years of Florida’s past. Experience the stories of Seminole Indians, Cuban cigar rollers—Tampa’s Ybor City was once considered the Cigar Capital of the World—and Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders through hands-on exhibits. (tampabayhistorycenter.org; 813-228-0097)

Another place worth investigating is the Tampa Museum of Art. Its own collection features everything from ancient Greek artifacts to modern abstracts while traveling exhibits from across the country bring new and innovative works to the region. (tampamuseum.org; 813-274-8130)

Are you a “foodie”? If so, prepare to be overwhelmed. Tampa’s diverse culture has interwoven itself within the palate of mainstream downtown through a wide assortment of tasty and original dishes. For example, Ulele, a unique restaurant on Tampa’s Riverwalk, serves native-inspired dishes and spirits from a rich variety of multicultural influences. Menu items such as Florida Jumpers (frog legs,) Alligator Hush Puppies, Crackling Pork Shank, and Chief Red Eagle Duck will challenge your tastebuds. For dessert, try the grilled pineapple served with cannoli cream.

Other dining hot spots include Café Dufrain (on the water, terrific service), Oxford Exchange (combination restaurant, coffee bar, bookstore, and home décor store across from the University of Tampa that is a favorite for lunch), and Columbia Restaurant, where my wife and I enjoyed a fun-filled night that included a fabulous flamenco  performance and some of the finest steak and seafood we have ever sampled. Located in Ybor City, it was founded five generations ago as a sandwich shop. Today, it’s Florida’s oldest restaurant and claims to be the largest Spanish restaurant in the world. It also sports an impressive wine list. (There’s a Columbia Café at the History Center if you want a sense of the flavor without a big production.)

On a more modest front, day-trippers seem to especially enjoy Ricks on the River Bar and Grille. Its casual waterfront atmosphere features a marina, live music and plenty of fresh oysters, bar bites and cold drinks. For modern Mexican flair, check out Hablo Taco in Channelside Bay Plaza, popular with local residents and hockey fans heading to Amalie
Arena to cheer on the Tampa Bay Lightning. Several craft breweries are also scattered around the downtown area.

Tampa is hot and trendy for nightlife as well; the city comes alive after dark. Be sure to stop by Fly Bar & Restaurant, a craft cocktail pioneer; Hotel Bar, offering famous hotel cocktails from around the world; and Franklin Manor, a social drinkery flush with hand-crafted cocktails, vibrant live music and nosh-worthy bar bites. To really experience a party-like atmosphere, visit during the Gasparilla Pirate Festival held in late January. Celebrated almost every year since 1904, it features a huge parade acclaiming the
legend of José Gaspar (also known as Gasparilla), a mythical Spanish pirate who supposedly operated in Southwest Florida during the early 1800s.

Of course, if you love the water and things that live in it, a trip to The Florida Aquarium is mandatory. It showcases the aquatic animals and ecosystems of Florida and the world with sharks, sea turtles, alligators, river otters, sea horses, and more. This operation
is active in research and conservation programs throughout the Sunshine State, including coral research and animal rescue and rehabilitation. No wonder its Coral Reef Gallery features a one-of-a-kind view. (flaquarium.org; 813-273-4000)

If you would rather catch fish than observe them, get ready to cast. “It’s amazing what you can hook in sight of the city skyline,” says Jason Semeyn, a local charter skipper with iTrekkers, a service paring anglers and outdoorsy types with certified guides for fishing, camping, SUP, kayaking, and other adventures.

“You’ll find redfish, snook and jack crevalle on the flats, plus sea trout over grass beds,” advises Semeyn. “In the middle of the bay, you can troll diving plugs along the edges of deep shipping channels for big gag grouper. Tampa Bay may be the only place in the world where people target grouper on the troll as opposed to bottom-fishing with bait.”

For overnight trips, Falkif says that you can’t go wrong staying at Marjorie Park Marina. “It has good service, floating docks, consistent power, and resides in a quiet city park within a no-wake zone. It’s ideal.” That’s solid advice from a skipper with a reputation for being up-front.

MARINAS

Marjorie Park Yacht Basin
(on nearby Davis Island)
tampagov.net/parks-and-recreation/parksand-facilities/marinas

Tampa Convention Center
(right on the Tampa Riverwalk with easy access to downtown)
tampaconventioncenter.com

Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina
marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpamctampa-marriott-waterside-hotel-and-marina

DINING, DRINKS & NIGHTLIFE

Ricks on the River Bar and Grille
813-251-0369; ricksontheriver.com

Ulele
813-999-4952; ulele.com

Café Dufrain
813-275-9701; cafedufrain.com

Oxford Exchange
813-253-0222; oxfordexchange.com

Columbia Restaurant
813-248-3000; columbiarestaurant.com

Hablo Taco
813-405-8226; hablotaco.com

Fly Bar & Restaurant
813-275-5000; flybarandrestaurant.com

Hotel Bar
813-533-2650; hotelbartampa.com

Franklin Manor
813-487-9990; thefranklinmanor.com

TRANSPORTATION, TOURS, ON-WATER ASSISTANCE & GUIDED OUTDOORS TRIPS

Tampa Water Taxi Company
(offers a variety of tours and point-to-point service)
(888) 665-8687; watertaxitampa.com

Pirate Water Taxi
813-390-3711; piratewatertaxi.com

iTrekkers
(guided fishing, camping, SUP, kayak, and other outdoors adventures)
(844) 468-8735; itrekkers.com

Sea Tow, Tampa Bay
(727) 547-1868; seatow.com/local/tampabay

Story and Photos by Tom Schlichter Southern Boating October 2017

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

From its historic downtown to a sprawling landscape of canals, Fort Lauderdale is a cruising paradise.

If you cast off from the luxury and glamour of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, you’ll discover another side of the city. Although famous for its annual celebration of all things yachting, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Area beckons to those who are looking for more opportunities to get out on the water.

It truly is a cruiser’s paradise—from the ICW glittering in the mid-day sun to delightful waterfront cuisine, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the area’s winding canals from the bow of a boat. If you only stay in the approximate area of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show you’re missing out on many of the city’s other waterfront offerings. Venture away from the show grounds and reap the rewards. There are plenty of things to do in Fort Lauderdale.

City on the Water

Fort Lauderdale is a city shaped by the development of its waterways. With over 300 miles of canals lacing through the Greater Fort Lauderdale Area, and over 165 miles of canals winding through Fort Lauderdale itself, the city is an engineering marvel and reflects hundreds of years of progress. The city’s topography has changed dramatically since Frank Stranahan made his home along the New River in 1893. The Stranahan House is now the oldest surviving building in the county, still nestled alongside and watching over the New River.

 

Fort Lauderdale has grown from a small pioneering settlement into a hub of architecture, arts, and entertainment. This cultural growth occurred largely due to the city government’s aggressive efforts to foster development beginning in 1986. Today, the New River sits in the heart of historic downtown and connects the arts and entertainment district with the Las Olas shopping and beach district. There are many ways to experience Fort Lauderdale, but none as true to the city’s unique history as discovering it by water. From exploring the Hillsboro Inlet to an offshore fishing expedition and arrival in Port Everglades, the area’s flavor opens up by boat.

In its early development, the ICW provided a safe haven for ships trying to avoid the many hazards of the Atlantic coast. Approximately 380 miles of the ICW wind through the eastern coastline of Florida, making it the ideal setting for exploration and a great way to experience the vibrancy that Fort Lauderdale and the rest of South Florida has to offer. From the water, cruisers will enjoy the historic scenery, beautiful sprawling houses and mega yachts as well as a large number of marinas. Walking alongside the canals simply doesn’t have the charm of cruising them. There’s a reason why they call Fort Lauderdale the Venice of America.

Movin’ and Groovin’

Fort Lauderdale’s Water Taxi system provides the opportunity to cruise the city’s many canals in novel fashion. Locals and visitors alike should consider jumping aboard for a nice change of pace. It’s an ultra-convenient way to travel, and its stops cover many of the highlights along the ICW. Take a tour to learn more about the history and geographical past of the New River and the ICW as well as their offshoot canals. The first stop along the Fort Lauderdale route is the Las Olas Riverfront. As an added bonus your Water Taxi ticket will give you a discount on dining and attractions along Las Olas. Continue on to see the Stranahan House, Beach Place and even Hugh Taylor Birch State Park—the only nature park on the Water Taxi route, situated right across from the historic Bonnet House. Paying a one-off fare for the Water Taxi will give you a round-trip ticket from your first stop to any other stop and back, at any time of day. watertaxi.com

If all the cruising and sightseeing leaves you famished, you’re in luck. Some of Fort Lauderdale’s best waterfront dining experiences can be found alongside the ICW. Situated next to the iconic Lauderdale Marina near the 17th Street Bridge, 15th Street Fisheries is one of the best seafood restaurants in town. An award-winning menu combined with stunning views of the ICW makes this a popular eatery for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy fresh seafood outdoors while watching the feeding of wild tarpon that hang out under the docks waiting for scraps from the restaurant’s chefs. Buy a bag of frozen shrimp from the nearby shop to feed them yourself.

Where to eat and drink in Fort Lauderdale

If you’re looking for a modern take on American cuisine and find yourself close to the Commercial Bridge, Kaluz is your stop. Classic décor combined with ample waterside seating allows for generous views of the ICW. The atmosphere is calm and fosters the perfect setting to sit and watch the sunset. Dockage is available if you arrive by boat, although space fills up quickly as the evening progresses. Open for lunch and dinner, some of the menu highlights include a delectable tuna tartare and jumbo lump crab dip as well as a variety of fresh seafood options.

On the north side of the Commercial Bridge, you’ll find Blue Moon Fish Co. For over 16 years this exquisite waterside restaurant has welcomed locals, transient visitors, and seasonal residents. Named one of the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale for outdoor dining by the Sun Sentinel, Blue Moon Fish Co. is a must visit. If you’re looking for a more casual atmosphere try Coconuts, just south down the ICW. It offers great service and a full menu of fresh, quality seafood in a fun and relaxed outdoor setting. Finally, no visit to Fort Lauderdale is complete without a stop at the Floridian. Although you can’t bring your boat this fabled diner has great fare and is perfect for people-watching along Las Olas Boulevard. With free street parking for customers and a complete range of cocktails, the Floridian is a prime brunch location in the heart of Fort Lauderdale.

Venture north along the ICW and you’ll reach the Hillsboro Inlet. The inlet connects the Atlantic Ocean with the ICW and is guarded by the towering Hillsboro Inlet Light. This unique, iron lighthouse dates back to 1907 and is unlike any other in Florida. At 136 feet above sea level the lighthouse’s beam can be seen as far away as Bimini and is instantly recognizable due to the linear construction of its iron pilings. The Hillsboro Lighthouse Preservation Society offers limited tours of the lighthouse—the next tour will take place on Sunday, November 6th at 8:30AM-11:00AM and leaves from Alsdorf Park. hillsborolighthouse.org

Head South

If you’d rather head south, cruise down the ICW past Port Everglades and you’ll arrive in Dania Beach. The Greater Fort Lauderdale Area has more than 23 miles of silky sand beaches with clear, mild water. Dania Beach is no exception with multiple awards for its “Blue Wave Beaches”. It’s no secret that Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas are always bustling with activity and vying for your attention, so if you need a reprieve from the hustle, smaller boats can head to Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park (formerly known as John U. Lloyd Beach State Park). Pull up on the protected sandbar but keep an eye on the tide, since many have returned from a long walk only to find their boat beached.

The park is the perfect spot for a day at the beach or picnicking with friends and family and also has two boat ramps that provide easy access to the ocean via Port Everglades—one of the top cruise ports worldwide. If you don’t carry water toys on your boat, the park also provides canoes and kayaks, as well as surf fishing and nature studies. Park hours are from 8AM until sundown. floridastateparks.org/park/mizell-johnson

To get a great view of the setting sun make your way to the Dania Beach Fishing Pier. Grab a drink or a bite to eat at Quarterdeck and you’ll benefit from their great vantage point right above the ocean. Paying the admissions fee of $2.12 gives you pier access to wander its length or try your hand at fishing.

By Susanna Botkin, Southern Boating Magazine October 2016


MARINAS:
Bahia Mar
801 Seabreeze Blvd.
(954) 627-6309
bahiamaryachtingcenter.com

Dania Beach Marina
151 N Beach Road
(954) 924-3796
daniabeachfl.gov/marina

Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six
2301 SE 17 Street
(954) 525-6666
pier66.hyatt.com

Lauderdale Marina
1900 SE 15 Street
(954) 523-8507
lauderdalemarina.com

Sands Harbor Marina
125 N Riverside Drive
(954) 942-9100
sandsharbor.com

 

RESTAURANTS—
15th Street Fisheries
1900 SE 15 Street
(954) 763-2777
15streetfisheries.com

Bahia Cabana Restaurant & Bar
3001 Harbor Drive (A1A)
(954) 524-1555
bahiacabanaresort.com

Blue Moon Fish Co.
4405 W Tradewinds Ave.
(954) 267-9888
bluemoonfishco.com

Coconuts
429 Seabreeze Blvd.
(954) 525-2421
coconutsfortlauderdale.com

The Floridian
(not on waterfront)
1410 E Las Olas Blvd.
(954) 463-4041
thefloridiandiner.com

Kaluz
3300 E Commercial Blvd.
(954) 772-2209
kaluzrestaurant.com

Shooters Waterfront
3033 NE 32 Ave.
(954) 566-2855
shooterswaterfront.com

 

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