Local’s Guide: Best Places to Cruise by Boat in Fort Lauderdale

Nicknamed the "Venice of America" for a reason, Fort Lauderdale is a boat lover’s paradise — 300+ miles of waterways, world-class waterfront dining, mega-yachts to gawk at, and tucked-away gems most tourists never see.

If you're planning a Fort Lauderdale boat cruise, skip the guesswork. Here's your Nauti-approved guide to cruising like a local — whether you're all about luxury lounging or plotting out the best dock-and-drink spots in town.

🌆 1. New River: Where Downtown Meets the Water

Start your cruise here if you want a mix of city buzz and scenic views. As you float past Riverwalk and Las Olas, you’ll see modern high-rises, swaying palms, and boats ranging from casual cruisers to $30M mega-yachts.

Local tip:

Cruise by Smoker Park and The Wharf at golden hour for the best cityscape + party vibes combo.

🏝️ 2. The Las Olas Isles: Canal Cruising at Its Finest

This is where Fort Lauderdale gets fancy. Picture rows of luxury homes with million-dollar views and even pricier boats parked out front. It’s prime "boat peeping" territory.

What makes it special:

• Calm, private canals (great for sipping and cruising)
• Insta-worthy backdrops on every corner
• Hidden-away feel — no tourists here

🍽️ 3. Dock & Dine Hotspots

Fort Lauderdale knows how to feed boaters. Pull up to a dock, step off your yacht, and enjoy a waterfront meal like a local legend.

Top picks to cruise to:

• Coconuts – Chill vibe, unbeatable views, killer mahi tacos
• 15th Street Fisheries – Great seafood, pelican feeding, and dockside dining
• Boatyard – Polished and trendy, ideal for bougie brunches
• Shooters Waterfront – Big party energy on weekends

Anchor Note: Some restaurants fill up on weekends — arrive early or call ahead to ask about dock space.

🏖️ 4. Sandbar Hangouts & Swim Stops

If your crew is feeling the float-and-frolic vibe, we’ve got the perfect anchor points.

• Whiskey Creek Hideout (via Port Everglades inlet) — Great for nature and chill
• Middle River Sandbar – Smaller, quieter crowd, perfect for floaties and a dip
• Lake Sylvia – A popular spot with locals for anchoring and relaxing — bonus points if you're there during sunset

What to bring:

Floaties, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof speaker, and your best cannonball form.

🛥️ 5. Intracoastal Waterway: Scenic & Smooth Cruising

This is the artery of Fort Lauderdale boating — a long, smooth channel with jaw-dropping real estate and endless activity.

Why the locals love it:

• Ideal for casual cruising
• Plenty of spots to stop, sip, or jump in
• Easily connects to Las Olas, New River, and Port Everglades
• Great for spotting yachts so big they have their own tenders

Hot tip: Want a slow, romantic vibe or just time to chat? This is the route.

🌅 6. Sunset Runs to Port Everglades

Want the kind of sunset that makes your friends jealous? Cruise toward Port Everglades as the sun begins to dip — open water views, zero obstructions, and full sky color explosions.

On a good night, you’ll spot departing cruise ships, pelicans diving for dinner, and the sun melting into the Atlantic.

Best paired with:

• A chilled bottle of rosé
• Your crew vibing to soft tunes
• A toast to unforgettable moments on the water

🎉 7. Special Event Cruises (That Locals Actually Do)

Want to feel like a local and a legend at the same time? Plan your Fort Lauderdale boat cruise to line up with one of these:

• Winterfest Boat Parade (December): The Macy’s Parade of the water
• Air & Sea Show (May): Fighter jets + luxury yachts = yes please
• Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise: Front-row seats to the show, minus the crowd
• Sunday Funday Float: Trust us, locals go hard on Sundays

🧭 Choosing the Right Cruise for Your Mood

Here’s how to pick your vibe like a pro:

Let your captain know what you’re after — we’ll tailor the route to make it perfect.

⚓ Ready to Cruise Like a Local?

From secret sandbars to luxury-lined canals, there’s no better way to experience Fort Lauderdale than from the deck of FantaSea. Whether you want to party, chill, or just float under the stars, we know all the best spots — and we’re ready to show you.

👉 Book your Fort Lauderdale yacht charter and let’s chart your course for unforgettable.