Evening Boat Cruise through Downtown Ft. Lauderdale

Experience the Best of Downtown Fort Lauderdale on a 2-Hour Evening Boat Cruise

A 2-hour evening boat cruise in Fort Lauderdale offers a lively way to see the city’s stunning waterfront, luxurious homes, and vibrant skyline. Priced at $62.49 per person, this tour departs from Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach and is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, fun-filled activity with great music and spectacular waterfront views. The tour is popular, usually booked 8 days in advance, and caters to groups of up to 15 travelers.

What makes this cruise stand out is the opportunity to bring your own drinks — cooler boxes are provided — making it a cost-effective alternative to crowded bars or expensive eateries. With bottled water included and the restroom onboard, the experience combines comfort, enjoyment, and impressive scenery. This tour suits those who want a casual, social outing with informative guides and a lively atmosphere, especially for celebrating special occasions or simply unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours of scenic cruising through downtown Fort Lauderdale.
• Price: $62.49 per person, with the option to bring your own drinks and enjoy party music.
• Stops and Views: Pass by luxurious mansions, yachts, the Yacht Club, and cruise ships in Port Everglades.
• Highlights: Spectacular sunset views, waterway tour of the Venice of America, and informative narration about local yacht owners.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, creating an intimate and lively environment.
• Meeting Point: Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach, right near public transportation.

Starting Point at Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach

The cruise begins at Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach, part of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, located at 801 Seabreeze Blvd. This central spot makes it easy to access from nearby hotels and public transit. The meeting process is straightforward, and the tour runs most days, with confirmation received at booking.

Travelers should arrive promptly, as the tour’s intimate group size means punctuality helps keep everything running smoothly. The check-in process is simple, and once on board, participants are welcomed into a relaxed environment designed for fun and sightseeing.

Passing through Downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Yacht Capital

The cruise’s first major stop takes you through the downtown area, where yachts and mansions line the waterways. As yacht capital of the world, Fort Lauderdale offers a unique chance to see some of the most luxurious waterfront properties. The Captain and Crew share insights into notable yacht owners and the history of this affluent district.

While cruising past the Yacht Club, travelers enjoy a beautiful sunset backdrop with the city skyline in the background. This part of the tour provides a perfect setting for photos and a chance to appreciate the scale of the luxury yachting scene. The atmosphere is lively, with party music enhancing the experience.

Exploring Port Everglades: Ships and Cargo

Next, the tour takes you through the massive port of Port Everglades, where cruise ships and cargo freighters move steadily through the waterway. This stretch offers a different perspective on South Florida’s maritime activity, showcasing the scale and importance of this bustling port.

Cruising past these enormous vessels gives a sense of the surrounding water that encircles Fort Lauderdale. The canals, totaling about 160 miles, earn the city the nickname “Venice of America”. The views here highlight the city’s maritime economy and its role as a cruise hub.

The Opulence of Las Olas Isles

The cruise continues into the Las Olas Isles, where some of the wealthiest residents in the world reside. These waterfront mansions and yachts make for an impressive sight, especially as many of these properties boast stunning architecture and extensive dockage.

Guides share stories about notable estates and the lifestyles of the residents, adding extra interest for those curious about the area’s affluence. The spectacular views of yachts and luxurious homes make this part of the cruise a highlight, perfect for photo opportunities and appreciating the grandeur.

Enjoying the Sunset and Cityscape Views

One of the most memorable moments of the tour is watching the sun set over Fort Lauderdale. As the sky turns vibrant hues, the city’s skyline and waterfront are bathed in golden light. This peaceful yet lively scene offers excellent opportunities for photography and simply soaking in the scenic beauty.

The combination of sunset views, waterway vistas, and lively music creates a relaxed atmosphere. Passengers can sit back, sip their drinks from the cooler, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery while hearing interesting facts from the crew.

Bring Your Own Drinks and Enjoy the Party Atmosphere

One key feature of this cruise is that you can bring your own drinks. The boat provides cooler boxes for your beverages, making it a budget-friendly choice compared to visiting bars. Bottled water is also included for refreshment.

The tour’s party music helps create a festive vibe onboard. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a fun night out, the lively soundtrack enhances the experience. No need to worry about expensive bar tabs, as the self-serve drinks keep things casual and relaxed.

Comfort and Amenities Onboard

The boat includes a restroom for guest convenience, and the small group size ensures a friendly, intimate environment. The service animals are allowed, and the tour is accessible to most travelers, making it inclusive for many.

While the boat is not air-conditioned, the breeze from the water and the shade of the boat help keep passengers comfortable during the cruise. The mobile ticket system streamlines check-in, allowing for a smooth start to the experience.

Practicalities: Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Info

Booking typically occurs around 8 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

The tour operates most days, with confirmation received immediately after booking. If weather conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled, and travelers are offered the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. The minimum number of travelers must be met for the tour to run.

Final Thoughts: A Relaxed and Fun Water Tour

The Evening Boat Cruise through Downtown Fort Lauderdale offers a relaxed, lively, and scenic way to explore the city’s waterways. Priced at $62.49, it provides a cost-effective way to see yachts, mansions, and the skyline, all while enjoying music and your own drinks.

This tour is ideal for those looking for a casual, social outing with beautiful views, especially for celebrating milestones or unwinding after a busy day. The knowledgeable guides and spectacular scenery make it a worthwhile experience, even with the modest limitations like the lack of air conditioning.

If you enjoy waterfront scenery, luxury homes, and a party atmosphere, this cruise delivers a memorable evening on the water in Fort Lauderdale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own alcohol and food onboard?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. The boat provides coolers for your beverages, and you should bring ice, cups, napkins, and utensils as needed.

Is there a restroom onboard?
Yes, the boat has a restroom for guest convenience during the cruise.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for the weather is best. If you plan to take photos during sunset, consider bringing layers in case it cools down later.

How many people can join the cruise?
The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, making it an intimate and lively group experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
The departing point is Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel.