Beyond the Boat Show: The Luxurious Offerings of Fort Lauderdale

By Frances Flannagan

As the curtains are closed on the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2024 (FLIBS), many attendees will be extending their stay in the Sunshine State, making the most of its winter warmth and lavish offerings. Complimenting the luxurious yachting lifestyle, Fort Lauderdale offers an array of experiences for visitors to enjoy, from world-class dining opportunities to helicopter excursions.

It comes as no surprise that Fort Lauderdale has been nicknamed the ‘Yachting Capital of the World’, attracting superyacht Owners, charterers and Captains from across the globe all-year round. When it is not playing host to one of the superyacht industry’s most anticipated annual events, Fort Lauderdale is a hotspot for yachting clientele who wish to indulge in a spectacle of high-end experiences. 

Whilst superyachts are able to be docked in either the Lauderdale Marine Centre or the Bahia Mar Yachting Centre, the city boasts a range of premium accommodation should Owners or charterers wish for a break from being on the water. One of the most luxurious options is The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale: a beachfront paradise that acts as an opulent retreat within the city. Boasting a stunning spa, lavish suites and decadent dining at its restaurant Burlock Coast, the Ritz-Carlton harmoniously blends the atmosphere of its ocean surroundings with a contemporary flair: a perfect option for those accustomed to the splendour of superyachts. 

Beyond relaxation and leisure, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the city by exploring its vibrant art and shopping scene in Las Olas Boulevard. This premier destination blends Fort Lauderdale’s luxurious atmosphere with its rich culture, as visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy charming sidewalks, lavish boutiques and captivating art galleries. The NSU Art Museum is among the most notable institutions, showcasing the works of American and Latin American artists in a series of unforgettable exhibitions, with private tours also available. 

Once visitors have explored the spectacular offerings on land, they can enhance their experience of Fort Lauderdale by taking to the air to gain an elevated perspective of this chic city. Helicopter tours are a must-do activity in the area, offering glimpses of the sparkling blue waters, urban landscapes and stunning architecture from a birds-eye view. 

A trip to Fort Lauderdale would not be complete without returning to its famed roots of the ocean. Whilst there are many spectacular areas for scuba diving and snorkelling around the city, including the 45 feet-deep diving area of Fort Lauderdale’s Twin Ledges zone, visitors should not miss out on the short journey to Florida Keys. Here, they can immerse themselves in the 150km of tropical islands and the only living coral reef in America, defined by intricate coral formations, shipwrecks and an abundance of marine life. 

Alongside being an iconic yachting hub, Fort Lauderdale is the ultimate destination for those wishing to blend luxury with culture, all within an enchanting beachfront atmosphere. For superyacht clientele looking to experience the city beyond the boat show, this chic destination encapsulates the very best of the luxury lifestyle: an unparalleled mirror to that experienced on the superyachts themselves. 

"Nestled along the stunning South Florida coast, Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant arts scene, rich cultural heritage, and exciting events."

City of Fort Lauderdale

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"Nestled along the stunning South Florida coast, Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant arts scene, rich cultural heritage, and exciting events."

City of Fort Lauderdale
By Frances Flannagan