The Best Landmarks to Spot on a Fort Lauderdale Boat Tour
- Capt. Scott Fleischer
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is known for its beautiful waterways, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, one of the best ways to experience the city is from the water. A boat tour in Fort Lauderdale offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing you to explore its iconic landmarks, lush landscapes, and incredible wildlife. From the historic New River to the pristine shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach, the city’s landmarks are best seen from the comfort of a boat.
As the owner of 954 Boat Tours, I’ve had the privilege of guiding countless guests through the scenic waterways of Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re interested in a private boat tour, a thrilling fishing tour, or a relaxing sunset boat ride, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone. In this blog, I’ll take you through some of the best landmarks to spot on a Fort Lauderdale boat tour, and why these sights make the city a must-see from the water.
1. The Intracoastal Waterway
The Intracoastal Waterway is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most famous landmarks. Stretching from the northern tip of Florida down to Miami, the Intracoastal Waterway is a network of canals and rivers that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the perfect route for boat tours, offering stunning views of the city, its lush landscapes, and the luxurious waterfront homes that line the banks.
On a private boat tour, you’ll have the opportunity to cruise along the Intracoastal and take in the beauty of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. The Intracoastal is also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and a wide range of bird species. It’s a great spot for those looking to enjoy a peaceful ride while soaking in the sights.
2. Fort Lauderdale Beach
Fort Lauderdale Beach is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and it’s best seen from the water. With its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and palm-lined shores, the beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. During a boat tour, you’ll be able to see the beach from a unique vantage point, with the city’s skyline in the background.
If you’re interested in a sunset boat ride, Fort Lauderdale Beach is the perfect place to watch the sun dip below the horizon. The colors of the sky reflect off the water, creating a breathtaking view that’s perfect for photos or simply relaxing with loved ones. Whether you’re on a private boat tour or enjoying a group outing, Fort Lauderdale Beach is a must-see landmark on any boat tour.
3. Las Olas Boulevard
Las Olas Boulevard is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most famous streets, known for its vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment scene. The boulevard stretches from the city’s downtown area to the beach, and it’s home to a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. On a boat tour, you’ll pass by the picturesque canals that run alongside Las Olas Boulevard, giving you a chance to see the city’s charming architecture and bustling atmosphere from the water.
Las Olas is also known for its beautiful bridges, which are an iconic part of the city’s landscape. As you cruise along the canals, you’ll pass under these historic bridges, which add to the charm and character of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. Whether you’re on a private boat tour or a group outing, Las Olas Boulevard is a landmark that you won’t want to miss.
4. New River
The New River is another key landmark in Fort Lauderdale, and it’s a central part of the city’s history. The river runs through the heart of downtown Fort Lauderdale, offering scenic views of the city’s skyline, historic buildings, and lush greenery. The New River is also home to some of the most beautiful homes in Fort Lauderdale, with many mansions and estates lining the riverbanks.
On a private boat tour, you’ll have the chance to cruise along the New River and admire the stunning architecture of the homes and buildings that line its shores. The river is also a great spot for fishing tours, as it’s home to a variety of fish species, including snook, tarpon, and bass. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing or fishing, the New River is a must-see landmark on any Fort Lauderdale boat tour.
5. The Stranahan House
The Stranahan House is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most historic landmarks, and it’s a must-see for anyone interested in the city’s rich history. Built in 1901, the Stranahan House was the home of Frank Stranahan, one of Fort Lauderdale’s founding fathers. Today, the house serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the city’s past.
Located along the New River, the Stranahan House is easily accessible by boat. On a boat tour, you’ll have the opportunity to pass by this historic home and learn about its significance in Fort Lauderdale’s history. If you’re interested in learning more, you can even dock your boat and take a tour of the house to explore its exhibits and artifacts.
6. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a hidden gem in Fort Lauderdale, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is located along the Intracoastal Waterway and features lush vegetation, wildlife, and scenic walking trails. From the water, you can admire the park’s natural beauty and spot wildlife such as birds, turtles, and fish.
For those interested in fishing tours, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a great spot to drop a line. The park is home to a variety of fish species, including snook and tarpon, making it a popular destination for anglers. Whether you’re interested in nature, wildlife, or fishing, Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is a must-see landmark on a Fort Lauderdale boat tour.
7. Fort Lauderdale Marina
The Fort Lauderdale Marina is one of the busiest and most iconic marinas in the city, and it’s a great place to spot luxury yachts, boats, and ships. The marina is home to some of the most impressive vessels in the world, making it a popular destination for boating enthusiasts and visitors alike.
On a private boat tour, you’ll have the opportunity to cruise by the marina and admire the impressive yachts and boats that are docked there. It’s a great place to take photos and enjoy the sights of Fort Lauderdale’s boating culture. If you’re interested in fishing tours, the marina is also a great place to dock and head out to sea for a day of fishing.
8. The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens
The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a historic estate located along the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale. The property features beautiful gardens, art galleries, and historic buildings, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in art, history, and nature.
On a boat tour, you can pass by the Bonnet House and admire its stunning architecture and lush gardens. The property is surrounded by water, offering a unique perspective of the estate from the boat. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Bonnet House, you can dock your boat and take a guided tour of the property.
Conclusion
Fort Lauderdale is a city that’s best experienced from the water. Whether you’re interested in a private boat tour, a fishing tour, or a sunset boat ride, there’s no better way to explore the city’s landmarks and natural beauty. From the Intracoastal Waterway to Fort Lauderdale Beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable boat tour experience, look no further than 954 Boat Tours. We offer a variety of tours, including private boat tours, fishing tours, and sunset boat rides, all designed to showcase the best landmarks and sights that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. You can book your adventure today by visiting https://www.954boattours.com/. Let us take you on a journey through the stunning waterways of Fort Lauderdale and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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