Yacht Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Yacht Charter Fort Lauderdale

Yacht charter Fort Lauderdale departs from the undisputed yachting capital of the world – a city threaded by 165 miles of inland waterways where superyachts raft up three-deep along the Intracoastal, the annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show transforms seven miles of dockage into the industry’s premier showcase, and the warm turquoise waters of the Atlantic lap a beach that stretches unbroken from Hillsboro Inlet to Port Everglades. Fort Lauderdale draws from the US fleet of over 77 charter yachts: 68′–98′ motor yachts ideal for Keys and Bahamas passages, 100′+ superyachts with cinema rooms and zero-speed stabilisers, and 55′+ catamarans that handle the shallow anchorages of Biscayne Bay and the Exumas with ease.

Peak season runs November through April with 24–28°C sunshine, calm seas, and easy access to the Bahamas just 55 nautical miles east. Summer brings warmer water, fewer crowds on the sandbar at Peanut Island, and more competitive pricing. Daily rates start from $6,000/day, rising to $11,500+/day on superyachts above 89′, plus Florida’s 7% state sales tax and 30–35% APA covering fuel, provisions, and marina fees. Fort Lauderdale’s unrivalled advantage is infrastructure – no port on earth has more yacht berths per mile, deeper service yards, faster provisioning, or more experienced crews, meaning your charter begins with every detail already polished and every system tested to superyacht standards.

Explore Fort Lauderdale

Navigate Fort Lauderdale’s marinas, Intracoastal highlights, and departure logistics in our comprehensive Fort Lauderdale destination guide.

Browse day-by-day Fort Lauderdale charter itineraries linking the Intracoastal Waterway, the Keys, and the Bahamas crossing.

The grid above showcases yachts available for Fort Lauderdale charters from the US fleet of over 77 vessels – motor yachts from 68′, superyachts over 100′, and catamarans from 55′. Weekly rates start from approximately $42,000. Narrow your search by type, guest capacity, length, or rate, then speak with Boatcrowd’s charter specialists for last-minute availability from the world’s busiest yacht hub, crew introductions, and bespoke itinerary design.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book a Fort Lauderdale charter?

For the peak November–April season, eight to twelve months’ lead time is ideal, particularly around the Boat Show (late October), Thanksgiving, and the winter holidays. Fort Lauderdale’s enormous fleet means last-minute bookings are more feasible here than anywhere else, but the premier superyachts still commit early. Summer charters can often be arranged three to five months ahead at significantly softer rates.

What is included in the charter price?

The base fee covers the yacht, professional crew, insurance, and on-board equipment including the tender and water-toy suite. Fuel, provisions, beverages, dockage fees, and excursions are funded through the APA (30–35% of the charter fee). Florida state sales tax at 7% applies, and any unspent APA is refunded at the end of the voyage.

Can I combine Fort Lauderdale with the Bahamas?

Yes – Bimini lies just 55 nautical miles east, a comfortable crossing of roughly four hours. The classic itinerary continues from Bimini to the Berry Islands, Nassau, and the turquoise Exuma Cays before returning to Fort Lauderdale. Your Boatcrowd broker manages all US and Bahamian customs clearance, ensuring a seamless cross-border experience.

What size yacht do I need for 12 guests?

A superyacht in the 100′–130′ range typically provides five to six staterooms with en-suite facilities, expansive salon and dining areas, a sundeck with Jacuzzi, and a professional crew of six to eight. Fort Lauderdale’s deep fleet means there are more options in this size bracket here than in any other charter base worldwide. Your Boatcrowd broker can arrange yacht tours and crew meet-and-greets before departure.