Florida, with its endless coastline and waters, is a favorite for travelers who love boating and being on the water. Here you’ll find daily sunshine, amazing seafood, and endless opportunities for fun on the water. One of the best activities to add to a Florida vacation itinerary is a luxury yacht charter — nothing beats watching the sunset over the coastline from onboard, especially when you have a glass of champagne in hand.
And these days, it’s easier than ever to make it happen thanks to services like Getmyboat, which lets you browse luxury yacht listings all over the world, with professional charter captains who can help to plan the ultimate luxury adventure on the waves.
Not sure where to go for your first yacht experience in Florida? Here are the top 5 destinations for yachting in the Sunshine State.
Fort Lauderdale
The Yachting Capital: for Luxury Enthusiasts and Maritime Festivals
Renowned as the Yachting Capital of the World, Fort Lauderdale boasts an intricate network of canals, earning it the nickname “Venice of America.” The city’s marinas, such as Bahia Mar Yachting Center and Pier Sixty-Six Marina, cater to vessels of all sizes. Find everything from stylish and sporty motor yachts to massive superyachts complete with staterooms for overnight cruises.
The annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, one of the largest in the world, showcases the latest in luxury yachting. Once onboard your vessel, you can cruise the scenic New River or embark on an ocean adventure from Port Everglades. Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant waterfront, lined with upscale restaurants and entertainment venues promises an unforgettable yachting experience.
Miami
Vibrant Nightlife and Diverse Yachting Adventures
Known for its nightlife, diversity, and iconic skyline, Miami is a top luxury yachting destination in the state of Florida. Biscayne Bay and nearby islands and sandbars provide a picturesque backdrop for yacht enthusiasts. The best part is the huge variety of yachts available in Miami — you can find everything from affordable motor yachts to over-the-top megayachts to meet the needs and budget of your luxury adventure.
While cruising around Miami, explore Pace Picnic Island, cruise past Millionaire’s Row, or enjoy a dock-and-dine experience at a waterfront restaurant like The Rusty Pelican.
Palm Beach
A Sophisticated Destination for Yachting & Shopping
Palm Beach, synonymous with luxury and sophistication, is a haven for those seeking a refined yachting experience. The Intracoastal Waterway, lined with stunning estates, provides a relaxed yet opulent setting for a yacht cruise. The Palm Harbor Marina is a prime choice for docking, offering top-notch amenities and proximity to Worth Avenue, a renowned shopping district.
Explore the crystal-clear waters around Peanut Island or anchor off the coast to enjoy water sports in the warm Atlantic Ocean when yachting in Palm Beach. Watch the sunset off the shore of Phipps Ocean Park or enjoy a visit to the Bingham Island Nature Preserve.
Ponte Vedra Beach
A Tranquil Retreat for Nature Lovers
For those seeking a more serene yachting experience, Ponte Vedra Beach offers a tranquil escape along Florida’s northeast coast. Nestled between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, this hidden, affluent gem is a haven for nature lovers and yachting connoisseurs. The Ponte Vedra Inn & Club Marina caters to discerning yachters, providing a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by unspoiled beauty.
Cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, explore the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve or anchor off the pristine beaches. Ponte Vedra Beach combines luxury yachting with a laid-back coastal charm, making it a distinctive destination in Florida.
Key West
A Tropical Paradise Perfect for Sunset Cruises
As the southernmost point of the continental United States, Key West offers a unique blend of history, culture, and yachting bliss. With stunning sunsets and island seascapes, it’s a tropical yachting experience like no other. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Duval Street, savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and dive into the colorful coral reefs surrounding the area.
Sunset cruises from Mallory Square and water activities in the crystal-clear Gulf of Mexico add to the allure of yachting in this tropical paradise.
Florida’s luxury yachting scene is welcoming to travelers and fun-seekers of all kinds. From luxury sailing charters where you can explore with the breeze to impressive mega power yachts that can take you on a long-distance adventure, you can find the perfect yacht for your Florida vacation to experience the opulence of the boating culture here. Set sail and immerse yourself in the opulence that awaits along Florida’s enchanting coastline. Find thousands of yacht charter options on Getmyboat in all of Florida’s top yachting locations.
This story originally appeared on Upscalelivingmag
