Ft. Lauderdale, often referred to as “Venice of America” has a large marine community.
Captains, First Officers and Chief Stewardesses come from all over the world to live and work in sunny Laudy. The maritime community is large, yet close-knit and very sociable. After a long day working on a yacht or taking maritime classes at Maritime Professional Training, Blue Water Training or Professional Yacht Training, crew need to relax and enjoy the various tastes of Florida. Eating out is a great way to network and interact with like-minded yachties. Grab a beer and great dinner, while chatting to fellow crew about possible job opportunities.
Maritime crew won’t go just anywhere to eat. They are looking for value for money, great food and a fun lively environment.
Below are the top 4 Yachtie Restaurants in SE Ft. Lauderdale.
1. Southport Raw Bar
Enjoy dining on the outdoor patio and overlooking the beautiful intracoastal waterway while eating your favorite seafood dish. Oysters, clams, shrimp, and scallops prepared in several delicious ways will entice any seafarer. If fish isn’t your cup of tea, try a cheeseburger or English chowder soup. Prices are very reasonable. If you intend to order oysters, prepare to pay a little more for great quality. The service staff are friendly and create an a relaxed and inviting outdoor space that encourages yacht crew to walk around and meet fellow diners. Mariners who work at Lauderdale Marine Center often enjoy dinner at Southport after a long day at the yard.
Our favorite dish is the linguine with Clam sauce.
2. Kelly’s Landing, New England Seafood
This is a real favorite whenever a crew member is in Fort Lauderdale.
Its centrally located on SE 17th Street 33316, so those with limited transport don’t need to worry about taking a Uber- they can bike or walk over. This restaurant specializes in fresh local seafoods that they prepare daily. There is indoor, outdoor and curbside takeout, and they are open until 9pm. Maritime professionals are frequent diners as value for money is a guarantee. Frequently, you will see Captains get together to catch up on the latest yachting events.
Our favorite dish is Maine lobster served with butter and if you are feeling adventurous, get your lobster stuffed with crab!
3. 15th Street Fisheries
This restaurant is very well known and a must-visit for any marine crew member! The restaurant sits on the dock with an incredible view. No matter where you are seated, your table will have a spectacular view. Watch the boats pass as well as the water taxi make its hourly stop while enjoying live music and great food. Yachties can enjoy the Aqua Bar, with delicious cocktails and a wonderful vino selection. Its open every day until 9:30pm. Often maritime students attending one of the yachting schools will meet up here and enjoy a quick lunch between classes.
Our favorite dish is the crab cakes
4. Billy’s crab shack
Billy’s Stone Crab Restaurant is located on the intracoastal waterway in Hollywood. It is a little further out but if fellow mariners can carpool or Uber it is a great opportunity to get out of the City and enjoy all that Hollywood has to offer. It’s an incredible seafood spot that yachties frequent when they want the best stone crabs in town. They offer a wide variety of meals so if you are not a fish lover, there is still something wonderful to eat – chicken, pastas and soups round out this lovely menu. Since it is on the pricier side, you will most likely find more seasoned Capts. and crew
Our favorite dish: Of favorite dish: Stone Crabs
When visiting Florida, make sure to book your stay with Smart Move Accommodations. Offering great short-term fully furnished vacation rentals for vacationers and yachties alike. Make sure to go by one if not all our favorite restaurants listed.
