Marine

Known as the "Yachting Capital of the World,” Greater Fort Lauderdale enjoys a thriving recreational marine industry. In fact, Broward leads the state, according to the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF). With an economic impact estimated at $10.7 billion, this is one of Broward's largest industries and employment sectors creating more than 134,000 jobs and representing $3.7 billion in wages and earnings.  Broward has more than 50,000 registered vessels cruising its 300 miles of navigable waterways and Atlantic shores. Boaters recognize Greater Fort Lauderdale as an internationally renowned port of call when cruising or sailing to Caribbean and North American destinations.

Approximately 1,500 megayachts (vessels measuring 80 feet or more) visit the county each year, and each visit generates an estimated $400,000 economic impact through boatyard and marina expenditures, purchases and related services from businesses that serve the marine industry.

International megayacht crews benefit from Broward’s excellent crew training schools, which enable them to upgrade their skills while in port. The Broward school system also enables workforce development through an educational development ladder that begins with a marine magnet program in middle school and can culminate with certification at McFatter Technical Center or a degree through Broward College. Supporting the educational development for the industry, Broward County is the home of the Admirals Boys and Girls Club Marine Academy, which offers hands-on introductions to practical careers in the marine industry, such as carpentry, culinary, boat services, and ship building. This is the first career-specialized Boys and Girls Club in the country.

Overall, Broward’s marine industry encompasses manufacturing, wholesale and retail marine products, dockage and every conceivable type of marine service. Boaters come to Broward year round for sun, fun, outfitting, refits and repairs, and provisioning. The MIASF, which has 800 companies in its ranks, owns the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the world’s largest in-water boat show, generating an economic impact larger than the annual Super Bowl.

For marine industry and Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show information, visit www.miasf.org.

To view a video about the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the largest in-water boat show in the world, please click here.