As the Yachting Capital of the World, Fort Lauderdale draws in millions of dollars of revenue each year from the yachting industry. The marine industry in Fort Lauderdale creates jobs, brings a world-renowned annual boat show each fall, increases tourism dollars and not to mention boosts demand for waterfront real estate – keeping up property value in the region.
That’s why it’s no surprise that Fort Lauderdale city officials are looking into the dredging of the New River, the main line of access to yachting facilities in the city. The improvements are designed to make Fort Lauderdale competitive with international ports in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Dubai.
The city has commissioned the Florida Inland Navigation District, a state agency that keeps the Intracoastal Waterway navigable, to determine if it would be possible to deepen a 6-mile stretch of river. The waterway averages 10 feet deep would be dredged to 14 feet, making it possible for newer boats with jet drives and larger yachts and sailboats up to 200 feet long to come through.
The project is still being studied to examine how it would affect the surrounding environment. It is estimated to cost around $16 million, but the process would take two years before any dredging occurs.
Obviously, improving Fort Lauderdale’s canals would have huge economical benefits for the city, bringing in more business and creating more jobs. Atlantic Yacht and Ship is a yacht brokerage in Fort Lauderdale that has provided continuous service in the international yachting industry for over 50 years. As a supplier of power and custom quality motor yachts, Atlantic is committed to offering great product knowledge and close attention to detail. If you’re seeking new or used boats for sale, support the South Florida yacht industry and look to one of the oldest and most respected yacht brokers in Fort Lauderdale.