Fort Lauderdale: Breaking Into the American Yachting Scene

Fort Lauderdale is the gateway to American yachting. Here's how to make it in the US market.

The Venice of America

Fort Lauderdale has more canal-front homes and superyachts than anywhere in the US. It's the hub for Caribbean winter season and American-based yachts.

Key Areas

• Marina Mile (17th Street) — Training centres and crew services
• Bahia Mar — Yachts and the Boat Show
• Lauderdale Marine Center — Refit yards

Finding Work

Walk the docks, register with US agencies (LYG, Crew Unlimited), and attend crew networking events. Peak hiring is October-November before Caribbean season.

Visa Considerations

Non-US crew work on foreign-flagged yachts with B1/B2 visas. Working on US-flagged vessels requires a green card or appropriate work visa.

Training

Maritime Professional Training (MPT) and Bluewater Crew Training offer comprehensive programs including USCG and MCA certifications.