Vortex's Guide to Boarding (and Skiing) the Intracoastal Waterway

Will you be one of thousands attending this year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show? Be sure to bring your board along, too.

Even as we cruise into the middle of fall, the Fort Lauderdale on-the-water scene is the warm (and sunny) gift that keeps on giving. Among its most beloved marine “neighborhoods” is, naturally, the Intracoastal Waterway, a passage that provides culture, stunning waterfront vistas, and—naturally—some seriously good boarding and skiing.

Looking for ways to make your experience here even smoother? Read on as we share our top tips for water sports in and around the Intracoastal.

Start early (or end late)

Fort Lauderdale’s leg of the Intracoastal Waterway is one of the most beloved in the country—for big yachts, sporty speed boats, and everything in between. Of course, naturally, its reputation means that the waterway will often be busy with these boaters meandering along the coast. But that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the water to the fullest!

As is the case with many water sport vacations, one of our best tips is to start your intracoastal adventure early in the day—before most people come out to cruise along, sunbathe and enjoy music, food and friends on the water. You can also try hitting the water later in the day to find a less crowded surface.

By getting out on the water early, you will be able to enjoy slightly cooler weather (a true treat in a high-temp hotspot like Fort Lauderdale), as well as smoother water and a unique perspective of one of the country’s most famous waterways at a rare moment of tranquility. That isn’t to say that you need to head back to the hotel for the majority of the afternoon—stick around on the water! Even though increased traffic may prevent you from enjoying those long, uninterrupted wakeboard runs for a short while, you can still immerse yourself in the lux surroundings of your Vortex (and the elegant environment of Fort Lauderdale). Grab lunch by the water. Play music over your transom speakers. Soak up the sun and leisure-friendly atmosphere that abounds!

Chart your course

With several inlets and river offshoots to explore near the Intracoastal Waterway, you’ll want to take a look at a map to chart your course and get a sense of direction—because as you cruise around, soaking up the sun and spirit of the water, it’s easy to lose track of time!

Courtesy is key

Courtesy is always key, especially in a place as lively as the Intracoastal Waterway, where boat activity of all forms abounds around you. You may need to slow down and make tight turns here and there, but take your time and rest easy knowing that everyone’s in the same boat—literally!—as you are. We’re all here to have fun and enjoy safe, smooth cruising and water sports, so give yourself (and others) ample space to make the most of your adventure.

Ready to go? We hope to see you at Fort Lauderdale, both at the show and on the water!