Fort Lauderdale Riverfront Cruise: Millionaire's Row, New River & Port Everglades

Read the full experience

Set off from Fort Lauderdale’s riverfront on Big Red Bus Tours’ signature sightseeing cruise, a lively 90-minute run (standard schedule lists about 75 minutes) that threads the New River, the Intracoastal Waterway and the mouth of Port Everglades. Boarding takes place at 2900 Sebastian Street, where a fleet of comfortable sightseeing vessels awaits under the guidance of a Coast Guard–licensed captain who pairs local narration with local lore. Free, unlimited drinks and seasonal DeConna ice cream make this tour feel less like a formal harbor lecture and more like a sunny afternoon with friends. The route highlights Millionaire’s Row, where waterfront estates and private marinas edge the Intracoastal; sweeping views of Port Everglades’ industrial arc; and glimpses into the New River’s urban estuary. This stretch of Florida’s Gold Coast shows the collision of maritime industry, barrier-island shores, and South Florida city life. Look for architectural flourishes on older riverfront buildings and the rhythm of bridge openings; the captain times passages to point out these transient moments. What makes this operator special is the blend of storytelling and crowd-friendly comforts. Tours are hosted by a Coast Guard–licensed captain plus a boat tour host delivering facts and legends, and the company runs multiple departures daily so travelers can pick a tide and light that suits them. The fleet rotates by schedule and passenger counts, but every vessel carries the same narration and amenities, including complimentary drinks year-round and summer-only DeConna ice cream. Practical details matter: departures are typically at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM and pick-up is at 2900 Sebastian Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. Public parking sits within a short walk; Las Olas Parking Garage is a recommended option. The operator notes heavier traffic during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, and policies allow rescheduling with 24 hours’ notice but no refunds. Why book this? It’s an accessible, sociable way to read the coastline quickly—good for families, visitors short on time, and anyone seeking an orientation to Fort Lauderdale’s waterways before deeper exploration. Keep an eye out for dolphins and resident shorebirds, sip something cold, and use the captain’s narration to orient your next stop on land. Big Red Bus Tours turns South Florida’s river corridor into a moving primer: part history lesson, part people-watching platform, and part coastal joyride. Onboard narration covers local history, bridge operations, and the development of the Gold Coast from early settlements to today’s marinas; it’s a compact primer that helps you plan stops ashore on Las Olas Boulevard or the beachfront. Expect a relaxed crowd, photo-friendly vistas, and staff who will answer questions before and after the tour. Bring a camera, light layers, and your ID for boarding comfort.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

75–90 minutes.

Fitness level

Minimal fitness required; accessible for most ages but expect stairs onto the vessels and standing room on deck.

Frequently asked questions

Will the boat wait if I’m running late?

The boat will wait up to 5 minutes after scheduled departure; after that the vessel must leave to keep the tour on schedule.

Are drinks really unlimited?

Yes — the tour includes complimentary, rotating-selection drinks; brands vary by availability and may not always be top-shelf labels.

What is the rebooking policy?

No refunds are offered; you can reschedule with at least 24 hours’ notice. Requests under 24 hours may incur a small rebooking fee.

How will I receive last-minute updates?

The operator sends last-minute updates by email through its reservation system; text messages are not used consistently.

Is there accessible boarding or wheelchair access?

The operator did not provide accessibility details in the listing; contact the company directly for accommodations.

Do I need an ID or any documents to board?

Yes — a valid ID is required for entry, and having it ready will speed check-in.

Local insights

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins
Brown pelicans

History

Fort Lauderdale has long been called the “Venice of America” for its extensive canal network and waterfront development.

Conservation

Avoid feeding wildlife, stow trash onboard, and choose reusable bottles to reduce single-use waste in these fragile coastal waterways.

About Riverfront Cruise and Anticipation Yacht Charter LLC

Riverfront Cruise and Anticipation Yacht Charter LLC operates out of Miami, Florida, offering a range of guided sightseeing cruises and specialty yacht charters across Biscayne Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway, and Fort Lauderdale’s New River. The company provides multiple public and private experiences, including the Venice of America Tour, Miami Biscayne Bay Cruise, Fort Lauderdale Couples Champagne Cruise, Public Dinner Cruise, Holiday of Lights Cruise, New Year's Eve Fireworks Cruise, and a Dinner and a Cruise package. Licensed captains deliver narrated tours highlighting Millionaire’s Row, Hibiscus Island, Star Island, and waterfront landmarks while maintaining passenger safety and comfort. Boats come equipped for sightseeing, dining, and celebratory events, and many sailings include complimentary drinks or a cash bar depending on the trip. Cruises range from 75 minutes to three hours, accommodating couples, families, and groups seeking scenic views or special-occasion experiences. The company coordinates departures in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, with routes through iconic waterways such as the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River. Reservations are recommended for holiday sailings and New Year’s Eve to secure limited space. By focusing on licensed crew, curated itineraries, and locally guided commentary, Riverfront Cruise and Anticipation Yacht Charter LLC emphasizes reliable service and authentic coastal experiences. The business is positioned as a trusted local operator for sightseeing, romantic outings, seasonal light tours, and dinner cruises in Miami and Fort Lauderdale waters. Ticketing is available online and walk-up availability varies by sailing; guests are encouraged to check schedules and book in advance for preferred dates and times.

Base locationFort Lauderdale, Florida

Tours offered7+

Adventure tips

Arrive earlyPlan to be at 2900 Sebastian Street 20–30 minutes before departure to find nearby parking and board with time to spare.

Bring IDA valid ID is required for boarding—keep it handy to speed check-in.

Sun protectionBring sunscreen and sunglasses—the top decks get bright, even on cooler days.

Motion-sickness prepIf you’re prone to seasickness, take preventative meds before boarding; rides are short but bridge openings and wakes can rock the boat.

Recommended gear

Sunscreen: Protects skin during exposed deck time on sunny cruises.
Sunglasses: Reduces glare off the water and helps with photography.
Light jacket: Blocks cool breezes during morning or evening departures.
Motion-sickness remedy: Over-the-counter patches or pills help passengers sensitive to boat movement.