Fort Lauderdale’s waterways are more than just scenic backdrops—they dare you to explore their lively currents and the stories they carry. With Carrie B Cruises, the city’s outdoor adventures take on a fresh angle, mixing maritime charm with hands-on experiences for every outdoor enthusiast.

The Carrie B, a meticulously restored 1920s oyster sloop, invites you aboard for journeys across the shifting tides of the New River and adjacent coastal waters. These trips blend the thrill of the open water with practical exposure to the local ecosystem. Expect routes covering roughly 3 to 5 miles over a 2-3 hour excursion—long enough to enjoy the breeze and learn, but manageable for a broad range of adventurers.

The vessel moves at a leisurely pace, giving its sails and rigging a chance to respond to the wind’s mood. Deck space is ample, with views unhindered by cityscape interruptions—just the sky, water, and coastal wildlife daring you to keep watch. The riverbanks are alive with mangroves gripping the shoreline, their roots probing the water like sentinels. Pelicans dive and circle with practiced grace, and the occasional manatee surfaces, eyeing the human visitors cautiously.

Practical planning is key here: wear sturdy boat shoes or sandals with grip, as the deck can be slick when splashed by waves. Bring a reusable water bottle and sun protection—fortified by a hat and sunglasses—since shade is scarce on the open deck. Mid-mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting and wind conditions, avoiding midday heat and the potential calmness that can slow the sails.

Each cruise incorporates an informal lesson on local ecology and maritime history. Guides highlight the influence of tides on mangroves and the significance of the oyster boats that once plied these waters. The Carrie B itself embodies resilience, a reminder of a working waterfront that remains fiercely itself amid modern urban growth.

While not a hike or a climb, the outing engages with nature’s rhythms similarly: your hands learn knots and lines, your eyes chase seabirds and changing skies, and your spirit moves with the boat’s gentle heeling under the wind’s command. It’s accessible, active, and informative—perfect for those seeking an intimate encounter with Fort Lauderdale’s natural character.

For families, solo travelers, or groups, this cruise offers a blend of excitement and education, meshing adventure with a solid understanding of place. Thoughtful timing, preparation, and curiosity turn this waterborne journey into an engaging outdoor adventure with a distinctly Floridian edge.