Fort Lauderdale, a city on the southeastern coast of Florida, is known for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and exciting nightlife. However, the true gem of the city is its diverse marine life, and in particular, the magnificent whales that call the surrounding waters home. There’s no better way to experience these gentle giants up close than to go whale watching. In this blog post, we will share with you the best whale watching tours in Fort Lauderdale, so you can witness these majestic creatures and create unforgettable memories. Get ready to be awed by the beauty of nature and join us for an adventure of a lifetime.

The 2 Best Whale Watching in Fort Lauderdale

1. Public Guided Snorkel Tour of Fort Lauderdales Reefs
2. Everglades Day Safari from Fort Lauderdale

The 2 Best Whale Watching in Fort Lauderdale

1. Public Guided Snorkel Tour of Fort Lauderdales Reefs

Explore the stunning underwater world of Fort Lauderdale with a public guided snorkel tour. With the help of a knowledgeable guide, discover the best snorkeling spots in the area. Snorkeling gear is provided, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own. You may encounter a variety of marine life such as angelfish tangs, butterflyfish, and over 500 species of fish. The meeting point is conveniently located at 1 Datura Ave in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to get ready. Don’t forget to tip your tour guide $5-10 per person in your group as your tips are a major part of their compensation. Enjoy a hassle-free snorkeling adventure with this guided tour.

2. Everglades Day Safari from Fort Lauderdale

Explore the subtropical wilderness of the Everglades on a day safari that takes you through the four main ecosystems of the Everglades. Witness the beauty of dolphins, alligators, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and a variety of birds as you travel by foot, airboat, van, and pontoon. Take a nature walk through an ancient forest of towering cypress and zip across the River-of-Grass on the iconic airboat. The tour includes narrated transportation from Fort Lauderdale, lunch, drinks, snacks, and gratuity. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 6 years. Tours depart from the Galleria Mall at 7:15am or Flamingo Gardens Botanical Gardens at 7:45am.

Whale Watching in Fort Lauderdale: Your Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is known for its stunning beaches and beautiful sunny weather. However, it’s also a great place to go whale watching. If you’re planning a trip to Fort Lauderdale and are interested in a whale watching tour, you probably have a lot of questions. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about whale watching in Fort Lauderdale.

1. When is the best time to go whale watching in Fort Lauderdale?

The best time to go whale watching in Fort Lauderdale is between December and April. This is the time when humpback whales, minke whales, and fin whales migrate from their feeding grounds in the cold northern waters to the warmer waters off the coast of Florida to mate and give birth. While it’s possible to see whales outside of this time frame, your chances of seeing them are much higher during this period.

2. What kinds of whales can I expect to see on a whale watching tour in Fort Lauderdale?

As mentioned earlier, humpback whales, minke whales, and fin whales are the most common types of whales you’ll see on a whale watching tour in Fort Lauderdale. However, there have been sightings of other species such as sperm whales, pilot whales, and even killer whales in the area as well.

3. What other marine animals can I expect to see on a whale watching tour?

Aside from whales, there are many other marine animals you may see on a whale watching tour in Fort Lauderdale. These include dolphins, sea turtles, and various species of birds. Some tour companies even offer snorkeling with sea turtles as an add-on activity to the whale watching tour.

4. How long do the whale watching tours last?

Whale watching tours in Fort Lauderdale typically last between 2 and 4 hours. The length of the tour can depend on a number of factors, such as the time of day, the weather conditions, and how far out to sea the tour operators need to go to find the whales.

5. What should I bring with me on a whale watching tour?

You’ll want to come prepared for your whale watching tour. Here are a few things you should consider bringing with you:

• Sunscreen
• A hat and/or sunglasses
• A camera or video recorder to document your trip
• A light jacket or sweater, as it can get cooler out at sea
• Bottled water and some snacks if you get hungry or thirsty during the tour

6. How close will we get to the whales?

The distance you’ll be from the whales can vary on each tour, and may depend on the behavior of the whales themselves. Federal regulations prohibit boats from approaching whales closer than 100 yards, so you’ll likely be at least that distance away. However, whales are curious creatures and may come closer to the boat on their own.

7. Will I get seasick on a whale watching tour?

It’s possible that you may experience seasickness on a whale watching tour if you’re sensitive to motion sickness. However, most whale watching boats are designed to be stable and have motion-dampening technology to reduce the impact of waves. If you’re prone to seasickness, you may want to take some medication before the tour or consider booking a morning tour when the waters are typically calmer.

8. How many people are on a typical whale watching tour?

The number of people on a whale watching tour can vary depending on the tour company and the size of the boat. Some companies offer smaller, more intimate tours with a maximum of 6 or 8 people, while others can accommodate up to 20 or more passengers at once. It’s best to research different tour companies to find the one that best suits your preferences.

9. How much does a whale watching tour in Fort Lauderdale cost?

The cost of a whale watching tour can vary depending on the tour company, the length of the tour, and the size of the boat. Prices typically range from $50 to over $100 per person. Keep in mind that some companies may offer additional add-on activities, such as snorkeling or a visit to a nearby island, which can increase the price.

10. Is it ethical to go whale watching?

Whale watching can be done in an ethical manner that doesn’t harm or disturb the whales. In fact, many whale watching companies follow strict guidelines to ensure minimal impact on the whales and their natural behavior. These guidelines may include limits on the number of boats in the area and restrictions on how close boats can get to the whales. It’s important to choose a reputable tour company that prioritizes ethical whale watching practices and follows federal regulations.In conclusion, Fort Lauderdale is a great place to go whale watching, especially during the migration season from December to April. While there’s no guarantee that you’ll see whales, the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With a bit of preparation and research, you can make the most of your whale watching tour and have a memorable trip.

How to do Whale Watching in Fort Lauderdale

Whale watching in Fort Lauderdale is a one-of-a-kind wildlife experience you don’t want to miss. Every year, thousands of tourists visit Fort Lauderdale to catch a glimpse of majestic creatures such as humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your whale watching expedition in Fort Lauderdale.

1. Know When to Go

Timing is everything when it comes to whale watching in Fort Lauderdale. The prime season for this activity is from December to May, when humpback and other whale species migrate from colder northern waters to warmer climates in the South. During this time, there’s a higher chance of sighting these magnificent creatures.

2. Choose the Right Boat Tour

Fort Lauderdale has plenty of tour operators that offer whale watching tours. It’s important to choose a reputable company that has experienced captains and certified naturalists on board. This way, you can ensure a safe and informative experience. We recommend looking for tours that are eco-friendly and have a good track record of sightings.

3. Dress Appropriately

Whale watching can be quite chilly, especially during the early morning or late afternoon. Make sure to wear layers of warm clothing and bring a waterproof jacket or windbreaker. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

4. Bring the Right Equipment

To ensure a successful whale watching trip, bring a pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. This way, you can get a closer look at the whales and capture the moment for posterity.

5. Follow Whale Watching Etiquette

When on a whale watching tour, it’s important to follow these etiquette rules:

• Stay at least 100 yards away from whales.
• Don’t approach whales from a head-on or parallel direction, and don’t obstruct their path.
• Don’t make any loud noises or sudden movements that could scare the whales away.
• Don’t feed or touch the whales.

6. Know What to Look For

Whales can be elusive, and it takes a trained eye to spot them. Look for signs such as a spout of water or air from their blowholes, a dorsal fin, or a tail fluke. Keep your binoculars handy, and don’t be afraid to ask your naturalist guide for help.

7. Enjoy the Ride

Whale watching in Fort Lauderdale is an awe-inspiring experience that should be enjoyed to the fullest. Don’t forget to take in the scenery, and appreciate the wildlife around you. You may even spot other animals such as dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds.

Book Your Tour Now

Whale watching in Fort Lauderdale is a memorable activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With these tips, you can make the most of your trip and enjoy the beauty of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Remember to choose the right tour operator, follow whale watching etiquette, and enjoy the ride!