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FL Inlet Caution: Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) Inlet
- Date Reported: Jun 2, 2022
- Reporter: Jani Parker
- Source: Waterway Guide Staff
- Description:
Overview: This big ship inlet, located 9 nm south of Hillsboro Inlet, is also known as Fort Lauderdale Inlet. This modern, deep water harbor hosts an endless stream of cruise ships, recreational craft, tankers, freighters and warships. The port is primarily used as a commercial harbor and may be crowded with both commercial and recreational traffic. This is a popular take-off point for cruisers heading to and from the Bahamas, fishermen heading out to the nearby Gulf Stream and skippers cruising north and south along the coast to escape the bridges and speed restrictions.
NOTE: Vessels with mast heights over 56 feet that are headed south of Miami's Julia Tuttle Causeway Bridge at Mile 1087.2 have no choice but to go outside at Port Everglades. These vessels can then rejoin the ICW via Miami's Government Cut at Dodge Island.
Approach: Port Everglades Lighted Buoy "PE" is located at N 26° 05.500'/ W 80° 04.790'. From the sea buoy, head due west into the cut.
Navigation: This inlet is well marked with flashing buoys along the entrance channel. Currents average 0.7 knots with a tidal range of 3.1 feet in the Turning Basin. Note that the channel markers are spaced at approximately 0.5 nm apart and the jetty ends are not marked. Be sure to maintain a compass course line and maintain alignment on exit or entry.
Webcam: For a live view of the inlet visit Port Everglades Webcam.
Cautions & Hazards: Frequent large ship traffic in and out of this inlet necessitate a careful watch, particularly at night and in poor weather. When military vessels are in port a security cordon is set up for which entry by private craft is prohibited. Occasionally all traffic is temporarily halted while ships are docking or leaving. Patrol craft may be contacted on VHF Channel 16 for the status of these security zones.
ICW Connection: Connects directly to the ICW at Mile 1066.
- Lat / Lon: N 26° 05.625' / W 080° 06.367'
