Exploring South Florida on a Classic Boston Whaler

Recently, I ran a Classic Boston Whaler south from Fort Lauderdale to Haulover Inlet. It was a trip I was excited to take and it didn’t disappoint.

THE AREA

While I’ve been to Fort Lauderdale numerous times, I’ve never actually boated in the area south of Miami. This was my opportunity. Downtown Fort Lauderdale is beautiful and is a slow but super-scenic ride past towering buildings, huge yachts, and beautiful houses. South of downtown, the Intracoastal Waterway becomes a mix of natural foliage and heavy industry. Eventually, the scenery turns into a concrete jungle of waterfront homes and huge condos. The end of my journey during this trip was Haulover Inlet.

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THE BOAT

The Classic Boston Whaler I used for the trip was lent to me by my brother-in-law. It’s a 1986 Boston Whaler Outrage 18. It’s the nicest 18 I’ve ever seen and is in showroom condition. It’s powered by a 150 Honda four-stroke outboard and has a bow cushion, reversible pilot seat, and a stern seat. There’s something about a Classic Boston Whaler that still appeals to me after all these years.

SO SLOW

What started as eager excitement to explore the new area quickly became slightly annoying as almost the entire 15-mile stretch is a “slow speed” zone. It took me approximately 2.5 hours to complete the journey (I did stop at Whiskey Creek though). On the way back I ran the Atlantic Ocean and it only took 40 minutes! Weather permitting, that’s the way to go.

BEAUTIFUL WHISKEY CREEK

The biggest surprise of the trip was beautiful Whiskey Creek. This location was a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle and industry that existed just beyond the mangroves. Whiskey Creek is the perfect spot to unwind and “get away” while not physically getting away at all. Not only is it quiet and unspoiled (except for being on the flight path for the international airport), but it also has easy access to your tropical beach.

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HAULOVER INLET

The final destination on the Classic Boston Whaler was the world-famous Haulover Inlet. Haulover has become widely known because of its treacherous conditions and the numerous YouTube channels that film it. I wanted to transit this iconic body of water and did. Unfortunately, the day I chose didn’t have rough conditions. However, it was still fun and also educational for my followers and boating-course students.

Exploring new destinations is always such a fun time for me. Combine that with a Classic Boston Whaler and it never gets old.

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