Day 134 - February 12, 2013: Around Fort Lauderdale

From the moment we arose, there was a steady stream of yachts coming down New River presumable headed for the Miami Boat Show. They came in groups, as they would get backed up having to wait for the 3rd Avenue Bridge behind us to open. We are literally in the center of downtown Fort Lauderdale on a city dock seawall next to the riverwalk.

The New River City Dock

All of the yachts passing by were immaculately clean and polished, with crews in uniformed dress representing the sales office or manufacturer of each boat. Some boats had large flags proudly presenting the yacht maker and length. Just when we thought the largest one had come by, another even larger would follow.

One after another

When the yachts get up around 100 or more feet, they are towed through this winding river with its narrow banks and bridges. It is a very interesting process with one towboat in the lead and a second tied backwards to the stern. The second boat's job is to pull the stern port or starboard to keep it in the river channel.

The lead towboat

The training towboat, running backwards

In the afternoon, we went to see the Historic Stranahan House Museum. This house was built in 1901 by the founder of Fort Lauderdale and is the oldest remaining home in Broward County. Over the years, it served as a home, a trading post, a post office, and a town hall.

The Historic Stranahan House Museum