Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
954-462-7266;
www.ftlauderdaleparasail.com
; 1005 Seabreeze Blvd;
flights $70-95)
If you're curious how the mansions along Millionaires' Row look from above, sign up for a
parasailing trip. You'll soar between 600ft and 1000ft above the waves while strapped se-
curely to an enormous smiley-face parachute.
BAHAMAS DAY TRIPS
Just 55 miles east of Florida, the Bahamian island of Grand Bahama is close enough for a
day trip or overnight cruises. A couple of operators ply the 'quickie cruise' territory, al-
though the reality is most overnight trips take the form of a booze cruise rather than con-
juring ocean-borne gentility. The best overnight provider,
Bahamas Celebration
(
800-314-7735;
www.bahamascelebration.com
;
trips from $120) leaves Palm Beach in the after-
noon, spends the night at sea, then docks in Grand Bahama the following morning for a
day of island activities before returning that evening. It's furnished with several bars, a
casino, four restaurants, a spa and a kids club, and cabins range from bare-bones to luxe.
For a more relaxed and luxurious experience, consider at least a three- or four-night ex-
bean
( 0844-493-4005;
www.royalcaribbean.com
). They start around $120 per night, depart
Fort Lauderdale in the early evening and dock in Nassau the following morning before re-
turning to the US. This way you get at least a whole day in the Bahamas and do all your
sailing overnight.
Peak season is between February and August, when many cruises sell out. For the best
deals search out fall cruises, particularly for weekday sailings. International travellers
should note the drinking age in US waters is 21 and in international waters 18. Yes, you
need a passport.
Tours
Fort Lauderdale's miles of canals make it one of the top spots in Florida for boat tours.
Atlantic Coast Kayak Company
KAYAKING
Dock, 1937 Wilton Dr; single/double per hr $16/24, single/double per half-day $40/60;
9am-5pm)
