Yacht crew houses in Fort Lauderdale

One of the most important choices when you are embarking on your first or next superyacht job, is where are you going to stay while you look for work? Just like crew accommodation in Antibes, crew houses in Fort Lauderdale are a popular choice for yacht crew. What are the options in one of the world’s most popular hotspots for crew?

There are job opportunities in Fort Lauderdale from September right through to June, with the best chance of finding a crew job around the time of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (October/November/December) and the following spring (March/April/May). With opportunities in Fort Lauderdale more spread out, it can vary how busy the crew houses are, but it is advisable to try and book accommodation as far in advance as possible.

Recommended crew accommodation

There are many dedicated crew houses for yachties heading to Fort Lauderdale, many hostels that advertise themselves as both crew houses and generic hostels, as well as many apartments for rent, aimed at yacht crew. Specifically, devoted crew houses are generally advised, as you are guaranteed to be able to mix with fellow yachties and enjoy the perks of a dedicated crew house.

Though people’s experiences can vary, it can often depend on what group of people you are sharing your time in a crew house with; see below for some general information on well-known crew houses in Fort Lauderdale.

Mary’s Crew House

Run by experienced professional Mary, Mary’s Crew House actually consists of three crew houses with shared and private rooms. Generally having a good reputation, accommodation is provided for both new, fresh-faced yachties, as well as older, more experienced crew, often grouping them together to suit individual requirements. Mary also has a network of contacts for day work/crew etc... as she is seen as a trusted resource with her residents. Located ideally near to crew agencies and marinas, Mary’s features free Wi-Fi, a communal kitchen and lounges in all apartments, washing machines and dryers, personal lockers, and air conditioning. Also on offer is a free airport pick-up service, big-screen TVs, exercise equipment, a heated pool, and a BBQ area.

The Neptune Group

Also run by experienced former yachties and captains, The Neptune Group offers a safer bet when it comes to crew housing. Featuring many groups of actual “crew houses”, each apartment comes with free Wi-Fi/Broadband, cable TV, private back yard area, all basic supplies and safes for your belongings/valuables. The Neptune Group also screens prospective tenants, asking many questions to check you are serious and dedicated, with the right attitude. They will also do interviews to match you up with similar residents who have the same interests/goals. This is an advantage though, as the staff are previous crew and highly experienced with many contacts in the industry and can help you in acquiring a job; many crew have been hired as a result of staying in Neptune’s houses.

Crew Castle

Thought of as more of a premium crew house and sometimes referred to as the Hilton of crew houses, Crew Castle provides high-quality accommodation, which is clean, quiet, safe, and close to marinas and crew agents etc. Again, very selective, the owner (Chef Sam) is thought to only take in serious professionals and is not seen as a “party house”, though it can often depend on the group who is staying. The house includes a large kitchen area, TVs in each bedroom, wireless internet, airport pick up, patio/BBQ, and more. It also has the latest job information and tips/advice is readily available.

Crew Quarters

Crew Quarters specialises in accommodation for prospective crew or those training at one of the local maritime schools. Run by a previous captain of many years and another previous captain/stewardess, they provide personalised support to occupants searching for jobs. A clean well-maintained home, it is located close to maritime training schools, marinas, shipyards, crew agencies and popular crew locations. Rooms available include either a private room or a room shared between two persons. Facilities include kitchen, TV, Wi-Fi, free laundry machines and, outdoor BBQ area.

Sabra’s Crew Accommodation

Conveniently located in the centre of Fort Lauderdale’s yachting community, Sabra’s Crew Accommodation offers affordable, clean, and quiet accommodation. Each suite has two bedrooms, one bathroom, a full kitchen, and a comfortable living room. Facilities include Wi-Fi, TV, laundry machines, and a BBQ/patio area. Also, discounts are on offer for students enrolled in local crew training centres.

Other options

Though crew houses have their advantages, there is also plenty of accommodation for superyacht crew, which are not necessarily “crew houses” as above.

Palm Place Residences

Offering a more unique experience, Palm Place Residence is “designed for yacht crew who would like a touch more out of crew housing”. Designed for more of a luxury/holiday feel, the tastefully decorated Palm Place offers a slightly higher standard of housing; facilities include new appliances, cable TV, complimentary local phone service, wireless internet access, and free laundry facilities. It has two houses, a main house and a cottage, which both have private gardens, decks and lounging patios. Also close to shipyards, training facilities, and marinas.

Smart Move Crew Housing

Targeting any crew, from captains to deckhands, Smart Move Crew Housing has a wide range of rental properties for all requirements, such as large “crew house” style homes, to smaller, more private accommodation. All properties are ideally located close to beaches, marinas, crew training schools, and local amenities. Facilities will always include Wi-Fi, laundry machines, cable/satellite TV, and usually swimming pools and BBQ areas. This might be a good bet if you aren’t relying on the expertise of the owner of a crew house to help you in your job search. There may also be cheaper options than the above crew houses.

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Read our ultimate yacht crew housing and accommodation guide for advice and tips on securing somewhere to stay, or read tips to help you get ahead in your yacht job hunt.