Spread across seven locations and six miles of floating docks, it's no wonder watertaxis are the preferred mode of transport during the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. The intracoastal journey does come with its perks – providing some prime time for yacht spotting and an opportunity to ogle Florida's spectacular real estate. From Seabreeze Boulevard to the marina on 17th Street, BOAT takes a closer look at Fort Lauderdale's most exclusive (and most expensive) luxury properties...
34 Isla Bahia Drive
Estimated value: $7,750,000
Reportedly previously owned by rock legend Phil Collins, this palm-fringed property comprises vaulted ceilings and 743 square metres of open-plan living space. The owner's suite is certainly star-worthy, accessible via a sweeping staircase or elevator and fitted with spa-style bathroom. There's also a chef's kitchen, adorned with custom Cesare cabinetry, waterfall countertops and a walk-in pantry. From the water, you'll be able to spy the property's zero-entry pool (with plunge pool attached) and brand-new dock, arranged with pads and loungers to soak up the very best of the Sunshine State.
2412 Laguna Drive
Estimated value: $30,000,000.00
International style meets Bauhaus-chic at 2412 Laguna Drive. An extensive rebuild courtesy of hotelier Mikhail Avrutin catapulted the property's value from $4.9 million in 2018 to $23 million in 2021 (and counting). This six-bedroom mansion comes with a 200-bottle wine cellar, two-storey marble fireplace, summer kitchen and lap pool. While the finer details might not be noticed from the water, they're well worth mentioning – Terzani chandeliers, Dornbracht bath fixtures, custom furniture and DuChateau oak floors add an indulgent final flair.
2501 Mercedes Drive
Estimated value: $19,754,600
Located in the gated Harbor Beach community, this fully-equipped "smart home" can have all its operations controlled remotely. High-tech specs are tempered by an old-world charm and traditional layout – think iron-wrought gates, a Butler's pantry and a formal dining room. The villa's outdoor area is described as "tropical" and "resort-like" with lush landscaping, swimming pool and enough dock space to accommodate a superyacht.
1822 SE 9th Street
Estimated value: $22,500,000
This glass-fronted estate makes excellent use of its 800-square-metres. Inside are seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a home theatre, in-home office, exercise room and oversized club room with a dedicated bar. The 40-odd metres of waterfrontage is primed for outdoor parties, with 32.6-metre Burger Boat Silver Seas often photographed docked outside. 1822 SE 9th Street is still under construction, with completion on the luxury property scheduled in early 2024.
1715 SE 12th Court
Estimated value: $8,935,500
Sitting pretty in a quiet cul-de-sac, this luxury property wows passing crowds despite being one of the more affordable on the list. Across its two floors, you'll find a chef's kitchen, media room, club lounge and up to six bedrooms (including a master suite with spa bath). Outdoors, there's a heated swimming and spa pool, a shaded barbecue area and a strip of lawn arranged with cushioned sun loungers.
1818 SE 10th Street
Estimated value: $24,500,000
Colonial-style architecture, sprawling balconies and a pool pavilion cultivate a distinct "private island" feel at 1818 SE 10th Street. Also known as La Maison Blanche, it's primed for entertaining with a theatre, chef's kitchen and great room (for hosting equally great soirées). Four bedrooms in a separate, private wing in the main residence and a two-apartment guest house complete the convivial picture.
2439 Del Lago Drive
Estimated value: $19,000,000
Custom-built, this waterside home is an ode to Polynesian-Balinese architecture with its sculptural staircase, double-sided coral fireplace and exotic eucalyptus and Cumaro wood cabinetry. An expansive outdoor terrace and meticulous landscaping are visible from the water, alongside a chic walk-in pool flanked by sunloungers.
5 Harborage Isle Drive
Estimated value: $34,127,000
Reportedly owned by American investor and philanthropist Donald Sussman, the lofty, white-washed 5 Harborage Isle Drive is what's known in real estate circles as a "trophy residence". Inside you'll find a grand split staircase taken straight from The Sound of Music, a wine room, home theatre, bar, office, gym and no less than five fireplaces. Outdoor offerings are equally resplendent, including a cabana, tennis court, summer kitchen, infinity pool and private driveway.