Suntex opens Las Olas Marina ahead of FLIBS
Suntex Marina Investors LLC, which operates the largest number of recreational marinas in the U.S., has announced the opening of Las Olas Marina in Fort Lauderdale, Flordia.
Dock space reservations are now available for bookings after the conclusion of the 2024 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, which runs between 30 October and 3 November in the Sunshine State.
The marina, located along Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas Corridor, is part of a broader $130m investment by the City of Fort Lauderdale’s infrastructure, including public parking, promenades, parks and walkways. The construction of the 70-slip marina took two years and involved the installation of over 7,000 linear feet of floating concrete docks, 2,000 linear feet of seawall, and the addition of 40,000 square feet for restaurants, offices and marina amenities.
Las Olas Marina is now one of the largest megayacht marinas in the U.S. It is designed to accommodate yachts between 65 and 315 feet (19.8 to 96 metres) in length, featuring Bellingham floating docks, substantial shore power, and amenities for crew and captains. Facilities include retail and office spaces, a captains’ lounge with a kitchen, a rooftop lounge with a plunge pool and outdoor kitchen, and nearby beach access.
Dining options at the marina include the signature restaurant, Ocean Prime, and two other restaurants serving a range of meals for crew, captains and the public.
As part of the marina’s redevelopment, environmental enhancements were made, including the conversion of three acres back to natural habitat and seawall upgrades to mitigate sea level rise. Suntex says the marina is designed to meet the certification standards for a Clean and Resilient Marina.
“In the heart of Fort Lauderdale, our marina is more than just a place to dock, it’s a gateway to the city’s rich history and vibrant culture,” says McLayne Sisk, general manager of Las Olas Marina. “We pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art facilities and services that cater to guests and enhance and support our local community. Every visit blends luxury, convenience, and the authentic Fort Lauderdale experience.”
Suntex was selected by the city in 2016, and the lease was signed on 3 May 2018. Final site plan approval was given by the City Commission on 9 July 2019, with the transition of ownership and operation beginning on 1 October 2021. The redevelopment project commenced in early 2022. Suntex will manage Las Olas Marina for 50 years in partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale.
Suntex’s expansive portfolio includes marinas across Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Tennessee and Virginia.
