• Storage size

F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale has a 240-rack facility for storing boats in its drystack. Each of these racks is designed to hold boats up to 43 feet in length, 13-foot beams, 17 feet in height, and up to 30,000 pounds in weight. There are also 4 service bays for vessel maintenance within the drystack.

• Locations

From the West Coast to the Great Lakes, the F3 brand is known for owning and managing multiple marinas across the U.S., with each offering state-of-the-art services and automated storage systems similar to those at the Fort Lauderdale site. There are also International marinas within the portfolio, with more coming soon.

• Property size

F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale covers a property of 1.3 acres. This state-of-the-art facility spans 59,000 square feet, standing 130 feet high, and is the only drystack in the United States that is built to withstand a category 5 hurricane.

• Amenities

Concierge services by Admiral
DIY Service
Fuel
Ship Store
Lounge
Clubhouse
Restaurant access from the marina property
Boat rentals
Boat sales
Captains for hire
Trailer storage
Locker and storage rooms, temperature-controlled
Alcohol lockers
Conference rooms
Fireplace and outdoor patio
Advanced vendor security with notifications to boat owners
Digital app by Admiral to request service, launches, boat prep, and more

• Full time vs part-time staff

There are 12 full time and 6 part time staff at the marina.

• How do you communicate with your staff?

At F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale, we prioritize clear and consistent communication with our staff to ensure smooth operations. Weekly and monthly meetings serve as structured opportunities to review objectives, discuss ongoing projects, and align on operational strategies. Day-to-day communication is facilitated through a blend of text messages, phone calls, and emails, ensuring that all staff are informed and connected. On-site, we utilize walkie-talkies to enable real-time coordination between different departments, which is especially useful for immediate needs such as boat launches, rack repositioning, or safety protocols.

To further streamline communication, we maintain whiteboards for our operations teams, where daily tasks, boat launch schedules, and priority action items are clearly displayed. This visual tool allows teams to stay aligned and react quickly to any updates. Our General Manager, Matt Moen, takes a hands-on leadership approach by regularly walking the docks and visiting departments, encouraging impromptu discussions and open communication. This direct, on-the-ground engagement fosters a collaborative environment, allowing staff to share feedback, ideas, and address concerns in real time.

• How do you communicate most effectively with your customers?

We maintain consistent and effective communication with our customers through multiple channels to ensure their needs are always addressed. Our custom mobile app, powered by Admiral, offers real-time updates, allowing boaters to schedule launches, request services, and manage their boating experience with ease. In addition, we regularly communicate through email and text, keeping customers informed about service updates, promotions, and marina events.Our front desk team is available seven days a week, both via phone and email, to provide assistance and address any inquiries. Whether it's a service request or general information, our staff is always on-site to ensure every customer’s needs are met promptly and professionally.Moreover, our General Manager fosters a highly personal approach with an open-door policy, welcoming customers to visit or call him directly with any concerns. He takes a hands-on role by actively engaging with customers at community gatherings and events, creating strong relationships and promoting a sense of community within the marina. This combination of technology, personal interaction, and availability ensures that every customer receives the attention and support they deserve.



We also send newsletters to keep our community informed about marina updates, special promotions, and upcoming events, fostering a sense of connection and engagement among our customers. This multi-channel approach ensures that customers are always informed and feel supported, whether through technology or personal interaction.

• Employee Training modules

Customer Service
Fuel Dock
Pumpout
Safety
Fire prevention and response
Oil spill response (a part of Fuel dock tools and training, as well as vessel inspections)
  
Forklift (fully automated crane controls)
Man overboard
On the water training (vessel maneuvering, VHF communication etc)
Dock management and lines training
Security

Environmental management

Media and public relations

Incident reporting

Emergency action plans

Property inspection

Marina best practices

• Unique training programs

At F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale, we take employee training to a new level with our comprehensive program, ‘F3 University’. Every team member is enrolled in specialized training modules designed to elevate their understanding of marina operations and instill the core principles of F3’s commitment to excellence. These modules cover a wide array of topics, ranging from customer service best practices to hands-on, on-the-water training, ensuring that every employee is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver superior service in all aspects of marina management.

What sets F3 apart is our bi-weekly collaboration across our marina network, where different locations from around the country engage in discussions that foster operational growth and innovation. These meetings are designed to enhance performance across multiple facets, including metrics, KPIs, traffic trends, financial management, human resources, marketing initiatives, and problem-solving for major challenges. 



This nationwide collaboration creates a unique environment where employees not only learn from their immediate surroundings but also benefit from the shared expertise of marina professionals across the F3 network. This continuous exchange of ideas strengthens our operations and provides invaluable learning opportunities, ensuring F3 remains a leader in marina management.

• Monitoring business performance

At F3, monitoring business performance is an integral part of maintaining operational excellence and ensuring the highest standard of service for our clientele. We leverage a multi-faceted approach to track performance metrics, focusing on customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and financial growth. Our team uses customer feedback, gathered through surveys and online ratings, to assess and enhance our services continually. In addition, we closely monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as customer retention, utilization of the fully-automated drystack, and the turnaround time for boat retrievals, all of which help us maintain a competitive edge in the marina industry.

For a marina of this caliber, financial performance is meticulously tracked through increased revenue, repeat business, and strategic partnerships like our collaboration with Admiral for concierge services. We use a combination of advanced software, including marina management systems, to monitor occupancy rates, seasonal demand, and fuel sales, which enables us to make informed decisions about pricing and capacity management. By aligning these technological tools with real-time data, we ensure the seamless operation of the marina and consistent financial growth. This comprehensive monitoring strategy ensures that we not only meet but exceed expectations year after year.

Moreover, our team conducts regular internal audits and performance reviews to ensure that both staff and technology are operating at peak efficiency. These evaluations include safety drills, customer service assessments, and equipment inspections, ensuring that we not only meet regulatory standards but also exceed industry benchmarks. This proactive approach to business performance monitoring fosters a culture of continuous improvement and reinforces our commitment to delivering a world-class experience to every guest who docks with us.

• Financial growth

Yes, F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale has experienced notable financial growth since its commissioning in 2021. As a newly built marina, it was designed and constructed to the highest specifications, incorporating cutting-edge technology such as the fully automated drystack system, which ensures quick and safe boat storage. This state-of-the-art infrastructure has attracted significant demand, leading to a waitlist for rack space, a testament to the marina’s high-quality services and its appeal to discerning boaters.

In addition to its modern design, the marina has benefited from the broader growth of the boating industry, which has seen a surge in popularity over the past few years. As more individuals embrace the boating lifestyle, demand for premium marina services has increased, particularly in key markets like South Florida. This trend has played a crucial role in bolstering F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale's financial success, contributing to increased occupancy rates, customer retention, and a strong financial performance since its opening.

• Vision, mission & management philosophy

At F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale, our vision is to redefine the boating experience by combining innovation, customer service excellence, and sustainability in marina management. We are committed to providing an unparalleled level of service through state-of-the-art technology, creating a safe and efficient environment for boaters, and maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence.

Our management philosophy centers around a customer-first approach, ensuring that every boater enjoys a seamless, hassle-free experience. We believe in empowering our team with continuous training and open communication, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and attention to detail. By embracing cutting-edge technology, we aim to enhance operational efficiency while prioritizing safety and environmental stewardship. This philosophy not only drives our business growth but also positions F3 as a leader in the marina industry, delivering premium value to our customers and stakeholders alike.

• Expansions, updates, added amenities in the past 5 years

F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale, which opened within the last five years, was meticulously designed and built to the highest standards, drawing on years of experience in marina management. By leveraging insights from operating other successful marinas, the facility was constructed to meet the evolving needs of boaters with cutting-edge technology and optimal safety features. Every detail, from the fully automated drystack system to the hurricane-rated building, was thoughtfully planned to create a seamless and efficient experience for boat owners.

Looking toward the future, it’s clear that marinas will increasingly compete based on hospitality, and F3 Marina’s partnership with Admiral positions us as a leader on this front. The Admiral concierge service provides an unparalleled level of customer care, offering everything from personalized guidance to exclusive services like captain and fishing guide arrangements. This partnership has been a game-changer, not only enhancing the customer experience but also driving tremendous success in both customer satisfaction and economic growth for the marina. By combining high-tech infrastructure with a hospitality-driven approach, F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale is shaping the future of the boating industry.

• Grant programs, and unique funding

F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale did not rely on traditional grant programs but instead leveraged unique private funding and investment sources to bring the marina project to life. With the backing of experienced investors and industry experts, the marina was designed and built with a focus on long-term sustainability and innovation. By using private funding, F3 was able to maintain flexibility and control over the design and construction process, ensuring the facility met the highest standards without compromising on its vision.

• Who are your main customers and target market?

Our main customers are boating enthusiasts and vessel owners who seek premium services and state-of-the-art facilities. The target market primarily includes owners of boats up to 43 feet in length, who are looking for secure, convenient storage solutions and high-end amenities. These customers often value both efficiency and personalized care, which is why the marina's fully automated drystack system and partnership with Admiral for concierge services appeal to this audience.

Given F3’s proximity to popular boating destinations, restaurants, and entertainment in Fort Lauderdale, the marina attracts boaters who want quick access to the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, while also expecting luxury experiences, top-tier service and convenience.

• How do you attract customers?

We combine a few different aspects to attract and engage customers through a combination of digital marketing, special events, and strategic partnerships. Our website serves as the primary hub for information, offering an easy-to-navigate platform where potential customers can explore our services, learn about our state-of-the-art facility, and schedule boat launches or concierge services. The website is designed to be both informative and visually appealing, highlighting key features such as the fully automated drystack, premium amenities, and customer testimonials to drive interest.

In addition to our website, we send regular newsletters to keep customers informed about marina updates, special promotions, and upcoming events. These newsletters are tailored to foster customer engagement by offering exclusive deals, tips for boat care, and event invitations that create a sense of community among our boaters.

A key part of our marketing strategy is hosting social events to build a strong boating community. We regularly organize happy hour events and themed social gatherings for holidays and special occasions. These include festive celebrations like our St. Patrick’s Day party, an annual Christmas Ball, and gatherings for all federal holidays, such as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. These events are designed to be fun and engaging, creating a lively atmosphere where boaters can connect and enjoy time together. Members are encouraged to invite locals friends, as word of mouth has been a key aspect to our success.

Additionally, F3 Marina hosts boating workshops and VIP tours to attract potential customers while showcasing our facility and services. Our partnership with Admiral enhances these efforts by promoting exclusive yacht services and high-end boater events associated with the highest end brands and companies. Combined with a strong social media presence, these marketing efforts help us attract new customers and maintain lasting relationships with our existing clientele.

• How do you build relationships with your existing customers?

At F3, building relationships with our customers is all about personal engagement, tailored service, and consistent communication. Admiral plays a vital role in addressing many day-to-day needs of boat owners. Admiral’s concierge service is highly attuned to the specific requirements of our boaters, providing immediate responses and fulfilling customer requests with precision, whether it’s scheduling boat launches, arranging captains, or handling maintenance needs. This tight alignment ensures that customers receive seamless service, elevating their experience at the marina.

Our General Manager, Matt Moen, takes a hands-on approach that goes beyond typical management duties. He regularly ties boats to the dock when customers arrive, using these moments to gather feedback, create a welcoming atmosphere, and build strong, personal relationships. Matt also fields customer calls directly, keeping a close pulse on members’ needs and staying involved in their marina experience. His presence is a constant at marina events, where he engages with members, ensuring open communication and fostering a community spirit.

When renewal time comes around, Matt personally phones customers, providing an extra layer of attention and care that strengthens loyalty and reinforces F3 Marina’s customer-first philosophy. This personal touch, combined with the high level of service provided by Admiral, ensures that every boater feels valued and part of a community that cares about their unique boating needs.

• How do you measure customer satisfaction?

We use several methods to measure customer satisfaction, ensuring we maintain high service standards. One of the primary indicators is retention of our members which remains strong thanks to the quality of service and the innovative technology we offer, such as our fully automated drystack system.

We also gather feedback through customer surveys and reviews, both online and in person, allowing us to continuously improve our offerings based on direct input from boaters. Social media plays a significant role as well, where positive engagement and reviews on platforms like Facebook, Google and Instagram reflect high levels of satisfaction and loyalty among our customers.

Additionally, the marina has seen a tremendous response since its opening, with high occupancy rates since the launch of the marina and increasing demand leading to waitlists for storage space. This high demand and continuous engagement are strong signs that our customers are not only satisfied but actively promoting the marina to others through word of mouth. Consistently measuring repeat customers, online engagement, and steady occupancy give us confidence in our customer-centric approach.

• How do you address shortcomings when they occur?

When incidents occur, which are likely given the volume and scale of the operation in play, we prioritize prompt and transparent responses to resolve issues efficiently. Our first step is to directly engage with the customer affected, listening to their concerns and assessing the root cause of the problem. Whether it's a technical issue, such as a delay in boat retrieval, or a service-related concern, we ensure that communication is immediate and solutions are clearly laid out.

We leverage Admiral, our in-house concierge service to handle many day-to-day issues with members, offering immediate resolutions and compensations when necessary, such as complimentary services or priority scheduling. Our General Manager, also takes a hands-on approach, frequently stepping in personally to address more complex or critical issues, ensuring that customers feel heard and supported.

Failures are also seen as opportunities for improvement. After addressing the immediate concern, we conduct internal reviews, analyzing what went wrong and implementing strategies to prevent future occurrences. This may involve staff retraining, system updates, or refining operational procedures to increase efficiency and prevent similar problems from arising again. By embracing a proactive approach to resolving failures, we reinforce our commitment to exceptional service and continuous improvement.

• What measures do you take to limit your impact on the environment?

We take several proactive measures to limit our environmental impact and promote sustainability within the marina. One of our most impactful initiatives is our Clean Canal Initiative, where we led the charge on behalf of our neighboring businesses, including local restaurants, HOAs, and the Ferretti boat showroom. This project has significantly reduced debris, garbage, and surface pollutants in the canal, which often wash in from the Intracoastal Waterway. The initiative has not only benefited our marina but also the entire surrounding community, contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment. The impact of the Clean Canal Initiative has been publicly acknowledged, with visible improvements in water quality and clarity. Most notably, the canal is now home to a greater number of fish and water animals, including some very friendly manatees, which are regularly spotted by the marina.

We also prioritize eco-friendly operations in our fuel management, using fuel absorbent pads, known as ‘spaghetti booms’, during fueling to prevent spillage. Our waste tank pump-out service is offered free of charge, even to non-members, as a way of ensuring boaters responsibly manage their waste and further reduce environmental contamination in the area.

Our commitment to environmental care extends to our landscaping. The area around the building has been carefully designed and maintained to reflect the natural habitat that existed before the marina was constructed. It supports many of the native species and is a well-respected, green space within the marina, fostering biodiversity and helping preserve local ecosystems.By utilizing a fully automated drystack system, we eliminate the need for traditional diesel-powered forklifts, which are known to emit fumes and smog, damaging both the environment and boats. This transition significantly eliminates our carbon footprint and air pollution, further aligning our operations with our sustainability goals. Together, these efforts reflect our commitment to reducing environmental impact while supporting the community and natural surroundings.

Internally, we’ve also adopted several practices to further minimize our environmental footprint. We have significantly reduced the amount of paper printed, shifting to digital leases and marketing materials to decrease waste. Additionally, energy-efficient lighting and motion sensors are installed throughout the marina to minimize electricity use. Even our climate control systems are programmed based on customer traffic, rather than running continuously, ensuring we are thoughtful about reducing energy consumption. These collective efforts reflect our commitment to environmental sustainability, while supporting the community, our customers, and natural surroundings.

• How do you share information on environmental best practices with your customers and the community?

We actively share information on environmental best practices with both our customers and the community through a variety of channels. Signage around the marina highlights key practices such as proper waste disposal, recycling, and guidelines for fuel management to minimize spillage. We also provide information on free pump-out services and the importance of maintaining clean water through on-site consultations and reminders in regular newsletters.

A key part of our Clean Canal Initiative involves sharing data and images of the debris collected in the marina’s seabin with the University of Florida. This collaboration contributes to ongoing studies on marine pollution and helps inform the community about the environmental challenges faced by our local waterways. The seabin is also voluntarily moved to other parts of the canal and nearby waterways, assisting our neighbors and supporting the city's broader environmental efforts. This is another way we engage with the community, hosting events and providing updates to neighboring businesses, boaters, and residents about the positive environmental impacts of the project. These events foster a shared responsibility for the local ecosystem, encouraging broader participation in maintaining water cleanliness.

Additionally, we use our website, social media channels, and customer app to share tips on reducing environmental impact, such as responsible boating practices and energy conservation measures. We also offer informational sessions and workshops to educate boaters on eco-friendly habits, proper maintenance techniques to prevent pollution, and the steps we take internally, such as energy efficiency and digital document adoption. These collective efforts ensure that we not only lead by example but also empower our community to protect the environment.

• How have you confronted and remedied environmental issues?

We have taken several proactive steps to confront and remedy environmental issues at the marina, focusing on both immediate impacts and long-term sustainability. One of the key challenges we faced was the debris and pollutants that wash into our canal from the Intracoastal Waterway. This not only led to a visible build-up of dirt and debris on boats but also added complexity to operating the automated crane system, as debris and pollutants can affect water quality in the staging areas. After consulting with our neighbors, including restaurants, HOAs, and Ferretti’s boat showroom, the inspiration for our Clean Canal Initiative emerged. By deploying a seabin to capture floating trash and surface pollutants, we’ve made a noticeable difference in water quality. Additionally, we voluntarily move the seabin to different parts of the canal to support our neighbors and help clean other waterways in the area.

Another challenge we tackled was the potential for over-fueling spillage, which posed a risk of contaminating the water. After reviewing our procedures, we implemented the use of fuel absorbent pads, or "spaghetti booms," to capture any potential spills during fueling. This change in procedures has enhanced safety and significantly reduced the risk of fuel entering the water, helping to protect the surrounding marine environment.

On a lighter note, our hurricane-rated drystack serves as a critical safe haven for boats during severe weather. This advanced facility helps protect a significant group of vessels from the natural wind elements, ensuring they remain safely tucked away in a fortified structure while the storm passes. By safeguarding boats in this state-of-the-art drystack, we minimize the environmental risks of boats being damaged or displaced, which can often result in fuel leaks or debris being scattered into local waters. This feature not only protects the boats but also helps preserve the surrounding environment during extreme weather events.

• What challenges are unique to your facility?

F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale faces several unique challenges related to its location and natural environment. Being situated along the Intracoastal Waterway, it deals with constant water flow and pollutants from surrounding areas, which require ongoing canal cleaning efforts. Environmental regulations are strict due to the proximity to sensitive ecosystems, requiring compliance with both state and federal standards, especially regarding fuel management and waste disposal. Additionally, operating in a hurricane-prone region, the marina must ensure its drystack and infrastructure are prepared for extreme weather, necessitating advanced safety measures.



The high walls of the building, which rise above the canal, can create a significant wind tunnel effect, making it difficult for boaters to maneuver, especially in the presence of heavy canal traffic. These conditions demand more experienced operators, particularly on windy days.Within the drystack facility, boats are stacked vertically, and drippage from higher levels can be problematic, requiring constant maintenance and attention. Our staff is dedicated to covering and sealing boats as much as possible, while ensuring easy access for quick retrieval.

• What specific challenges have you overcome and how did you do it?

F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale encountered several construction challenges due to its location and design complexity. One of the major hurdles was the tight waterfront site, which required careful staging and precise scheduling. The entire 1.3-acre area was fully utilized for the marina, leaving little room for material storage or maneuvering during the build. To overcome this, the construction team sequenced the project in stages and worked closely with Florida Power & Light to convert overhead power lines to an underground run without disrupting existing utilities​.
The project timeline also experienced delays due to regulatory and logistical issues. Despite these challenges, the team was able to resolve the issues and focus on building an innovative facility. The hurricane-rated drystack structure, which reaches 130 feet in height, required precise coordination, especially with the installation of the automated crane system. These cranes were shipped in large sections, and multiple cranes were often working simultaneously to ensure the timeline remained on track​.

These obstacles were met with a proactive approach (with a lot of patience and perseverance) from both the construction and project management teams, ensuring the facility was built to the highest standards, setting a new benchmark for drystack marinas.

2022 - Excellence in construction award 


The F3 Marina Fort Lauderdale building is an engineering marvel, setting new standards for drystack marina facilities across the industry. Spanning 130 feet in height and constructed from 1,750 tons of structural steel and 700 pre-cast concrete panels, the building stands as a testament to modern design and construction precision. The facility’s ability to house boats up to 43 feet long in a hurricane-rated structure capable of withstanding winds of up to 170 mph is a significant accomplishment, particularly in a region prone to extreme weather. 


Constructing this massive structure on a 1.3-acre waterfront site posed unique challenges. The site was fully utilized, leaving no space for staging materials, and the complex project required three cranes, 15 booms, and four forklifts operating simultaneously within the building. The innovative design also includes an automated crane system, allowing boats to be stored or retrieved in under five minutes—a groundbreaking feature for drystack marinas​.


The architecture itself is a blend of form and function, featuring 26,000 square feet of curtain wall glass and a sleek, modern exterior that enhances the aesthetic appeal while supporting high functionality. The precision of the build was such that when the two steel sections of the structure met in the middle, there was only a quarter-inch tolerance to ensure a seamless connection—an impressive feat in construction​. The building not only represents a technological breakthrough but also sets a new benchmark in the industry for efficiency, safety, and resilience.


The building’s architectural sophistication is further enhanced by its partnership with Admiral, which places world-class hospitality at the forefront. Through this collaboration, F3 Marina offers personalized concierge services, blending high-end technology with unmatched customer care. Admiral’s focus on hospitality ensures that boaters enjoy a seamless experience, from launch requests to vessel maintenance. The combination of cutting-edge technology and luxury service solidifies F3 Marina as a leader in both innovation and customer satisfaction, creating a marina that is truly next-level.