Yankee Clipper

Yankee Clipper Reef is a stunning, shallow ledge reef located just off the coast of Fort Lauderdale. The reef gets its name from the former hotel, Yankee Clipper, which used to thrive right on the beach next to the park. It’s a well-kept secret, and the relief along the ledge serves as a surprising hideout for marine life, including Caribbean reef fish, nurse sharks, and lobsters. To reach the reef, park at the south end of Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, then embark on a surface swim of approximately 800 feet. Once you start seeing coral heads, descend and continue swimming east until you reach the ledge. If you explore north along the reef, you’ll eventually discover a bonus: the Fort Lauderdale Erojack The Erojacks mark the end of the first reef line and connect to the 2nd reef line which in this area is very close to shore. These Erojacks are not the Dania Beach Erojacks - which is another site a few miles south. Despite their artificial appearance, the Erojacks have been colonized by underwater fauna. You’ll encounter French angelfish, French grunt, bar jacks, and beautiful gray angelfish. Keep an eye out for lobsters hiding in the crevices. Occasionally, green sea turtles may also visit the area.