South Florida community gears up for ship visits and concerts during military appreciation week
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – The start of Ed Morse Automotive Group FLEET WEEK FORT LAUDERDALE will turn Port Everglades into a busy center of military gratitude and community involvement. A tribute to the armed forces, the event gives the public a one-time opportunity to see Navy and Coast Guard ships via free tours as well as a variety of community events including a special concert honoring the 250th anniversaries of the Navy and Marine Corps.
Undoubtedly, Fleet Week’s centerpiece is the opportunity for locals and visitors to board several Navy and Coast Guard ships. With visiting hours in the afternoons from 1 – 4 p.m. and two evening sessions from 6 – 8 p.m. on selected days, public tours are planned from Wednesday, April 23 through Tuesday, April 29. Starting early from 8 to 11 a.m., the weekend will provide longer visiting hours.
Free timed tickets are required and can be booked online because of expected high demand and the close character of the tours—10-12 guests each ship each hour. Releasing tickets 48 hours before each tour date guarantees everyone an equal opportunity to attend. For instance, people wanting a Wednesday tour must obtain their tickets by the preceding Monday. Ticket reservation information is available on the event’s official website and Facebook page.
An exciting novelty this year is the inclusion of a submersible tour. Access will be decided by a random lottery, though, given the submarine’s restricted capacity. Those who want to participate in the submarine tour must express their desire when reserving their public tour tickets; they will be informed at check-in if they have been chosen.
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Though they are likely to fill fast given the limited slots and the particular character of the event, individual tickets for the daily public ship trips stay available.
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More than just ship trips, Fleet Week is a succession of community events including concerts and educational programs meant to promote a better knowledge of the military’s part in national security and community safety. The week unites the community in a celebration of service and dedication, reminding everyone of the sacrifices and efforts of our service members.
More details are available here.
