Broward began in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on the former Dooley’s Dry Dock site. Later operations were also associated with Dania Beach in Broward County.
What kinds of boats did Broward build?
Broward built custom motor yachts and, for a period, naval vessels such as minesweepers. Its later yachts were commonly aluminum or steel custom yachts in larger sizes.
What is Broward best known for?
Broward is best known for classic American custom superyachts and a long run of large-yacht construction. The yard is also noted for launching more than 300 yachts over its history.
Broward is a US yacht builder rooted in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The company began in 1948 when Frank and Gertrude Denison bought Dooley’s Dry Dock and renamed it Broward Marine. It became known for custom motor yachts and for building naval vessels during the Korean War era.
History and shipyard
Broward Marine was established in 1948 on the former Dooley’s Dry Dock site in Fort Lauderdale, with the yard name reflecting Broward County. The business initially focused on repairs and service before moving into new construction. Its first custom motor yacht, Stormy III, was launched in 1953, and the yard later built minesweepers under a NATO-related contract during the Korean War period. Over time, ownership changed several times, and the brand also became associated with Broward Shipyard and Broward Yachts.
Model range and design
Broward’s output has centered on custom luxury yachts rather than a mass-market production line. Sources describe the yard as building vessels in aluminum and steel, with later custom-yacht work ranging roughly from 18 to 50 metres. The company launched more than 300 yachts over its history, including notable custom projects such as Stormy III and Jonathan III. Broward is also associated with classic flybridge, pilothouse, and tri-deck motor yachts, especially in the larger-yacht segment.
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