FAQ

Please note: a public advisory including detailed information on transportation, parking and boating restrictions will be released approximately three weeks prior to the Air & Sea Show®. Please view our most recent news releases in the News Media section.

Fleet Week USA®
What is Fleet Week USA?

Fleet Week USA is the annual celebration designed to thank the nation's sea-going military personnel for their dedicated service to our country. Fleet Week USA is produced by Pro-Series, Inc., an event production firm. The show has received significant endorsements from federal, state and local agencies, as well as business and civic organizations.

Which celebrations are open to the public?

The public is invited to meet sailors from visiting ships at the following events:

  • All Hands on Deck Welcoming Party - Monday, April 30th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Liberty Call Party - Tuesday, May 1st from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Anchor's Aweigh Party - Wednesday, May 2nd from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Performer’s Party - Thursday, May 3rd at 8:30 p.m.
  • Take Off Party - Friday, May 4th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
View a complete schedule of events.

How can I purchase commemorative Fleet Week USA merchandise?

Merchandise can be purchased at Terminal 26 in Port Everglades, proceeds benefit Broward County Council Navy League.

Where is the best place to view the ships upon arrival?

We recommend the John U. Lloyd State Park.

What ships are expected to attend Fleet Week USA?

View latest listing of ships in port for the 2007 Fleet Week USA.

How do I volunteer for Fleet Week USA?

Please contact our volunteer coordinator, Kim Tisdale, at volunteer@mdmgroup.com.

How do I get press or media credentials?

For all press and media credentials please contact Mario Morales at 954-467-3555 or mario@mdmgroup.com.

How do I schedule a ship tour?

Due to Port Everglade restrictions we are unable to open up the ships for "Public Tours". However, the decision has been made to allow school children, ROTC groups, and a select group of pre-screened individuals to take tours. These invited guests have been sent letters of instruction on how to proceed with their ship tours. If you would like to voice your concern regarding this ruling, please send all correspondence to brandon@mdmgroup.com.

What if the tour of my choice is booked?

Unfortunately, all tours are on a first come first serve basis. If your first choice is taken we urge you to select another day, time or ship. Per US Navy regulations we are only allowed to schedule a certain number of pre-screened visitors per hour, per ship. We thank you for your cooperation with this matter.

How do I cancel or change my reservation?

Please contact brandon@mdmgroup.com via email with your request. Be sure to include your name, ship, time, and date of the tour you would like to cancel, as well as ship, time, and date of new tour request.

How old do you have to be to attend a ship tour?

All guests must be at least 8 years of age.

I made a reservation, but I didn't get a chance to print it out before I lost the page. Can I still go at the reserved time without the print out?

Your confirmation page is required for entrance. This confirmation page will serve as your pass to gain access into the secured area. If you need to obtain another copy of your printout please contact brandon@mdmgroup.com and be sure to include your name, ship, time, and date of the tour.

What should I wear?

Comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking should be worn. They should have a flat heel and closed toe to minimize injury. Please be advised that the tour may involve climbing and descending ladders and passing through bulkheads. Comfortable trousers or shorts are recommended.

How do I get to Terminal 22/24?

We ask that all guests arrive via I-595/Port Everglades entrance, as all other entrances will be closed to the public. All guests will be directed to park at the Midport Parking Garage and check-in at Terminal 24 to receive proper credentials. All guests will be required to present a Government Issued Photo I.D. Reservations are non-transferable and guest’s names must appear on the confirmation page to receive credentials.

Is there a fee to park at Midport Parking Garage?

The parking rate for the Midport Parking Garage is $2.00 for the first hour or portion thereof, an additional $3.00 for the next four (4) hours or portion thereof, and an additional $1.00 per hour or portion thereof, with a maximum of $12.00 per twenty-four (24) hour period per entry. Oversized vehicles are $6.00 for the first five (5) hours or portion thereof, and $15.00 for up to twenty-four (24) hours, per entry. Please remember to allow time to park prior to your tour time.

Can I take pictures?

Yes; however no camera bags will be allowed on tours. Cameras only please.

What should I bring?

A government issued photo ID is a must. Please note the following items are prohibited: umbrellas, backpacks, large oversized purses, camera case, binoculars case and weapons of any kind. We appreciate your understanding as we ensure the security of all our guests who attend this spectacular event.

Are any items prohibited?

No food or drinks and no weapons of any kind including personal protective devices such as mace or pepper spray. No fireworks, flammables, or explosives of any kind. No illegal drugs and/ or paraphernalia. No camera tripods. No large backpacks, camera bags, diaper bags, or purses. No strollers or child carriers. No political activities, soliciting, or related activities aboard US Naval vessels.

Are the U.S. Navy ships ADA compliant?

No. Military vessels are exempt from the provisions of the American with Disabilities Act. Since US Naval Vessels have many difficult passages, ladders, and other hazards that require ambulatory navigation, tour participants must be able to walk without assistance from canes, walkers, or casts.

How long is a ship tour?

A ship tour lasts 1 hour.

Is smoking allowed on the ships?

There is no smoking onboard any ship or anywhere on the pier.

Is food available during the ship visitations?

No food is available on the ships.

Will an ATM (Automated Teller Machine) be available?

There will be ATMs at the MWR booth located at Terminal 26.

My relative’s ship will be participating in fleet week this year. How do I get to see them? How can I tour their ship? How do I get invitations to the evening parties?

The ships will be docked at or around Terminal 22/24. Please contact your relative and make arrangements to meet outside the terminal gates. You will have to park in the Midport Parking Garage (please see price information). Family members are NOT required to be on a visitation list but must be accompanied by a uniformed sailor at all times. We do ask that visitations be arranged in the afternoon since our scheduled group tours are in the morning. Our evening parties are open to the public (please see our event schedule for times and locations) and we encourage any family members to come out and join in the fun!

Air & Sea Show®
What is the Air & Sea Show?

One of the world’s largest spectator events, this two-day extravaganza features top military and civilian performances along four miles of beautiful Fort Lauderdale beach. According to military and city estimates, the show draws millions of people each year. This world-class event is part of the National Salute to America’s Heroes, and is the kick-off for National Military Appreciation Month observed each May. The National Salute also includes Fleet Week USA which brings several Navy ships and thousands of sailors to Fort Lauderdale.

What are the dates of the 2008 Air & Sea Show?

(canceled)

How much are tickets?

Corporate support from sponsors makes it possible to produce the Air & Sea Show with no admission fee. However, there are tickets available for purchase for the Publix Preferred Seating Area and One Star Hospitality Chalets.

What if it rains?

The show must go on! The Show will not be canceled because of rain - performers usually have alternate routines for different weather conditions.

What are the hours of the Show?

Show hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday May 5th and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday May 6th.

What is the best viewing area of the Air & Sea Show?

Along Fort Lauderdale beach between Oakland Park and Las Olas Blvd.

Can I consume alcohol on the beach during the Show?

All open container laws will be strictly enforced. Consumption of alcohol on the beach is prohibited by city ordinance and will only be permitted in designated food courts. Please, no glass containers.

Can I bring a tent to the Show?

No. We are asking for voluntary compliance of Park and Recreation/Beach Regulation 7.0, that spectators not erect tents, canopies and fencing, as they will be asked to take down any of these items erected.

Are kites or balloons allowed along the beach area during the weekend of the Show?

No. The military has asked that kites and balloons not be flown along the beach during the show, as it creates a safety hazard for the performers.

Is there shade?

The Show is under an open sky. Patrons are encouraged to plan accordingly. It is advised that spectators prepare for a day in the sun by wearing sunscreen, as well as a hat and sunglasses. They should also drink an adequate amount of water to avoid dehydration. For convenience, concessions will be available up and down the beach, with food courts located on A1A near Sunrise Boulevard.

Will there be first aid stations at the Air & Sea Show?

The City of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue will have well-marked first aid stations located up and down the beach.

Can you direct me to a place to stay during the weekend?

Please contact the hotel hotline at 954-561-9556.

Will there be a live radio broadcast of the Show?

WFTL 850 AM-Live 85 will provide continuous live coverage, including special traffic reports, on both Saturday, May 5th and Sunday, May 6th beginning at 11:00 a.m. through the conclusion of the Show.

Can I purchase souvenirs at the Show?

Official Air & Sea Show commemorative apparel such as t-shirts, towels, hats and visors will be available throughout the Show site and within the Display Village. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County will also be selling event programs as a fundraiser.

Can I bring my pet to the Show?

Regretfully, dogs will not be allowed unless there is a specific requirement to do so such as for a handicap person. It is a violation of city ordinance 6-4 to have pets “on any sidewalk or public property on either the west or east sides of State Road A1A (including the roadway itself)” or “in the sandy portion of the beach.” Officers will be enforcing the ordinance and asking for voluntary compliance.

What is the Display Village?

Interactive exhibits, skill competitions and recruitment booths will be among more than 150 exhibits by the military, show sponsors and civic organizations at the Air & Sea Show Display Village along Sunrise Boulevard and A1A. The Display village will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days of the show.

Why are the exact times of the individual performers not listed?

Because of many last-minute changes in performers and schedules, exact times are not available; however, there will be continuous aerial excitement.

Will the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds be here this year?

The 2007 aerial demonstration team will be the U.S Air Force Thunderbirds.

How can I meet the performers?

There are several opportunities to meet and greet the performers in this year’s Show. View the schedule of events that includes several community celebrations where both the military and civilian performers will be present.

Where can I get ADA parking and Show accessibility information?
How do I get press or media credentials?

Please submit all press and media credential requests to Mario Morales at 954-467-3555 or mario@mdmgroup.com.