Nearly seven years post-Hurricane Irma’s devastating impact, Fort Lauderdale is witnessing the triumphant return of one of its most iconic resorts: Pier Sixty-Six. Officially reopening on January 10, after a significant hiatus since 2017, the 32-acre property has undergone a remarkable transformation. This resort has been a cornerstone of hospitality in Fort Lauderdale since it first opened its doors in 1965. While visitors will be delighted to find the beloved midcentury modern tower, complete with its distinctive space-age roof, has been meticulously restored, the remainder of the resort will surprise many returning guests with its comprehensive overhaul.
During a recent tour with Brett Boreing, the executive director of sales and marketing, it became evident that the Tavistock Group, the resort’s owners based in Orlando, capitalized on an unexpected pause in redevelopment due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Originally planned as a moderate refurbishment, the new vision is ambitious and upscale—setting the stage for a luxurious experience that goes beyond basic hospitality.
Redefining Luxury and Spaciousness
Boreing emphasized that Pier Sixty-Six aims to cultivate an environment of “relaxed luxury,” adopting brand tenets that embrace the marina lifestyle and the seamless balance of indoor and outdoor spaces. The resort’s architectural design combines midcentury modernity with Mediterranean elements, characterized by a serene palette of creams, browns, and blues. Spaciousness is the driving theme, with an aim to enhance guest experiences in arrival and departure procedures, ensuring logistical ease for both residential and event spaces.
A striking feature of the resort is the abundance of natural light, amplified by high ceilings and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. This thoughtful design is especially appreciated after years of confinement during the pandemic—guests are not merely patrons but co-inhabitants of this airy paradise. The main accommodations remain in the original tower, complemented by a brand-new addition that boasts balconies of generous dimensions, furthering the resort’s emphasis on luxury.
Gastronomic Adventures Await
Dining options have flourished at Pier Sixty-Six, with an extensive selection of culinary experiences drawing inspiration from cultures around the world. Guests can indulge in exquisite cuisines that represent French, Spanish, Italian, Greek, and Eastern Mediterranean traditions. A highlight of the dining scene is Calusso, featuring an exhibition kitchen that invites culinary transparency and excitement. Meanwhile, Garni Café provides a casual atmosphere with an all-day brunch menu, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.
Notably, the resort has revived the famous Pier Top—a revolving lounge situated atop the original tower that had fallen out of operations under previous ownership. Originally launched in 1965, it promises a lavish dining experience, paralleled only by the revolving views of Fort Lauderdale’s stunning skyline. As Boreing noted, there’s palpable excitement about its return with anticipations for reopened doors as early as March.
The Balance Between Innovation and Preservation
The transformation of Pier Sixty-Six stands as a testament to the delicate balance between innovating for modern guests while preserving the historical essence of the original structure. The allure of the tower remains intact, serving not only as accommodations but also as a nostalgic connection to Fort Lauderdale’s illustrious past. Many past guests are keen to relive their cherished memories, requesting specific rooms they occupied years ago. However, due to renovations, fulfilling such requests may prove challenging.
Pier Sixty-Six is strategically positioned to cater to both leisure travelers and the burgeoning cruise and convention markets, enhancing its diverse appeal. With three expansive ballrooms outfitting 42,000 square feet of grade-a social and business function space, the venue is ready to host everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale events, accommodating up to 600 attendees. Such versatility means that Pier Sixty-Six will likely remain at the forefront of luxury hospitality in Fort Lauderdale.
A Waterfront Escape with Connectivity
While Pier Sixty-Six lacks direct beach access, its proximity to the sandy shores is anything but a drawback. Boreing assures guests that multiple transport options—both on land and sea—are available to facilitate beach outings. This pragmatic approach emphasizes the resort’s commitment to providing a comprehensive, luxurious experience.
Plans are set to incentivize travel agents via consortia agreements, further solidifying relationships within the travel and tourism industry. The resort has already hosted significant events, such as the Virtuoso Travel Forum, signaling a strong re-entry into the competitive hospitality market. Guests can expect luxurious rooms starting around $599, soaring to spectacular panoramic views in the opulent $5,000-a-night Presidential Suite.
The rebirth of Pier Sixty-Six is more than just a reopening; it signifies a revitalized pledge to elevating hospitality in Fort Lauderdale while paying homage to its rich heritage.
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