Vie d'écumevideo
60 Back on the Gulfstream and visiting Fort Pierce, Florida
14 July 2023 · 21 min · 387 views · Fort Pierce
What this video covers
A sailing couple departs West Palm Beach, Florida, for a coastal transit to Fort Pierce, navigating the Gulf Stream with 15 knots of easterly wind. The crew reports challenging conditions in the Gulf Stream, noting that 15 knots of wind creates significant chop, contrary to advice suggesting a 12-knot limit for comfortable passage. They maintain a speed of 6 to 7 knots under sail, opting to avoid the Intracoastal Waterway initially due to negative experiences with local customs and harbor authorities in West Palm Beach. Upon arrival in Fort Pierce, they find the atmosphere significantly more welcoming, highlighting public infrastructure such as free docks for dinghies, pedestrian-friendly parks, and a free local shuttle service operated by Tesla. The crew successfully refuels 40 liters of diesel at a marina, noting the importance of color-coded jerrycans—yellow for diesel and red for gasoline—after a minor fueling error. They conclude that Fort Pierce offers a more hospitable environment for cruisers than West Palm Beach, with accessible amenities and friendly local interactions.
Boats in this video
More from Vie d'écume
From Vie d'écume — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analysed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.



