FORT PIERCE — This year is extra special as the Fort Pierce Yacht Club celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with the return of one of the Treasure Coast’s most beloved Independence Day traditions, the 16th Annual 4th of July Patriotic Boat Parade & Blessing of the Fleet on Saturday, July 4.
Club officials are hoping to make history on the water with an ambitious goal of 250 participating boats in honor of America 250.
The patriotic flotilla will gather in the Turning Basin near Derecktor Shipyards at 10:30 a.m., with the parade beginning promptly at 11 a.m. Boats will travel through the Fort Pierce Inlet in a festive red, white, and blue procession celebrating freedom, community, and America’s maritime spirit.
All boaters, personal watercraft (PWC) riders, even eFoilers are welcome to participate. Captains are encouraged to decorate their vessels in patriotic themes and join the celebration.
Organizers ask participating boaters to monitor VHF Channel 81 beginning at 10:30 for any further instructions on the parade and to maintain no-wake speed for safety.
As part of this milestone celebration, Rev. Canon Dr. Audley Donaldson from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Fort Pierce will honor the boating community with a blessing and wishing safe seas to all who take to the water.
To assist with planning, boaters intending to participate are asked to email July4@fpyc.net.
Fort Pierce Yacht Club is extending an invitation for registered parade participants only to a Patriotic BBQ and stay to view Stars over St. Lucie fireworks presented by Main Street Fort Pierce and City of Fort Pierce, beginning at 9 p.m. Registration is required, spots are limited, and fees apply.
Event details
What: 16th Annual Patriotic Boat Parade & Blessing of the Fleet
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026
·10:30 a.m. – Vessels gather
·11 a.m. – Parade begins
Where: Beginning in the Turning Basin near Derecktor Shipyards, boats will travel east through the Inlet toward Jetty Park before turning westward back down the Inlet, where Rev. Donaldson will offer each vessel a blessing from a boat anchored east of Wesley’s Island.
Spectators are invited to enjoy the parade from waterfront viewing areas throughout the Fort Pierce Inlet. Look for boats decorated with patriotic flair from public areas along Seaway Drive including Museum Pointe Park, South Causeway Beach, Jetty Park and any waterfront restaurants along the Inlet.
For updates and additional event information, follow the Fort Pierce Yacht Club on social media or visit: www.fortpierceyachtclub.com/july4boatparade.