Nestled along Florida’s Treasure Coast, the Pelican Yacht Club is more than just a marina — it’s a vibrant community for boating enthusiasts, a haven for travelers, and a scenic destination that blends luxury, leisure, and local charm. With its stunning waterfront views, top-tier amenities, and welcoming atmosphere, the Pelican Yacht Club (PYC) has carved a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
A Storied Beginning
The origins of the Pelican Yacht Club trace back several decades, when a group of passionate boaters envisioned a marina that embraced both adventure and camaraderie. Located in Fort Pierce, Florida, the club was founded with the goal of offering a home for yachtsmen and marine lovers who valued both high-quality facilities and a strong sense of community. Over the years, it has grown into one of the region’s premier marinas, attracting seasonal visitors, international sailors, and local families.
Prime Location
One of the most compelling features of the Pelican Yacht Club is its strategic location. Situated directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, the club provides quick access to both offshore and inland boating routes. It’s just a short distance from the Fort Pierce Inlet, which opens to the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect stopover for vessels traveling between the Bahamas, the Florida Keys, or up the eastern seaboard.
Fort Pierce itself is a charming town known for its historical downtown, friendly atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. With a growing reputation as a hub for sport fishing, eco-tourism, and waterfront recreation, Fort Pierce offers more than just a beautiful backdrop for the Pelican Yacht Club — it enhances the overall experience.
State-of-the-Art Marina
At the heart of the Pelican Yacht Club is its modern, full-service marina, capable of accommodating vessels up to 130 feet in length. With over 90 slips, each equipped with water, electricity, and Wi-Fi, the marina is designed for both comfort and convenience. Whether you’re docking for a night, a season, or year-round, the facilities are maintained to the highest standard.
The marina also features high-speed fuel pumps, a pump-out station, 24-hour security, and professional dockhands available to assist with arrival and departure. These services ensure a seamless experience for boaters of all types, from seasoned cruisers to weekend sailors.
Amenities and Accommodations
The Pelican Yacht Club isn’t just a place to dock your boat — it’s a destination in itself. The clubhouse boasts a restaurant and lounge with panoramic views of the harbor, offering guests a place to unwind, socialize, or enjoy a fine meal. The menu often features fresh, locally caught seafood, classic American fare, and daily specials crafted by talented chefs.
Members and guests also have access to a variety of other amenities, including:
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Swimming pool with a sun deck
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Banquet and event spaces for weddings, reunions, and corporate functions
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Laundry and shower facilities for long-term guests
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Ship store stocked with boating essentials, snacks, and sundries
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Courtesy bicycles for exploring nearby attractions
The combination of these comforts with attentive service makes it easy to see why visitors return to PYC year after year.
Events and Community
One of the defining features of the Pelican Yacht Club is its strong sense of community. The club regularly hosts events that bring people together, from dockside happy hours to holiday parties, fishing tournaments, and cruising rendezvous. These gatherings foster friendships and create lasting memories for members and their families.
Perhaps most notably, the club is known for its Annual Billfish Tournament, a signature event that draws anglers from across the country. This multi-day tournament is not only a highlight of the local fishing calendar but also a major fundraiser for local charities, underscoring the club’s commitment to giving back to the community.
A Gateway to Adventure
Beyond its borders, the Pelican Yacht Club serves as a launchpad for exploration. The nearby Indian River Lagoon is one of the most biologically diverse estuaries in North America, offering fantastic opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife watching. Dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species are commonly spotted in these waters.
Offshore, the Atlantic Ocean offers world-class fishing grounds and opportunities for sailing, diving, and deep-sea exploration. Whether you’re looking to fish for mahi-mahi, dive shipwrecks, or simply cruise along the coastline, the options are limitless.
Sustainability and Stewardship
As a steward of the waterfront, the Pelican Yacht Club also places a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility. The club follows best practices for marine sustainability, including eco-friendly waste disposal, stormwater management, and efforts to minimize its ecological footprint. Educational programs and partnerships with local conservation groups help spread awareness among members and the wider boating community.
A Club for All Seasons
While many marinas cater to seasonal travelers, the Pelican Yacht Club is a year-round destination. The temperate climate of South Florida ensures that boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation are possible even in the winter months, making it an attractive location for snowbirds and liveaboard boaters.
The club also offers flexible membership options, including seasonal docking, reciprocal privileges with other yacht clubs, and short-term guest rates. This makes it easy for everyone — from long-time locals to visiting mariners — to find a place at PYC.
Looking to the Future
As the Pelican Yacht Club continues to grow and evolve, its mission remains clear: to provide a welcoming, world-class marina experience that celebrates the joy of life on the water. With new enhancements on the horizon, including potential marina expansion and upgraded amenities, the future looks bright for this treasured institution.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re passing through Fort Pierce on your way to the Caribbean, searching for a friendly marina to call home, or simply seeking a beautiful place to relax by the water, the Pelican Yacht Club stands ready to welcome you. Combining top-tier facilities, a warm community, and a stunning coastal setting, it’s no wonder the club has become a beloved hub for boaters from near and far.
At the Pelican Yacht Club, the journey begins the moment you dock.