Bill Boes’ Pedal-Boat Crossing from Bimini to Florida Halted by Severe Storm

If not for a violent thunderstorm, Bill Boes of Stuart, Florida, would have completed a record-setting journey by pedal boat from Bimini across the Straits of Florida to South Florida. What began as a determined, human-powered crossing ended when a sudden, savage storm forced Boes to accept rescue just a few miles short of his goal.

The attempt started early on Saturday morning at the Bimini Big Game Club in Alice Town. Boes set off in his Stella Mae, a compact 12-foot pedal boat, determined to cover the open-water distance under his own power. He pedaled for hours in intense heat and sun, accompanied by friends and supporters sailing nearby to provide backup and safety oversight.

By that evening, after a long day of effort and persistence, Boes had closed to within about 10 miles of Pompano Beach and the South Florida shoreline. He had already overcome considerable personal challenges: Boes lives with asthma, has one kidney and contends with arthritis. Had he finished, he would have become the oldest person to cross the Straits of Florida by pedal boat, establishing an inspiring milestone for human-powered boating.

As the day wore on, weather conditions deteriorated quickly. “It got worse and worse,” Boes said of the storm that struck. The thunderstorm produced violent winds, choppy seas and driving rain that made continuing impossible and dangerous for a lone pedal-boater on a small, open craft. Concerned for his safety, the crew aboard the sailboat shadowing Buoyes made the decision to bring him aboard and end the crossing attempt.

Although the world-record aspiration was cut short, Boes’ goals transcended personal achievement. He set out to raise public awareness about human-powered vehicles and to collect donations for the House of Hope, an organization that provides food, support and essential services to people in need throughout Martin County, Florida. The effort was intended as both a physical challenge and a fundraiser, highlighting how simple, human-powered craft can inspire community support and charitable giving.

Those who followed the event or supported Boes praised his determination and the safety-first decision by his support team. The sailboat crew’s timely choice to bring him aboard under worsening conditions prevented a potentially dangerous situation and underscored the importance of careful planning and backup support for long, open-water human-powered trips.

Boes’ attempt also highlights the unpredictable nature of sea crossings, even on relatively short routes between islands and mainland. Weather can change rapidly, and adequate support, communication and contingency plans are critical for anyone undertaking similar challenges, whether for sport, awareness or charity.

If you want to support the cause or learn more about Bill Boes’ Pedal to Bimini challenge, you can search for the “Pedal to Bimini” Facebook page or contact Debra Scott at (561) 318-1271 for information on donations and follow-up events. The effort generated local media attention, and TV news reports covered the attempt and the story of his rescue as the storm moved in.

While the record attempt ended prematurely, Boes’ courage and commitment remain noteworthy. His pedal-boat crossing illustrated the power of community support, careful preparation and respect for weather and sea conditions. For now, the record will have to wait, but the campaign’s goals—raising awareness for human-powered vehicles and supporting the House of Hope—continue to resonate with friends, donors and supporters who followed the journey.