Squalls, Strangers, and a Surprise Rescue: A Solo Sailor’s Wild Day at Sea
Community
Jun 17, 2025
How a Live Location and the SeaPeople App Turned a Scary Storm into a Story of Connection
Sailing solo doesn’t always mean sailing alone. In this firsthand user story, connection, caution, and community collide in the middle of an unexpected storm. What started as a simple buddy boat arrangement turned into a dramatic experience filled with teamwork, tension—and a surprise rescue that shows just how powerful the SeaPeople app can be.
Making the First Connection
This journey began with a simple message—one sailor reaching out to another after spotting a live location in the SeaPeople app. The question was about protection in the anchorage, and the response led to a spontaneous plan to buddy boat through a potentially tricky cut.
"I had a guy message me and ask how the anchorage I was at was for protection. (he saw my live location) I warned him that it was not protected at all and super rolly..."
This moment of real-time, in-app communication led to what would become a deeply memorable shared experience.
Planning the Passage as SeaPeople
Despite having never met before, the two sailors agreed to take on the passage together. One offered to go first and radio back with conditions—an act of trust and support that set the tone for what came next.
"He thanked me and we discussed our plans for the cut. He offered to buddy boat across the passage with me and even go through the cut first and radio to me the conditions after…."
This cooperation is a perfect example of how SeaPeople facilitates spontaneous safety nets between sailors who care.
Calm Waters Before the Chaos
The crossing started off peacefully. Clear skies, light conversation, and easy sailing gave no hint of the storm that was building ahead.
"We met up and cruised together in calm conditions about 2 hours after an insane squall came through. The cut was no big deal and super calm, we realized we both were continuing the same way..."
Moments like these reflect why so many solo sailors rely on the SeaPeople network—to navigate not only the seas but also the unexpected.
Sailing Into the Storm
As any sailor knows, weather can change in an instant. For this user, the peaceful vibe quickly gave way to a harsh reality.
"All of the sudden the skies were grey and i smelt the rain coming (florida girl core). I was cruising at 5.5 kts and as soon as the storm hit us i immediately dropped to 0.6kts!!! The winds were blowing against us, swell picked up and had several crashes over the bow, pelting rain, thunder and the worst… lighting all around. The storm lasted for what felt like forever but was probably 30-45 mins."
Battling crashing swell, pelting rain, thunder, and surrounding lightning, the two SeaPeople sailors stuck close—turning a frightening situation into a shared experience.
Solo But Never Alone with SeaPeople
Even though both were technically sailing solo, the emotional and tactical support of having someone nearby made a huge difference.
"I was glad to have Paul there with me, we stayed super close to each other and just rode it out. Although we were both solo it felt like we had someone else with us and made it feel a little bit safer."
The SeaPeople platform thrives on exactly this kind of connection, people looking out for people, no matter the situation.
The Dinghy Rescue
Just when the storm seemed to be letting up, something unexpected cut across the user’s path—a small dinghy heading straight for her bow in rough waters.
"Now here’s the crazy part…. I was about a mile from the anchorage i was heading towards, the storm had just started letting up but still coming down and all the sudden i see a DINGHY coming across our bow. I began filming and thinking what in the heck is this person doing out in these conditions… As the dinghy got closer and closer... I realize[d] ITS MY FRIEND ALFRED. This psycho saw my live track on the app where I was getting spun around and barely moving and came out to check on me🫶🏻."
Thanks to the live tracking feature in the app, Alfred noticed Lexi was in trouble and came out in stormy conditions to check on her. That’s not just helpful—that’s community.
(P.S. Lexi and Alfred also met via the SeaPeople app)
Why the SeaPeople App Matters
This story proves what SeaPeople is all about: solo sailors becoming part of a wider, caring network of ocean lovers.
"Although i’m solo right now I feel very blessed to have people who care and check in (even in absolutely crazy ways😅) and super thankful for this app on bringing sailors together ⛵️🙌🏼🩷"
From pre-storm planning to in-storm support to post-storm surprises, SeaPeople turns chance encounters into meaningful connections.
You can check out Lexi's profile for more of her great adventures!
Want to Sail with a Safety Net? Join SeaPeople
Whether you're looking for real-time advice, a buddy for a tricky passage, or just the comfort of knowing someone is keeping an eye out—SeaPeople is the app that makes it possible. Start tracking, connecting, and sharing your journey with a community that gets it.
