RedactedNarrative: At approx. 0930 on 7/19/2018 a 38" Leppard sail boat  catches fire with two passengers on board.  The two occupants evacuated the vessel on board dingy and called Coast Guard on portable VHF radio. They were picked up by St Lucie County SO Marine Unit and transported the Coast Guard Station Ft Piere where they were met by EMT's. They were treated and released. 
  
  The operator stated that they were transiting from the Miami area to Ft Pierce.  He stated that he had engaged the auto pilot and moved forward on the vessel to lower the sail in preparation to enter the Ft Pierce Inlet.  He said at this time he noticed the smoke. The operator tried to open the hatch of the engine compartment but was unable to get the latch to open.  They deployed the dingy and a passenger got on board. The operator was able to grab a bag with belongings and pass it to a passenger and then joined her onboard.  A Mayday was called on the VHF emergency channel as they moved away from the vessel and the smoke turned to fire. He stated that Coast Guard  arrived a short time later as well as the Sheriff's boat a few moments after that.  By this time the boat was fully engulfed in flames.  The boat burned to water line and sank.