the trouble with that mindset is that somebody has to do something first, even if it's one step in a series of incremental steps. [..]. taking the simplest foundational steps first at least means something actually happened, instead of endless talking about it
Yep, I actually agree here, as an experiment it's interesting.
However, the problem in my eyes is more the focus of the project - a solitary seastead home
always will need a State or at least a community near for essential services. In this case, it becomes fundamental that this community accepts your presence, which was something that seems to have been lacking in their plans which focused more on physical geography (climate, water depth etc.).
This is a more general critique I have for several "libertarian" projects, not only for Elwar. As I wrote I don't consider libertarian communities without a State impossible, but a lot of factors are often not taken into account.
It is not impossible, however, it would also need a type of protection that only a state can provide. Real military protection with soldiers willing to die to protect your liberty.