FLORIDA TO BAHAMAS โ๏ธ Gulf Stream Crossings
Here is a quick overview of why the ruleย “go 25 miles or so south of your intended Bahamas destination”ย in order to cross the Gulf Stream.
Northerly winds will make the crossing very uncomfortable; as the wind against current create short steep nasty waves – wait for no winds or light easterlies for a more comfortable ride
If you plan on Sailing look forย S or SW winds
Tides and Currents
WINDS
Gulf Stream Crossings to The Bahamas
Because of the Gulf Streamโs north-setting current, most cruisers prioritize making as much southing as possible along the U.S. East Coast before crossing. From South Florida, itโs just a day hop across the Gulf Stream to reach the first islands of The Bahamas. This route follows the typical snowbird cruising path, as outlined by Van Sandt in A Gentlemanโs Guide to Passages South. It allows for travel within the ICW or limits to manageable day hops offshore.
The Strategy for a Smooth Crossing
The general advice is to get as far south as possible before making the crossing. The farther south you start, the easier the crossing and the more route options youโll have. Slower vessels benefit most from this approach. For instance, leaving from Key Largo with a moderate southeasterly breeze โ a common forecast โ allows you to take advantage of a more favorable heading and the Gulf Streamโs flow instead of fighting against it.
Chris Parker of the Marine Weather Center identifies two primary crossing zones: the North and South Crossing Areas. These terms are widely used in marine forecasts, even if you donโt use his services (though theyโre highly recommended).
North Crossing Area
The North Crossing Area spans the track from West Palm Beach (Lake Worth Inlet) to West End, Grand Bahama โ a route roughly 56 nautical miles east.
Common departure points include:
- Farther north: St. Lucie Inlet or Fort Pierce Inlet, often with crossings targeting the Abacos.
- Farther south: Departures from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, with direct routes to Grand Bahama or the Abacos.
Once on Grand Bahamaโs southwest corner, itโs an easy passage through the Northwest Providence Channel toward the Berry Islands or Nassau.
South Crossing Area
The South Crossing Area typically covers the route from Fort Lauderdale or Miami directly to Bimini, about 46 nautical miles east of Key Biscayne. This is the shortest crossing from Florida to The Bahamas.
Other options include:
- Departing Key Largo or the Florida Keys: These routes lead to Bimini or South Riding Rock, opening paths toward Andros, the Berry Islands, Nassau, and the Exumas.
- Continuing to North Crossing zones: A route to Grand Bahama or the Abacos is also possible from this area.
FLEET UPDATE 2025-01-19
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NAVILY SPONSORS ๐ THE OCEAN POSSE
NAVILY HAS 1,000,000 uSERS
NAVILY / NAVILY APP Key Features:
Navilyโs three pillarsโCommunity, Social, and Marinasโshape a global platform that connects boaters and marinas, inspiring a spirit of solidarity thatโs as vast as the seas they navigate.
Feature 1: Information on anchorages and marinas
The first thing people do on Navily is consult information about anchorages and marinas. A simple map shows points of interest which you can click on to have access to the destinationโs page. On this page youโll find all relevant information added by users along the years through pictures and reviews.
Feature 2: Contribute to Navily
Canโt find the anchorage where youโre comfortably anchored on the map? No problemโjust add it! Snap a photo, leave a review, and share details about the seabed, wind and swell protection, and nearby amenities.
As you explore new destinations, keep enriching the map with photos, reviews, and corrections.
Feature 3: Berth Booking with select marinas
On Navily you can book a berth in 3 clicks in over a thousand marinas around the world. Last year it was over 400 000 nights that were booked through our app. By providing marinas and boaters with an easy to use system for booking, we have revolutionized the way people approach their boating experience, answering a big problematic question : the hassle of planning your boating holiday itinerary.
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TRAVERSING FRENCH POLYNESIA
TRAVERSING FRENCH POLYNESIA WITHOUT A LONG STAY VISA
MARQUESAS
<!– heading north –>
[leafext-divicon lat=-9.35 lng=-140.15 text=”This is a text.” width=100 height=50 classname=leaflet-div-icon2]
TUAMOTUS
SOCIETY ISLANDS
FLEET UPDATE 2025-01-12
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Phoenix Islands
PROTECTED AREA
Exploring the Phoenix Islands: Kiribatiโs Hidden Gem
Introduction
Nestled in the heart of the central Pacific Ocean, the Phoenix Islands Protected Area (PIPA) is a sprawling marine sanctuary under the jurisdiction of Kiribati. Covering an area of over 400,000 square kilometers, it is one of the largest marine conservation areas in the world. This remarkable cluster of atolls and coral islands represents a pristine marine wilderness, teeming with biodiversity and offering a glimpse into what the oceans might have looked like before human impact.
For sailors and explorers, the Phoenix Islands embody the spirit of discoveryโremote, untouched, and brimming with natural wonders. This guide takes a closer look at the islands, their ecological significance, their allure for cruisers, and practical tips for navigating these waters.
Geography and Overview
The Phoenix Islands are part of Kiribati, a nation spanning vast distances across the Pacific Ocean. The archipelago consists of eight main islands and several underwater seamounts. These islands are largely uninhabited, with the exception of a small presence on Kanton Island, which serves as the administrative hub of the region.
Key Islands in the Phoenix Group:
- Kanton Island: The largest and only inhabited island in the group, Kanton is a coral atoll with a central lagoon. It serves as a waypoint for trans-Pacific sailors.
- Rawaki Island: Also known as Phoenix Island, this is a small, low-lying island known for its bird populations.
- Manra Island: A former copra plantation site, this island features a brackish lagoon surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Orona Island: Known for its coconut palms and central lagoon, Orona is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Nikumaroro Island: Famous for its association with the Amelia Earhart mystery, this island is a compelling stop for history buffs.
- Birnie Island: A small, uninhabited island offering nesting grounds for seabirds.
- McKean Island: A haven for seabirds and known for its large population of hermit crabs.
- Enderbury Island: Once a guano mining site, this island is now a tranquil haven for wildlife.
PROTECTED AREA
Challenges and Sustainability
Exploring the Phoenix Islands comes with challenges that require careful consideration:
Environmental Impact
Visitors must adhere to strict guidelines to minimize their ecological footprint. Anchoring on coral reefs, leaving trash, or disturbing wildlife is prohibited.
Supply Limitations
Given the lack of infrastructure, yachts must carry ample provisions, fuel, and water. Desalination systems and solar panels are invaluable for extended stays.
Communication
Starlink or HF Radio communication is essential, as there is no cellular network coverage. Emergency equipment and a solid contingency plan are critical.
- Timing: Plan visits during the dry season (May to October) for calmer seas and favorable winds.
- Gear: Equip your vessel with high-quality charts, a reliable dinghy, and snorkeling or diving gear.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Engage respectfully with local inhabitants on Kanton Island. Learning a few phrases in Gilbertese can go a long way.
- Emergency Preparedness: Carry a medical kit, spare parts, and a detailed plan for handling emergencies in this remote area.
The Call of the Phoenix Islands
For those who yearn for uncharted waters and the thrill of true maritime adventure, the Phoenix Islands are an irresistible destination. Their isolation, natural beauty, and ecological significance make them a bucket-list destination for sailors and explorers alike. As stewards of the seas, visitors have a responsibility to preserve this pristine wilderness for future generations.
In the words of ancient mariners, the Phoenix Islands embody the spirit of the oceanโvast, mysterious, and profoundly beautiful. Answer the call of these remote shores and embark on a journey that few have undertaken, but many will envy.
FLORIDA TO PANAMA
FLORIDA TO PANAMA
FLORIDA TO PANAMA VIA THE WINDWARD PASSAGE
- Distance: Approximately 1,300โ1,500 nautical miles, depending on stops.
- Sailing Time: 12โ18 days non-stop, but most cruisers spend several weeks exploring.
- Best Season: November to May (Caribbean dry season, avoiding hurricane risks).
Key Waypoints and Recommended Stops
1. Bahamas
- Route Options: Cross the Gulf Stream from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini or sail to Grand Bahama (West End) as your first stop.
- Highlights:
- Bimini: Gateway to the Bahamas, with crystal-clear waters.
- Exumas: Stunning chain of islands with protected anchorages and excellent snorkeling.
- Georgetown (Great Exuma): A cruiser hub for provisioning and socializing.
- Navigation Note: Shallow waters and coral reefs require careful planning and daylight navigation.
2. Turks and Caicos
- Why Stop: Providenciales offers great provisioning and marina facilities, while the surrounding waters boast incredible diving and fishing.
- Anchorages: Sapodilla Bay (calm and protected).
- Tip: Check customs and immigration requirements for stopping here.
3. The Windward Passage (Between Cuba and Haiti)
- Why Sail This Route:
- Offers a direct and open-water route to the western Caribbean.
- Favorable NE trade winds often provide a beam reach or downwind sailing.
- Navigation Note:
- The Windward Passage is wide and deep, but currents and winds can funnel through, causing rough seas in adverse weather.
- Timing your passage with settled conditions is key.
4. Jamaica (Optional Stop)
- Key Ports: Port Antonio (Errol Flynn Marina) or Montego Bay.
- Why Stop: Jamaica offers a mix of vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and secure marinas.
- Tip: Port Antonio is particularly cruiser-friendly and a good place to rest and refuel.
5. Cayman Islands (Optional Stop)
- Why Stop: Grand Cayman is a great place for provisioning, diving, and resting in protected anchorages like Seven Mile Beach.
- Navigation Note: Anchorages can be exposed to northerlies, so plan accordingly.
6. Providencia or San Andrรฉs (Colombia)
- Why Stop: These islands are gems of the Caribbean with friendly locals, calm anchorages, and excellent snorkeling.
- Tips:
- Providencia is quieter and more laid-back.
- San Andrรฉs is better for provisioning and fuel.
7. Bocas del Toro, Panama
- Why Stop: A cruiser favorite for its protected waters, vibrant culture, and nearby provisioning. Bocas also serves as a great staging area for preparing to approach the Panama Canal.
Key Considerations
- Weather:
- NE trade winds dominate; youโll likely enjoy consistent downwind or beam-reach sailing.
- Watch for cold fronts coming off the U.S. that can affect the Windward Passage and surrounding areas.
- Currents:
- The Gulf Stream runs northward and must be crossed carefully from Fort Lauderdale.
- The Windward Passage has strong currents; timing your passage is crucial.
- Customs and Immigration:
- Check entry requirements for the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. Each country has different procedures for arriving yachts.
- Fuel and Provisioning:
- Stock up in major ports like Nassau, Georgetown (Exumas), or Providenciales.
- Fuel may be limited or expensive in smaller islands.
FLORIDA TO PANAMA VIA THE YUCATAN CHANNEL / AKAย AGAINST THE GULFSTREAM
Route Overview
- Distance: Approximately 1,200-1,400 nautical miles, depending on the route and stops.
- Sailing Time: 10โ14 days of continuous sailing, though most cruisers take 4โ6 weeks or more to enjoy stops along the way.
- Best Season: November to May (dry season in the Caribbean) to avoid hurricane risks and enjoy favorable trade winds.
Key Waypoints and Recommended Stops
1. Biscayne Bay, Miami, FL
- Why Stop: Explore vibrant Miami and provision in a well-stocked city. Biscayne Bay offers a protected anchorage.
- Activities: Visit South Beach, the art deco district, and local marine supply stores.
- Tip: Avoid the busy shipping channels around Miami.
2. Florida Keys
- Marinas and Anchorages: Key Largo, Marathon (Boot Key Harbor), and Key West.
- Why Stop: Experience the laid-back atmosphere, excellent snorkeling, and fishing.
- Navigation Note: Shallow waters require careful charting.
3. Dry Tortugas, FL
- Why Stop: Remote and stunning national park with pristine beaches, snorkeling, and historical Fort Jefferson.
- Provisioning: Limited; ensure you’re well-stocked.
- Navigation Note: Anchorages can be rolly; watch for weather.
4. Isla Mujeres, Mexico
- Why Stop: A great international port of entry with vibrant local culture, clear waters, and a popular yacht destination.
- Tip: Ensure all paperwork for clearing into Mexico is ready in advance.
5. Belize Barrier Reef
- Why Stop: Explore the worldโs second-largest barrier reef, with stunning coral islands like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.
- Navigation Note: Reef navigation requires caution and good daylight.
6. Rio Dulce, Guatemala (Optional Detour)
- Why Stop: A unique inland river experience with protected anchorages and lush jungle surroundings.
- Tip: The entry through Livingston requires careful timing due to shallow depths.
7. Bay Islands, Honduras
- Key Stops: Roatรกn, Utila, and Guanaja.
- Why Stop: Excellent diving and vibrant local culture.
- Navigation Note: Monitor local weather and safety conditions.
8. Providencia or San Andrรฉs (Colombia)
- Why Stop: Quaint islands with a mix of Colombian and Caribbean charm. Friendly locals and stunning waters.
- Tip: Ideal for provisioning and enjoying shore leave.
9. Bocas del Toro, Panama
- Why Stop: A cruiser-friendly haven with vibrant expat communities, calm waters, and nearby provisioning.
- Tip: Use this as a base for staging before heading toward the Panama Canal.
Approaching the Panama Canal
- Balboa or Colรณn: Two key entry points for the Panama Canal.
- Shelter Bay Marina (near Colรณn): A popular choice for preparing to transit the canal. Offers good facilities, provisioning, and access to canal agents.
- Panama City: If entering from the Pacific side, La Playita Marina or Flamenco Marina are excellent staging points.
Key Considerations
- Weather: Monitor the Caribbean trade winds (typically NE) and avoid adverse conditions such as strong northerlies in the Yucatรกn Channel.
- Paperwork: Ensure up-to-date documentation, including passports, vessel registration, insurance, and any required cruising permits.
- Fuel and Provisioning: Stock up in larger ports like Fort Lauderdale, Key West, or Isla Mujeres, as supplies can be limited and costly in smaller stops.
ABC'S to COLOMBIA
ABC’S to COLOMBIA
this is a downwind run – fast and furious
Route Overview
Distance: Approximately 350 nautical miles
Estimated Duration: 2โ4 days, depending on weather, vessel speed, and stopovers
Route Highlights:
- Aruba’s protected leeward coast
- The open Caribbean Sea crossing
- Venezuelan Waters – don’t get too close
- Santa Marta’s dramatic Sierra Nevada backdrop
Weather Considerations
- Trade Winds:
The prevailing northeast trade winds (15โ25 knots) will likely be on the beam or quarter. Expect steady winds but prepare for gusts.
They can pipe up to 35 knots – accidental gibes and risk of rig breaksย due to heavy sea state and winds. - Seas:
The waters ill be choppy, with swells ranging from 4โ8 feet. It can become rough near the Guajira Peninsula due to accelerated winds.
You can expect up to 12 – 15 foot seas and massive following seas
- Season:
- Best time: November to May
- Caution: JuneโOctober is hurricane season. Though storms skew north of thi route
rare in this region, the sea can be unpredictable with squalls and lightning
Route Planning
- Departure from Aruba:
- Depart from Oranjestad or Barcadera during daylight.
- Clear customs and immigration before leaving.
- Open Crossing:
- Stay south to avoid the rougher central Caribbean.
- Monitor weather updates for squalls.
- Guajira Peninsula:
- The region can have strong katabatic winds and high seas.
- Approach with caution; night passages are not recommended.
- Arrival in Santa Marta:
- Santa Marta Marina provides excellent facilities and a secure anchorage.
- Clear customs and immigration upon arrival.
PILOT CHARTS FOR THIS ROUTE
ย WEATHER
CURRENTS
SWELL AND WAVESย
PANAMA - GALAPAGOS
- Best Time to Sail:
- December to May: This period corresponds to the warm season in the Galรกpagos, with calmer seas and more predictable winds.
- Look for stronger northerlies bloing across the isthmus of Panam to head South – they develop in Mid January through Mid March
- June to November: Expect cooler waters and stronger currents due to the Humboldt Current, along with a higher chance of overcast skies.
- Avoid the ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone):
- The ITCZ lies north of the equator and can bring light, variable winds, thunderstorms, and squalls. Monitor forecasts to avoid prolonged doldrums.
Winds
- Trade Winds:
- Expect light to moderate northeast trade winds near Panama.
- As you cross the equator, winds can shift or become variable.
- Galรกpagos Convergence:
- Winds near the islands are generally light and may require motoring.
Ocean Currents
- Panama Current:
- Eastward-flowing, opposing your path. It can slow your progress.
- Humboldt Current:
- A cold, southward-flowing current near the Galรกpagos that can enhance sailing speeds if properly leveraged.
- Equatorial Countercurrent:
- A westward-flowing current that supports your passage after crossing the Panama Current.
Challenges
- Light Winds:
- Motoring may be necessary for parts of the journey, especially near the equator. Carry extra fuel.
- Squalls:
- Common in the ITCZ; prepare for heavy rain and sudden gusts.
- Navigation:
- Approach the Galรกpagos cautiously. Numerous islands and rocky outcrops require precise plotting.
ย WEATHER
CURRENTS
SWELL AND WAVESย
FLEET UPDATE 2025-01-05
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