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How to Sail from USA to Caribbean

17 September 2023 · 2h 4m · 110K views

What this video covers

Cruising from the U.S. East Coast to the Eastern Caribbean requires navigating the "thorny path" against prevailing easterly winds and currents.3:29 This route demands careful timing to avoid the June 1 to December 1 hurricane season, often necessitating stops in hurricane holes like Luperon, Dominican Republic, or positioning south of St. Vincent.4:58 Beginners should prioritize cruising over racing, focusing on comfort and boat preservation rather than speed.8:44 The route typically involves island-hopping through the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and Puerto Rico.0:12

Essential gear for this passage includes a fixed VHF radio, an AIS transceiver like the Vesper XB8000 for collision avoidance, and reliable communication tools such as a Garmin inReach Mini or local SIM cards for internet access.27:44 While digital navigation apps like Navily and No Foreign Land provide updated anchorage information, sailors should maintain proficiency in reading charts. Practical logistics, including laundry services and water replenishment, are readily available at larger Bahamian islands.24:47 The "I-65" route offers a more direct, wind-wise alternative for those seeking a faster transit to the USVI, BVI, or St. Martin.9:48

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