Route from FL to the Caribbean?

Jul 27, 2011
4,989
Bavaria 38E Alamitos Bay
Seeing that SBO regularly receives requests regarding yachts “suitable” for sailing to the Caribbean from the US, I’m curious about the routes folks who make this trek use. The one I’ve seen most often mentioned, out of Ft Lauderdale, involves 5 to 6 days sailing hard on an east wind before bearing off toward the islands (Lesser Antilles). I imagine true wind in the 15 to 20 knot range, maybe more. I would think a cutter rig would be highly desired, but I don’t see folks specifically recommending one. Are there other good routes? Better ones perhaps?
 
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