Flo,
I know for me that three adults and two large dogs in a 28' boat would lead to disaster, but maybe it will work for you. You have to decide that. I would suggest a back-up plan agreed in advance so there are no hurt feelings.
- What are the things that you HAVE to have on the boat and would die if you didn't have them?
Water. Replacing what you carry in tanks on your boat is important. You will want to have at least two good-sized jugs. Most cruisers have either 5 gallon plastic jugs or 3-to-4 gallon collapsible water "tanks." If the tankage on your boat is small, the collapsible tanks could be used directly on the boat. More is better although it does take room. My girlfriend and I can go about a week with 120 gallons on board cooking, cleaning, drinking, and rinsing off after swimming.
- How do you clean clothes?
Generally in laundromats, sometimes a local lady who takes in laundry, and in between with ammonia/fresh water (no detergent). The latter does not require a rinse and works very well.
- Are there any areas in the bahamas that we should avoid? and is it okay to bring a gun?
Unless you are particularly into casinos and watching cruise ship passengers I would avoid Nassau. I wouldn't be here myself if not to pick my girl friend up from the airport tomorrow. Guns are a subject in themselves of tremendous controversy. I'd suggest leaving them home unless you have a particularly good reason to have one aboard. If you do bring one I suggest your research include direct contact with Bahamian officials before you leave home to ensure all your information is in order.
- Is it going to be hell having two fairly large dogs?
I would think so. As others have noted, start on noonsite.com and then contact the appropriate Bahamian officials to avoid nasty surprises.
- Is it possible to catch enough fish to use for food, or will we have to buy meat on the islands? (I know we'll have to atleast buy rice and other things like it)
I think so, but you'll likely spend all your time fishing instead of exploring and enjoying yourselves. Note the ciguatera concerns already posted.
Even if the boat doesn't have a freezer you can bring some frozen meats in a cooler (more space) and eat them as they thaw.
Consider making space for paper goods (paper towels and toilet paper) which are quite expensive here and buying food like the locals eat which is cheaper than trying to eat like you do at home. If you plan to cook aboard (much cheaper than out) think through what you will really use and take just that. You probably only have one or two burners to work with and may not have an oven. Regardless you'll soon find yourself looking for ways to avoid heating up the boat. Definitely get a grill that mounts on the rail on deck and a small pot you can use on the grill for small sides. Don't forget oven mitts, pot holders, and/or dish towels - whatever you use for moving hot things about in the kitchen. You definitely need trivits to put hot pots on to avoid damaging the boat.
As others have noted, you'll avoid a lot of regulatory issues with the dogs if you go to the Keys vice the Bahamas. That said, those who have decried you for launching into an offshore bluewater adventure without sufficient experience are grossly overstating the case. The little hop from Miami or Ft Lauderdale to the Bahamas is simply NOT bluewater. It's an overnight sail that is extraordinarily well-documented and for which there are lots of weather resources available. Yes, you have to understand the effects of the Gulf Stream and the effects of wind speed,direction, and duration on the Gulf Stream but it isn't hard. Sailing up and down the coast won't really contribute to your understanding of it (although it might be a wise investment in knowing the boat, yourselves, and developing your skills).
You should spend time watching the weather forecasts and learning about weather. It's important no matter which course you choose. Good marine VHF radio communications is very important and a major safety item - a cell phone is NOT a substitute. Everyone onboard should be able to comfortably operate the radio. Get good charts - Explorer Charts are the gold standard for the Bahamas. Make sure you have good anchor equipment and know how to use it. Unfortunately there is more bad information on anchors and anchoring than good on the Internet and in sailing publications; sorting the wheat from the chaff is hard. In my own opinion with any of the major brands of anchor technique is more important than the anchor as long as it is sized reasonably. Again in my opinion if you do have to buy a new anchor it is wise to select one of the new generation ones (Rocna, Spade, or Raya). If you have a CQR, a Bruce, or a Delta and it is big enough you will generally be fine if you know how to use it effectively. A new gen anchor still won't hold you if you don't anchor properly - they are just better, not magic.
Look at that - guns, anchors, new sailors all in one thread. Isn't this fun?
Whatever you decide have a great time and enjoy yourselves.
sail fast and eat well, dave
S/V Auspicious
lying Nassau Bahamas
