Hey everybody! We hope that all are doing well and warming up with the season's change. About 3 years ago, Steph and I made our first nonstop distance passage (259 nm) from Tarpon Springs to the Dry Tortugas. We have received quite a few e-mails about our travels, so we thought that this repost of one of the logs from that trip might give you some more insight on cruising in a smaller vessel... and not to mention the incentive to get out there! Enjoy! Steph and Brian
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Thanks
Really enjoy your posts. What you've done with your 25.5 is great. Karen and I use our h23 as a mini cruiser as well. Although so far only on the area lakes. We are going down to San Carlos Mex. in mid May for about a week, really getting excited. I plan on stealing your shower platform idea if that's alright. Once again thanks for taking the time to show us all the "other" side of life. Dave h23 "Wind Dreamer"
Really enjoy your posts. What you've done with your 25.5 is great. Karen and I use our h23 as a mini cruiser as well. Although so far only on the area lakes. We are going down to San Carlos Mex. in mid May for about a week, really getting excited. I plan on stealing your shower platform idea if that's alright. Once again thanks for taking the time to show us all the "other" side of life. Dave h23 "Wind Dreamer"
Post your logs...
Ahhh, Mexico! sounds like a great trip! ...we really enjoy reading other's log postings, so if you can, take some pics for us to enjoy that journey as well. We'll be looking forward to it! Fair winds!
Ahhh, Mexico! sounds like a great trip! ...we really enjoy reading other's log postings, so if you can, take some pics for us to enjoy that journey as well. We'll be looking forward to it! Fair winds!
Keep up the great input.
Did the website describing your cruising experiences ever happen? Were your Bahama pics lost with the computer crash you mentioned? We're consuming all the current input on cruising that we can find for an upcoming 1-2yr work sabatical to cruise the carribbean and east coast. Your compact lifestyle and attention to detail have surely enlightened you in the areas of what's needed/whats not and what you would do differently. Thoughts on your favorite spots and those to avoid are a great help too. We hope to take the highlights of other cruisers recent experiences and follow through instead of regretting the indefinate delays that life delivers. Thanks for sharing your time and input. Michael
Did the website describing your cruising experiences ever happen? Were your Bahama pics lost with the computer crash you mentioned? We're consuming all the current input on cruising that we can find for an upcoming 1-2yr work sabatical to cruise the carribbean and east coast. Your compact lifestyle and attention to detail have surely enlightened you in the areas of what's needed/whats not and what you would do differently. Thoughts on your favorite spots and those to avoid are a great help too. We hope to take the highlights of other cruisers recent experiences and follow through instead of regretting the indefinate delays that life delivers. Thanks for sharing your time and input. Michael
ides, ideas, ideas...
Keep 'em coming Brian. I'm getting more ideas for our 25.5 than the admiral will probably go along with. Looks like Empty Pockets has a shoal keel as is ours. I've found ours to be fast, points high and feels solid. Do you have any comments on the shoal keel version? Have you sailed the fin keel version?
Keep 'em coming Brian. I'm getting more ideas for our 25.5 than the admiral will probably go along with. Looks like Empty Pockets has a shoal keel as is ours. I've found ours to be fast, points high and feels solid. Do you have any comments on the shoal keel version? Have you sailed the fin keel version?
Bahamas trip photos...
Hey Michael, I have most of the Bahamas pics on disk now. We had them rescued from the hard drive, but have not had the opportunity to resize them (again) and post them. It is much easier to make the small log entries on the Hunterowners site than to try and post 110+ pics... as for the website, our intentions were to start a site detailing our voyages, but it became a 'casualty of time' before we left... although we have kept a very detailed log of our voyages and DO plan to one day have a site where one can view the summation of our journeys, including the various upgrades, refits, etc, along the way. To answer the question about our favorite places, most are in Florida. I can get a detailed e-mail to you if you would like. What size boat are you guys sailing?
Hey Michael, I have most of the Bahamas pics on disk now. We had them rescued from the hard drive, but have not had the opportunity to resize them (again) and post them. It is much easier to make the small log entries on the Hunterowners site than to try and post 110+ pics... as for the website, our intentions were to start a site detailing our voyages, but it became a 'casualty of time' before we left... although we have kept a very detailed log of our voyages and DO plan to one day have a site where one can view the summation of our journeys, including the various upgrades, refits, etc, along the way. To answer the question about our favorite places, most are in Florida. I can get a detailed e-mail to you if you would like. What size boat are you guys sailing?
Shoal draft vs. Fin...
Hey Bill, Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to sail the 'fin' version (although I am looking for the opportunity in the near future.) My experience with the 'shoal' version is the same as yours. We modified our keel a bit (see the article titled "25.5 stern rehab" in the photo/project section)and you can get a bit of detail about it there. Cruising the way we do, I'm not sure that 'fin' version would work for us as we venture into some pretty shallow waters at times (Bahamas, FL Keys, etc.)
Hey Bill, Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to sail the 'fin' version (although I am looking for the opportunity in the near future.) My experience with the 'shoal' version is the same as yours. We modified our keel a bit (see the article titled "25.5 stern rehab" in the photo/project section)and you can get a bit of detail about it there. Cruising the way we do, I'm not sure that 'fin' version would work for us as we venture into some pretty shallow waters at times (Bahamas, FL Keys, etc.)
Glad you rescued your photos
Ahh time to build web pages should take a second place to sailing or prep time. For over a year we've been trailering an H240 all over Fla with a Fall/Winter plan to upgrade to the 30' range for Spring 2007 gulf coast/keys/eastcoast cruising. Had to smile when you said you venture into shallow waters. I think of your low tide shot from the Boca Grande area(?) with the boat totally aground. Thats one shallow water boat
. Been there/done that. We're listed in the owner directory. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Aloha, Michael and Kelli
Ahh time to build web pages should take a second place to sailing or prep time. For over a year we've been trailering an H240 all over Fla with a Fall/Winter plan to upgrade to the 30' range for Spring 2007 gulf coast/keys/eastcoast cruising. Had to smile when you said you venture into shallow waters. I think of your low tide shot from the Boca Grande area(?) with the boat totally aground. Thats one shallow water boat
. Been there/done that. We're listed in the owner directory. Thanks for sharing your experiences. Aloha, Michael and Kelli...that was totally Steph's fault!!
...hey, I can't help it when the depthfinder goes on the fritz! ;-P One of these days, Steph is going to lock me in the cabin until I do complete the website... the problem is I am running out of excuses, especially when we have time to kill waiting for the next tide to come up and free us from the shallows... Truth be told, it occurred in Pelican Bay behind Cayo Costa... if you've ever been there, you find out real quick that there are many mounds in the anchorage. We had put out about 70' of chain and when the tide changed we swung over the top of one. We had gone exploring in the manatee cove when E.P. went aground. Cooking dinner on a 25 degree angle was a real challenge, but in the end, we were better for the experience.
...hey, I can't help it when the depthfinder goes on the fritz! ;-P One of these days, Steph is going to lock me in the cabin until I do complete the website... the problem is I am running out of excuses, especially when we have time to kill waiting for the next tide to come up and free us from the shallows... Truth be told, it occurred in Pelican Bay behind Cayo Costa... if you've ever been there, you find out real quick that there are many mounds in the anchorage. We had put out about 70' of chain and when the tide changed we swung over the top of one. We had gone exploring in the manatee cove when E.P. went aground. Cooking dinner on a 25 degree angle was a real challenge, but in the end, we were better for the experience.
Being aground makes for a long day
I've been to pelican bay/cabbage key/cayo Costa many times beginning in the 60's, it's one of our favorite spots. It's not as private as when I was kid but still nice. Charlotte Harbor/Punta Gorda to BG is really becoming something of a newly discovered cruising destination with the hurricane repairs in full swing and so many nice anchorages and new charter operations. I'm just not buyin' the eqt failure story. Maybe the captain's attention to detail was somewhat distracted by the superior complexity of the equiptment. Don't blame the eqt or Steph's gonna buy you a weighted line for a depth finder. Keep up the good work. Aloha, Michael and Kelli
I've been to pelican bay/cabbage key/cayo Costa many times beginning in the 60's, it's one of our favorite spots. It's not as private as when I was kid but still nice. Charlotte Harbor/Punta Gorda to BG is really becoming something of a newly discovered cruising destination with the hurricane repairs in full swing and so many nice anchorages and new charter operations. I'm just not buyin' the eqt failure story. Maybe the captain's attention to detail was somewhat distracted by the superior complexity of the equiptment
. Don't blame the eqt or Steph's gonna buy you a weighted line for a depth finder. Keep up the good work. Aloha, Michael and Kelli...looking over my shoulder, she is!
...she just added that I will be the one tied to the end of the line as the "weight"... Heck! I might even make a good mooring! Good Grief!
...she just added that I will be the one tied to the end of the line as the "weight"... Heck! I might even make a good mooring! Good Grief!
Your best improvements?
Brian The shoe on your keel seems like an excellent idea in Fla as are the improvements to your entire transom area(among many others). Being a guy I tend to think mechanical improvements while my admiral appriciates subtle improvements/provisions that I may overlook. Translation: Being a hammerhead I tend to grumble when Kelli adds stuff that I later have to humbly admit were great additions. I'm sure you are more sensitive to input from a cruising mate that will go longterm on a 25.5, so has there been anything in particular that Steph has recognized that you missed. You also seem to have a host of complex systems onboard. Do you have a top 2 or 3 improvements to date. The longer you cruise what things have you found uneeded that seemed important at first. Aloha, Michael
Brian The shoe on your keel seems like an excellent idea in Fla as are the improvements to your entire transom area(among many others). Being a guy I tend to think mechanical improvements while my admiral appriciates subtle improvements/provisions that I may overlook. Translation: Being a hammerhead I tend to grumble when Kelli adds stuff that I later have to humbly admit were great additions. I'm sure you are more sensitive to input from a cruising mate that will go longterm on a 25.5, so has there been anything in particular that Steph has recognized that you missed. You also seem to have a host of complex systems onboard. Do you have a top 2 or 3 improvements to date. The longer you cruise what things have you found uneeded that seemed important at first. Aloha, Michael
Abaco, sounds great
Endless power/protection from the elements/addl sq footage and strength on the stern. An excellent top 3 that seems to be a classic cruising list for anyone. As compact living goes you surely have provided a model use of every sq inch. Your careful, practical choices in improving EP are attainable even by those with a modest budget and an attention to detail. We are looking forward to extended cruising but our current boat is only a step in that direction. Our 240 does many things well but stays in sight of land and goes upwind/uphill really well at about 60mph (behind the truck) So we are locked into coastal sailing for about another 9mths until the upgrade. We're currently sailing in 3-5 day stints all over the state but mostly the lower fl west coast, Tpa to Boca where I’ve been all my life. You guys are both ingenious and an inspiration. A perfect combination. Thanks for sharing your photo journals so freely. All the best, Michael and Kelli.
Endless power/protection from the elements/addl sq footage and strength on the stern. An excellent top 3 that seems to be a classic cruising list for anyone. As compact living goes you surely have provided a model use of every sq inch. Your careful, practical choices in improving EP are attainable even by those with a modest budget and an attention to detail. We are looking forward to extended cruising but our current boat is only a step in that direction. Our 240 does many things well but stays in sight of land and goes upwind/uphill really well at about 60mph (behind the truck)
So we are locked into coastal sailing for about another 9mths until the upgrade. We're currently sailing in 3-5 day stints all over the state but mostly the lower fl west coast, Tpa to Boca where I’ve been all my life. You guys are both ingenious and an inspiration. A perfect combination. Thanks for sharing your photo journals so freely. All the best, Michael and Kelli.OK Guys
What's the lowdown on small boats and Florida? I'm in a 240, like Mike, but up north around Chesapeake Bay, and am seriously considering a visit - without the trailer. I think she does just fine in most conditions but don't want to bite off more than I can safely chew. Is this boat up to the challenge of running down the ICW and the Florida coast? I'll save the crossing to Abacos for another day. Thoughts?
What's the lowdown on small boats and Florida? I'm in a 240, like Mike, but up north around Chesapeake Bay, and am seriously considering a visit - without the trailer. I think she does just fine in most conditions but don't want to bite off more than I can safely chew. Is this boat up to the challenge of running down the ICW and the Florida coast? I'll save the crossing to Abacos for another day. Thoughts?
Every boat has its niche
Hey Drew I'm sure that some will say you could go anywhere. But the risk in the 240 is too high for me if the weather comes unglued, and it eventually will. I know you said inside the ICW but to get all the needed gear onboard and rigged for such a ride would be really pushing this WB trailer boat way past it's lightweight design limits. If you got caught in a bad blow it's not a brute but a lightweight WB weekender. Brian and Stephs boat seems to really be a fine example of a stout, capable, smallish cruiser with the safety margin to get you home or at least survive a pounding if you totally screw up. They have done an unbelievably through job to get it there without just going bigger, tougher and way expensive. Our 240's design on the other hand shines as a trailer boat that can take you to our many beaches/bays/rivers and even many where brian and steph can't go. Like dozens of interior lakes in fla or under an 8' fixed span bridge(been there) or anchored right against the beach for a bbq or through a 20" deep swash channel or (my favorite)eaisily upwind at 60mph to the next great spot Brian has refined the standard for the efficient moderate sized cruiser. Envy and Kudos from me. But Drew, I say pack light, get that 240 on the trailer and come on down, Fla awaits. We're at our best Nov-May otherwise only the toughest survive our summer heat and the all too often hurricanes. Start a new thread on your 240's ability, you'll get some input. Michael 2000 H240 "Bonafide"
Hey Drew I'm sure that some will say you could go anywhere. But the risk in the 240 is too high for me if the weather comes unglued, and it eventually will. I know you said inside the ICW but to get all the needed gear onboard and rigged for such a ride would be really pushing this WB trailer boat way past it's lightweight design limits. If you got caught in a bad blow it's not a brute but a lightweight WB weekender. Brian and Stephs boat seems to really be a fine example of a stout, capable, smallish cruiser with the safety margin to get you home or at least survive a pounding if you totally screw up. They have done an unbelievably through job to get it there without just going bigger, tougher and way expensive. Our 240's design on the other hand shines as a trailer boat that can take you to our many beaches/bays/rivers and even many where brian and steph can't go. Like dozens of interior lakes in fla or under an 8' fixed span bridge(been there) or anchored right against the beach for a bbq or through a 20" deep swash channel or (my favorite)eaisily upwind at 60mph to the next great spot
Brian has refined the standard for the efficient moderate sized cruiser. Envy and Kudos from me. But Drew, I say pack light, get that 240 on the trailer and come on down, Fla awaits. We're at our best Nov-May otherwise only the toughest survive our summer heat and the all too often hurricanes. Start a new thread on your 240's ability, you'll get some input. Michael 2000 H240 "Bonafide"Thanks Michael
Appreciate the input and your ruining my dream. Kidding!! I know she is what she is and no more. I'm not at all concerned with being "inside" in the 240 - it's the "outside" that's at issue. I guess I need to figure out how far down I can go before real exposure becomes an issue - maybe we'll just go as far as Pamlico Sound then head back home - safely "inside." I've been out in some pretty rough stuff and the boat has done remarkbly well, but you're right, there will be no forgiving a screw-up on my part in a real maelstrom, never mind a broken rudder. I bought the 240 with an eye to onservative advice that says get a boat appropriate for the sailing you will actually do, rather than that you envision doing. I love small boats and would never want some monster cruiser, just would be good if I could keep the 240 AND have a PS Dana 24 for heavy work - wouldn't that be swell? Thanks and take care. Drew
Appreciate the input and your ruining my dream. Kidding!! I know she is what she is and no more. I'm not at all concerned with being "inside" in the 240 - it's the "outside" that's at issue. I guess I need to figure out how far down I can go before real exposure becomes an issue - maybe we'll just go as far as Pamlico Sound then head back home - safely "inside." I've been out in some pretty rough stuff and the boat has done remarkbly well, but you're right, there will be no forgiving a screw-up on my part in a real maelstrom, never mind a broken rudder. I bought the 240 with an eye to onservative advice that says get a boat appropriate for the sailing you will actually do, rather than that you envision doing. I love small boats and would never want some monster cruiser, just would be good if I could keep the 240 AND have a PS Dana 24 for heavy work - wouldn't that be swell? Thanks and take care. Drew
A pneumatic pop-top lift
It's an idea so obvious you wonder why it's not done more often. The master of ingenuity strikes again, you did say it was stephs' idea. When Kelli puts me on such a task I wonder if it's parially just to keep me out of her hair, like the kayak davits for our boat, whata fiasco. They worked as planned but I hated not being able to see to the rear. But man, this seems like a good idea. Keep us in the loop so we can benefit from your design refinments. Hope your Abaco trip goes well. Keep an eye on that (electronic!) depth finder it gets shallow over there. I'm envious, have fun, post the shots soon. If you want to send an e-mail we are listed in the owners directory. Aloha Michael and Kelli
It's an idea so obvious you wonder why it's not done more often. The master of ingenuity strikes again, you did say it was stephs' idea
. When Kelli puts me on such a task I wonder if it's parially just to keep me out of her hair, like the kayak davits for our boat, whata fiasco. They worked as planned but I hated not being able to see to the rear. But man, this seems like a good idea. Keep us in the loop so we can benefit from your design refinments. Hope your Abaco trip goes well. Keep an eye on that (electronic!) depth finder it gets shallow over there. I'm envious, have fun, post the shots soon. If you want to send an e-mail we are listed in the owners directory. Aloha Michael and Kellipneumatic lift... YIKES!!
Yep... it was all steph's fault... I mean, uh, idea! You are probably correct, Michael, in assuming it was a ploy. I can tell you why it's not been done... the TIME investment. This is an idea that will work, but it has literally taken me a week of labor just to get the correct angles alone. It would cost alot to have this done at the factory, but it would be a one-time cost as it is easily duplicated. I cannot tell from our boat, but I am willing to asume that many of the pop-top vessels have leaks at the hinge points due to the torsion involved during the lifting process. I think we solved it here. I am working on the photo journal... should have it up soon! Brian
Yep... it was all steph's fault... I mean, uh, idea! You are probably correct, Michael, in assuming it was a ploy.
I can tell you why it's not been done... the TIME investment. This is an idea that will work, but it has literally taken me a week of labor just to get the correct angles alone. It would cost alot to have this done at the factory, but it would be a one-time cost as it is easily duplicated. I cannot tell from our boat, but I am willing to asume that many of the pop-top vessels have leaks at the hinge points due to the torsion involved during the lifting process. I think we solved it here. I am working on the photo journal... should have it up soon! Brian- Status