Gulf Crossing

[Becka Anne]

We are getting ready to make our first gulf crossing. We will leave from Appalachicola to Clearwater around the first 2 weeks of Nov (weather permitting). We don't want to make our first crossing alone and would like to make the sail with other sailboats. Is there a forum that anyone knows of that announces group crossings?
Thanks in advance.

 

[Hippie Sailor]

I understand the desire to sail in a group. It is fun in and around fun places, but you are essentially making a passage, and in my experience trying to keep up with or wait for other boats on a passage is simply creating problems that don't need to exist. Make your own passage, not someone else's. JMO for what it's worth.

 

[Stu Jackson]

HS is right. There may well be groups, but finding the right day together with more than even one other boat's gotta be iffy. Of course, weather windows do tend to group folks together, but the mathematical chances of someone wanting to do the same trip you're making are rather slim. OTOH, you may just find someone or two.

But certainly, and without scolding and maybe tellin' ya stuff you already know, you ARE alone out there, even surrounded by dolphins and other boats, so you have to be prepared.

Nuff said, 'cuz if you're planning the voyage, you must be prepared, right?

Have a great sail.

 

[Anonymous 121765]

BA,

This could be a good trip for you. I don't know what your experience in making crossings are, but if done with forethought, can be great.

Pick up a copy of the Gunkholer's Cruising Guide, as there is good cruising info on ports, marinas, approaches etc.

I would run the first leg to Cedar Key first about a 70 mile sail. From there you can run close to shore and set your daily legs from there south.

This time of year, I would not recommend a straight-line trip. I have heard nightmare stories from some friends who did.

For me, I like sailing the days and anchoring in safe harbor at night. This will ensure enough rest, a good dinner and relaxation. You can bet the weather will throw some front your way during this, so shorter legs would be the best way to travel.

Set up your sail plan & log it with the Coast Guard. Give copies to your friends with call times each leg, & hopfully have an EPIRB.

It could be a gasser of a trip, keep us up on your plans pal......

CR

 

[CCHer]

What Stu and CR said and if not an EPIRB, use Spot-less expensive with much of the safety functionality as EPIRB.