Has anyone gone

[capjames]

beyond the recommended (by BoatUs) "coastal" status of our boats? I ask because several friends and I are talking over a trip to Guatemala. Specifically Mario's Marina. I have been in some BAD conditions on a variety of boats including mine, but never in 2 miles of water. Any thoughts?TiaJ

 

[ross_in_tampa]

need more info from you...

James,We all need a bit more information from you in order to give you any type of input. We need to know what your boat is, and most importantly what your experience is. It is the captain that makes the difference in any long range cruise. Please append your note so we can be of more help. Thanks,Ross25 Oday 1979 "Lola"Tampa FL

 

[Mike]

Like Ross asked...

How big is your boat? How old? Well maintained? Self contained? How is it equipped? Is it squared away in the event the boat rolls over and rights itself? Do you have jack lines, a life raft? I'd get a list from one of the cruising magazines as a minimum for the type of boat and equipment needed for off shore sailing. If the wind pipes up to 50+ plus knots or more and you're three days out of any port then you can't have enough "stuff" to get through. If the wind blows gently at 10 to 20 knots all the while you are out there then any old boat will be fine. The point is "ya' never know" about that big blue ocean.It will be an adventure though. Good luck and fair winds,Mike

 

[capjames]

@like ross asked........

'85 O'day 3one, liveaboard last 6 yrs, yep w/2.5kgenset, I personally don't think any boat could be prepared for a rollover, jack lines no life raft. If I did what the "Cruzin Mags" said I should I would still be working for someone else instead of being where I am now, which is asking if others have done anything similar. Without a weather window I will NOT leave on more than a daycruise. And Yep, ya never know.Thanks,James