Miami To Tortola In February

[Joe Mullee]

Got a call today from a delivery captain that I've crewed for on a few past occassions. This trip is from Miami to Tortola leaving February 16/17 on a new Leopard Cat 38. The boat is leaving the Miami Boat Show and being delivered for charter service.

I've gone over the boat info and equipment list and looked over the pilot charts. Anyone have any knowledge of this voyage during this time of year? The captain thinks it's likely he'll head over to Bimini, get thru the Bahamas, and then head east before making the turn south. From the pilot charts it looks like headwinds around force 4-5 most of the way until the turn. The captain is hoping no more than 10-11 days assuming favorable weather and no boat problems. Just want to know if anyone has made this trip or a similiar one at this time of year in those waters? Any advice is welcome and appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[Andy1237]

Go for it.

 

[capejt]

my experience doesn't help you

Can't help you with this one. Alhtough I did make a delivery from Annapolis to Puerto Rico (sort of close to Tortola) we went East to Bermuda and South in late November. Totally differant route and conditions. A fun ride though!

 

[Cayennita]

Start well south of Miami, go to Gun Cay. 2 fathom bridge. Hit Nassau, Wait for a strong front with winds from the west and go east as long as you can. Stay above Silver Banks and eventually you will get the trades and force you down. I made it to Fajardo, PR in one tack. Winds of 30k leaving Nassau in my Hunter Legend 35. It was a great ride. Only 8 days all together. I would stay south of the Virgings after that, although you might have to motor sail. My son delivered a 30 foot boat from Miami to there. Stopped allong the way to teach the owner. Also stopped in Providenciales.