on the other hand...
There are two nasty bits to worry about: 1) The Gulf Stream 2) The New Providence Channel For the Stream you have to pick your weather window carefully. I've crossed in 2' seas and in 10'. The first is to be preferred. For the N.P. Channel it's open to the prevailing wind in the Bahamas so it can get pretty nasty. The other thing to consider is your experience and ability. I wouldn't want to learn on the trip. Lastly, how much stuff, fuel, water, anchors and navigation can the 260 support and for how long? If you picked your windows VERY carefully you could probably do Miami to Bimini/Cat Cay, cross the bank to Chub Cay (a very looooong trip in a 260). Then cross to Nassau. I think the big thing to remember with any "smaller" cruiser is that you can't carry as much stuff as you might need. A lot of times you will be in the middle of absolute nowhere and need to be fully self-reliant. And when things turn to s*$t the smaller boat doesn't provide as much of a safety cushion. When I used to cruise in my C-22 a couple could comfortably be out for two nights before wanting to tie up and really, shower, eat, replenish fuel and ice. On our current boat (a 37.5) we haven't found that limit yet. My 2 cents. Jim "Prospect"
