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I guess I’m aiming this question at some of the South Florida boaters who’ve made this run. The recent discussion on this topic (sort of) has peaked my interest.
One of the items on my list of things to do before I die (hopefully I’ve got at least another 40 years) is to make the run over to the Bahamas in my own boat. My boat is a 21 ft SteigerCraft center console and I don’t see myself upgrading anytime in the foreseeable future. I consider myself a somewhat adventurous person but not foolish - if this is something completely stupid, then I’ll start thinking about some of the other things on my list. While, I’m not planning on doing this anytime soon (it could be 5-10 years from now, or never – who knows), it’s something I’ve been thinking about for a good while and so I thought I’d solicit some opinions from you guys.
I’ve seen some info on the Bahamas Tourism Department-sponsored summer, small boat flotillas and their minimum boat size is 25 ft.
Is my 21 footer enough boat to do this trip in favorable weather? I’ve got a single outboard, no kicker and I would NOT make the run solo – it would have to be with at least one other boat, preferably more.
How often would you see weather good enough to make this crossing in my boat?
How often are you likely to see weather when the trip would be like an early morning ride up a river on a calm day?
Tough call. I know people who have done it. Doubt I'll ever do it on my 21 and it's a good one. The weather can change very quickly. We just made a trip from West Palm to Bimini earlier this month on a very high quality 28 footer. We got our butts kicked going over and coming back. The seas were flat for three days while we were there. Go figure. After making quite a few trips from mid-south FL over to various areas of the Bahamas I don't think I would do what you are considering in a 21 unless you have the opportunity to be very patient for good weather. Of course I'm also assuming you have an EPIRB, excellent safety equipment, backup electronics and company in the way of other boats.
i have seen families in 17' wahoo/whaler type boats. if you pick your days and can lay over if it gets dicy for the ride why not. As long as the boat is designed for offshore fishing not flats fishing, bass fishing or crusing canals then go for it. cary spare parts and fuel filters etc and have fun. you should go with other boats the first time.
The size limit on the "flings" sponsored by the Bahamas Tourist Board is 22' for the Bimini flings. I've made many trips with them and some of the boats would have needed to be stretched a little to make 22'. You might want to give them a call. If you haven't made the trip before it's a good way to start. Even if you have made the trip it's a great way to make sure you have company for the crossing. Just be aware, like others said, that the weather can change and you may need to adapt your plans to accomodate the weather.
I made a trip to Green Turtle Cay in my Edgewater 185CC with the Edgewater Bahamas Rendevous. I went in 2000 and they had a group of 35 Boats. People from Edgewater and Hontoon Marine oversaw the crossings and provided all the necessary routes and safety support. My wife and I had a great time. Will try and take all the kids next year.
The Edgewater event usually takes place in June and is open to all seaworthy boats. You can go to their website and check out the Rendevous details.
I'd highly reccomend this type of event as your first time in a smaller boat. The people that ran it were great and the oldtimers knew where and when to stop, how to clear customs, etc. They even sponsored parties, cookouts and a fishing tournament.
Make your first crossing with another boat and pick yuor spring/summer day/weekend to do it. We used to do it in a 20' Seacraft all the time with no problems. Join a fishing club in So Florida. Most of the clubs usually have at least one Bimini outing every year and cross both ways as a group
We made our second trip to Grand Cay/Walkers Cay in June (went last year also) in Bluewater 2150. Its a monster 21, and the 120 miles plus is very doeable in reasonable conditions. Bimini is only 45 miles from Miami - pick your days carefully - June thru August are good if no tropical systems on the way - have an EpiRB, seatow and go with another boat. Lots of info on these trips on FLorida Sportsman site, Tropical Sportsman forum.
Of course, it can be done, but would I recommend it? NO. If you are dead set, bump up your life insurance limits [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img], make sure you have a good tow package, and see that your boat insurance will cover your expected cruising grounds. Make sure your boat is in tip top shape, and then plan you trip for mid summer when the weather is the kindest. Travel with other boats, and give yourself plenty of leeway on when you cross. Don't go over with folks that absolutely have be back to the office on Monday. Everyone needs to understand your restrictions and and that you are at the mercy of the seas.
You guys are kidding....right???? Go 120 miles in a 21 ft boat...no way am I on it. You could probably make it 8 out of 10 times....I guess you got to ask yourself...do you feel lucky??? Is'nt Florida the number 1 state in the country for thunder storms??
My neighbor and his did it with flats boats. One took a 16' Hewes and his buddy took a 19' Maverick. They went from Miami to Bimini and from Bimini to some other islands. They did it on a flat weekend and were the only boats on the trip.
