OK - Here''s the scenario:
I''ve been barely able to keep my butt in my seat at work - thinking about going cruising for 6 months to 1 yr. Then - today (not cause of dreaming) - I got let go!
My first thought is that this is a perfect opportunity to cruise for 6 months. I called the boat yard - she can be back in the water ready to go inside of one month.
I have substantial sailing and coastal cruising experience. What are everyone''s thoughts about departing south along the East Coast to Fla and then making it out to the Caribbean?
I''m wondering particularly about the weather. In addition, my boat - while sturdy and seaworthy (and well cared for as I have done most of the work myself) is not really outfitted for passagemaking (I have
radar,
GPS, can use a sextant no
SSB - no windvane steering). In regard to self steering, I have been reading and I understand there are alternatives involving
rigging lines to the stay sails, etc.)
Am I crazy? Is this do-able without putting myself or the boat at risk? What sorts of things should I be thinking about re: weather and passagemaking?
Boat I have is a 36'' S2 Center cockpit cutter (with a club foot).
Looking forward to all your responses.