sailing south from Florida

[awhiggi33]

hey, i am planning a trip from Miami to Grenada aboard a 33ft sloop. I know about how many legs it is and Ive looked at some average weather conditions and made my own deductions. But i was wondering if any one had done it and knew how fast it can be done safely starting in October. thanks.

[imagine2frolic]

Have you read THE THORNLESS PATH? If not it will give you precise information................i2f

[fullkeel7]

There's a good article in the Sept. '08 Crusing World called "Pulling Barbs from the Thorny Path" by Kylie Deacon. Granted, the trip started in Great Exuma, but it shows what you'll be up against.

Bob

[camaraderie]

October is still hurricane season. I'd wait until the latter half. Plan on about 3 months to get from Florida to the Virgin Islands. If you're lucky with the weather you'll do it in two. Average weather is 20-25 knot winds on your nose...8 foot seas and the motor on once you get past the Bahamas. You have to wait for the 15 knot 6 foot sea days to make progress east.
A Gentleman's Guide to Passages South by VanSant is the book you want as it gives all the info.
Going the offshore route will take 10 days to two weeks but is straight blue water motoring and sailing east to longitude 65 then sailing south. You need to carry a lot of fuel and have a strong boat.