new sailor going to the keys

[millyman01]

I bought a mac 22 last week and since I live in Wisconsin I have had only a couple hours sailing experience. Well except there was no wind. I am taking it to the keys this winter. I would like to end up in key West. How far up the keys should I put the boat in the water? I think I should start where it is somewhat calm with not very big waves? I did buy a gps so navigation should be no problem.

[arbarnhart]

I am going to say Key West. Drive down US1 until it ends. Buy yourself a drink or two. Sleep it off. Drive home.

[camaraderie]

Go to Marathon and sail around in between the keys and the mainland in calm water unless the wind is out of the north.
I think Key West is too exposed for you until you get a bit more experience.

[arbarnhart]

I think this is another one of those threads.

[Freesail99]

Originally Posted by arbarnhart

I think this is another one of those threads.

At least he isn't bring a dog with him.

[Cruisingdad]

Originally Posted by millyman01

I bought a mac 22 last week and since I live in Wisconsin I have had only a couple hours sailing experience. Well except there was no wind. I am taking it to the keys this winter. I would like to end up in key West. How far up the keys should I put the boat in the water? I think I should start where it is somewhat calm with not very big waves? I did buy a gps so navigation should be no problem.

The keys can get EXTREMELY rough at times... and it can be very calm. In the summer, you often get the 2:00 storm. Winter, you can get a northern. Stay very close to shore and you will be ok. Marathon has some nice areas. I agree with Cam about Key West - and there is a lot of traffic. West of key West can get quite dicey, even for large boats.

Take the time to practice in controlled environments and be careful. Carry a VHF.

- CD