South for the winter

[Minnewaska]

We're just not ready for this yet, but someday. We have dock neighbors heading for FL and the Caribbean already. Aside from the time or expensive (you pick) to get the boat there, we just don't have the time to get that far to use her to justify it.

We have been thinking about Charleston or Hilton Head, which for personal reasons are more accessible to us. The first question, being winter, is whether these are appropriate in water winter locations. I believe they do see freezing temps at times. Second, is whether these are good weekend sailing grounds, let alone good winter sailing. I know the winter temps aren't balmy, but could probably time the weekends with higher temps.

Lastly, which marinas would any recommend?

Just dreaming. Probably induced by the 30 gallons of antifreeze that just arrived at the door yesterday.

[imagine2frolic]

The winter of 09 I spent a month inside the boat near Jax Florida. It was too cold to go outside, and just sand. Depends on what kind of winter they have.......i2f

[PBzeer]

Both are year round in the water. Hilton Head (Port Royal Sound), to me, has better sailing. There's Skunk (or is it Skull, I can never remember) Creek Marina, on the west side of the island, but I've never stayed there. You might PM Sailhog, as he used to be located on Hilton Head and would know better than most anybody else.

[ArcherBowman]

I used to be a native of Charleston, and while the city does see freezing temperatures every winter, the harbor, rivers, creeks, and streams (and most puddles) do not freeze, so bubblers are not necessary, and any marina that will let you live aboard will do as far as cold weather goes.

However, your boat will need ready means to heat it. Just 'cause the water isn't solid doesn't mean it's shirtsleeve weather.

I really like the Charleston City Marina, but it's pricey.