The Caribbean in August

[John Kretschmer]

I am planning to charter in the Caribbean during the first week of August. Is that the hurricane season, and would I be safe chartering at that time?

L.K.

John Kretschmer responds:

L.K.,

It is true the first week of August is pretty well right in the middle of hurricane season. Ironically, it is also a good time to charter in the Caribbean because the summer winds are mild yet steady. Charter companies carefully monitor approaching tropical systems; indeed, the entire world monitors these storms. Most likely, you would have plenty of time to return to the charter base. I have sailed in the islands often during the summer. I pay closer attention to the weather reports, but otherwise I have a great time.

John