[Surfnski]

What is the best winter month to cross from the eastern tip of Cuba to Columbia? I am watching the winds over the past 3 weeks and they seem to blow 30 to 35 knots on many days. I am planning on crossing in January of next year. Is there any particular month when I am more likely to get a weather window or do I just shorten sail and go for it?

 

[travellerw]

I have no experience, so take my advice with a grain of salt...

I too have been studying that part of the ocean.. It seems that Mid April to Mid May is the best odds for good wind speeds (20 knot or so). This is based one pilot charts and other peoples reports..

 

[RTB]

I've done it once, but was in May. I also believe late spring is the preferred season. Since you have time, maybe pick up a copy of Jimmy Cornell's World Cruising Routes. Sorry, I don't have a copy, or would look it up for you.

Yep, looks like the Tradewinds are kicking up pretty good right now.

Ralph

 

[MarkofSeaLife]

Pilot charts are your friend.
The difficulty is the katabatic winds off the Andes. Eveverone gets them to some degree so you need to work out the best month and head as far west as you can instead of going to the ABC islands like many do.

 

[Dog8It]

Just something to keep in mind once you get there: it's Colombia.

 

[Minnewaska]

Just something to keep in mind once you get there: it's Colombia.

As if that's their biggest problem. I think the second O was kidnapped by FARC and a puppet U was installed.

Seriously, though, I know a few that have been to Cartagena, loved it and felt safe.

 

[Surfnski]

Oops - I guess I am confusing the country with the river. I really did mean Colombia!

 

[Dolce-Vita]

I cruised from Cayman Islands (just south of Cuba) to cartagena , 5 days of excellent wind from the NE
, the month was April