Bahamas Gathering 2012 - Updated '08 Thread

[Capt Chuck]

I'd vote for mid-July, as statistics say the winds are lowest then. June is often wetter, and the later you go in August, the probability of running into a tropical wave or worse increases!

I agree on this time of year but be mindful of the afternoon thunder boomers. They can get on top of you in short order. Below is a shot taken in '97 by my buddy boat just east of Memory Rock. I still had 35 miles to go into Walkers. I could not out run it and was already committed.

On the return leg, the weather can get snarly especialy out of the N/NE bucking the gulfstream. I hit 6'-8' also heading home in a NW Wind. It was very challenging to say the least!

I see there are a few newbies planing to making the crossing in 18'-20' hulls. Maybe a run to South Bimini because of limited fuel in the smaller boats might be less stressful & a safer trip? (approx 45 miles out of Ft Laud) vs (Walkers 105 mi out of West Palm, 90 mi out of Stuart) I know many of you are experienced and savy sailors and the new ones will be dependant on you.....

Just some thoughts to ponder