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First Timer Questions about Cruising the Caribbean
I have had a dream about sailing the Caribbean, hence the email
address, and I have some questions about it. 1) I am curious about the fees that are associated with the individual islands for a 35 foot sailboat. Particularly the costs of islands in the Lesser Antilles. I have looked on local websites, but they are really hard to find actual costs. Ballpark estimates a just fine. 2) What about short term mooring fees (2-3 days), do they tend to be expensive there? 3) Also, this will be my first fairly open water sailing experience. What are some things that I need to know about making Caribbean hops that I might not think of. Any advice will be really appreciated, Best Regards, John |
#3
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The fees vary from island to island but are reasonable, i.e. $free to
$15 usually for a 30 to 90 day stay. If you are not a documented boat (registered only) stay clear of the French islands or at least one or two of their 'check in' ports where the port captain can choose to impose a fine. Other cruisers encountered in route will let you know as you go as to which ones are being PITA's. I think only the BVI and USVI have moorings that they will charge you for...about $10 a night and only if you want one...otherwise you'll be on anchor everywhere; unless you are a marina freak. Island hopping the Caribbean is pretty easy on boat and crew since most all passages are daysails, but don't get the idea they are not 'open water' ones. You and your boat still have to be prepared. Getting there is a lot of the fun unless you take the 'thorny path' motorsailing into the prevailing easterlies like so many do(IMHO). A much safer and pleasant course is to just head east (anywhere above 22N) until you are about 064W and then turn south. This is an 'open water' passage alright, but much preferred by sailors. Depending on your boat and point of departure it takes 7 to 10 days compared to as many weeks bashing into the trades getting to the Virgins (top of the chain)from the states. |
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