crossing the gulf stream towards Key West

[sanssouci]

Originally Posted by pete33458

I guess the problem is that conditions change, and right now the gulf stream current is at a statistical low all along Florida. Hard to say whether it will be that way in a month. I'm working on historical averages, which are not represented by the current (present) conditions.

Where are you going to park while you are in Key West?

[pete33458]

Originally Posted by sanssouci

Where are you going to park while you are in Key West?

After the customs dock? Not sure yet, any suggestions?

[sanssouci]

Yes, I have some suggestions but I need to know what you will be looking for?

[pete33458]

Originally Posted by sanssouci

Yes, I have some suggestions but I need to know what you will be looking for?

Well it's hard to say at this point, I think it depends on the time of day and how the previous 5 or 6 or 7 days went, if the weather's good we may just push on to Punta Gorda, if we're beat (or beat up) we would be looking for a slip, no dinghy on board, so no mooring. Anyway, if we stop I suspect we'll be itching to have a meal cooked by someone else, not to mention cocktails served in a glass full of ice... pete

[rockDAWG]

Not sure I can add much to this thread. It is quite strict forward and really depends on the weather, sea states and crews.

The current in Florida Strait is not bad at all, so you can cross whenever when the wind is right. I would rather sail along the south side of the reef in Keys than the north side of Cuba. If in day time, I sail inside Hank Channel.

If you arrive at night in KW, you can purchase fuel at Bight Marina. They let you stay for a few hours for additional few dollars. We ended up stay there overnight and leave the dock at 7 am in morning. Before you get to KW, call US Custom first. They will instruct you what need to do. Their office is in Airport and opens 24 hour. Take a Taxi (flat rate) to the airport. Easy process. After that, free time.

I will be arriving in Miami on a sail boat the end this month also.

[pete33458]

Originally Posted by rockDAWG

I will be arriving in Miami on a sail boat the end this month also.

We'll be leaving Tortola around 1 or 2 of April, if you're still there a week later and see "Kioni" give us a yell! pete

[mpatter894]

I have always hugged the cost of cuba then crossed it at closest point of approach.