Leaving port in January for the Bahamas are we crazy?

[Velma]

This year due to unforseen circumstances we can only leave to drive south and then leave the marina in January, are we crazy to try leave then? Last year we left in December and had no issues, I'm a little concerned about leaving in January due to the cold fronts, what do you think?

[neilpride]

From where? Florida? Charleston? up in the north?
Just play the cold front games, meaning leaving at the tail of one before come the next one , it work from me, Gulf Stream in any N component wind can be very rough,

[GordMay]

What Niel said.
January transit to Bahamas, though just a little late, not all that unusual.

[Vasco]

We usually cross from FL to the Bahamas in January now. Once you get to South Florida a crossing can easily be done anytime. Just wait for a window. The only problem with a late start is getting the boat ready if you do it yourself. Had to wait an extra week to paint the bottom a few years ago, it was too darn cold!

[Ocean Girl]

Drive south to where? I've crossed the stream to the Bahamas in January but it took two attempts. First time we tried to leave out of governors cut with a northeast wind, very silly. Waves stacked high and breaking very close together, within a boat length, crazy. Turned around and waited for a better weather window. We then headed out of the south cut and had a bit of a rough ride but no problems.
Wait for good weather window, you got a strong seaworthy boat. Hope that helps a little.
Cheers,
Ocean Girl

[Waterway Guide]

Along with everyone above, I agree that January's no problem if you're patient and wait for the right window to cross. (Then, we would get as south in the Bahamas as possible for better weather when you're there, but I guess you've dealt with Bahama winters).

[Stumble]

If you are coming down from Canada, you will probably want to stay very much inshore. If you get close enough you can get out of the current and still be close enough to duck for cover in case of a storm. Being offshore could limit your options.

But making the Florida - Bahamas crossing is a pretty short jump. A one day weather window will take care of that.

[Auspicious]

Originally Posted by Stumble

Being offshore could limit your options.

Offshore is all about options. Inshore there is a continent in the way.