Going north from Rio Dulce

[Emouchet]

I was wondering what will be your best choice on picking up a departure date from RioDulce up north to NewYork. I am planning on a 4 to 6 weeks trip to bring back a 42' monohull. Does May-June seems appropriate ?

[belizesailor]

Tropical activity seems be starting earlier every year, I would back it up to April-May.

Cold fronts can effect us down here in the NW Caribe into March, so early April puts you out of cold front season and well clear of hurricane season.

Two seasons ago we did not leave the Rio until April 8, because the wearher in March sucked...been there done plenty of that...prefer to watch it from the comfort of home now.

I live on the Rio, and used to live in Belize, so happy to answer any questions you have on those legs.

[s/v Moondancer]

We have done the trip you plan twice. Belizesailor has it right that April/May is preferable but early May/June is not unreasonable.

Important points are:

The charts/navionics are out by at least 400 yards until you reach American waters. We stay at least a mile off the reef.

The Yucatan Straights are very bad when the wind is from the north

The Gulf Stream can be ridden all the way and in Belize/Mexico/Florida is close in.

El Cid marina in Puerto Morelos Mexico south of Cancun is a good refueling stop but "local taxes" when you check in are exorbitant, over $300 to check in and out. Isla Mujeres may now be a better stop.

Puerto Morelos, Yucatan: Expensive for Clearance — Noonsite

Dry Tortugas/Fort Jefferson make a nice stop and the charts are fairly accurate. No services what-so-ever.

Key West is a free anchorage but a $30 taxi ride to check in.

Coconut Grove Sailing Club is an excellent place to stop and replenish for the journey north. Coconut Grove Sailing Club

Good luck

[Emouchet]

Thanks all for your comments. I begin planning for next spring then.