Hi Centurion,
I've done the trip from St. Petersburg to Isla the last three years. Two of which were
single handed. I went near the end of April when the risk of cold fronts was less and I could go straight through with a dependable
weather window. You can always stop at the
Dry Tortugas if needed.
You will have a contrary and south setting
current after the Tortugas, then a light contrary set and finally the last 50 to 75 miles 2 to 3 knots of the
Gulf Stream on the nose. You'll be happy to make 3 to 4 knots over the ground but it's an easy trip. I have always looked at several sources for the position of the Gulf Loop
Current before leaving and then ignored them. It always there.
You must take time to enjoy Isla. Much fun, great
food.
Beer. Lovely tourist Ladies in abundance. Not that I, a happily married man, noticed. 'Just sayin'...
The Port
Captain does insist upon a clearance form from
customs when leaving the states. He's serious about it. I downloaded the form and had the
customs officer at the
airport sign it. You can have the customs officer sign and stamp it in KW.
Have a great time,
Dennis