Pre-Trip nerves

[roland stockham]

I guess being a little scared of the sea is a sign of healthy respect but definitely suffering pre-trip nerves before this one. March 21st set off to pick up the boat from Aruba then through the canal to Coasta Rica with crew but then fro Costa Rica to the Alaska boarder solo, going to be by far the longest period I have ever spent completely alone and keep thinking of all the things that could go wrong... Been preparing for a while but it is starting to feel really close now! Stops being a 'plan' and becomes a reality about now!

[boatman61]

If your coast hopping don't over think it.. just run with the windows and lay over for the crap.. yes its a slog for many but.. its a delivery.. home and don't spare the horsepower..
Unless of course you want to experience the 'Culture's' along the way..

Via Hawaii.. the biggest problems are seasons, water supplies and You..
If the boats in good start of the season condition.. and so are You.. your good to Go..
Have a good trip.. deliveries are rarely fun.. but they can be safe with a bit of 'Common'..

[MarkJ]

You'll feel much better as soon as you get to sea.

Fix each problem as it occurs and remember there's always a few ways to fix anything and most junk on a boat you can do without.

[FSMike]

Well, you won't be alone through the canal anyway lol.

[Dockhead]

A fabulous trip!!!

If I were you, I would try to pick up some crew -- that will certainly be strenuous single handed.

The nerves are normal -- as you said, healthy respect. A good sign Remember fools rush in where angels fear to tread.

I would echo Boatman's advice -- go through the boat thoroughly, very very thoroughly, concentrating on all the issues which concern watertight integrity, steering, propulsion, and emergency comms. Once you are 101% sure that all those systems are tip top, and you have all necessary spares and tools on board, then you can start thinking about the other systems. It's not rocket science, and thorough preparation should greatly reduce any risks. Mark's advice is also excellent Both of these guys are speaking from vast experience.

Then just be very thorough and careful about the weather, and you should be fine.

All the best; what a fabulous voyage. All of us here will be envying you. Keep us updated.