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Networker · 24-03-2021, 13:31

Is it possible and safe to motor a dismasted 40’ sailboat across the gulf from Bimini to Miami? If not, what’s best way to get it back to FL?

seandepagnier · 24-03-2021, 13:34

why is the boat dismasted? The best way to get out of this is not getting into it.

Did you consider it is more likely the engine will fail you than the rig (if the rig is right) ?

Networker · 24-03-2021, 13:37

Quote:

Originally Posted by seandepagnier

why is the boat dismasted? The best way to get out of this is not getting into it.

Did you consider it is more likely the engine will fail you than the rig (if the rig is right) ?

It’s a salvage boat I’d be looking to buy. It floats and can be motored, the guy I spoke to motored it 100 nm in Bahamas, but curious if it’s safe to motor it all the way to FL that same way. Or does one need to have it towed back, or shipped, just trying to think of how to get this girl back if I buy her.

rslifkin · 24-03-2021, 13:53

I'd choose your weather carefully, but if the rest of the boat is sound, the engine is good and healthy and you carry enough fuel, I don't see why you couldn't do it. It's not all that long a trip.

belizesailor · 24-03-2021, 13:54

Id be very skeptical of a salvage boat being otherwise OK. Enough force to dismast a boat could also do serious structural damage. Get a knowledgeable surveyor (or at least a knowledgeable sailor) to give it a good going over before you get underway....and ideally before you commit to buying it...a cheap boat could end up costing you more than a new one.

What make/model of boat?

steamgoat · 24-03-2021, 14:14

Shouldn’t be a problem, BUT, try and create some type of jury rig or steadying sail,otherwise it will roll like a pig.

Joh.Ghurt · 24-03-2021, 14:31

How would you plan that route?
Go straight across with easy easterlies and let the current carry the boat off to the north however it wants and go down the coast afterwards or try to compensate for the current to reach Miami directly?

Never been there, I just was wondering.

BillKny · 24-03-2021, 14:58

No mention if this is a cat or monohull.

If it is a monohull, it can be a VERY uncomfortable ride. The mass of the mast results in a much lengthened period of roll. Take that away, and the boat "snaps" from side to side. Not dangerous to the boat, but pretty terrible for the crew.

A lot depends on the design of the boat, but be prepared to stock extra dramamine.

belizesailor · 25-03-2021, 05:12

Quote:

Originally Posted by BillKny

No mention if this is a cat or monohull.

If it is a monohull, it can be a VERY uncomfortable ride. The mass of the mast results in a much lengthened period of roll. Take that away, and the boat "snaps" from side to side. Not dangerous to the boat, but pretty terrible for the crew.

A lot depends on the design of the boat, but be prepared to stock extra dramamine.

Yes, this is why I asked make/model of boat...no response from OP.

**boatman61** · 25-03-2021, 05:35

Well I motored a Wauqueze 37 around the same distance with its mast lashed on the coach roof from Figueroa da Foz to Peniche on the W Portuguese coast.
This coast is subject to a NW swell 12mths a year, at one stage passing Nazare (where the world record surf record of 100ft stands) we did roll a bit badly and additional support had to be provided by the owner and his mate to hold the mast in place but otherwise all went well..
I would say wait for one of the regular periods of S'ly winds which normally last around 3 days and head out on the second day.. waters should be calm enough for a reasonably comfortable trip.. set off at dawn and at 5kts average you should make it just fine.
Enjoy..

MicHughV · 25-03-2021, 06:23

my concern with all the potential rolling is detritus in the fuel tank getting all shook up...and plugging a fuel filter and stopping the engine...so definitely consider that...fuel tank could also have water in it.

my # 1 advice.....get a membership in Seatow or TowBoat US.....they'll come and get you if you are close enuff.....if you are not a member....a tow will set you back big time..

don't depend on the USCG.....they are there to save lives, not boats...

I'd say 99.9% of the boats returning to the US from the B'mas are usually under power, it's a relatively quick trip, if everything goes smoothly...

Skipper Lee · 25-03-2021, 10:00

If it's floating now it'll likely float to Miami.
You need to really go through the fuel system/tank to ensure it keeps running. Find your window then off you go.
If it's Possible (as we have no idea what kind of boat it is) it doesn't hurt to hang a reliable outboard on it to be sure you can at least keep it pointing to Miami.

**michaeld** · 25-03-2021, 10:07

We live in South FL and have been back and forth a few times. Bimini to Miami is about 50 miles. I have motored across at times when the water was as flat as a sidewalk. Other times was under sail. Head due west and the current will pull you north to arrive at Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale. Service the engine and filters before departure, wait for calm weather or with winds from the south. Avoid any northerly winds. Have a ditch bag handy. Take all the usual safety precautions. A GPIRB is a good idea. File a float plan.

jim King · 25-03-2021, 10:10

It's not a long stint from the Bahamas to Miami, Have you had a survey on the boat? I'd have the engine checked out by a marine mechanic before heading out.