Charleston to Abaco route?

[Clipper4730]

Hey yall, planning a cruise down to the Abacos early May and need some advice on the best most expeditious route. Our thought is to head out southeast cut straight across the Gulf Stream then turn south towards Treasure Cay. Needless today we would wait for a favorable weather window. Sound plan, or is there a better route. Our vessel is a Beneteau 50 well equipped for offshore sailing.

Thanks in advance

Will

[2Hulls]

Hi Will - I haven't done it in May, but I've made the return route from Abacos to the Ches Bay in May. And twice from the Ches Bay to Spanish Wells in November.

I would expect the offshore route from Charleston to Abacos in May could be the best time of year to do it, if you have a lot of fuel. Yes, the weather is obviously the key and if you hook up with Chris Parker he'll steer you well, including where and when to cross the GS SE of Charleston. Then turn left. The dicey problem arriving Abacos from the north is the sea state entering the cuts into the Sea of Abaco. You can't predict these with much accuracy when you depart Charleston, so it's a bit of a crap shoot and you need a Plan B. Both times we departed the Chesapeake in November bound for the Bahamas, we desired arrival in the Abacos. But both times we had to continue on to Spanish Wells due to north swell closing out the Abaco cuts. In May this is much less likely. Of course, alternatively, you coastwise to around Palm Beach, take a break, then cross towards West End and take up the popular route... The fishing this way isn't as good.

Good luck,
2 Hulls Dave

[2Hulls]

Originally Posted by 2Hulls

Then turn left.

Duh! Of course I should have said, "Then turn right." My oldstimers disease...