Crossing Gulfstraem / Northwest Providence Channel Bahamas

[Brupatrol]

I tried to search on google for some advice about a trip I am planning,

nothing to find.

Not that big experience with boating so far.

Did a few rides from Port Everglades into the keys and

one trip to Bimini back and forth.

Want to cross Gulf Stream from Boynton Beach to West End Grand Bahamas

during wintertime in late December.

Further I want to go from Freeport to Bimini

crossing the northwest providence channel.

Than going back to Fort Lauderdale.

Never did that trip before.

Does anybody have some experience / advice for me?

I ride a boat which can go fast but usually I go

45-50 Miles an hour only because I like cruising.

Just noticed that to imagine the time I need.

Of course I listen Noa Radio to hear weather and sea forecast.

I wouldn't go in a more than 4 feet gulf stream forecast.

No northern winds.

What else should I watch out for?

[Lighthouse]

Have a scratch around the Gulf Stream section of the Cruising Wiki - a little info there.

[edsailing]

I ride a boat which can go fast but usually I go

45-50 Miles an hour only because I like cruising

And that's going slow?

[sailoray531]

I've crossed it several times, but at the Virginia/NC border where it is wider but slower. And I've done it in a sailboat and about 1/10th your speed. You have the right sea and wind advice already. In terms of course, I was advised to maintain the same course through the stream, then adjust for the northerly set after you come out. The idea is that you lose more time by staying longer in the stream when you try to compensate as you go through. Of course, at the speed you travel, there is probably little difference. Remember to let the hull touch the water occasionally.

Ray

[Lighthouse]

New additional information on the Cruising Wiki: Passage - US to Abacos