Everyone is encouraged to actively participate in the operation of the boat. While on watch, you'll track our position on the paper charts, and note the barometric pressure, position and sea state in the log each hour. You will help me raise, reef and trim the sails.
We will also have in-depth discussions of the boat's electrical and mechanical systems, as well as what you might find on other cruising boats.
Most of the Cruising Passage expeditions are planned to coincide with settled seasonal weather, but of course, there is no guarantee that we won't run into several days of rain or rambunctious cold fronts or low pressure systems.
At the transitional seasons of the year, usually when we need to get from the Northern East Coast down to the Caribbean, the trips run a greater risk of rough weather. A November trip from Norfolk to Bermuda is a fabulous trip, but the cold fronts begin to swing eastward off the East Coast every few days, so careful timing is important and we may well have a wild ride.
We most often get the expeditions underway as scheduled. Once in a while we decide to wait a day for a better weather.
These trips are for everyone - you don't need previous sailing experience. Don't hesitate to contact me and I'll answer any questions or concerns you may have.
I highly recommend refundable airline tickets. It can be difficult to time our arrival port at the end of the expedition. I try to build in plenty of elbow room, but please keep in mind that a delay could disrupt your return travel.
I will not jeopardize the boat or crew in an attempt to make a plane.
Also if you purchase trip insurance, keep in mind that trip insurance can have restrictions that may not cover simply missing a flight.
