Subject: Cruising the Bahamas
From: Messing In Boats

Now that I'm back from Alaska, I'm planning the next one, a trip to the
Bahamas in March of 2004. We plan to trailer our 26' cruiser to West
Palm Beach or Miami and cross from there.

What are the best cruising guides?

Where in the Bahamas do you intend to go?
The Yachtsman's Guide to the Bahamas is a good start. The Cruising Guide to
Abaco by Steve Dodge is great. And the Explorer Chartbook series of chart kits
are also very good.
Check out: http://www.bluewaterweb.com/ for more books and charts.

What kind of mistakes do people from far away usually make on such a
cruise?

Running out of fuel, not keeping an eye on the weather, trying to keep to an
unrealistic schedule, not bringing the right tools or spares, running at night,
under estimating costs, etc., etc.

What do newbies like me forget to bring?

Common sense.
Laid back attitude.
Enough beer.
It's $36-$50 a case depending on where you are in the Bahamas.

Any other advice?

Don't try to do it all in one trip. Take your time and enjoy the place. And
leave your "that's not how we do it at home" attitude at home. If you have one
that is. :-)


Capt. Bill