posted by Admin on Aug 20
What type of boat/yacht..(i.e size, price etc.) would be just right for crossing such a large stretch of water?
My budget is small-ish so I can’t go for nothing too big but safety is a big concern so I don’t want to spend less by sacrificing safety.
It will be me and one other person so only one bed would be needed as we will rotate shifts. Comfort is not a concern.
Any advice, tips suggestions would be great!
Anyone else done this before?
August 23rd, 2009 at 12:36 am
First off this trip is not for novelist and in experience the larger the yacht the more crew needed. Safety first there are many boats and yachts that have made transatlantic crossings. Do research to find the 1s for offshore cruising.Sail is the way to go.Fuel is costly and lots needed.
August 23rd, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Its impossible to answer this question. It would depend on your skill and experience. The Atlantic has been crossed in extremely small boats (under 5 feet) However, that was simply a stunt and in my opinion, a dangerous one. Many people have gone around the world in small sailboat under 30 feet. I would look for something at least 24 feet long. You should also research the models you are considering.
I would suggest you read “20 small boats to take you anywhere” by John Vigor. It is available at Amazon.com. One of the boats listed is a Pearson Triton and these can be acquired for under $10000 but you have to look for them as they are getting old and you have to make sure they have been maintained. If not, they can be brought back but it will cost $$
I am personally looking for an Alberg 30 for my solo Circumnavigation in 2 or 3 years.
Good luck!
August 24th, 2009 at 4:06 am
Very small but sturdily built keelboats can actually be safer than larger yachts because they tend to ride up and over the seas rather than through them, but the ride can be miserable. Go with a full-keeled sloop or ketch with keel-stepped masts, and over-provision yourself with both food and potable water. Become very knowledgeable about boat-handling, navigation and weather BEFORE setting out. Anticipate being without electricity (lightning strikes are a fact of life for open-ocean sailboats) and know how to navigate safely without GPS or radar. You can buy a functional sextant, wristwatch and nautical almanac for less than the cost of the cheapest handheld GPS (but you’ll want one of those, too).