ocean crossing on a sailboat

How To Cross the Atlantic, Routes and Timelines

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Before the time of ocean liners and airplanes, crossing the Atlantic used to be a great adventure that took a long time to complete. Nowadays, it’s very different; it’s still a great adventure, but the time it takes to complete has changed.

Here’s how long it takes to cross the Atlantic on various types of boats.

Looking at this table we can clearly see that the time it takes to cross the Atlantic has decreased exponentially. Some big developments were of course the steam engine that allowed for bigger and much faster ships to travel the Atlantic while also bringing a lot more cargo.

If we look at the Sailboats in this list, we can see that the more hulls you have the faster it goes (if you want to know more about how that works, check out this article)

There is not a significant difference in time to complete between the catamarans and the trimarans in the short run, but in a circumnavigation of the world, the difference can be huge.

A monohull on the other hand is slower, this is mainly due to the amount of drag this type of hull has.

This table compares different types of boats under the same conditions and adds an airplane as a point of reference.

Transatlantic Crossing in Record Time

Here are the records for the fastest crossings of the Atlantic in a Sailboat.

The 2880 Nautical miles(5330 Km) long route starts at Ambrose Light in New York and finishes on an imaginary line between Lizard Point and Ushant of the coast of England

As you might have noticed, there aren’t any numbers for catamarans since the  classes are divided between monohulls and multihulls.  Since trimarans (three hulls) are faster than catamarans (two hulls), there is no real point in racing a cat.

What you also may have noticed are the ridiculously high speeds these boats are doing. Bear in mind that these are racing boats optimized for speed and made to smash world records.

There’s a big difference between the 28 knots a racing trimaran will make and the 9 knots a cruising catamaran will.

What Type of Sailboat Do You Need To Cross The Atlantic?

Crossing the Atlantic can be done in almost any sailboat or ship. As a matter of fact, it has already been done in small rowboats and open catamarans, so everything is possible.

If your question is what boat should I use to get a somewhat comfortable and safe trip, well, then we have something to talk about.

Choosing between a monohull or a multihull has more to do with personal preferences. Some people really like the stable platform of a catamaran, and others dont think it’s a real way of sailing and wants to be heeling over to its side to fully get that true sailing experience.

For me? Catamaran every day, speed, and comfort, but I’m also not a purist sailor in any way. I’m an adventurist, and the boat is merely a way to experience adventures.

The size I would say matters, bigger usually means it’s safer and can handle bigger waves, although it might be harder to handle on your own I something happens to you or your crew mid-sea.

Most people seem to cross the Atlantic with a boat in the 35 -45 ft spectrum, which fulfills both requirements!

If you are interested in digging deeper into what sized boat you should get, check out my article on Best Sized Catamaran for Ocean Sailin g

Other aspects you might consider are the  size in terms of space onboard , how many people are you doing the passage with, the more people, the easier operating the boat will be. This assumes you have a well-trained crew that you know well.

And what are you going to do once you get there, is it the end of your trip or is the beginning. If you’re doing everything just to cross the ocean and then get someone else to bring it back, that’s one thing. But if its the start of a long adventure, the requirements are different. You are going to want more space for scuba gear, and other toys.

I do think the most important aspect is that you have a seaworthy boat that it’s capable of withstanding weeks on end with sailing in many times rough conditions.

This means that your equipment spent has to be the most expensive and handy, but it needs to be in good condition, and you need to be able to handle your great in every weather.

What Gear Do You Need to Cross the Atlantic?

Not including your average stuff when sailing, such as life vests, etc. There are some great that you might not be on your everyday say m still that could be of high importance during such a formidable sail as this.

• Emergency food
• Satellite coms
• Storm drogue (want to know what it is and how it works,  read  this)
• Spare parts(tiller, sails, etc.)
• Entertainment

Different Routes to Cross the Atlantic

Westward route: europe to the caribbean.

According to Jimmy Cornell, a well-known sailor and circumnavigator that has made his own research on the subject, Las Palmas is one of the biggest ports of departure for sailboats crossing the Atlantic.

Around 75’% of the sailboats that arrive in Las Palmas on the Canary Islands will depart for an Ocean crossing.

Getting to The Canary Islands, you should not be in a hurry; there are many very beautiful places en route. No matter where you are coming from this is a good stop well worth a visit.

Coming from the north of Europe, you have France, Spain, and Portugal. Entering from the Mediterranean, you have Italy, Croatia, Greece, and so many other interesting places that you shouldn’t miss unless you’re on a very tight schedule.

Once you reach Las Palmas, you can either go straight towards the Caribbean island of Barbados, or you can do a stop along the way at Cap Verde.

Planing a Stop on Cape Verde

A stop at cap Verde makes sense in many ways; for one, it makes the transatlantic trip more manageable by dividing it into two sections.

The second reason is that it gives you the possibility to stock up on fuel and water that you might have used more than you thought. Since Cap Verde is well developed when it comes to receiving boats doing this type of passage, there is no technical expertise on the island.

From Cap Verde, you can also take a direct flight to Portugal and onwards if the need arises.

Even though you might not plan to stop here, the recommendation is to at least  plan your sailing, so you pass close to the islands,  so if something happens, you can head to Mindelo port and fix it.

Another good reason why you would go close is that the further south you go, the  better chance you will have of catching those sweet tradewinds  that will take you safely and enjoyably to the warm waters of the Caribbean.

Westbound Route On a Catamaran

Sailing west is the preferred option for any sailor and especially if you are on a boat that doesn’t sail perfectly upwind, such as a catamaran.

Sailin g west and using the tradewinds is perfect on a catamaran, the sail will be faster and more comfortable than a monohull of the same size.

Looking at the 2019 ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers), a 55ft french catamaran outclassed the 65 ft professionally sailed monohull with a 10-hour lead. All this while doing yoga on board, something that I can promise was not happening on the monohull.

The stable platform of a catamaran with the wind on your stern makes sailing west on a transatlantic passage perfect for Catamaran.

Eastbound Route: The Caribbean to Europe

Coming back to Europe, I would argue that the same principles are still valid: to stop at or pass by islands close enough to have the option of going into port if need, and using the tradewinds to your advantage.

Considering this, most people leave the Caribbean from Tortola, Britsh virgin islands, or St Marteen. These make great starting points for the eastward journey since they are the last point where there is plenty of fuel, spare parts, and food for the long and sometimes arduous trip back to Europe.

Though it is not necessary, many sailors make a halt at Bermuda; this is a good start to fix anything broken or wait for the right weather before your head on to the next part of your trip.

The Azores, the same goes here, you can skip it, but staying close to it adds safety and comfort if needed, and I would also stop by just to enjoy the islands. It’s a beautiful place and good for a few days of low-intensity cruising.

If you still have some energy left after the trip from Bermuda, one option is to head for a place called Horta. The place is well remembered for its hospitality towards sailors heading towards Europe.

Once you have refueled on diesel and energy, it is time to head for northern Europe. This is usually done by sailing north until the 45th latitude and then heading east.

When is The Best Time to Cross The Atlantic

Choosing a route has a lot to do with your intended purpose of the trip, are you going for a speed record, then going more north might be an option, and accepting the risk might be ok for you and your crew.

If you are going west but more interested in doing it safely and are able to spend a little more time out at sea, then the southern routes mentioned above with a departure date around November and December.

Going west on your way to the Caribbean, you’ll notice the days are getting warmer and longer; this is because going west, you also travel south towards the equator where the days and nights are equally as long be it summer or winter.

This weather window is to avoid the hurricane season in the Caribbean that ends in late November, these are the main risk and must be considered in your plan.

What Is The Best Route For an Atlantic Crossing

Taking into consideration the information above with trade winds, the possibility of breakdowns, and the collective knowledge of the area.

The best route for a westbound Atlantic crossing is from Las Palmas (on the Island of Gran Canarias) to Barbados Via Cap Verde. The best route going east is from St Marteen to the Azores Via Bermuda.

This is, of course, based on the assumptions we have discussed above, and it might not apply to your skillset or aim of the crossing.

Can You Cross the Atlantic Single Handed?

You can definitely cross the Atlantic on your own (short-handed). As a matter of fact, many do every year. Of course, this demands more of the sailor since there is nobody to ask for advice or to help while underway.

Neither is there anyone that will help you with handling sails or maintenance while underway; because of this, it is more dangerous and more difficult to solo sailor sail short-handed as it is also called.

The usual way is to either bring a crew of your own, recruit a crew from the port of exit, or find one online via crewseeker.net.

Is Transatlantic Passages Dangerous?

Sailing in big oceans is never a hundred percent safe. This is why it is an adventure if it was absolutely safe, where would the attractiveness and the excitement lie?

Looking at the data, there aren’t many accidents happening, and of those, there are even fewer that are deadly or leave the crew injured for life.

There are also ways to make it safer; we have discussed boat size and crew skills; other route selection factors are vital. It might not be the quickest to cross the Atlantic, but the southern route seems to be a safer bet.

Prepare yourself, your crew, and the boat, and the chances for accidents will still be there, but they will be small and manageable.

How Lonely Is Crossing The Atlantic?

Spending two to three weeks in the middle of the ocean can definitely be lonely, but it can also be the absolute opposite. If you’re sailing with a crew, you will share the same small space with everyone else, always bumping your elbow. If the weather is rough, you may all be a little tired, which also adds to the group dynamics.

But even if you would get sick and tired of your crew, there are ways to call back home. You might have a Satellite phone, which is expensive by the minute but a lovely way to hear the voice of a loved one back at land. Much better than a text message through Email.

Sending emails has been a pretty straightforward process since the SSB radio started to be utilized.  This type of radio is very simplistic and has good reception up to thousands of miles .

The nice thing with this radio is that it allows for data traffic, which means not only are you able to receive weather updates, but you can also contact your family through Email.

Can You Get Rescued If Something Goes Wrong?

Yes, there might not be a coast guard or anything nearby, and you might be way out to sea, but there is help to get. Since every ship is listening to some set of frequencies, usually, the first step is to call for a Mayday on that channel.

If you’re not getting anyone’s attention, then they might still see you on the AIS, Automatic Identification System, which makes anyone around you know where you are.

Many times the crossing is done together with a lot of other vessels; this gives comfort as they might also be able to help in case of emergency.

If all this fails, you probably also will have your EPIRB,  Emergency  Position Indicating Radio  Beacon , which is a gadget that can be activated through certain triggers such as water, tilt angle, or manually activated.

Once activated, it sends an emergency signal at different frequencies and relays the information back to shore for someone to come help you.

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

How to sail across the Atlantic and back

• Elaine Bunting
• March 8, 2021

Confined to quarters during the pandemic, many sailors are itching to slip their lines and sail for the sun. Elaine Bunting explains exactly how to break free and sail across the Atlantic and back

If your dream is sailing off into the sunset, making it a reality could be easier than you think

Just as the island of Hiddensee drew across the wake of the boat, Malin Andersson took up her camera and shot a video, writes Elaine Bunting .

When she looks at it now, a late summer scene from the Baltic coast of Germany, she remembers it as the instant she knew for certain she was right to think of leaving work to go cruising.

Malin and her partner Kaj Maass, both from Sweden and aged in their late twenties, met as students and formed a plan to take a year off before starting a family.

After years of scrimping, they bought a Bavaria 38 and renamed her Cross Ocean .

With the last tiny island of a summer cruise behind them, they began to prepare to sail across the Atlantic and back, and a year of adventure.

‘From then, we have never had a moment of regret about setting off,’ she says.

Each year, hundreds of yachtsmen of all ages sail across the Atlantic.

Some have only a few months of freedom, others plan to cruise indefinitely.

Their ambitions shape diverse choices in terms of boat design and preparations.

Here, we look at some of the biggest considerations if that is your goal, too.

What’s the right boat to sail across the Atlantic?

A good place to start might be with the question: can I sail across the Atlantic and back in the yacht I have now?

In most cases, the answer is yes.

Almost any well-prepared yacht of 30ft and upwards can tackle the downwind crossing, and indeed there is no reason why an even smaller boat can’t do it successfully.

People have crossed in Folkboats; the legendary American sailor Webb Chiles sailed across the Pacific in a converted 24ft dayboat, and some masochistic adventurers have crossed oceans in micro yachts not even long enough for them to stretch out in.

Two sailors I have repeatedly met over the years are Swedes Pekka and Barbro Karlsson.

They first crossed the Atlantic in 1986 in their 32ft Arvid Lauren-designed double-ender, Corona AQ .

Pekka and Barbo Karisson have sailed their 32ft double ender across the Atlantic multiple times over 30 years. Credit: World Cruising Club

Over the last 30 years, they have made multiple crossings back and forth, observing boats getting ever larger, even of the same LOA as theirs.

By comparison, theirs is dwarfed in every dimension, including beam and freeboard, yet it has everything this experienced couple need for living on board for six or more months every year.

So, really, it is a matter of cost, preference and expectation.

The big question is whether your current yacht is the best tool for the job given your budget.

Is it large enough for the crew you intend for longer passages, for the provisions, fuel and water?

A 35-footer might take 25-28 days to sail across the Atlantic from the Canaries to the West Indies.

Obviously, the longer and faster your boat is, the more stowage and water tankage you will have for less time at sea.

You might also ask yourself which parts of the adventure are the most valuable to you.

A solid yacht set up for bluewater cruising is a good option and can be sold once you return home. Credit: Tor Johnson

If you don’t intend to do the more arduous return home to Europe, maybe you don’t need a bigger, more expensive, more complex long-legged bluewater cruiser; you could consider shipping back – more on that option later.

If you intend to live on board for longer, then perhaps you will want more space, including for guests, greater comforts and faster passage times.

In that case, one solution might be to buy for the duration of the project a second-hand bluewater cruiser already well kitted out with the right gear, then sell her right afterwards.

‘I think that makes total sense,’ says Sue Grant, managing director of Berthon International, the well-known brokers specialising in bluewater cruisers.

‘The best thing you can do for a North Atlantic circuit is to buy from the guy who had the dream, had the money and didn’t go. A refit will always cost you more than you think.’

For a two- to three-season transocean cruise, Grant advocates stretching up to your next level, especially to a yacht that doesn’t need a big refit and brands with a strong residual value.

‘If you buy a high-quality Hallberg-Rassy or an Oyster then sell it you’d lose 10% of value but have three years for it.’

Buy a boat you will enjoy

While in the Azores in 2012 I met Stuart and Anne Letton, who were sailing their Island Packet 45, Time Bandit , back to the UK.

Their boat was brimming with sensible ideas for living aboard and I have kept in touch with them over the years as they are a wonderful source of thoughtful advice.

Since then they have sold the Island Packet , bought an Outremer 51 catamaran, sailed across the Atlantic again, and are presently in Indonesia having sailed across the Pacific.

In total, they have now logged a very impressive 60,000 miles.

Catamarans are increasingly popular thanks to their speed and space. Credit: Stuart & Anne Letton

‘Before we went cruising, I spent a lot of time looking at what would be the best, safest mode of transport. I wanted a proven, tough, sturdy, bombproof ocean cruiser, hence Time Bandit [the Island Packet], the “Beige Battleship”,’ says Stuart.

‘Having spent my sailing career racing performance dinghies and keel boats, this was something of a departure for me. It was safe. And a bit boring. However, the reality is you all end up in the same place, give or take a few days. With reflection, though, I’d say, buy a boat that will make you happy, one that reflects your sailing style and capabilities. We opted for slow but safe and used the safe features a handful of days in 10 years. Those were years we could have been enjoying more rewarding sailing.

‘Buy what you will enjoy, can afford and are able to keep running. Do the maths on running costs, rig, insurance and repairs, and work that into the budget.’

Asked about their ideas of the ideal size for a couple, the Lettons comment: ‘Generally I’d say bigger is better, but the costs are exponential. Personally, for two up, I think around 40-45ft feet is a good size: big enough to be safe and comfortable, small enough to manage.’

Tips on how to sail across the Atlantic from Stuart & Anne Letton

The couple own the Outremer 51, Time Bandit and have completed four Atlantic crossings and sailed 60,000 miles

Stuart and Anne Letton.

‘Being very well set up for dead downwind sailing is important, especially well thought-out preventers, fore and aft on the spinnaker pole and main boom.

‘An asymmetric or spinnaker will keep you moving in lighter air.

‘Save on gas with a Thermal Cookpot and get as much free power from water and sun as you can.

‘Trade in your trusty CQR or Bruce anchor for a spade or similar “new technology” anchor .

Is a bigger boat better for crossing the Atlantic?

Like the Lettons, I think 40-45ft is something of a sweet spot, offering the volume and tankage required for longer cruising, yet still manageable by a small crew.

Bigger has its advantages, even up to 55ft (above that the loads become too large to handle manually and maintenance is a massive chore for a family crew, requiring significant time and budget).

The waterline length and extra speed will be your friend, most of the time.

Speed is your ally in evading bad weather, and if you are sailing to a schedule.

The Witt family sailed around the world as part of the World Cruising Club World ARC

Karsten Witt and his wife, Sheila, circumnavigated in the World ARC in their X-55 Gunvør XL , and he says: ‘It was hardest work for the smaller or slower boats. They are at sea longer, therefore experience more and sometimes harder weather, arrive later in port, get more tired and have less time to make repairs and bank downtime.

‘I would always go for a modern boat that’s faster,’ he adds.

‘If you had a heavy 40ft cruiser you would miss weather windows. Other boats spend days battling headwinds because they were doing 6-7 knots upwind and they couldn’t point. We averaged 200 miles a day every day, so in five days were a long way away and in completely different weather.’

But you certainly don’t need a large or expensive yacht, just a well-prepared one.

Starting with the basics: safety gear, fire and gas installations, good sails with deep reefs, in date and inspected rig, winches and all machinery serviced, and power and battery systems upgraded if necessary, plus full inspection of keel fastenings and rudder, skeg and bearings.

After that, you really need to know how everything on board works, how you’d repair or service it and, if you can’t, how you would manage without.

Karsten and Sheila Witt and family enjoyed the extra pace and comfort of their X-55. Credit: World Cruising Club

Only after considering that is it worth adding complexity.

Multiple power generation systems, including hydro-generator and solar panels, watermakers, diesel generators and WiFi networks.

Mark Matthews is marine surveyor who ran Professional Yacht Deliveries for 12 years, a company that moves around 200 yachts and averages 350,000 miles a year.

When he made his own Atlantic crossing, it was in a 42ft production yacht.

‘We kept the original sail plan and sails and did not have a generator or other means of charging the batteries apart from the engine. We took bottled water to supplement the on-board tankage. We only invested in a secondhand satellite phone, jerrycans for additional fuel, fishing tackle, wind scoops for the West Indies and provisions for the crossing. We crossed from the Canaries to the West Indies in 17 days,’ he explains.

But if you are looking at a boat for the way back to Europe or outside the downwind routes of the tropics, maybe you should look at more conservative, heavier displacement types, he suggests.

A yacht for a one-way voyage?

The downwind Tradewinds crossing can really be tackled in any well-prepared boat large enough for your crew, so one way to look at an Atlantic circuit is to weigh up first how you feel about the way back home, and factor that into the cost equation.

A growing number of sailors spend the winter season in the sun, or several consecutive seasons between periods of work, then ship their boat back.

This on-off cruising lifestyle could be compatible with some remote working, so while extremely expensive in itself, shipping represents a trade-off that could be worth considering.

You may find a smaller boat adequate, especially if you are shipping it home. Credit: Neville Hockley

Minus requirements dictated by the longer, more windward crossing back home, perhaps you could go in a ‘one-way/downwind-only/island-hopping’ boat option.

That could be a much smaller boat, a lighter, simpler or more performance-orientated yacht.

A one-way voyage involves relatively short times at sea, possibly three weeks at most, and you might be able to manage without spending a fortune on equipment.

This year, Peters & May will be loading from Antigua, St Lucia and Martinique and have ships going into the Med, Southampton and other North Sea or Baltic ports.

Michael Wood, general manager of Peters & May, quotes typical prices of US$10,200 for a 32-footer and US$21,600 for a 41-footer.

Unlike a delivery service, shipping saves on the wear and tear from an Atlantic crossing, so is also something to weigh up.

Ready to go?

Typically, getting ready to go off for an Atlantic circuit or more needs a two- to three-year runway.

I have met people who have done it much quicker – I recently met an American family who only decided to go cruising last June and were in the Canary Islands with a brand new catamaran in November – but it is stressful, and you risk sailing away with a long list of warranty work needed, and jobs lists incomplete.

It might take most of a year to choose, trial and select the right boat, then you could spend the next year sailing from your home port, preparing, fitting new gear, testing and sea trialling everything and upping your knowledge level.

Kaj Maass and Malin Andersson, an engineer and a pre-school teacher respectively, bought their Bavaria 38 Cross Ocean in 2016 for €80,000 and lived on board for a summer and winter to increase their savings.

You’ll need space to store enough food for the crew – though choice in foreign ports may be limited. Credit: Kaj Maass & Malin Andersson

‘You don’t have to set off for several years right away, you could make the adventure in smaller parts,’ says Kaj.

‘We met several sailors who sailed for a couple of months, left the boat, flew back home, and continued later on. We adjusted upgrades, the time frame for the adventure, and saved during our day-to-day lives before setting off.’

Do make sure everything you fit for your cruise is well-tested and problems ironed out before you set out to sail across the Atlantic.

If you buy a new boat, expect lots of snagging.

Sorry to say it, but yards tend to put switches, filters and so on in silly places, and because yachts have relatively low volume sales, information about fitting or installation problems can take a while to circle back and be corrected.

Kaj and Malin replaced their engine for peace of mind. Credit: Kaj Maass & Malin Andersson

If you leave before inevitable glitches are corrected, you could spend days arguing with the boatbuilder or manufacturer about who is responsible and how they are going to get spare parts to you.

This quickly rubs the nap off a dream cruising life.

A year of home-range cruising will also allow you to gain all the knowledge and training you need, which should include essential maintenance know-how and medical and sea survival training (people tend to rave about the latter, interestingly).

It will also allow you time to prepare a manual about your boat, with info and serial numbers and specs of everything on board, which will pay you back handsomely if you need advice or spares.

Tips on how to sail across the Atlantic from Kaj Maass & Malin Andersson

The couple own the Bavaria 38, Cross Ocean and have sailed from Sweden to the Caribbean and back via the Azores

Malin hoists a courtesy flag as their Bavaria 38 makes landfall in St Lucia. Credit: Kaj Maass & Malin Andersson

‘You do not need that much. Less equipment equals fewer breakages.

‘We would never go without a windvane and we are definitely pleased with having a centre cockpit boat, which keeps you safe and dry in the centre of the boat, though the master cabin is worthless at sea.’

Go with the kids

There has been a big upswing in families taking a year or 18 months out from normal lives, to return later.

This seems to coincide with that point in an established, stable career where a sabbatical is possible, there is enough money to buy a boat for a special project, parents are healthy and the kids are not yet in the run up to major exams.

Most often, the sailing families I meet have children aged between five and 12.

Crossing an ocean with a family is entirely feasible. The Paterson family took part in the 2018 ARC on their Moody 471. Credit: World Cruising Club/James Mitchell

The obvious rewards for children spending every day with their mum and dad have to be weighed against the considerable extra work and commitment, though I have yet to meet a parent who regretted it.

In 2019, Russell and Kate Hall sailed across the Atlantic in their Hallberg-Rassy 46 with their boys, Hugo, 8, and Felix, 6.

‘Somebody said to us that living with kids on a boat for a year is like living on land with them for four years,’ Kate laughs.

‘It can be quite draining but it’s also part of the reason why we are doing this, so it’s the yin and yang.

Additional crew can help with sailing and school when you sail across the Atlantic. Credit: Erin Carey

‘There are jobs that require both of us and you have to rely on the children to keep themselves safe at times. They sleep really well on board and they go to bed at sunset and wake at sunrise, then they’re full of beans. You might not have had much sleep. It takes a while to adjust.’

The Halls concentrated on the basics of English and maths, and then tailored history or geography or science projects around places they were visiting.

This seems to work for most families.

Schools will usually provide a curriculum plan for time out, and there are a lot of distance learning and ‘school in a box’ courses for homeschooling children, such as Calvert and Oak Meadow.

‘My advice would be to be easy on yourself,’ advises Kate Hall.

Celebrating milestones can help bolster a young crew’s morale when you sail across the Atlantic. Credit: Erin Carey

‘We started with five hours’ schooling a day and then reduced that to two-and-a-half. Chill and relax; it all works out. There are always things to learn.’

If you are planning to sail across the Atlantic with kids, look at taking on extra hands to help with the sailing.

Also consider joining the ARC rally where in port you share a pontoon with all the other family boats so there are lots of other kids of different ages for yours to socialise with, as well as an organised daily kids club.

The friendships made between adults and children also often shape later cruising plans.

Seasons and routes to sail across the Atlantic

If you are planning on sailing across the Atlantic, don’t leave it too late to set off across Biscay – late August or September is pushing your luck from a weather point of view.

Ideally, make the most of the summer cruising opportunities travelling south through France, Spain and Portugal – these could be among the best parts of the trip.

Annually, the ARC rally leaves the Canary Islands in November, the ARC+ heading for Mindelo in Cape Verde first, and the ARC direct to St Lucia.

This is so that crews can be in the Caribbean for Christmas.

White sails can make a solid downwind sail plan if well set up with preventers and guys

It is early in the season for Tradewinds, though, and you may have to be prepared for a trough, a front, or calms – or all three – on the way across unless you wait until January.

Whether you cross early or not, my own personal preference would be to go via Cape Verde.

It’s a fascinating archipelago and culture, a place to re-provision or make repairs, and it breaks up the crossing.

It lengthens the time away and overall distance, as Mindelo is 800 miles south- west of the Canaries, but the leg south into ‘butter melting’ latitudes will then put you into almost guaranteed Trades, even in November.

From the Caribbean, you can then sail up to Florida via the Bahamas, or the US East Coast, or return to Europe via the Azores.

The routes to sail across the Atlantic and back. Credit: Maxine Heath

For the return to Europe, most cruisers generally strike out from Tortola in the British Virgin Islands or St Maarten, both good for provisioning, spares, chandlery and repairs, or head up to Bermuda and wait for a springboard forecast for Horta.

From here, crews will again wait to pick their timing to head across to Spain or Portugal or up to the UK.

According to Jimmy Cornell, author of World Cruising Routes , as early as March and as late as mid-May there are reasonable chances of favourable south-easterly and south-westerly winds on leaving the Eastern Caribbean.

The advice he offers is to track north-easterly towards the Azores and stay south of 30°N until 40°W.

For cruisers a southerly route is generally the preferable passage to choose, staying south of the Gulf Stream in lighter winds and taking on extra fuel and motoring if conditions deem necessary.

How much will it cost to sail across the Atlantic and back?

Cruising costs will depend on how you wish to live while cruising.

If you want to spend time in marinas, eat out regularly, hire cars, take tours and fly home occasionally, obviously that will be different to a more self-contained life on board at anchor.

As a guide, we asked Swedish couple Kaj and Malin to add up their costs to prepare for their trip and during the 14-month sabbatical.

Costs will be much lower where you can stay at anchor rather than berth in a marine. Credit: Kaj Maass/Malin Andersson

‘The budget for our trip was €80,000 to buy the boat, and €30,000 of upgrades,’ Kaj says.

The upgrades included a new engine, new standing rigging, a Hydrovane and satellite communications.

They dropped the rudder and the keel and reinforced the area around it.

Of the total budget, around €10,000 was spent on safety equipment.

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Their cruising costs were around €2,500 a month for the two of them, averaging out the most expensive parts of the journey from Sweden to the Canary Islands, when harbour fees were costing around €40 a night.

This would cover some eating out ashore and car rental for tours.

Over the longer term, a good rule of thumb is to allow 20% of the cost of your boat for running repairs to cover antifouling, sail replacement, servicing and, if you are leaving your boat to return home, you’ll need to factor in haul-out, storage and hurricane tie-downs.

If you plan to buy a boat, sail it back and sell it right after your trip, however, you may be able sidestep some ongoing costs.

Cutting the cord

Maybe you don’t have to wait until retirement to go cruising.

There is a strong argument for taking a career break (or breaks) and working for longer if necessary as it spreads the cost and reduces the risk of the big adventure never happening.

Additional offwind sails, like a furling Code 0, can keep the boat moving in light airs for more enjoyable sailing and to save fuel. Credit World Cruising Club

Around half of the people I meet on transatlantic rallies are taking sabbaticals and intending to return to the same post, or have quit a job.

Both options have become quite acceptable, and in some professions and countries sabbaticals are actively encouraged as a retention incentive.

‘Tell the world you are leaving,’ advises Kaj Maass.

‘Make sure you create some pressure on yourself to realise your dream. Involve your employer early on in the planning process. A modern employer will understand and respect your decision to explore the world and live out your dreams, maybe they even see a long-term benefit from the knowledge and experience you will gain from it and you can [negotiate] a leave of absence.’

Satellite comms add a level of safety and keeping in touch but can be costly. Credit: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Those running a business may bring in a trusted general manager or step up a family member while they are away.

Keeping tabs on business while away is possible (though it can be expensive in satellite data) but it’s not something that generally works well on a day-to-day basis.

You do need to be able to cut the ties to enjoy cruising, not least because the cruising life comes with its own workload, from maintenance to laundry.

Long-distance cruising comes with its own workload and maintenance. Credit: Kaj Maass/Malin Andersson

‘Trying to mix work and pleasure compromises both,’ says Stuart Letton.

Before setting out, the Lettons brought their son in to run their web-based business supplying global brands with customisable marketing material.

‘While our business was under new management, it was still a struggle for me to let go. I can remember sitting in WiFi cafés from Spain to the Galapagos trying to blend cruising with work and, while it helped my conscience, I doubt the effort did much for work or cruising.

‘That’s not to say it isn’t possible. With good WiFi and satellite connections you really can work pretty much anywhere . But if you don’t need to, I’d cut the ties, burn the bridges and go. If you need to work, fine, just get your management team in place, communication systems properly set up and resourced, and go.’

It helps to set a deadline so you can realise your dream and sail across the Atlantic. Credit: Kaj Maass/Malin Andersson

However you plan to break free, what really helps is a deadline: a date that you are going set off, with a scene you can visualise to keep you motivated as you work through the preparations and demands of shore life.

Most preparations are really just logistics, and you’re probably already pretty good at that.

The bigger obstacle is often mustering the courage to leave.

I often hear cruisers describe hassles – one described cruising as the act of sailing from one place where you couldn’t get something fixed to another where you hoped you would – yet when I ask for their best advice it usually boils down to a simple prescription: just go.

Kaj Maass said exactly that when I asked him that question.

‘Just do it. Life is too short not to live out your dreams.’

To rally or not?

This is entirely a personal choice.

Advantages of the ARC , which is the best organised and biggest, are great seminars, preparation information and tools.

It’s also an ideal way to meet lots of fascinating, like-minded people, and is agreed to be good value despite costs.

It also gives you a departure date to hold yourself too.

For a first taste of ocean sailing, it can be reassuring and fun to join a rally to sail across the Atlantic, like the ARC. Credit: James Mitchell/World Cruising Club

Plus is has good parties and entertainment on tap to keep crew happy.

The cons would be its early crossing date for the Tradewinds season, large fleet size (though check out ARC+, which is smaller) or if you just want to be low-key and go it alone.

The Viking Explorers rally is one alternative, but not many others still run.

If you do your own thing, you will still find a wonderful cruising community anywhere cruisers other, and there is fantastic support across the world for independent voyaging through the Ocean Cruising Club.

Preparations for sailing across the Atlantic  – the basics

While in no way a comprehensive list of preparations, here are some jumping off points to think about when planning your voyage:

• Learn how to service and maintain your engine and key machinery, have a good set of tools on board. Video repair tips and techniques when you have technicians on board to refer to later.
• Have your yacht lifted, antifouled , stern gear serviced, and anodes replaced. Consider fitting a rope cutter . Also check steering systems and replace rudder bearings.
• Create a boat manual with all your procedures, equipment and the location of safety and medical equipment for crew to access.
• Fit an autopilot capable of handling your yacht in an ocean swell, fully laden downwind in 30 knots of breeze. Have a back-up if shorthanded, or two separate systems for redundancy.
• Have power systems checked and replace or upgrade batteries if necessary . If you upgrade batteries, consider if additional charging is necessary .
• Get first-class safety equipment for all crew on board.
• Have all sails serviced by a sail loft and consider double stitching all panels. With slab reefing mainsails, get a deep third reef.
• Set up a good boom preventer for downwind sailing on both tacks. That can be just lines and blocks but set up so you can gybe and switch preventers without leaving the cockpit.
• Check all running rigging and ensure you have adequate spare halyards set up before you depart. Think about chafe prevention.
• Choose your crew carefully. Make sure you are all comfortable sailing together and that roles are established well before you leave.

Enjoyed reading How to sail across the Atlantic and back?

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Travel Across the Atlantic by Sailboat | 10 tips for a happy and safe ocean adventure

Travelling an Atlantic Crossing on someone else’s sailing boat is not a straightforward endeavour and an adventure to be taken lightly. Finding a boat is one thing; finding the right boat, crew, and captain match is what makes all the difference. There are some things to be mindful of.

Almost every day, we receive a message from someone who would like to sail across the Atlantic Ocean as a crew. We’ve created blogs, a  book ,  a course ,  a film ,  resources , local provision contacts, a story collection, and an active  network  you can tap into to make the Atlantic sailing dream real. Many of our members have done it and are looking to do so.

Last but not least, we teamed up with Twister again for voyages across the Atlantic Ocean, which  you can join!

Here are some waypoints to get you across the Atlantic ocean, happy safe and meaningful. Above all, we like to make ocean adventure accessible, and memorable and impactful.

Find dozens more tips and stories from Ocean Nomads network members who sailed across and shared their lessons learned on the ocean nomads member network and in the Ocean Nomads Crew course. 

Ten tips for crew looking to sail across the Atlantic Ocean.

Have your WHY clear

Do you want to make the crossing to gain sailing experience? Learn as much as you can about seamanship? Travel from A to B and reach a certain destination by sail? Meet sailors living on sailboats to learn from? Just be away from all of it by crossing an ocean? Or simply chillax on a downwind sail and anchor in pretty bays? Search accordingly. There is a huge variety of sailing vessels and styles, sailing routes, of which only some will match what you’re looking for for your next great trip.

Share what you are looking for in   the Ocean Nomads network  and our community captains create personalized connections to people and resources that can help you further.  

BE CONFIDENT OR START SMALL

Be confident you’re ready to set sail for an ocean passage.  You owe it to yourself, captain, and fellow crew. If you’re not sure about the full Atlantic Crossing, start with a trip near shore or a shorter offshore passage to figure out if an ocean passage is for you.

You can join Ocean Nomads on a short passage in Greece after summer and dip your toes into the possibility of sailing across the Atlantic.  Or jump on board with one of our   70 vessel members .

The voyages we organize are the fastest way we can facilitate a new heading in your life . Literally ;). You get to meet, live, sail with fellow ambitious ocean lovers and be introduced to ocean travel hrough experiencing it yourself. And all the connections, learnings, and next opportunities that come with it, perhaps even a transatlantic crossing. Paula, Nadiem, Thomas, Pim, Sael, Anna, are a few of our example  members we’re so proud of  who  joined us on a trip  as one of their, if not their first sailing experiences,  and then made their Atlantic Sailing dream happen .

KNOW THE BEARINGS

To be ready to expect the unexpected, careful investigation and preparation is essential for a happy and safe ocean passage, especially when planning a transatlantic adventure. Learn about the Atlantic Ocean passage, seasons, distance, destinations, weather, costs, and crew tasks. This will help you find a relevant ride at the right time and place. Know when the tradewinds kick in and where the prevailing winds are, what’s the Atlantic circuit, how many nautical miles it is from east to west and west to east, the different north Atlantic routes, which safety equipment is essential on board and as a crew member, and so much more to be aware about.

Explore the ‘ Sailing across the Atlantic as Crew ‘  Resource on our member hub for the basic bearings, ask your questions, atlantic ocean crew opportunities, and we do our best to pin point you in the right direction for a potential transatlantic crossing. 

Map of Atlantic Crossing Sailing Routes

BE FLEXIBLE WITH TIME, PLACE AND MONEY

Sailboats deal with seasons, routes, weather, breakage, and all sorts of variables. By thinking about scenarios in advance makes it easy to change course and comply with Captains’ calls peacefully.

Be happy and confident with whom you cross the Atlantic

We’ve met too many people who thought to ‘just’ hop on a boat and sail across the Atlantic. Unsurprisingly, many of them did not succeed in having a pleasant experience. And that’s a pity. Because it should be a beautiful voyage of a lifetime to never forget. On the Atlantic Ocean, you live, work, eat, and leisure together for weeks. Non-stop across the Atlantic. Life at sea is like camping in the wild with a bunch of strangers. Only you can’t walk away… Inform yourself, research and prepare for your transatlantic voyage dreams. It’s part of the fun! It is essential for feeling and being as safe as you can. A transatlantic sail is next level adventure sailing.

Research the boat, captain, and crew carefully. The people you share the crossing the Atlantic ocean adventure with either make or break the experience. Realise that anyone can buy a boat without experience or license. Exchange messages, ask questions, and talk to each other on the phone, preferably with video. Meet-up, fix things together and go for a test sail. Don’t let your eagerness to make a trip override your instinct and judgment. Be 100 percent sure and clear about expectations and intentions.

And network! Sailing the Atlantic is a big deal and a big dream for many skippers and boat owners. They would like to undertake this adventure with people they feel good with, people they know, or are referred to by others. We for example have one member, Wolfgang, who is  now already selecting crew from the Ocean Nomads network   for next year. Also we have a few  Atlantic sailing crew opportunities   for this year! And a partnership to sail the Atlantic on tallship Twister.  It takes the time to get to know the potential crew before they set sail. Have a foot in the door early so your chances are increased to be welcome on board.

Find an extensive safety and happiness assessment checklist & tips what to look out for in the  Ocean Nomads Crew Course

Ocean Nomads Crew

We learned that, in the end, it’s all about the people you share the experience with. That’s a big reason we started   Ocean Nomads : to connect more adventurous and conscious-minded ocean explorers to each other. We have had more and more boat owners particularly reach out to Ocean Nomads because of the amount of ‘noise’ and unmatching crew requests via the many Facebook groups and crew websites. Ocean Nomads members are seen as serious and well-informed crew members, especially those who took our crew course. We want you to spend the least amount of time online ‘(re)searching and the most time adventuring out there!

Throughout our expeditions, we walk the extra mile to bring together a unique mix of inspirational individuals, talents, and knowledge on board. We release the power from the individual talents and knowledge into the group, for maximum learning experience. We select participants based on motivation, drive, mindset, and readiness to navigate a transatlantic route. For legs of longer than 10 days we additionally interview on the phone to make sure expectations, mindset, and values are aligned.

Sail with us in Greece  october 2024 for the next meet-up and mingle opportunity and experience the beauty of sailing, and learn everything you need to know for a transatlantic. Many sailing nomads will join and are happy to share their lessons learned.

“Expedition ON gave me everything I was looking for. It has opened up so many possibilities to meet new people with similar vibes, including connection, companionship, purpose and being one with nature.” – Cay Chandler Netherlands – Canary Islands ‘21

Feel and Be Safe

The ocean deserves our greatest respect. Sailing remotely is an endeavour not to be taken lightly. Especially when joining a smaller sailing vessel, when assessing the options and figuring out if a boat is a good match, talk to the captain, learn about the vessel, the miles sailed on the vessel, and other crew joining. Don’t let your eagerness to make the trip override your investigative spirit, instinct and judgement. Discover the strengths, weaknesses and interests of the captain, crew and boat. Put your critical hat on and do your homework. It’s not ‘just’ a ride.

In doubt about a boat to join or not?   Share it in our community and get in touch with fellow sailors.  We’re happy to help assess and figure it out. 

Be clear on intentions, expectations, and agreements.

Know what the captain or organization is expecting from you. What are you expecting from the captain and the Atlantic crossing? It makes it easier for you to prepare, anticipate, and avoid misunderstandings.

Ocean Nomads expeditions   are hands-on active expeditions, with next level participation in the offshore legs. We have a professional captain and crew who’ll be showing us the ropes. Everyone on board is expected to take part in the running of the ship, including helming, watchkeeping, cooking etc. It’s part of the fun, experience, development and epiphany moment creation. That said, we’ll be many hands on board so there’ll also plenty of room to chill, relax and simply BE.

Pack Light and Thoughtful

You don’t need much at sea. As a general rule, if you can live without it during a yachting trip, leave it at home. Storage space is worth gold on board. If you have already committed to a boat (and are sure about it!) before leaving your home base, ask what’s already on board, so you don’t have to bring it. Less is more; less is more; less is more!

Find an extensive  ocean sailing packing checklist  and considerations on the Ocean Nomads network.

Provision Consciously for offshore sailing

Captains usually have their hands full preparing the boat, so it’s likely that as crew you will be part of the provisioning team. A well-fed crew is a happy crew, so properly organise, plan and execute provisions for the boat. Your health and happiness for the next few weeks depends on it. A big part of your contribution (or destruction!) to a healthy ocean starts with the packing and provisioning preparation. Find a resource on   Happy and healthy provisioning is key for a successful voyage, whether it be a short trip or a transatlantic crossing. , and ocean friendly vegetarian and vegan recipes on the Member Hub.

Give back to the ocean. Sail with positive impact. Make it Meaningful.

The ocean is the heart of the planet. Water covers more than two-thirds of the Earth’s surface. Ocean plants produce most of the oxygen we breathe, and the deep waters are home to wildlife and some of the biggest creatures on earth. It provides us with food, jobs, life, play, yachting, and sailing! It gives us everything; without it, we cannot survive. By experiencing the ocean first hand on a boat, you will be amazed by its beauty, gain a deep respect for its power, and also see its decline.  Here’s a blog on why the ocean is so important.

As ocean users, it’s our responsibility to become part of the solution, not the problem. Many solutions are in the hands of governments, policymakers, and corporations, but we don’t have time to wait for politicians to prioritise the ocean in their agenda. We can travel oceans, do good, save money,  and  have fun. When we plan, prepare and make conscious decisions, we can minimise our negative footprint and maximise the benefits for the place we visit and for the planet as a whole. We are responsible for the life depleting in the ocean, whether on a transatlantic journey or a local cruise. All together, we can also bring it back! Collectively, our impact can be major. It’s our responsibility to become part of the solution, not the problem. Governments and businesses respond to the choices of the public. By making conscious decisions as a consumer, you can influence what will be on the market tomorrow.

The pursuit of a healthy ocean and lifestyle are one and the same. Connect to nature, prioritize play, say no to plastic, fix, create, simplify, use what you got, and only what you need, buy little and buy local, explore more, team-up, walk your talk, stay curious, stay wild, stay pure, eat plants, spread kindness, be aware of your privileges and act accordingly, use your superpowers, and have breakfast from the pan now and then. You’ll save some dishes. And water, which is essential for any yachting adventure. And time. If we all try some of this, a little, every day, a healthier ocean and you is the way.

Explore more and meet-up and team-up with fellow ocean nomads to contribute to a healthier ocean on   our member network .  Together we can!

“Our actions over the next ten years will determine the state of the ocean for the next 10,000 years.” – Sylvia Earle

BONUS TIP! DON’T BOOK A RETURN TICKET  😉

An Atlantic Crossing goes hardly as planned. Avoid stressing the captain because you have a plane to catch. Above all, chances are you’ll be hooked and you want to keep going. Don’t book a return ticket, chances are you want to keep going. If you sail from East to West to the Caribbean, you have a paradise cruising ground ahead of you where many sailors are happy to take you on board on sailing voyages. We’re here to help you continue and accelerate your ride towards a more sustainable ocean nomads lifestyle.

At the end sailing across the Atlantic as Crew is common sense, following your instinct and one big adventure! But being well-informed and prepared is key for a happy, safe, and meaningful experience. That’s   why we set up Ocean Nomads   and now also partner up for sailing adventures across the Atlantic ocean that you can join!   To connect more of you to the ocean, happy, safe and meaningfully! And to each other!

Enjoy & Ahoy!

This content has partly been originally published in YachtingWorld.  

Are you planning on Sailing across the Atlantic as crew? What questions do you have? Would you like us to help you decide if it’s a good match or not? Join the conversation in the  Atlantic Ocean space  on the Member hub! As a community we are here to support each other and make the Atlantic Ocean crossings dreams real.

We’ve created blogs, a  book ,  a course ,  a film ,  resources , local provision contacts, a story collection, and an active  network  you can tap into to make your ambition to sail across the Atlantic ocean a reality. Become part of the crew!

Make it happen! Soon, Safe & Sustainable.

Q: What is a transatlantic sailing adventure?

A: A transatlantic sailing adventure is a journey across the Atlantic Ocean, typically from Europe to the Caribbean, covering a vast expanse of water and often involving trade winds, ocean currents, and challenging weather conditions.

Q: How long does a transatlantic sailing voyage take?

A: The duration of a transatlantic sailing voyage can vary depending on the route taken, weather conditions, and the type of vessel used. On average, it can take around 2-3 weeks to sail across the Atlantic Ocean.

Q: What safety equipment is needed for a transatlantic sail?

A: Essential safety equipment for a transatlantic sail includes life jackets, a life raft, flares, a VHF radio, EPIRB, and a well-equipped first aid kit. Having all necessary safety gear aboard is important to ensure a safe journey.

Q: What are the sailing conditions like on a transatlantic voyage?

A: Sailing conditions on a transatlantic voyage can vary widely, from calm seas and favourable winds to rough waters and strong currents. During the journey, sailors must be prepared for different weather patterns and sea states.

Q: What is the best time of year to sail across the Atlantic Ocean?

A: The best time to sail across the Atlantic Ocean is typically in late November or early December when the trade winds are favorable for an east-to-west crossing. It is important to pick a time when weather and sea conditions are most suitable for the voyage.

Q: What is the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC)?

A: The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is an annual transatlantic sailing event from Europe to the Caribbean, attracting participants from around the world. It offers a unique opportunity for sailors to experience a challenging yet rewarding voyage across the Atlantic.

Q: What types of vessels are used for a transatlantic sail?

A: Various types of vessels can be used for a transatlantic sail, including yachts, traditional tall ships, and exclusive sailing cruise ships. Each type of vessel offers a different experience and level of comfort for sailors undertaking the journey.

Q: Can solo travellers participate in a transatlantic sailing adventure?

A: Yes, solo travellers can participate in a transatlantic sailing adventure either by joining a crewed vessel or by sailing solo. Solo sailors must have the necessary skills, experience, and equipment to undertake such a challenging voyage.

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Crossing the Atlantic in a sailboat: the most famous crossings

Sailing the Atlantic in a sailboat is a feat that few dare to undertake. From meticulous planning to dealing with unpredictable sea conditions, we will discover what it takes to cross the Atlantic by sailboat and what are the best routes. Meteorology and weather is fundamental when planning a transatlantic voyage, it is also important to know what time of the year to go and what route to follow. If you would like to live the adventure of this oceanic navigation, but you have doubts about how this kind of voyages are, in this article we will try to solve all the questions as much as possible. To cross the Atlantic by sailboat, there are basically two routes available.

Route from East to West. Crossing Europe-America

This is the simplest route, as it is the usual route chosen by sailors to cross the Atlantic. It is easier to make this crossing, due to the distance among other things. This Europe-America crossing has a shorter distance so you will reach your destination sooner. Also, depending on the time of year you travel, it is much safer and you will enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey. The journey generally starts from Western Europe, being the most common departure from Spain or France , usually in the first days, most of the sailors make a stop in the Canary Islands, so you could also decide to leave from there. The destination when crossing the Atlantic by sailboat following this route is to end up in the Caribbean or in Central or South America . Another of the stops that is usually made would be in Cape Verde, African islands.

Th e weather conditions you encounter on this crossing are usually a bit more favorable than on the west-east route. However, you have to take into account the times of the year since there can be times of the year when hurricanes are quite common. That is why most expert sailors who make this trip do so in the winter months, between November and January. Despite being in December, the temperatures are very pleasant as we are in the Atlantic on our way to the other continent where at those times it would be "summer". Normally, the weather is usually exceptional , with an average of 26-27 degrees with constant sunshine and breeze, provided by the trade winds that blow strongly especially the first days of this voyage.

Route from West to East. America-Europe Crossing

This route is a priori, a little more complicated than the previous one. In principle the distance is a little longer and it can be a more difficult crossing due to the weather conditions that you can find. Normally, on this route the winds are usually quite strong. On the one hand, this can be beneficial since it has winds that favor navigation , but, on the other hand, in some seasons they can be detrimental due to the formation of anticyclones . This voyage can be longer, as there may be days with little wind, and they slow down the trip. It is therefore advisable to have sufficient supplies of food, water and gasoline in case the crossing takes longer than expected.

Due to the weather conditions that you can find when crossing the Atlantic by sailboat on this route, the most advisable to undertake your trip would be in the months of May to June. At that time the weather is quite pleasant and it is usually quite cool . The itinerary for this trip is usually as follows. Generally, the departure is usually from North America, New York or Newport would be good destinations. The route to follow would be to go to Bermuda , and then to the Azores , islands of Portugal. This route is usually taken because the conditions are usually more favorable than if you cross the Atlantic a little lower, closer to the equator, being cautious in case of hurricanes or tropical storms. In addition, you can stop to visit these spectacular destinations such as Bermuda and the Azores.

How long does it take to cross the Atlantic?

The duration of the voyage may vary according to different factors. First of all, as we have already mentioned several times, the weather , in particular the wind and sea conditions. A bad or good swell can slow down your trip, as can a lack of wind. On the other hand, a good wind (also favorable for sailing), plus a good swell can make the boat and your trip go more smoothly. Another factor that influences the duration of the voyage is the type of boat and its length. If the boat is larger, you will be able to sail faster. If you know the shortcuts, you could maximize the speed and if you also have the experience of sailing across the Atlantic, you could cross the Atlantic in less time. We are looking at a distance of between 3,500 and just over 4,000 nautical miles , depending on the route, departure and destination you choose to embark on such an adventure. In spite of these factors that we have just mentioned, generally sailing trips to cross the Atlantic can last between 15 and 30 days. It must be taken into account when planning the route and, above all, planning the weather, as the weather forecast is not usually so reliable with 1 or 2 weeks of difference.

It is necessary to be flexible in terms of dates and to have enough supplies to have sufficient safety margin. Also, remember to comply with all maritime safety regulations and requirements before embarking on a transatlantic crossing. Crossing the Atlantic by sailboat is a feat of courage, determination and passion for sailing. Whether you choose the majesty of the Azores Islands on the America-Europe Route or the lush tropical beauty on the other route.

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Pacific Passage Planning

• By Alvah Simon
• Updated: July 29, 2019

The definitions and delineations of a sea versus an ocean are complex, contested and best left to the learned geographers to debate. From a sailor’s point of view, excluding landlocked bodies of water, the rest of the brine is a contiguous path to glorious global adventure. Having said that, we do have our favorites. While the dreadful grind of the ice pack in the Far North and the towering graybeards of the Southern Ocean have their devotees, most sailing fantasies turn toward the seductive strum of the ukulele, the swaying palms and the white-sand beaches of the exotic South Pacific .

Ferdinand Magellan may have been a bit optimistic when he named a body of water that encompasses nearly one-third of Earth Mar Pacifico (peaceful ocean), for, like all oceans, it depends. The very size of the Pacific presents unique challenges, but so too do its strong currents, powerful storms, hazardous coral outcrops and remote low-lying islands.

Voyage Planning for Sailing the South Pacific

A successful Pacific passage will rely on meticulous planning , based on current information tempered with flexibility, because, by nature, cruising has it vagaries. But before one gets into the minutia of details, they should first step back and consider the bigger picture of sailing across the Pacific.

Is the vessel truly stem-to-stern, keel-to-masthead ready? Remember, a day’s work at the dock is worth a week’s under way. Is the dream and determination shared equally, or will the plan unravel with the first gale? Does a westward passage commit one to a circumnavigation, or are there strategic exit points? Does the voyage rely on a financial structure subject to change? Are you most comfortable as part of a rally, with a “buddy boat” or as a lone wolf?

Next is the paper chase. Gone are the whimsical days of letting the winds blow you where they may. The modern cruiser must be prepared in advance to face a host of legal requirements. First, ensure that every crewmember’s passport is as current as possible. Many countries will not issue visas to passports within six months of expiry. Next, list every country that you may wish to stop in and those in peripheral waters. Check the visa requirements carefully because the devil is in the details, especially if you have a multinational crew. Many countries require no visas if your stay is relatively short, or issue visas upon arrival. But some, such as Australia, will hit you with a hefty fine for showing up without one. Albeit increasingly expensive, cruising permits are normally obtainable upon arrival, but check the cruising websites and forums for current and accurate information. Make very high-resolution photocopies of your passports and ship’s papers. Bureaucrats love the pomp and splendor of shiny paper, and your precious original boat documents can stay safely on the vessel. If departing directly from U.S. waters, be aware that U.S. Customs does not normally issue a zarpe, or outbound clearance papers, yet these are required for entry into nearly any other nation. Download CBP Form 1300 and insist on a government stamp, any stamp. Be sure to have clear doctors’ prescriptions for every drug in the ship’s medical kit. What might be an over-the-counter medication in one country can be highly prohibited in another. Increasingly, foreign marinas demand third-party liability insurance. If you hope to further insure for damage and loss, check carefully the caveats relating to seasons and areas. If you plan to rent cars for touring, it is best to obtain an international driver’s license before departure.

Familiarize yourself with the basic elements that will shape your course and schedule — the direction and timing of the prevailing winds, significant currents, cyclone seasons, the positioning of the intertropical convergence zone and the South Pacific convergence zone. Ascertain if the year of passage has been deemed an El Niño or La Niña year because these phenomena can affect the above.

West Coast sailors may depart from as far north as the Strait of Juan de Fuca, near Seattle, or dally south to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, while awaiting the passage season. For European and East Coast sailors, the Pacific launching point is obviously the Panama Canal. The details of a canal transit are complex enough to warrant an article of their own, but relevant here is do not assume a quick passage, because during peak periods there can be several weeks of delay. Also, build in time to enjoy both the San Blas Islands, on the Atlantic side, and the Las Perlas Islands, on the Pacific side.

Pacific Sailing Routes

Although the official window for departures from Panama extends from February all the way to June, the trade winds tend to stabilize and strengthen as the year progresses. However, an early exit has many advantages. Leaving it until June allows only six months to transit up to 9,000 nautical miles before being forced to exit the cyclone belt at the western edge of the Pacific. This truncates the time to linger in favorite anchorages or tend to inevitable breakdowns and delays. Leaving as early as late January might technically put one out into the Pacific during the official cyclone season, but the statistical chances of a storm developing this far to the east are slim.

There are countless permutations of a westward passage, but the path dubbed the “Milk Run” is the most popular. Regardless of one’s plan for the western Pacific, this route passes by or through the Galápagos Islands , the Marquesas, Tuamotus and Society Islands (Tahiti).

The initial stage presents a challenge because the winds can be light and the currents contrary in the Gulf of Panama. It’s advisable to head slightly east of south when heading out of the Gulf; the western promontory is aptly named Punta Mala (Bad Point) due to its penchant for confused currents and squally weather.

Once well clear of the Gulf of Panama, fashion a southwestward course with a pronounced southern belly toward the Galápagos group. I once sailed a direct course for the Marquesas Islands that passed over the northern edge of the Galápagos. I paid for this foolishness by spinning in lazy circles for five excruciatingly long days. Given the early time of the year, I would have been better served by passing several degrees south of the island group. Because the intertropical convergence zone (better known as the doldrums) is widest in the eastern Pacific, it is best crossed at the least oblique angle reasonable.

On another Pacific passage, I chose to head south for Bahia de Caraquez in Ecuador. Not only was the cruise down the Ecuadorian coast fascinating, the passage to the Galápagos from Salinas provided steadier winds than had we departed directly from the canal.

The cost and conditions of a stay in the Galápagos are forever changing. As an admittedly stubborn form of protest, I sailed right by them on two different occasions. On the third, my wife, Diana, put her sea boots down and demanded we stop. Even with a limited stay and restricted access, we were treated to one of Earth’s most unique and fascinating natural habitats.

The 3,000-mile passage from the Galápagos to the Marquesas will probably be the longest of your sailing career. If you can focus on the journey instead of the destination, it might also be the most memorable. Many modern sailors tend to fill the Pacific void with a frenetic schedule of radio nets, emails and obsessive navigational updates. Others soak up the rare opportunity to commune deeply with nature, and experience a rare solitude and reaffirming self-reliance, which I believe to be the core virtues of bluewater sailing.

Counterintuitive to the landlubber but axiomatic to any old salt is that the rhumb line is often not the quickest route to a desired destination. Favorable winds mean speed, and the extra distance in search of them is usually well rewarded. When transiting from the Galápagos to the Marquesas, by first heading south-southwest down to 3 to 4 degrees south latitude, one should reach the upper limits of the southeast trade winds, albeit possibly sporadic at this point. But as you proceed west-southwest toward 6 degrees south latitude and 100 degrees west longitude, they should increase in both strength and consistency. As you straighten course toward your chosen port of entry in the Marquesas, you should begin experiencing your best noon-to-noon runs because you will still have a southerly component in the trades. This puts you on a broad reach, a point of sail most boats excel in. The farther west one heads, the more easterly the trades become until you are eventually running dead downwind. This tends to be a touch slower, with exacerbated rolling. Be sure to carry light-wind sails for the early portions of this journey, and equipment and sails suitable for downwind situations. That fortunate discrepancy you will notice between your speed on the log (i.e., through the water) versus the GPS speed (over the bottom) is compliments of the South Equatorial Current, which fortifies with the steadier trades.

There is only one shoal area along the route, which is well-charted (8 degrees 5 minutes N and 139 degrees 35 minutes W), and the islands are high and easily sighted from afar. Entrances to the main ports are open and well-marked, thus safely approached, a blessing for a fatigued crew. What the Marquesas Islands might lack in terms of white-sand beaches and aqua lagoons is more than made up for with a geography so dramatic as to be somewhat foreboding — towering rock spires, dense jungle and precipitous waterfalls. These islands have been protected from rampant development by a crushing remoteness and therefore arguably remain the cultural heart of Polynesia.

Passages between the islands are mostly clear and well-charted, but potentially windy. The anchorages tend to be open roadsteads, so anti-roll tactics and equipment come in handy. Yachts can clear in at Hiva Oa, Ua Pou or Nuku Hiva. Those first stopping in Fatu Hiva have met with mixed results, ranging from spot fines to official clearance. Yachts are no longer required to rush to Tahiti to extend their initial 30-day visa. Thus, with 90 days in pocket, you can divide your time between the Marquesas, Tuamotus and Societies more evenly than in years past.

Encompassing an area larger than Western Europe, the Tuamotus are the longest chain of atolls in the world. Historically, they were known as the “dangerous archipelago,” and rightfully so due to a baffling maze of poorly charted reefs, low-lying islands and diabolically unpredictable currents. Even with the best of modern navigational equipment and weather forecasting, they demand the mariner’s absolute vigilance regarding watchkeeping, entry and exit from atoll passes, and anchoring techniques.

Those in a hurry to reach Tahiti tend to pass through the wider channels at the northern end of the chain, perhaps visiting Ahe, Manihi and the main center of Rangiroa. Others, with more time, make landfall far to the south and make their way up the chain via Makemo and the beautiful Fakarava Lagoon, enjoying a better angle off the wind on the short sail to Tahiti.

The Society Islands are divided into two groups: the Windwards, including Tahiti and Moorea, and the Leewards, with Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a and, perhaps the most beautiful of them all, Bora Bora. They are all lush, high and ringed by azure seas. If early in the season, all are worth visiting. If time is short, be sure to at least attend the amazing group-dance competitions held in the buzzing capital of Papeete, celebrating Bastille Day on July 14.

North or South?

In Tahiti, the Milk Run divides into myriad possibilities. There is the northern route, for those planning to cross through the Torres Strait or into the Northern Hemisphere for the coming cyclone season, and the southern route, for those dropping south of the danger into New Zealand.

Although the majority of the South Pacific islands would remain unexplored, Tahiti is the earliest cutout for those needing to return to North America because its easterly location allows for a viable starboard tack through the southeast and northeast trades to Hawaii. The long but logical route from there is wheeling over the top of the North Pacific summer high and back south into U.S. West Coast waters.

While the land mass of the Cook Islands is a mere 100 square miles, its economic exclusion zone covers nearly 700,000 square miles of Pacific Ocean. One can only hope to draw a thin line through this scattered nation. For those on the southern route, the four- to five-day passage to Aitutaki or Rarotonga offers a predictable beam-to-broad reach right on the rhumb line.

En route to Niue lies one of two opportunities to experience the eeriness of anchoring in the middle of a featureless ocean (the other being the Minerva Reefs between Tonga and New Zealand). Beveridge Reef is a sunken atoll with not a skerrick of land awash at low tide, yet it offers anchorable depths within.

Niue is a raised coral atoll and geographically rare in the South Pacific. As anchoring depths are prohibitive, deep moorings are available. Keep in mind that it is an open roadstead vulnerable to dangerous swells. If the wind even hints at going west, as it occasionally does, get out immediately.

To break up the 1,200-nautical-mile haul to American Samoa from the Society Islands, the northern fleet usually takes a break in the remote and uninhabited atoll of Suwarrow, also known as Suvorov. The pass is challenging, as is the anchoring. But those who dare will be treated to one of the wildest places left on this planet.

From this point west, both the northern and southern fleet enter into the South Pacific convergence zone, a dangling arm of the intertropical convergence zone that extends from the Solomon Islands in an east-southeast direction. The South Pacific convergence zone drifts with some seasonal predictability (more to the north from December to May and the south from June to November), but is also influenced by larger weather anomalies. It tends to shift to the northeast in El Niño years and southwest in the La Niña phase. Generally, it is an area of enhanced convection resulting in a frustrating mix of cloud cover, line squalls and calms.

The list of interesting stops from here west includes Tonga, Wallis and Futuna, Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Tuvalu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Nevertheless, those planning to sail directly through Torres Strait into the Indian Ocean cannot afford to dally. They should be through the Torres by late August or early September in order to cross the entire Indian Ocean into South Africa before the cyclone season begins sometime in late November. A popular alternative is to pass south to a good cyclone hole on the Australian coast, such as Cairns or Port Douglas, and backtrack up to the Torres Strait at the beginning of the next safe season.

Keep in mind that an east-to-west circumnavigation does not demand a route through the Torres. I once circumnavigated by passing north of Papua New Guinea, avoiding the Southern Hemisphere cyclone season, taking in Palau, the Philippines, and Borneo before dropping back into the Southern Hemisphere for the Indian Ocean passage to southern Africa. Any destination north of 10 degrees south latitude will keep you out of harm’s way, albeit without the steady assist of those lovely trade winds.

Those on the southern route can linger through Tonga or Fiji until well into November and still safely make New Zealand shores before any tropical depressions threaten. Most cruisers heading for New Zealand do not venture as far west as Vanuatu or New Caledonia on the assumption that they can easily fetch them on their way north the following season.

Unanimous acclaim for the beauty of the northern Tongan groups of Niua, Vava‘u and Ha‘apai makes some time here mandatory, which harks back to my original advice to head out of Panama as early as safely possible. The southern contingent usually drifts south toward Nuku‘alofa, the capital, until it likes the long-range forecast for the passage to New Zealand. Many plan to hole up in Minerva Reef, getting a head start on the 1,100 miles to New Zealand, and depart there with the absolute latest weather predictions.

The reputation of this leg has more bark than bite, but it cannot be denied that tropical weather events drifting down from the Coral Sea and cold fronts coming up from the Southern Ocean have dramatic potential. One can expect winds from nearly every direction, starting with southeast trades on departure and potentially deep lows with strong southwesterlies shifting to northwesterlies when approaching New Zealand. Thus, the usual advice is to fall off the southeast trades and make some westing in anticipation of that southwest-to-northwest change. Not to be a contrarian, but I have made this passage more than a half-dozen times and believe it is better to hold to the east as far as wind and waves allow because if that southwest change does not occur, you might find yourself on the wrong side of North Cape, New Zealand, with contrary winds and confused currents. Although Norfolk Island is not a fully protected anchorage, many vessels that find themselves west of the rhumb line with foul forecasts to the south will shelter here until conditions improve.

It’s possible, albeit tedious, to return to North America from New Zealand. Vessels head out to the east from as far south as Tauranga hoping to catch the northerly limits of the westerlies until they fetch the longitude of the Austral Islands, then turn north for Tahiti. From there, they follow the route as previously described. From the outset of their voyage, some have planned to sell their yacht in New Zealand or Australia rather than carry on with a circumnavigation or a very lengthy sail back to the United States, especially if they are East Coast residents. Import duties, brokerage costs and currency exchange rates must be factored into this strategy. Is it heresy to suggest that another option is to ship the vessel back home? The initial estimates might seem staggering, but once compared to the escalating marina and maintenance costs, and the many windward months and miles home, the horror subsides.

Whatever your plan from here, through a combination of wind and will, you have done it. You, your crew and your splendid craft have spanned the mightiest body of water on Earth. You have immersed yourself in millions of square miles of salty solitude and self-reliance. You have absorbed the exotic cultures of Central Americans, Polynesians, Micronesians and Melanesians. And now, as only a seasoned mariner can, you truly understand why they call it the Big Blue.

Contributing editor, Alvah Simon, and his wife, Diana, are presently sailing New Zealand waters on their cutter Roger Henry, with occasional voyages to the South Pacific islands.

South Pacific At A Glance

• Dry Season: May-October
• Wet Season: November-April
• Cyclone Season: November-April. Active
• Cyclone Area: south of 10° S; west of 140° W
• Distance: Panama to Australia — 8,000 nautical miles
• Cultural Areas: Polynesia, Micronesia, Melanesia, Australia/New Zealand

References:

• World Cruising Routes by Jimmy Cornell
• noonsite.com (Virtually everything you will need to know on a current basis will be found on this comprehensive website.)
• Atlas of Pilot Charts — South Pacific, DMA/NOAA
• The Pacific Crossing Guide by Kitty Van Hagen
• Charlie’s Charts of Polynesia by Charles and Margo Wood
• Landfalls of Paradise by Earl Hinz and Jim Howard
• South Pacific Cruising by David Thatcher
• South Pacific Anchorag es by Warwick Clay
• Rocket Guide to Vanuatu & New Caledonia
• Solomon Island Cruising Guide by Dirk Sieling
• New Zealand Coastal Cruising Handbook by Royal Akarana Yacht Club
• Lonely Planet South Pacific Travel Guide

Selected SSB/Ham WX Nets:

• Southbound Evening Net: 6516 kHz at 0100 UTC
• Panama Pacific Net: 8143 kHz at 1400 UTC
• Pacific Maritime Mobile: 21.412 MHz at
• 2100-2400 UTC
• Pacific Magellan: 8173 kHz at 1730 UTC
• Pacific Seafarers: 14300 kHz at 0300 UTC
• Namba/Sheila Net: 8101 kHz at UTC plus 11 hours
• Gulf Harbor Radio: 8116 kHz at 0715 local New Zealand time
• (There is a host of smaller and temporary VHF and SSB nets throughout the Pacific.)
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Another World Adventures

Sail across the atlantic ocean – join transatlantic sailing voyages, it’s every adventure seeker’s dream to sail across the atlantic ocean..

And we’ve helped hundreds of sailors – new and experienced – to turn that dream into reality.

Find transatlantic voyages here where you book a berth or cabin and join join as hands on guest crew on planned journeys and rallies like the ARC, or if you’d like to charter a whole boat then get in touch .

We work with a network of many incredible boats from luxury yachts, performance racers to historic traditional tall ships.

If you have the ambition to sail across the Atlantic Ocean, whether you’re a beginner or pro sailor, there are exciting options for you on board hands-on sailing vessels. Join yachts or tall ships as guest voyage crew and learn incredible new skills, as you pull together as a team to harness the wind and reach a new continent. It’s a sustainable long-distance travel option that is all about embracing the journey.

Complete our short form to let us know your Atlantic ambitions and we’ll be in touch with exciting options.

Which direction?

A big first consideration for many when planning their transatlantic is which direction to sail – east or westbound and if you’re fixed on that it will determine when you’ll go.

Westbound: Europe to the Americas & Caribbean tend to depart with the trade winds in between October-December.

Eastbound: Caribbean & Americas to Europe tend to sail between March – June (April & May most commonly).

Northbound : South Africa to Europe voyages tend to depart between April-June

How experienced are you?

Our crews are a mix of sailing abilities.

Some enter races and you’d be expected to know what you’re doing, others teach you everything you need to know on the go. You’d just need to join in with a ‘can do’ and ‘here to learn’ attitude and the professional crew will help with the rest!

Want to join a crew for a fixed departure?

We have limited spaces available on organised voyages – these trips are very popular and often book out far in advance.

First step: Explore the listings and make an enquiry on the voyages you’re interested in. You’ll receive more information by email right away and if you asked any questions we’ll get back to those as quickly as possible. In the info you receive is an intro to the skipper or crew office for the boat so you can go ahead and book with them directly if it’s the right fit. These berth options are perfect for solo travellers or couples/pairs/small groups of friends.

Or book a private charter?

Bespoke voyages are organised separately, so reach out to us through the contact form or by email for more details on these.

Or get in  touch using the contact form above so we can help you make this trip dream a crossing to remember!

Voyages to sail across the Atlantic 2024 / 2025 and beyond

2024 east bound.

• Sail from USA to Scotland via Newfoundland 2024 Clipper 60
• Sail from Caribbean (Tortola, BVI) to Azores, to UK on a Celestial Navigation voyage  Clipper 60
• Beneteau 40 or Harmony 52 yachts sailing Caribbean to UK
• Sail British Virgin Islands > Azores > UK May/June  2024 – tall ship
• Sail Caribbean to France  on a Challenge 67
• Sail Cape to Cape – Chile to South Africa via Antarctica, South Georgia and Tristan de Cuna – tall ship
• Sail New York USA to Lorient France in June 2024

2024 Westbound

• November ARC 2024 Canary Islands to St Lucia on a Beneteau 40 or Harmony 52
• November Challenge 72 ARC entry 2024 to St Lucia
• November Luxury 54ft Catamaran sailing Canary Islands to Martinique
• November Tall ship adventure sailing Tenerife to Falkland Islands
• November Tall ship sailing (Portugal)> Canary Islands > Barbados

2025  Eastbound

• February tall ship sailing Antigua to Azores to Portugal
• Sail West Indies to France March 2025
• Sail Argentina to Namibia via Antarctica tall ship Feb/March 2025
• Sail Caribbean to Rotterdam tall ship March 2025
• DARWIN200 South Atlantic Falkland Islands to Cape Town via South Georgia & Tristan da Cunha Feb-April 2025
• Beneteau 40 or Harmony 52 yachts sailing Caribbean to UK March/April 2025
• Celestial Navigation voyage sail Caribbean Antigua to UK Clipper 60 March-April 2025
• Sail NYC to Lorient France June 2025 

2025  Westbound

• January 2025 Atlantic Circuit Sail Lisbon to Suriname tall ship
• January 2025 RORC transatlantic race
• Sail Lorient France to NYC USA in May 2025
• We expect to have several tall ships and yachts making the crossing to the Americas with and independent of the ARC so email us if you have any questions!!

Check all Atlantic ocean crossings here or email Larissa on [email protected]

Want to sail, but not sure about a transatlantic voyage?  We have options for everyone. Check out:

• All sailing adventure holidays
• Ocean adventures
• Tall ship adventures

Tall Ship vs Yacht?

Finding the right boat for your journey is a important part of your planning, not just the route. Each boat has it’s own character, style and charm – and personality! And the on board experience varies hugely depending on the reason for the boat sailing – is it taking part in a race? Is it an ocean cruise slow travel experience? And so on. The degree to which you’ll be mustered to help with the sailing and life on board also varies so whether you’re keen to join a 50ft yacht or a full size tall ship we’re happy to talk you through the options to find the best fit.

What is it like on Board a Transatlantic Voyage?

Experience navigation, planning and life on board with your fellow crew who will be a mix of ages and from all walks of life.

There’s rarely an upper age limit on the voyages although some of the tall ships have more recently set a limit of 73 for their offshore voyages (please ask for details). Decisions on whether someone is a suitable crew are made on a case-by-case basis by the crew office for each vessel but the key requirement is good health and an enthusiasm to get involved.

Solo Travel Sail Across the Atlantic Ocean

We met as two solo travellers on board a transatlantic voyage, so we understand the opportunities and challenges of solo travel on long journeys at sea.

It was a life-changing experience for us and Another World Adventures wouldn’t exist without that solo travel experience.

The really good news for solo travellers is that when it comes to ocean sailing trips around 80% of the people joining are doing so on their own – so if all of your mates look at you like you’ve grown two heads when you tell them your Grand Plan then don’t worry, you’ll be in great company with the friends you’ll make on board.

Sail with Friends Across the Atlantic Ocean

As well as being an amazing experience for those travelling solo, transatlantic sailing with friends can bond you for a lifetime.

As experienced adventure travel planners, we can connect you with a reliable and responsible vessel that you can join together to make the crossing. Heck, we’ve even known honeymooners celebrate their marriage with an ocean crossing.

All that’s needed is an adventurous mindset to sail across the Atlantic.

Private Charter to Sail Across the Atlantic Ocean

If you are looking for a more personalised experience, we can coordinate bespoke voyages for individuals, groups and companies.

Let us help you find and charter a private vessel for a journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

Whether it’s a bonding experience with friends, a brand contest or marketing effort, or a chance to achieve a life-long dream, we can help you navigate the best vessel choices  whether you’re 4 or 40 sailors.

Do I Need Prior Sailing Experience to Sail Across the Atlantic Ocean?

You do not always need much prior sailing experience to take on the challenge of a transatlantic sail although it is advised to ensure you and your fellow crew get the most out of the experience. Afterall, this is a really big experience to go into without knowing if it’s your cup-of-tea. For many of the boats we work with, especially the tall ships, sailing experience is not compulsory. Instead, the vessel crew will give you hands-on experience and training along the way – both on expedition sail yachts and tall ships. 

If you’re looking for an experience on a smaller vessel, you might need to have or get some sailing experience or qualifications beforehand. For example, some of the race boats or smaller yachts (60ft) require RYA Day Skipper or equivalent, so speak to us if you’d like more information. A few of the passages are even qualifiers for Yachtmaster Ocean mile makers, so if you have bigger ambitions for your sailing, please reach out to ask about that and about Watch Leader roles, too.

Be Inspired to Sail Across the Atlantic Ocean by our Previous Atlantic Sailing Voyages

Below are some voyages from the past which we’ve left up to give you an idea about routes to consider. If there’s a route you love the sound of but it’s not in the current schedule then just drop us a line to find out more. With so many changes to the sailing schedule for ocean journeys there’s a chance it’s in the planning stages, just not yet announced..!

If you’re not sure of the best option for you, speak to us about your plans and dreams for this great adventure,  so we can advise you on the best voyage route and crew to join.

Transatlantic Route inspiration

Past voyages have included

• South Africa to Canada 2019 – January – May 2019 – This was the final leg in a circumnavigation that set off in spring 2018 on board a unique sail training tall ship. Solo travellers were invited to join the crew of this remarkable vessel for the voyage of a lifetime. Unusually for the ocean crossings this voyage included lots of stops along the way.
• Sail Cape to Cape via Antarctica on a traditional tall ship from South America to South Africa.
• Sail Cape Verde to Cuba
• Sail Falkland Islands to South Africa 2018
• Sail Bermuda to the UK on a traditional tall ship
• Sail USA to the UK via the Azores on a Clipper 60 yacht
• Sail Azores to the UK on a tall ship
• Sail Europe to South America on a Dutch tall ship
• Sail USA > EUROPE (Florida to The Netherlands via Bermuda and Azores)
• Sail Antigua and Barbuda to the United Kingdom
• Sail South Africa to Norway via Azores, Ascension Island and St Helena
• ARC – Atlantic Rally for Cruisers Canary Islands to St Lucia (via Cape Verde)

If you see a trip listed here but not on the Atlantic sailing trip page , please contact us to discuss your options. We are constantly updating this list so get in touch if you don’t see a route that works for you and we’ll see what is possible.

Westbound Atlantic Crossing Tenerife to Barbados Tall Ship 2024

Join an unforgettable 30 day hands-on westbound Atlantic Ocean crossing from Canaries to Barbados as crew

Eastbound Atlantic Crossing Antigua > Azores > Portugal

Join an unforgettable 41 day hands-on eastbound transatlantic from Antigua to Portugal via Azores

Atlantic Crossing with ARC Rally – Gran Canaria – Saint Lucia

Cross the Atlantic as part of the ARC Rally on this bucket list adventure from Gran Canaria to Saint Lucia

Sail Transatlantic New York City USA to Lorient, France

Embark on a transatlantic voyage on a Challenge 67 from USA to France via St Pierre & Miquelon

Sail Transatlantic Argentina to Namibia 2025

A TRUE epic - sail a traditional tall ship from South America to Southern Africa via Antarctica

Sail Cape to Cape Chile to South Africa via Antarctica, South Georgia and Tristan da Cuna 2024

Join a Cape to Cape sailing voyage via Antarctica, South Georgia & Tristan da Cuna on a tall ship

Sail ARC Atlantic Rally 2023

Join the famous Westbound Atlantic Rally crossing on a fantastic sailing cruiser.

Sail Transatlantic Lorient to New York City

Embark as a teammate in a transatlantic voyage on a Challenge 67 from France to USA

Sail ARC Transatlantic 2024

Embark as a teammate in a transatlantic voyage on a Challenge 67 during the ARC 2024!

Atlantic Circuit Sailing Adventure

An Atlantic Circuit sailing adventure including two transatlantic crossings and some unusual port stops

Sail Transatlantic Westbound Luxury Catamaran 2024

Embark on the voyage of a lifetime sailing from Gran Canaria to Martinique on an exceptional 54ft catamaran

Sail ARC 2024 Transatlantic

The voyage of a lifetime to sail across the Atlantic Ocean with a crew in the ARC 2024.

Transatlantic Eastbound Sail Antigua – UK 2024

Join a crew to sail back across the Atlantic Ocean from Antigua to the UK

Sail Spain to Canary Islands

Offshore sailing between Malaga and Lanzarote, Canary Islands on a fantastic sailing cruiser.

Sail Around the World As Crew on a Square Rigger

Become crew on an authentic working sailing ship on a global circumnavigation. 20+ ports, 30000 nautical miles

Transatlantic Sailing Tenerife to Falkland Islands

Adventure sailing Tenerife to Falkland Islands from the North Atlantic into the South Atlantic across equator

Atlantic Crossing Cape Verde to Fernando de Noronha Brazil DARWIN200 Leg 3

Crossing the Atlantic Ocean from Cape Verde to Brazil Fernando de Noronha.

Sail Caribbean to UK via Azores Tall Ship 2024

Hands on sailing a classic brigatine across the North Atlantic from Caribbean to Azores to the UK in May '24

Sail Across the Atlantic Ocean – Cape Town to Montevideo

Experience life at sea as you sail across the Atlantic Ocean on a 100 year old traditional tall ship.

Celestial Navigation Transatlantic Eastbound 2025

Navigate by the stars as you sail across the Atlantic Ocean eastbound from Antigua to UK

Hi I’m Larissa, Founder of Another World Adventures. Welcome! If you’re planning an adventure you’re in the right place. Get ready to discover epic travel inspo and a collection of hand-picked trips from my trusted network of experienced adventure experts. Think unusual destinations, expeditions, slow, solo and sustainable travel and epic journeys on land and at sea! Ever got a question? Just get in touch, I answer every enquiry myself. Enjoy!

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Cross the Atlantic on a sailboat - a unique experience for the brave

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Home » Budget Travel » Sailing Across The Pacific: The ULTIMATE Sailboat Adventure! (2024)

Sailing Across The Pacific: The ULTIMATE Sailboat Adventure! (2024)

A freshly caught tuna sizzles in sesame oil. The Milky Way is so clear, you feel like if you just reached your hand a little further you might just touch the stars. Waves lap against the hull, and that’s about the only sound you hear.

This is how I remember sailing across the Pacific Ocean . Nostalgia hasn’t rose-tinted all the memories, though. There was still the maddening autopilot who gave up the ghost only twelve days into a month long passage (you little @#*!).

Crossing the largest ocean on earth by sailboat is no easy feat, but it brings with it an elation and joy that is unique to offbeat travel. No one can take away the fact that you did it. You crossed an ocean.

Now, what does it take to sail across the Pacific Ocean? Just a good floating tin can with some sails and enough coffee to kill a bear. 😉 Kidding aside, I strongly believe that with good preparation and training, anyone can learn to sail and cross the Pacific Ocean.

You just need:

• The best routes
• Some juicy inspiration
• Practical tools and tips to prepare your boat (and your crew)

And that’s where I come in! So let’s get into it – let’s get you ready to cross the Pacific Ocean by sailboat!

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Crossing the Pacific Ocean in a Sailboat – WHY?

• Sailing Routes Across the Pacific(and how long they take)

Oh, the Places You’ll Go (during your Pacific passage)

When to jump the pacific puddle (so you don’t die), what you will need to cross the pacific ocean by sailboat, faqs about sailing across the pacific, final thoughts on sailing across the pacific.

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What kind of maniac dreams of sailing across the Pacific? What kind of person puts thousands of nautical miles between them and the nearest semblance of land?

The Pacific Ocean has been singing a siren song promising palm trees, balmy weather, and peaceful winds for centuries. You’re completely unplugged – so no damn Instagram! For many sailors – veteran and greenhorn alike – it is the ultimate, goldilocks cruising grounds.

“The principal difference between an adventurer and a suicide is that the adventurer leaves himself a margin of escape.” – Tom Robbins

To cross the Pacific Ocean by sailboat represents an accomplishment that no one can take from you. It is indeed an adventure of epic proportions. Long night watches, daily face-offs with the elements, fixing the umpteenth broken thing… it is no easy feat! But anyone with a little preparation and a bit of know-how can leave themselves a margin of escape.

With a little initiation into the trials and tribulations of boat life , a cornucopia of experience awaits the adventurer who sails across the Pacific.

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Sailing Routes Across the Pacific (and how long they take)

The sailor knows that there is no point fighting the wind. So, a successful passage across the Pacific depends on good winds. Generally speaking, this lends itself to an east-to-west crossing.

All good boat plans are written in the sand at high tide, so of course, there are some deviations from the popular route. But, there are still vague targets and timelines that guide your Pacific Crossing.

Sailing the Pacific Ocean from East to West – The Coconut Milk Run

From the moment Magellan stuck his nose out from Panama and declared it Mar del Pacifico , this is the route sailors have favoured.

Your trip can begin with a little visit to Panama , heading south to charge through the notorious ICTZ, and riding the south-easterly trades all the way to French Polynesia. Some will stop in and travel the Galapagos, others will charge on through.

How long does it take to sail across the Pacific from East to West? This passage can take anywhere from 23 to 40+ days in a sailboat.

There are variations on this Coconut Milk Run. You can set off from Mexico or Ecuador, for example. Maybe this is part of a larger circumnavigation and you’re fresh off a season in sailing the Caribbean or an Atlantic Ocean crossing.

You can go onwards to Australia and New Zealand, or get stuck in the South Pacific. Even going on to travel Southeast Asia , or India, are not out of the question for the brave circumnavigator.

Wherever your starting point is in the east, you will spend a month (give or take) without seeing land. Just you in your tiny boat-universe traversing the sea and the stars.

Sailing the Pacific Ocean from West to East

Call me lazy, but this is a hard slog. Nothing is ever impossible, but you’ve got to have some patience with the winds to sail across the Pacific Ocean from west to east. If the early Polynesian navigators can do it, though, so can you and your tin can.

The three main options for sailing from west to east are:

• The “Direct Route”
• The Roaring Forties
• The Northern Route

Ok, I lied – I would love to do the Roaring Forties passage! Anyway, this is not about Indi’s Secret Planning to Cross the Pacific Ocean Again. This is Serious Writer Business.

So, the Direct Route has the disadvantage of it being primarily upwind. But if you’ve got a well-prepared boat – and well-prepared crew – it can be fast and exhilarating.

The Roaring Forties has broken stronger sailors than me. How long does it take to sail across the Pacific from West to East? Well, It’s a long passage – 40 to 50 days . Extreme latitudes and rolling seas mean you need a well-stocked boat – and hardy crew. Also, the point of cruising the Pacific is usually balmy weather. There’s not a lot of balmy weather down there, mate. But if you can hunt around for the right latitude, it’s downwind sailing (yay)!

And then there’s the Northern Route. Basically, this is several smaller passages up through the Coral Sea, through Southeast Asia and Japan, and then across the Northern Pacific. An EPIC bucket list adventure if I ever dreamed of one! You can hunt around for good wind on this passage, but again, you’ll need a resilient crew and boat ready to take on the many nautical miles to be covered.

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If we look at a map of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll notice it’s mostly blue. On one side is the Americas, and somewhere over there is Australia and New Zealand.

But scattered across this great blue spectacular, are various incarnations of paradise on Earth. Oh, the Pacific Islands! You marvellous little delights full of genuine offbeat travel!

Sailing in French Polynesia

After travelling Panama, or elsewhere in the Americas, you’ll likely arrive in French Polynesia .

There are three main groups of islands. There are the Marquesas, the Tuamotus, and the Society Islands. Your first port of call after the big crossing is likely going to be the Marquesas.

The Marquesas are epic volcanic islands that tower over deep waters. There is some cheeky hunting and epic hiking here, as well as cheap baguettes. It blew my mind that in the middle of the Pacific there was cheap, French bread!

However beautiful these islands are, though, the stereotypical shallow, blue waters teeming with coral reefs are not here.

You must press on to the Tuamotus and Society Islands for that. I reckon you could get lost in the Tuamotus for a lifetime – as long as the freshwater doesn’t run out.

The world’s best scuba diving, spearfishing, and lazy hammock days are your juicy reward for crossing the world’s greatest ocean! Not too shabby.

Sailing in the Cook Islands

The Cook Islands Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is 2 million square kilometres! You can’t expect to know this series of islands intimately in just one visit. Still, good fishing, chatty locals, and picturesque islands make it worth sailing through. Travelling to the Cook Islands (and briefly becoming a mermaid) may be just what you need to avoid travel burnout .

Palmerston Atoll is only able to be reached by boat. It is a series of islets whose inhabitants can all be traced back to one man – William Marsters. Island time becomes more prominent the further away from continents you get. So by the time you get to Palermston Atoll, you can throw your watch overboard!

Throughout the Cook Islands, a slow tempo to living is the norm. Expect to chat lots with strangers, explore uninhabited islands, and wonder why you’d ever return to “normal” life. If I ever end up on the run, don’t go looking for me (or my mermaid look-alike) in the Cook Islands! 😉

Sailing in Fiji

As you continue your westward sailing across the Pacific, you will probably make a stopover and stay in Fiji .

Fiji is a bit of a crossroads within the Pacific. It is both Polynesian and Melanesian, and it is also home to a large Indian diaspora. While much of the Pacific escaped a strong colonial presence, Fiji did not. Along with its own kingdoms and chiefdoms, the British stuck their nose in and left a muddy footprint on Fijian culture.

The British chose the rainiest place in the Pacific as the capital of their colony – Suva. Because of course, they did. Suva will probably surprise first-time visitors – it’s fewer palm trees and coconuts and more traffic and nightclubs.

Suva aside, the rest of Fiji is as remote and gorgeous as you’d expect the Pacific to be. Sailing through Fiji is a reminder that the Pacific is as complex as the rest of the world – it just has more white sand beaches!

Sailing to New Zealand

If you make it to New Zealand, pat yourself on the back! You crossed the Pacific freaking Ocean – fuck yeah!

If you take the east to west passage across the Pacific, chances are you’ll end up in Aotearoa, New Zealand. The kiwis are pretty comfortable with their status as a Pacific Island. Along with the first real supermarkets on this side of the Pacific, there are familiar smatterings of Polynesian culture.

Dammit New Zealand, you’re pretty freaking sweet! Road tripping around New Zealand is bloody dreamy: the hiking and the mountains are off the charts, and the people are just so friendly! If there were ever a sticky place to tempt my wandering feet to settle down, it’d be New Zealand. Plus, the diving is pretty great .

Some sailors choose to sell their boats here. Some choose to slow down and spend a season working or exploring New Zealand. Eventually, most sailors have to move on. Travelling to New Zealand is a very special experience that will have most sailors scheming about how to get back!

Sailing to Australia

Maybe you bypassed New Zealand and came straight across the Pacific to Australia. Maybe you added crossing the Tasman Sea to your growing list of sailing achievements. However you made it, and whatever customs form you had to fill out to prove it, you arrived in Australia – the famed Land Down Under.

A pretty epic continent is bound to get under your skin. She’s bold, she’s beautiful, and she’s stinking hot! There are countless incredible adventures to be had in Australia!

Australia is less keen on embracing its geographical status as a Pacific or Asian country. It’s a whole different kettle of fish down under, mate.

There are sweet Australian road trips , and working opportunities abound for the boat bum. You can easily restock the cruising kitty for a season before continuing your sailing circumnavigation. There’s also a pristine and sparsely populated coastline good for nothing but surfing and sailing!

I reckon the reason you don’t see too many Australian sailors around the world is that they see no reason to leave their beautiful home.

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Danger is a relative concept. Crossing the street and driving a car is dangerous, but we all do it every day. Crossing the Pacific Ocean can be dangerous, but you can mitigate those risks.

People always ask me how bad the weather was at sea. Were there storms? They don’t ask about keeping healthy while travelling, breakdowns at sea, or navigation nearly as often. A storm holds a captivating spot in our psyche – and for good reason.

It’s worth remembering that your boat is probably stronger than you. You shouldn’t get into your life raft until you are stepping up into your life raft. Extreme situations aside, there are safer times to cross the Pacific! And more comfortable times too. So when is it best to sail across the Pacific Ocean?

The boat sinking storms are concentrated in hurricane or cyclone season. Luckily, these seasons are quite well known now. If you are in the South Pacific between November and April, your chances of a cyclone are high. But, come May, the odds drop to almost zero. Cyclone season in the North Pacific and the Caribbean is June through November.

With this in mind, the best time to sail across the Pacific Ocean becomes clearer. If you leave Panama around March , you will arrive in the South Pacific right at the beginning of the best cruising season. You will also avoid the cyclone season of the Caribbean.

There’s no point fighting the winds, man!

You need a sailboat that is stem to stern ready. You also need a crew that is in tip-top shape and mentally prepared for the long passage ahead. Realistically, anyone who is prepared can take on sailing across the Pacific Ocean. But what does it look like to be prepared?

The Trial by Sailboat – LIVEABOARD EXPERIENCE!

Before literally chucking yourself in the deep end by sailing the Pacific, why not rent the boat life? Try your hand at skippering a sailboat bareboat (without captain or crew) so you can stress-test yourself as a sailor. Sailo lets you do exactly that!

You can rent one of over 30,000 boats. If you’re not up to skippering your own boat, then kick back on one of the many catered charter boats on offer! You’re guaranteed to find something suitable and have a splashing good time in the best places in the world to sail.

It’s not the most hardcore jump-in-the-deep-end training for your Pacific passage, but having a taste of the boat life is probably a good idea! It’d be a bit awkward if you got halfway across the Pacific only to realise this whole boat life wasn’t for you.

Boat System Preparation

Being prepared to sail across the Pacific Ocean means knowing your boat at least as well as you know your smush buddy.

I like to remember that a day spent preparing in the dock is worth a week at sea. When you walk around your boat, ask yourself: how likely is this to break, and if this broke, could I fix it? Preparing systems and the backup systems to backup systems is all part of your preparation.

Ultimately though, you need to be flexible. You might not leave port knowing how to sew anything more than a button to your pants. But if push came to shove, you would learn real fast to mend your sail.

Knowing how to use both charts and electronic navigation is useful. Keeping in touch via the radio is also a useful – and fun – way of getting weather and gossip. Nothing says boat life like a radio crackling to life somewhere off the coast of Ecuador.

“Hola amigo, cual es tu posicion? Y cuidado con los monstruos!” It’s the first voice you’ve heard in over nine days that didn’t originate from you or your crew. It’s a comfort knowing there’s someone else out there also afraid of the sea monsters!

Essentially, being prepared is about organisation and organisation is about lists.

• Galley lists
• Maintenance lists
• Medical supplies list
• Weather lists
• Reading lists

Aside from adequate supplies, navigation and maintenance know-how, you need to have an adequately prepared crew.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Sailing Solo Across the Pacific?

An adequate crew may look like just you, yourself, and you. That pun didn’t really work in the third person, but we’re rolling with it.

Sailing solo for long passages like that which is required to cross the Pacific is not unheard of. It is often the preferred way of sailing for old salts. And there is a certain appeal in the solitude of a long passage – it’s the ultimate growth at the edge of your comfort zone .

The biggest hurdle to solo sailing is standing watches. It’s hard to maintain a constant watch and get enough sleep. Usually, a system of radar alarms, twenty-minute nap alarms, and a dash of faith in King Neptune get the solo sailor to their next port.

Knowing yourself and what you are capable of as a sailor is alluring though. Because no matter how well you know another person, you’re always going to know them better (for better or worse) after a long ocean passage.

To Crew or Not to Crew While Sailing Across the Pacific

A big advantage to having two, three, or more, people crewing a Pacific crossing is the night watches. Adequate sleep is a severely underappreciated necessity! Being able to divide the days and nights into shifts means that everyone gets to eat better and sleep better.

But managing dynamics in close confines, far away from any time out spaces, is key. Your friend might be a perfectly competent sailor. When on land you notice that they chew with their mouth open and sometimes like to rant about how the world is going to end in the next ten years.

This is all good when you can leave the bar and have a break from them. All is good when you do small passages with them. But, when you’re in a small sailboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, you may not want to hear about the apocalypse for the twelfth time in as many days while watching food entirely miss their mouth.

Vanlife has a reputation for making or breaking relationships. Sailboat life is essentially vanlife without the ability to go for a hike and ignore your partner for a while. There’s also the added dynamic of captain vs crew.

With good communication, sailing across the ocean with your partner can create an unshakable bond that transforms and solidifies your partnership. Without good communication, you might not ever want to see that dickweed’s face again.

So, to crew or not to crew? Personally, I think we’re stronger together than we are apart . I think that sailing across an ocean is a sublime experience that is made easier and more pleasurable when shared. BUT, you need to be honest and aware of the dynamics. Play to your strengths and be accepting of others – and your own – weaknesses.

Mama Moana has a way of humbling us all.

Boat Food is Good Food

To sail across the Pacific, you’re going to need food – obviously! 😉 Each boat will have different capabilities when it comes to storage and fridge capacity, so fresh food may last better on some boats than others.

After a month at sea, cooking is bound to get creative though. Add in the challenges of cooking underway and fatigue and you are primed to get creative in the galley!

Food is fuel and a happy gut makes for a happy mind. Things like lemons that keep well for weeks become a godsend. Rather than see food as a cumbersome challenge, think of it as a means for innovation.

I had a captain who learned to make his own yoghurt. Another who pickled their own foods. Every boat I’ve been on has had its own take on the one-pot curry. Skills like salting fish and baking bread become more accessible when you’ve got nothing but time on your hands!

Sailing across the Pacific is made easier with good supplies and a creative touch in the galley! If all else fails, high protein and high sugar snacks like peanut butter make the night watches go quicker!

Fishing While Crossing the Pacific Ocean

A way to supplement your supplies – and provide some entertainment – is to fish while underway. There are some great books and resources made by far better fishermen than me on this matter.

Typically trolling while underway is the method cruisers go for. Once sailors finish the Pacific crossing, having a spear gun or some fishing poles opens up a world of island adventures!

Let’s face it, there’s nothing quite like fresh ceviche!

The Tools You Need to Sail Across the Pacific

There is no way for me to write a succinct list of all the tools you need to sail across the Pacific Ocean. For every system on the boat, you need tools to maintain and repair it. But I wouldn’t want to leave port without:

• Good tool bag and spare parts
• Deck knife (my ever faithful favourite tool)
• Sewing machine
• Multi-tool (my secret second love)
• Solar panels

Staying Safe at Sea

Something sailors – veterans and newbies alike – tend to do is underestimate the consequences of danger. I guess you have to have a certain cognitive dissonance to cast off and not see land for over a month! Maybe it’s called getting old – or one too many close calls – but having insurance kind of puts your rational mind at ease.

You can release your wild side – but you’ve insured its dumb ass!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Books and entertainment

Even when on night watch, you need something to keep you occupied. Even between fixing and tinkering things, there is a lot of time when you sail across the pacific. Most sailboats tend to be dry while underway, so there aren’t too many opportunities for drug bending entertainment.

I would recommend downloading podcasts, music, and books GALORE. I personally found movies kind of annoying to sit through, but that’s just me — I know some sailors who smash through tv series like there’s no tomorrow on passage!

What’s important is that you keep your mind occupied. Plus, when do you get a month of uninterrupted learning in your adult life? Why not start learning a new language while sailing?

There are many good books to read while travelling . I think I powered through close to forty books in the first Pacific passage I was on. A couple of books good for the mind at sea are:

• This Old Boat by Don Casey . This is the handiest and easiest how-to fix your broken boat book that I’ve found. There are beginner projects that are best tackled in port, and advanced fixes that’ll save your butt once your in the middle of nowhere. Plus, it’s super interesting!
• Storm Tactics by Larrey Pardey . Pretty self explanatory! And an all round interesting read. In a storm at sea, luck is highly biased toward the sailor who has a plan. A series of user-friendly checklists will help sailors from the moment they start looking for their perfect offshore boat, through outfitting, and as they encounter their first storms at sea.
• Swell by Liz Clark . Captain Liz Clark spent her youth dreaming of traveling the world by sailboat and surfing remote waves. When she was 22, she met a mentor who helped turn her desire into reality. Embarking on an adventure that most only fantasize about, she set sail from Santa Barbara, California, as captain of her 40-foot sailboat.
• Rum Diaries by Hunter S. Thompson . Begun in 1959 by a 22-year-old Hunter S. Thompson, The Rum Diary is a brilliantly tangled love story of jealousy, treachery, and violent alcoholic lust in the Caribbean boomtown that was San Juan, Puerto Rico, in the late 1950s. It’s nice to escape the boat and fall into the drugged up party land of Hunter S. Thompson.
• At the Existentialist Cafe by Sarah Bakewell . Paris, near the turn of 1932-3. Three young friends meet over apricot cocktails at the Bec-de-Gaz bar on the Rue du Montparnasse. They are Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir and their friend Raymond Aron, who opens their eyes to a radical new way of thinking. No book is better suited to boat life than one about existentialism.

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Can you cross the Pacific Ocean solo?

Absolutely! Sailors have done it before and they’ll damn well do it again! The biggest challenge is making sure you get enough sleep while maintaining good watchkeeping. It can be hard to sleep at the best of times on a boat, but it can be done. Might just be me, but the sea monsters are kinda scarier when you sail alone too.

How dangerous is it to cross the Pacific Ocean?

Far less dangerous than driving a car or riding a motorbike. The dangers that you will face can be mitigated with good preparation. Storms are the easiest to prepare for. Keeping up your health – and sanity – when you’re halfway between nowhere and nowhere is a far bigger hurdle in my opinion. If you can heave-to during a storm, know how to fix the worst of what can break, and eat plenty of citrus – you should be on the right track!

How long does it take to sail across the Pacific?

Depending on the sailboat, the route that is taken, the wind, and the current it can take anywhere between 22 and 40 days. When I crossed from Panama to the Marquesas (sans Galapagos Islands) it took us 26 days.

Why do people cross the Pacific Ocean by Sailboat?

I was going to answer this glibly – we sail across oceans because land life got boring haha. But I think for every sailor who leaves port there is a different reason as to why they are doing it. There is an element of challenge, there are exotic beaches, and long stretches of contemplation. There’s also an element of faith in whatever you want to call it – King Neptune, Church of the Open Sky, regular ol’ God. Sure, you can be prepared and sure, the beaches will be nice. But every sailing trip requires an element of faith .

If the Pacific calls and promises fresh fish, palm trees, and island time – you’ve got to answer! And there is no better way to travel the Pacific than by sailboat. So do your stem to stern inspection, steel your nerves, and cast off to sail across the Pacific Ocean.

The crushed peach sunsets and clear, stargazing nights will reward you tenfold. There are dreamy island paradises scattered across the great blue spectacular and hefty continents on the other side.

Crossing an ocean by sailboat is no small feat. But every mammoth task is made up of smaller puzzle pieces that come together. It is something quite spectacular to crack a beer on the other side of the Pacific knowing that those nautical miles were earned.

Sailing is the ultimate slow travel. An odyssey of mythical proportions lies ahead of the intrepid sailor who takes on such a crossing.

Avast and fair winds, fellow sailors. I’ll see you somewhere in the South Pacific! 😉

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Thanks! My dream is to sail the south Pacific.

Yeah I’m noticing water maker maybe more important than I thought… I’m just in land sailing 2-4 weeks between re supply missions lol … fuel , food and refill water is tough assignments often over loading my digny in the process.

Wow, take care out there!

Awesome read indigo thanks

Great article!

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Home » Blog » Buy a boat » 5 best small sailboats for sailing around the world

5 best small sailboats for sailing around the world

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: April 19, 2023

A small sailboat can take you big places

Small sailboats are the ticket to going cruising NOW — not when you retire, save up enough money, or find the “perfect” bluewater cruising boat. In fact, it’s the first principle in Lin and Larry Pardey’s cruising philosophy: “Go small, go simple, go now.”

Small yachts can be affordable, simple, and seaworthy . However, you won’t see many of them in today’s cruising grounds. In three years and 13,000 nautical miles of bluewater cruising, I could count the number of under 30-foot sailboats I’ve seen on one hand (all of them were skippered by people in their 20s and 30s).

Today’s anchorages are full of 40, 50, and 60-foot-plus ocean sailboats, but that’s not to say you can’t sail the world in a small sailboat. Just look at Alessandro di Benedetto who in 2010 broke the record for the smallest boat to sail around the world non-stop in his 21-foot Mini 6.5 .

So long as you don’t mind forgoing a few comforts, you can sail around the world on a small budget .

What makes a good blue water sailboat

While you might not think a small sailboat is up to the task of going long distances, some of the best bluewater sailboats are under 40 feet.

However, if you’re thinking about buying a boat for offshore cruising, there are a few things to know about what makes a small boat offshore capable .

Smaller equals slower

Don’t expect to be sailing at high speeds in a pocket cruiser. Smaller displacement monohulls are always going to be slower than larger displacement monohulls (see the video below to learn why smaller boats are slower). Therefore a smaller cruiser is going to take longer on a given passage, making them more vulnerable to changes in weather.

A few feet can make a big difference over a week-long passage. On the last leg of our Pacific Ocean crossing, our 35-foot sailboat narrowly avoid a storm that our buddy boat, a 28-foot sailboat, couldn’t. Our friend was only a knot slower but it meant he had to heave to for a miserable three days.

Small but sturdy

If a pocket cruiser encounters bad weather, they will be less able to outrun or avoid it. For this reason, many of the blue water sailboats in this list are heavily built and designed to take a beating.

Yacht design has changed dramatically over the last 50 years. Today, new boats are designed to be light and fast. The small sailboats in our list are 30-plus year-old designs and were built in a time when weather forecasts were less accurate and harder to come by.

Back in the day, boat were constructed with thicker fiberglass hulls than you see in modern builds. Rigs, keels, rudders, hulls and decks – everything about these small cruising sailboats was designed to stand up to strong winds and big waves. Some of the boats in this post have skeg-hung rudders and most of them are full keel boats.

The pros and cons of pocket cruiser sailboats

Pocket cruiser sailboats present certain advantages and disadvantages.

More affordable

Their smaller size makes them affordable bluewater sailboats. You can often find great deals on pocket cruisers and sometimes you can even get them for free.

You’ll also save money on retrofits and repairs because small cruising sailboats need smaller boat parts (which cost a lot less) . For example, you can get away with smaller sails, ground tackle, winches, and lighter lines than on a bigger boat.

Moorage, haul-outs, and marine services are often billed by foot of boat length . A small sailboat makes traveling the world , far more affordable!

When something major breaks (like an engine) it will be less costly to repair or replace than it would be on a bigger boat.

Less time consuming

Smaller boats tend to have simpler systems which means you’ll spend less time fixing and paying to maintain those systems. For example, most small yachts don’t have showers, watermakers , hot water, and electric anchor windlasses.

On the flip side, you’ll spend more time collecting water (the low-tech way) . On a small sailboat, this means bucket baths, catching fresh water in your sails, and hand-bombing your anchor. Though less convenient, this simplicity can save you years of preparation and saving to go sailing.

Oh, and did I mention that you’ll become a complete water meiser? Conserving water aboard becomes pretty important when you have to blue-jug every drop of it from town back to your boat.

Easier to sail

Lastly, smaller boats can be physically easier to sail , just think of the difference between raising a sail on a 25-foot boat versus a 50-foot boat! You can more easily single-hand or short-hand a small sailboat. For that reason, some of the best solo blue water sailboats are quite petite.

As mentioned above small boats are slow boats and will arrive in port, sometimes days (and even weeks) behind their faster counterparts on long offshore crossings.

Consider this scenario: two boats crossed the Atlantic on a 4,000 nautical mile route. The small boat averaged four miles an hour, while the big boat averaged seven miles an hour. If both started at the same time, the small boat will have completed the crossing two weeks after the larger sailboat!

Less spacious

Living on a boat can be challenging — living on a small sailboat, even more so! Small cruising boats don’t provide much in the way of living space and creature comforts.

Not only will you have to downsize when you move onto a boat  you’ll also have to get pretty creative when it comes to boat storage.

It also makes it more difficult to accommodate crew for long periods which means there are fewer people to share work and night shifts.

If you plan on sailing with your dog , it might put a small boat right out of the question (depending on the size of your four-legged crew member).

Less comfortable

It’s not just the living situation that is less comfortable, the sailing can be pretty uncomfortable too! Pocket cruisers tend to be a far less comfortable ride than larger boats as they are more easily tossed about in big ocean swell.

Here are our 5 favorite small blue water sailboats for sailing around the world

When we sailed across the Pacific these were some of the best small sailboats that we saw. Their owners loved them and we hope you will too!

The boats in this list are under 30 feet. If you’re looking for something slightly larger, you might want to check out our post on the best bluewater sailboats under 40 feet .

Note: Price ranges are based on SailboatListings.com and YachtWorld.com listings for Aug. 2018

Albin Vega 27($7-22K USD)

The Albin Vega has earned a reputation as a bluewater cruiser through adventurous sailors like Matt Rutherford, who in 2012 completed a 309-day solo nonstop circumnavigation of the Americas via Cape Horn and the Northwest Passage (see his story in the documentary Red Dot on the Ocean ). 

• Hull Type: Long fin keel
• Hull Material: GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:27′ 1″ / 8.25m
• Waterline Length:23′ 0″ / 7.01m
• Beam:8′ 1″ / 2.46m
• Draft:3′ 8″ / 1.12m
• Rig Type: Masthead sloop rig
• Displacement:5,070lb / 2,300kg
• Designer:Per Brohall
• Builder:Albin Marine AB (Swed.)
• Year First Built:1965
• Year Last Built:1979
• Number Built:3,450

Cape Dory 28 ($10-32K USD) 

This small cruising sailboat is cute and classic as she is rugged and roomy. With at least one known circumnavigation and plenty of shorter bluewater voyages, the Cape Dory 28 has proven herself offshore capable.

• Hull Type: Full Keel
• Length Overall:28′ 09″ / 8.56m
• Waterline Length:22′ 50″ / 6.86m
• Beam:8’ 11” / 2.72m
• Draft:4’ 3” / 1.32m
• Rig Type:Masthead Sloop
• Displacement:9,300lb / 4,218kg
• Sail Area/Displacement Ratio:52
• Displacement/Length Ratio:49
• Designer: Carl Alberg
• Builder: Cape Dory Yachts (USA)
• Year First Built:1974
• Year Last Built:1988
• Number Built: 388

Dufour 29 ($7-23K)

As small bluewater sailboats go, the Dufour 29 is a lot of boat for your buck. We know of at least one that sailed across the Pacific last year. Designed as a cruiser racer she’s both fun to sail and adventure-ready. Like many Dufour sailboats from this era, she comes equipped with fiberglass molded wine bottle holders. Leave it to the French to think of everything!

• Hull Type: Fin with skeg-hung rudder
• Length Overall:29′ 4″ / 8.94m
• Waterline Length:25′ 1″ / 7.64m
• Beam:9′ 8″ / 2.95m
• Draft:5′ 3″ / 1.60m
• Displacement:7,250lb / 3,289kg
• Designer:Michael Dufour
• Builder:Dufour (France)
• Year First Built:1975
• Year Last Built:1984

Vancouver 28 ($15-34K)

A sensible small boat with a “go-anywhere” attitude, this pocket cruiser was designed with ocean sailors in mind. One of the best cruising sailboats under 40 feet, the Vancouver 28 is great sailing in a small package.

• Hull Type:Full keel with transom hung rudder
• Length Overall: 28′ 0″ / 8.53m
• Waterline Length:22’ 11” / 6.99m
• Beam:8’ 8” / 2.64m
• Draft:4’ 4” / 1.32m
• Rig Type: Cutter rig
• Displacement:8,960lb / 4,064 kg
• Designer: Robert B Harris
• Builder: Pheon Yachts Ltd. /Northshore Yachts Ltd.
• Year First Built:1986
• Last Year Built: 2007
• Number Built: 67

Westsail 28 ($30-35K)

Described in the 1975 marketing as “a hearty little cruiser”, the Westsail 28 was designed for those who were ready to embrace the cruising life. Perfect for a solo sailor or a cozy cruising couple!

• Hull Type: Full keel with transom hung rudder
• Hull Material:GRP (fibreglass)
• Length Overall:28′ 3” / 8.61m
• Waterline Length:23’ 6” / 7.16m
• Beam:9’ 7” / 2.92m
• Displacement:13,500lb / 6,124kg
• Designer: Herb David
• Builder: Westsail Corp. (USA)
• Number Built:78

Feeling inspired? Check out the “go small” philosophy of this 21-year-old who set sail in a CS 27.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Saturday 1st of September 2018

Very useful list, but incomplete - as it would necessarily be, considering the number of seaworthy smaller boats that are around.

In particular, you missed/omitted the Westerly "Centaur" and its follow-on model, the "Griffon". 26 feet LOA, bilge-keelers, weighing something over 6000 pounds, usually fitted with a diesel inboard.

OK, these are British designs, and not that common in the US, but still they do exist, they're built like tanks, and it's rumored that at least one Centaur has circumnavigated.

Friday 31st of August 2018

This is a helpful list, thank you. I don't think most people would consider a 28' boat a pocket cruiser, though!

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How to sail across the Atlantic Ocean As Crew? Tips! | Ocean Nomad

No boat, no much budget and no real sailing experience but a dream to make a big sailing trip! Here's a few waypoints that already help you tackle an Atlantic Ocean Crossing – as Crew.

Tips to help you find (the right!) sailboat to cross the Atlantic Ocean

Willpower and determination.

Believe that It’s gonna happen and tell everyone it’s gonna happen. Then it WILL happen. The law of attraction!

Start the investigations and communications early

The earlier you start searching, the more chances for success! For my the Europe to Caribbean crossing, I started digging into it in July, in August I was all set. Since, I have received 10+ more serious and fun requests.

Read stories of people who made the crossing

It’s fun and it gives you a better idea of what it’s like. Don't underestimate this adventure! Please please inform yourself! Here you can find some more blogs about my boat hitchhiking adventures. A few more great stories and helpful blog posts from boat hitchhikers:

Ask sailors if they have any tips, links or connections

Via via you must know some seafarers. I had some connections from back in days. Everyone is willing to help. It's a great community. From their responses, I realised that making the trip larger, with some island hopping prior and after, than ‘just a crossing’ is way more fun and will teach me way more about sailing. I extend the Atlantic Ocean crossing dream with some island hopping in the Canary Islands and Caribbean archipelagos. So think about WHY you want to do this. Join the Ocean Nomads network to tap into the tips, knowledge and connections of those who are out there. Upcoming adventure gathering:

            View this post on Instagram                     “Luck is what happens when opportunity meets preparation” – Seneca One month ago I met Nathan @shepherd.stories After 3 hours in Las Palmas he found his ride to sail across the Atlantic Ocean 🍀💙🎉⛵️ 2 weeks later he arrived in Barbados and now he’s crossing South America on a motorbike. Good for you Nathan on making the dreams real! And so cool to hear that I’ve been able to help a little with my book Ocean Nomad. Priceless coconut present 🥥 💯👏🍀 Curious to the book? Link in bio! Posted @withregram • @shepherd.stories Just before we set sail for the Atlantic Ocean, Suzanne passes by to wave us farewell. Suzanne greatly contributed to me being successful in hitchhiking across the Atlantic Ocean by the book she wrote. I can recommend it to anyone that considers crossing the Ocean by sailboat. As a way of gratitude I gave her a coconut – her favorite fruit. Thanks again @_oceannomads!” #oceannomad #atlantic #sailing #atlanticocean #boathitchhiking #offshoresailing #sailingaroundtheworld #dreamitdoit A post shared by Big Blue💙 (@oceanpreneur) on Feb 4, 2020 at 11:36am PST

Sign up for the big crew websites

Sign up for the big crew websites. Here's a list of seven crew websites to find a boat. Also, check out facebook groups. There are dozens of them where you can connect with sailors. I created ‘ Atlantic Ocean Crew ‘ on Facebook to help in this department. Whenever I know or hear about an Atlantic Ocean crewing opportunity I post it in the Ocean nomads member network. Lots of vessels already in there who occasionally need crew. Summer 2021 we'll create a little member fleet, most likely in Galicia.

What to put in your crew profile when you have no sailing experience?

Show your value! Sailing experience is desired but a positive attitude and handy hands probably even more. So don’t worry about not having sailing experience. Put in your enthusiasm, your story and other skills (language, cooking, dive, kite, yoga, mechanic, fishing, medical, writing, photography, video, comedian, massage, electrician, dietist, heck if you're good at fridge tetris you have a welcome skill) and you’ll come a long way. In any case, start learning as much as you can. NauticEd is well acknowledged online sailing course platform. Click here to get two free courses .

As a girl who wants to cross the Atlantic, you receive more crew invitations? While it may be ‘easier' you still want to feel safe, secure and comfortable. There may be more opportunities but maybe less ‘matching’ ones. Tips for the women: Narrow down the selection to a boat with a minimum of 4 crew, Skype and check references before accepting anything.

Be at the right place, right time

If the crew websites don't work out, just go to a harbour. Part of the fun! But also part of the costs. You'll find a hostel in the Canary Islands as from 15 euro's/night (Or go couchsurfing ,  housesitting , or boatsitting . Las Palmas has many couchsurf hosts. Airbnb has some nice options, including boats in the harbour.

Hostel recommendations for Las Palmas

+ 5-minute walk to the harbour: La Fabrica  (love the vibe here) and  Alcaravaneras hostel  (has also private rooms).

Another nice hostel is Utopia and Big Fish in Las Canteras but it's a +/- 20-minute walk to the marina from there.

Atlas in La Isleta is another option especially if you're on a tide budget. Here you can also work in exchange for accommodation. It's a little further from the harbour.

Book your hostels in advance. On the spot they charge more and they are often booked out in high season (November- January). I wrote another blog on boat hitchhiking and provisioning in Las Palmas.

You can check out my page on recommended travel resources for budget friendly / free accommodation platforms, making friends, and travel with a positive impact.

When do boats sail across the Atlantic Ocean?

October/November/December/January is when most boats make the Atlantic ocean crossing from East to West, from Europe to the Caribbean. November/December is peak. 2nd half of December not many boats are leaving because of Christmas and Newyear. January has more constant trade-winds. Also In January new boats come in looking for crew. There are only half as many hitch-sailors as in November and December.

In Ocean Nomad , I wrote extensively on when it's a good time to be where, which harbours to go to, and how it all works when you're in the harbour.

Bingo! You got a crew spot on a boat

But is it the right boat? Check!:

• Experience of the captain? Licenses and references
• State of the boat?
• A competent crew on board?
• Insured boat?
• Does the boat have all the necessary equipment? Liferaft, lifejackets, harnesses? Satellite phone? EPIRB? Spares!!?
• Last but not least, learn about the people! Will there be like-minded crew on board? You’re gonna be stuck with them for a while so get to know each other a bit before hand!! Feel comfortable with them.
• Read  Don't be afraid to say no  by Bob Fritz. A well written article of things to bear in mind, check and ask before committing to a boat.
• Say NO! If it doesn't feel right! On the ocean there is no way to go.
• Considerations to asses safety and minimize risk.
• Find the full checklist in Ocean Nomad

Ahoy! Enjoy the ride! Before you know it, you're on the other side.

Would you like to learn more about what's it like to sail across the Atlantic? How to find a boat (and how not)?   How to figure out if it's the right and safe boat? When to be where? What are the Atlantic sailing routes? Which crew websites are worth signing up for? What to pack for a sailing adventure? What's expected of you as crew? And you probably have wayyy more questions! Great! It's not a straightforward adventure and preparation and research is key!

Invest ‘one hostel night' into Ocean Nomad  (Available in E-Book , Kindle or Print ) and save weeks of research by having your Atlantic Ocean Sailing questions answered. Download a free sample. 

Here's what some readers say:

 “I was absolutely amazed: is it really possible to cross an ocean if you don’t have sailing experience!? Inspired by Suzanne’s adventures and her very well provided details and information on the subject, I felt totally ready to throw off the bowlines myself. And I did! To me, Suzanne is THE example of ‘if you put your mind to it, you can do it’. This book will inspire and inform many more adventurous around the world.” – Janneke Dijkhuis “Suzanne has been a major source of inspiration and information! From the first moment I read her writing, I knew that I wanted to do the same! And it worked out! We sailed from Canary Islands to Cape Verde, and went from Cape Verde to Barbados. When we were full of doubts if it was the right thing to do, I returned to what she wrote and re-convinced myself that it was all for the best.” – Paulina on the Road “At almost 400 pages, Ocean Nomad contains actionable information for anyone involved (or interested) in hitch-sailing. More than a simple adventure story, or even a personal memoir of what the author did right and wrong when hitch-sailing (3 times!) across the Atlantic, the book is a comprehensive look at all aspects of hitch-sailing, with interviews of 32 captains and 58 sailors for a wide perspective.” – Jennifer Dunne “As someone who has no boat, no budget, and no sailing experience, but loves to travel and have a good adventure, this book provided everything the author promises and more. While readers can use this as “guide book” to get a boat and plot an adventure crossing an ocean, it also gives readers an in-depth look at the deteriorating state of our oceans and ways both boaters and sailors and the “landlocked” citizens of earth to improve the quality of our waters. I can only imagine the amount of work, preparation, research, and thought that went into this book.  I can recommend this book to anyone who wants to go on an adventure on the ocean, plan out their own adventure, or learn about the health of our oceans and ways we can save them.” – Brian van Dongen  

Ahoy! See you in the harbour!

Hi! My name is Suzanne. I'm here to excite and guide you into slow travel adventures, in tune with nature. 🗺️+15yr Fulltime Adventurer by Sail & Van 🧜‍♀️⛵️🚐✨🏕️

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What kind of boats cross the Atlantic Ocean? 7 Options explained

With great enthusiasm i read even more about crossing the atlantic by means of hitchhiking! I can’t wait to experience it myself!

Just wondering: above several harbours are mentioned to go to. Which are those in the Carribean if you want to head to Europe?

Thanks a lot!

Cheers, Pol

Hey Pol! Thanks! When will you go sailhitching :)? So as from April/May many boats leave the Caribbean before the Hurricane season. Route is Bahamas – Bermuda – Azores – Madeira – Wherever… I would look for big ports in these destinations. I know in the Azores, Horta is the place to be. For the other destinations I have’t looked into it yet. On the crewwebsites many boats are looking now for crew for the West-East crossing! Good luck! And let me know how it goes! Suzanne

There is one point to bear in Mind; a spot in a good boat to cross the Atlántic is only 2.000/3.000 € away.And it all changues from taking anything ,begging for a Spot,always without knowing if they will all leave you “abandoned” ashore, to be choosing a boat,a Company with The responsability to be equiped,and with all experience for it. Then you can be sure of your adventure in advance.So it is not so difficult to be one year working to get that money ,as also those who cross in a sailboat must face a lot of expenses to be doing that. It is a fair trade. I have been in a first crossing without paying,i have got my boat and cross alone,at may own expenses ,and now i work with a Company,nice safe Catamaran,who charter and offers a good deal,three weeks crossing and a week through Caribbean for 2.700€.

And after being in all sides, i think this is the best option.!

Good sailing!,

Very good info. Lucky me I discovered your website by chance (stumbleupon). I’ve bookmarked it for later!

I’m planning a trip to either Canada or New Zealand by hitching with sailing yachts. I’m currently trying to get a place on a yacht for the Atlantic crossing. Just had a guy reject me on the basis of me being a vegetarian. (Or not female : ) What’s your experience with this? Are you a vegetarian? Or have you met other travellers that have had a similar problem? -I’m hoping it won’t be an issue for me. Nice website BTW : )

Hey Michael! Thank you:). If the guy rejects you because you’re vegetarian you’re probably gonna disagree on many more things and it might not be the right boat for you anyway! Don’t worry about that. It’s not an issue. It’s a good thing! There’s many boats that are happy to take a vegetarian on board. Since i’m getting way more aware of what’s happening in our ocean and food production in general i’m in the process of becoming vegetarian. How’s the boat hunt going? Enjoy the journey!

Hi! Great info and tips you got there! We’re a Swedish couple on our grand hitchhikeing tour from Berlin to South America. Since we’re a couple we’d prefer to do the Atlantic crossing together. Do you think it’ll be hard to find a crew that accepts two lovebirds?

Cheers, Melina &Linus

Hey! Thanks for this! I love finding your website! I am now in Greece, flying to Belgium and Amsterdam for NY and then eager to cross after this! All of your info and super delightful enthusiasm aaaand positive attitude are A) super helpful in regards to following my dreams and B) super awesome to just have such a sister reflecting and BEING such awesomeness in this world here!!! Thank you Suzanne! Much love and enjoy your sweet holydays darlin!!! xxx Kylie

Thank you very much for this assuring and informative post! :)

My boyfriend and I want to cross the Atlantic Sea in october leaving from Tenerife. Did you meet any couples doing “hitchboating”? :) How feasable is it, to do hitchboating as a couple?

Enjoy your travels!

Thanks a lot for your ideas! :)

Hi woder if you could help me wanted to track down owner or skipper of Cyclos 2. We are interested in buying the boat but not through brokers. Could you forward my contact email so we can touch base a discuss the boat in more detail. Sounds like you had a great time on her with your travels.

Appreciate your help.

Thanks Mark Frankham New Zealand Mobile Phone is 021 766 181

Hi Mark! I will send you an email with CC (previous) captain. He will know! It’s an A-MA-ZING boat to sail! IF you’re buying it and you ever need crew, don’t hesitate to contact me. Would LOVE to sail her again! Good luck! Suzanne

Hi Suzanne, Newbie here looking to cross West-East in April next year :) Thank you for such a helpful article! Just wanted to say that the link to the crew websites recommended by you doesn’t work. Best, Liza

Hey Liza! Glad it was of help :) And thanks for letting me know. Time for some updates:) Cheers, Suzy

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Find a sailing crew or find a sailing boat  at Ocean Crew Link. We connect boat owners looking for sailing crew, and crew looking for boats.

Search our   sailing crew opportunities   to connect with hundreds boat owners who want a sailing crew for all types of ocean sailing.

Search our   sailing crew list   to connect with thousands of potential crew – all interested in ocean sailing.

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Unlike other sites, Ocean Crew Link specializes in opportunities for ocean sailing crew, so if you are planning to cross the Atlantic or island-hop in the Pacific and need a sailing crew,   register   now and connect with sailors from around the world.

Ocean Crew Link   is World Cruising Club’s preferred sailing crew match service and has a special focus on voyaging rallies like the   ARC   and   World ARC . Boat owners and charter companies use Ocean Crew Link to find crew for rallies and independent cruising. Each month there are around 150 opportunities to sail as crew available on the site.

Our weekly email will update you on sailing crew opportunities added in the last 7 days.

There is a subscription fee of $5 per month recurring. The subscription may be cancelled at any point.

Register now – you must be aged 18 years or more, and will need to include information about sailing skills to make matching easier. Ocean sailing is about people and personalities, so start a conversation and see where it takes you!   Happy Sailing!

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• Gender: male
• Ocean/Coastal Miles: 3000/4500
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• Nationality: Spain

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• Ocean/Coastal Miles: 20000/3000
• Years Sailing: 10+
• Nationality: Canada

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• Ocean/Coastal Miles: 5000/2000
• Nationality: United States

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• When: November 17, 2024 - December 17, 2024
• Where: Canary Islands to Rodney Bay of Saint Lucia
• With: Catana OC 50, 15.24m, Sail, Catamaran
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• Posted by: Erin Crosby, July 24, 2024
• When: November 09, 2024 - November 15, 2024
• Where: Grenada to Willemstadt of Curacao
• With: Beneteau Sense, 15.24m, Sail, Monohull
• Voyage Cost: captain pays all expenses
• Posted by: David Elliott, September 17, 2024
• When: June 03, 2025 - June 30, 2025
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Expert advice: How to sail across the Pacific Ocean

• March 19, 2019

Immense and diverse, the expanse of the Pacific offers some of the finest tradewinds cruising you’ll ever experience and a wealth of friendly cultures. Dan Bower explains how to prepare and where to sail

Sailing across the Pacific is the adventure of a lifetime, but proper preparation is vital. Photos: Tor Johnson / Dan Bower / Olivier Parent / Alamy

A cruising sailor’s blog, newsfeed or Instagram account from the Pacific is an onslaught of images and videos of every flavour of paradise from the green, dramatic and rugged landscape of the Marquesas with its huge waterfalls, the coral atolls and blue lagoons of the Tuamotus, to Tahiti and Bora Bora, the volcanic eruptions and cauldrons of lava in Vanuatu, the breaching whales of the Coral Sea… Enough already, as they say!

The Pacific Ocean is by far and away the most diverse for cruising. The scenery and culture varies between each country but everywhere there is a welcoming and genuine hospitality – and the sailing is excellent.

It pays to pick your route carefully

What to expect when sailing across the Pacific

When examining planning charts and contemplating sailing the Pacific Ocean, it looks huge. It is 8,000 nautical miles from Panama to Australia (you can cross the Atlantic in 2,200 miles) and, because of the scale of the charts and the size of the islands, it appears to have little land. But zoom in on the chartplotter and the islands and island groups are plentiful.

You must make one very long crossing, the 3,000 miles from the Galapagos Islands to the Marquesas, but this is usually fast sailing with a favourable current bringing the passage time down to one similar to a transatlantic crossing. We’ve made this Pacific passage three times, and we reckon it’s easier sailing than on an average ARC. There has been less swell, more regular winds and no squalls, and after you arrive in the Marquesas you’re rarely more than four days from your next destination.

Article continues below…

Bluewater Sailing Techniques Part 1: introducing our 12-part series with a cruise in the Pacific

We begin our new 12-part multimedia series on Bluewater Sailing Techniques in stunning Fiji

Through the Panama Canal in your yacht: everything you need to know

Cape Horn sailors and ditch diggers sacrificed all to make the path between the Atlantic and Pacific easier for the…

With an eye on the weather there are plenty of protected anchorages throughout the Pacific, and there are all-weather ports in most island groups.

But sailing across the Pacific is not without its challenges. There are tricky coral passes to negotiate, and it helps to speak French, but time spent preparing and planning can help make it plain sailing and, in my experience, the cruise of a lifetime.

Sailing through the Panama Canal

When you enter the Pacific from the Panama Canal you can feel this is a different ocean. The blue, warm waters of the Caribbean are replaced with the decidedly chilly, much darker nutrient-rich ones brought from Antarctica borne by the Humboldt Current. Its favourable effects can be felt under your keel as you head towards the Galapagos, and make for a bracing first swim. The 6m tidal range can also come as a bit of a shock.

Choosing your route

The passage to the Galapagos should pose no major problems but you will probably have to sail through The Doldrums and you will cross the equator. The national park in the Galapagos is sensitive to foreign species and so you can expect to have all your fresh food removed when you arrive. The authorities also don’t like any growth on your hull – they can turn you away or make you go out of the park to have your hull cleaned (an 80-mile round trip), so it’s worth pressure washing in Panama and getting all through-hull fittings thoroughly cleaned if you’re unsure.

Brochure cruising in the turquoise, sheltered water of a typical French Polynesia atoll

From here you depart on the main passage to the Marquesas Islands and ahead the expanse of French Polynesia opens up. This ocean leg is the Pacific Ocean proper, with approximately 3,000 miles of what should be tradewind sailing at its best, a mile-melting broad reach and an equatorial current beneath you. Depending on the position of the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) you may be able to sail down the rhumb line or, if not, head a bit further south for more stable conditions.

Arriving in the Marquesas is a pleasurable culture shock and is as dramatic socially as it is scenically. Away from the small towns it is a great place to cruise to quiet bays with beautiful beaches, trade odds and ends with the locals for the most delicious fruit and explore the interior with its wonderful waterfalls and archaeological remains.

Once you’ve had your fill of green and lush beauty (yes, it rains) and have filled the boat with Pomello grapefruit, mangoes, coconuts and pineapples, it’s time to push off to the Tuamotus. The hardest part about this leg is deciding where to go – there are 80 atolls to choose from.

Coral snorkelling is a must

Sailing the South Pacific

On arrival you need to get the tide times right to navigate a narrow pass, but the reward is a calm, clean and incredibly blue lagoon. Snorkelling is the highlight here and the lagoons are home to the prettiest and most diverse coral I have ever seen. The adventurous can drift snorkel through the passes on an incoming tide, and you can effortlessly glide amongst sharks and large fish feeding.

The Marquesas and Tuamotus are, in my opinion, the best bits of French Polynesia. It is tempting to rush off to the Society Islands (which include Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea and Bora Bora) and tackle the inevitable jobs list, but most people regret it. The Society Islands have an interior like the Marquesas and lagoons like the Tuamotus, but neither are quite as good. However if you’re lured there by civilisation, Papeete is a city replete with a Carrefour supermarket, chandleries and most other things you could need. It can be a welcome stop to reprovision and attend to any outstanding jobs on the list.

Onwards from here you are never far from the next anchorage. Seas are gentle with long, lazy swells and, apart from the very rare trough reaching up from lows in the south, it is settled tradewind sailing. Now is the time to choose how long you wish to stay in the Pacific as that will dictate how much time you have on the way in order to make sure you’re in the right place for cyclone season.

It’s possible to make it to Australia and onwards if that’s your plan, but many cruisers fall in love with the region and cruise there for many years. If that is you, then it’s worth slowing down and enjoying more of what Tonga, Fiji and Vanuatu have to offer. We’ve done three tours of the South Pacific and would happily go back – in fact we might return in 2020.

• 1. Introduction