#243 RECOMMENDED I-65 over Thorny Path from Bahamas to Puerto Rico | Sailing Sisu Leopard 45 Cat

#243 RECOMMENDED I-65 OVER THORNY PATH FROM BAHAMAS TO PUERTO RICO | SAILING SISU LEOPARD 45 CAT

This episode of Sailing Sisu follows a sailing journey from the Bahamas to Puerto Rico, taking the I-65 route as opposed to the thorny path. The catamaran is the Leopard 45 model, offering comfort and stability for the voyage. While this particular trip mirrors one undertaken by the hosts a few months earlier solo in the Exumas with Georgean nearby at landmarks like the monument, the present journey aims to showcase an alternate route using I-65 versus the thorny path.

The couple from South Africa – Frick and Nik – decided to abandon their previous life and now live and sail aboard their home Sisu full-time. The video highlights their experience choosing the I-65 course, which is less recommended but offers a significantly different route compared to following the thorny path.

With the various navigation tools available, including Spire, it becomes clear that opting for the I-65 path results in a minor passage, albeit with potential complications from current and wind direction challenges. The crew intends to follow their chosen route closely along the Puerto Rico coastline, avoiding potential hazards presented by currents in that area.

As they embark on this leg of their trip, Sisu’s catamaran features certain upgrades like a bungee system securing a cage strapped to the boat side. This unique addition aids sailing efficiency but requires some attention from Captain Frick during the voyage.

DAY 1

The crew’s anticipation of favorable winds helps them navigate the tricky early stages of their I-65 passage towards Puerto Rico. Their sailing journey offers a glimpse into what sets apart taking this path compared to following a more conventional route.

Sisu experiences fluctuating wind conditions on their first day, which lead to challenges such as difficult sail management due to varying angles and inconsistent wave patterns affecting the catamaran’s movement. Despite these difficulties, the crew stays determined to enjoy sailing under various weather conditions while keeping their destination in sight.

Additionally, Sisu has a pantropical tortoise named Bob, which accompanies them on their travels across Caribbean waters aboard Leopard 45 Catamaran – adding an exotic element to the expedition. The video showcases that sailing with company like their buddy boat enhances the overall adventure.

In this segment, Sisu addresses how they manage challenging situations while at sea. On several occasions during heavy wind events or equipment troubles, frugal energy usage is a priority on board. This includes engaging the engines only when absolutely necessary to save battery life and ensure smooth sailing through treacherous currents.

The crew manages successfully maneuvering around waves in various sizes as well as ensuring their sail stays filled with wind efficiently without causing unnecessary strain on the boat’s materials or causing potential accidents. One particular night, strong gusts of winds force Sisu to run engines instead of relying solely on sails – reflecting their adaptive sailing skills.

They highlight the importance of weather tracking devices and planning according to those predictions; in addition, they emphasize maintaining communication through VHF radio or personal devices for better decision-making during unforeseen challenges. Safety first principles guide them through every situation encountered during this expedition from Bahamas to Puerto Rico.

VARIATIONS BETWEEN I-65 AND THORNY PATH ROUTES

One key difference between following the I-65 route vs the thorny path lies in their respective wind patterns. While both routes lead to eventual destinations within the Caribbean Sea, they differ significantly in terms of the sea state experienced by sailors opting for each course. The I-65 provides steadier winds typically from a more southern direction, providing more reliable sailing conditions compared to the thorny path.

Another significant distinction pertains to the types and sizes of waves encountered on either journey. Whereas the I-65 path is generally associated with calmer waters that cater better towards experienced sailboats seeking comfort during long-distance travels, the thorny path tends to come across as bumpy, often turbulent sections posing higher risks for amateur sailors attempting such voyages alone.

Moreover, the I-65 path allows sailboats a straighter course with less maneuvering around islands – offering more straightforward travel routes for those familiarizing themselves with open water navigation while still enjoying spectacular sunsets and tropical island views. Conversely, traversing through thorny paths presents a challenge of dodging numerous unmarked underwater hazards along narrow channels flanked by dense vegetation.

Although both journeys are ultimately beautiful, it’s essential to weigh all factors before deciding which route is suitable for your sailing adventure!

TIPS AND ADVICE

To wrap up this informative episode, Frick shares some useful tips about navigating challenging waters successfully:

• Always ensure your boat’s equipment, such as bungee cords and sails, are securely fastened in place during storms or adverse weather conditions.
• Avoid sailing solo when faced with rough waves on the thorny path. Instead, seek experienced company for better stability.
• Plan carefully based on weather forecasts to predict wind direction accurately and adjust course accordingly.
• Keep all communication channels open at all times, ensuring quick responses to any unforeseen circumstances encountered at sea.

In conclusion, this video segment showcases Sisu’s exciting Bahamas-to-Puerto Rico voyage highlighting the unique aspects of each path while sharing practical advice for navigating challenging sailing conditions. Their journey on Leopard 45 catamaran emphasizes the importance of preparation and teamwork in making such adventures safer and more enjoyable!