how long to cross the atlantic by sailboat

Time to Cross the Atlantic by Sailboat: A Comprehensive Guide

Alex Morgan

how long to cross the atlantic by sailboat

Crossing the Atlantic by sailboat is a thrilling and challenging adventure that requires careful planning and preparation. The duration of the crossing can vary depending on several factors. To provide you with a better understanding, let’s delve into the details.

The Atlantic crossing refers to the journey of sailing across the Atlantic Ocean from one continent to another. It is a significant achievement for sailors and offers a unique experience of being surrounded by vast open waters for an extended period.

Several factors come into play when determining the duration of an Atlantic crossing. These factors include:

The chosen route significantly impacts the duration of the journey. Sailors can opt for the trade wind route, northern Atlantic route, or southern Atlantic route, each offering different challenges and opportunities.

The type and size of the sailboat also affect the duration. Factors such as speed, stability, and design of the sailboat contribute to the overall performance during the crossing.

Weather conditions, including wind patterns, currents, storms, and calms, play a crucial role in determining the speed and progress of the sailboat. Unpredictable weather can lengthen the crossing.

The skill and experience of the crew members onboard influence the efficiency of sailing maneuvers, navigation, and decision-making. A well-prepared and experienced crew can optimize the sailing process.

There are three main routes commonly used for crossing the Atlantic by sailboat:

The trade wind route follows the prevailing easterly winds, known as the trade winds. This route takes advantage of consistent winds and is the most popular and direct route for sailors.

The northern Atlantic route involves sailing closer to the polar regions, taking advantage of the prevailing westerly winds. This route allows for unique experiences and challenges due to colder temperatures and potentially hazardous weather conditions.

The southern Atlantic route involves sailing closer to the equator, where winds are often weaker and the crossing requires careful navigation. This route offers opportunities for exploring tropical areas but can be challenging due to unpredictable weather patterns.

The duration of an Atlantic crossing varies depending on the chosen route, weather conditions, and sailboat performance. On average:

The trade wind route typically takes around 18 to 21 days to complete.

The northern Atlantic route can vary from 15 to 30 days , depending on weather conditions and specific route choices.

The southern Atlantic route can take anywhere from 20 to 40 days due to weaker winds and potentially longer distances.

To ensure a successful and safe Atlantic crossing, consider the following tips:

Thoroughly plan the route, provisions, fuel, and necessary equipment. Adequate preparation is key to a smooth voyage.

Stay updated on weather forecasts and make informed decisions based on the expected conditions. Anticipating and avoiding adverse weather can contribute to a safer crossing.

Establish reliable means of communication with shore and other vessels. Regular contact can provide essential support and updates during the journey.

Check and maintain all safety equipment, including life jackets, life rafts, EPIRBs, and fire extinguishers. Safety should always be the top priority.

By understanding the factors influencing the duration, choosing the right route, and following safety guidelines, sailors can embark on a remarkable Atlantic crossing experience.

##Key takeaways:

Key takeaway:

The duration of crossing the Atlantic by sailboat depends on various factors including the route chosen, type of sailboat, weather conditions, and skill of the crew.
There are three main routes for crossing the Atlantic by sailboat: the Trade Wind Route, the Northern Atlantic Route, and the Southern Atlantic Route.
The average duration of crossing the Atlantic varies according to the chosen route, with the Trade Wind Route being the fastest.
Tips for a successful and safe Atlantic crossing include proper planning and preparation, monitoring weather conditions, maintaining good communication, and ensuring the availability of safety equipment.

What Is the Atlantic Crossing?

The Atlantic Crossing , also known as sailing across the Atlantic Ocean , is a challenging voyage that requires careful planning and preparation. Factors such as the route chosen , the type of sailboat used , weather conditions , and crew experience all play a role in this adventure.

The route for the Atlantic Crossing depends on the time of year and weather patterns. There are various popular routes to choose from, including the Trade Wind Route , the Northern Atlantic Route , and the Southern Atlantic Route . Each route presents its own set of challenges and advantages.

The choice of sailboat impacts the duration of the journey. It’s important to consider factors such as the size, stability, and performance capabilities of the sailboat . As weather conditions along the route can change rapidly, the type of sailboat can affect crossing speed and overall safety.

Having a skilled and experienced crew is crucial for a successful Atlantic Crossing . They must possess essential skills including navigation , sailing techniques , safety procedures , and emergency preparedness . With a knowledgeable and experienced crew , the journey can be made smoother and safer.

Factors Affecting the Duration of Atlantic Crossing

Planning an Atlantic crossing by sailboat? Get ready to explore the factors that impact the duration of this incredible journey. From the chosen route and type of sailboat, to the ever-changing weather conditions and the skill of the crew, each variable plays a crucial role in the time it takes to traverse the vastness of the Atlantic. So, grab your compass and chart, as we dive into the elements that shape the ultimate adventure across the open seas.

When planning an Atlantic crossing by sailboat, choosing the right route is crucial in determining the duration of your journey. Here are the steps to consider when deciding on the best route:

1. Research the Trade Wind This is the most popular and direct route across the Atlantic. It takes advantage of the steady easterly winds, also known as the trade winds.

2. Explore the Northern Atlantic Set sail north towards Iceland and then turn east to avoid the doldrums and harness the powerful westerly winds.

3. Consider the Southern Atlantic Head south towards the Canary Islands and then catch the trade winds to cross the Atlantic. While this route is longer, it offers a more enjoyable downwind passage.

4. Assess the weather conditions: Examine weather patterns and forecasts to determine which route will have the most favorable conditions during your planned crossing.

5. Evaluate the sailboat’s capabilities and speed: Take into account factors such as size, design, equipment, and performance under different wind conditions.

6. Factor in the crew’s skill and experience: Their ability to handle various sailing conditions and make strategic decisions will influence the choice of route and overall duration.

7. Choose the route that aligns with your goals and preferences: Consider the desired level of challenge, the sights along the way, and any specific destinations you want to reach.

By carefully considering these factors, you can determine the optimal route for your Atlantic crossing, ensuring a safe and successful journey.

Type of Sailboat

The type of sailboat is crucial when planning an Atlantic crossing. Various sailboats have different capabilities and features that impact the duration of the journey. Factors to take into account when selecting a sailboat for an Atlantic crossing include:

Size: Larger sailboats offer more comfort and stability, but may require a larger crew and more resources. The size also affects the boat’s ability to handle harsh weather conditions.
Design: The design of the sailboat influences its speed, maneuverability, and stability. Some sailboats are specifically designed for long-distance voyages and ocean crossings, featuring a full keel for stability and a cutter rig for versatility.
Sail Configuration: The configuration of the sails, including the number and type, affects performance in different wind conditions. Certain sailboats have a single mast with a mainsail and jib, while others have multiple masts and various sail combinations.
Equipment: On-board equipment, such as navigation systems, autopilot, and safety gear, enhances crew safety and efficiency during the crossing. It is vital to choose a sailboat that is equipped with the necessary systems and equipment for a successful journey.
Construction: The construction materials and methods used for building the sailboat impact its durability and seaworthiness. Common materials include fiberglass, aluminum, and steel, each with their own advantages and considerations.
Experience: The experience and skill level of the crew are crucial when handling the sailboat during an Atlantic crossing. It is important to choose a sailboat that matches the crew’s level of experience and expertise.

Considering these factors helps in determining the best sailboat for a safe and successful Atlantic crossing.

Weather Conditions

When crossing the Atlantic by sailboat, weather conditions are crucial.

1. Wind: Sailors rely on favorable wind to make progress. Strong and consistent trade winds, blowing from east to west, are ideal.

2. Storms and hurricanes: Weather systems in the Atlantic can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Sailors need to be aware of the hurricane season and avoid storm-prone regions. Monitoring forecasts and navigating around adverse weather is essential for safety.

3. Sea states and waves: The Atlantic Ocean can have large swells and waves, especially during storms. Sailors need to be prepared and have a capable boat.

4. Fog and visibility: Fog impairs visibility and makes navigation challenging. Sailors must be cautious and have radar and navigation aids for safe navigation.

5. Ocean currents: The Atlantic has various currents that can help or hinder progress. Knowledge of these currents, like the Gulf Stream, helps sailors plan routes efficiently.

Understanding current and forecasted weather conditions is crucial for a successful and safe Atlantic crossing. Sailors should consult weather charts, use modern forecasting tools, and consider professional meteorologists. By considering weather conditions, sailors can optimize their route, adjust their sail plan, and ensure a smoother crossing.

Skill and Experience of the Crew

The success and safety of an Atlantic crossing by sailboat heavily rely on the skill and experience of the crew. Their expertise can have a significant impact on the duration of the journey, as a well-trained and experienced crew is capable of navigating more efficiently. Let’s explore the various aspects where the crew’s skill and experience come into play.

Firstly, navigation plays a vital role in determining the duration of the crossing. With their expertise and experience, a skilled crew can choose the most efficient routes, avoiding unnecessary detours and delays. By making informed decisions, they can optimize the sailing path, ultimately reducing the overall time taken.

The crew’s sailing techniques are crucial in maximizing speed and efficiency. An experienced crew knows the most effective techniques to employ, allowing them to harness the wind’s power and propel the sailboat forward swiftly. By implementing these proven methods, they can cover more distance in a shorter amount of time.

In the event of emergency situations, the crew’s experience becomes invaluable. With their knowledge and practice, they can quickly and effectively handle unforeseen circumstances, minimizing disruptions and delays. Their ability to remain calm and composed during such situations ensures that the journey remains on track, preventing any unnecessary setbacks.

Effective crew coordination is another key factor in a successful Atlantic crossing. Through clear communication and mutual support, the crew can ensure smooth operations and timely decision-making. This cohesion fosters an environment where everyone understands their roles and responsibilities, enabling efficient teamwork and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

It is important to note that crew members must undergo appropriate training and gain experience in various sailing conditions before attempting an Atlantic crossing. By building their skills and experience through shorter voyages and training programs, they can enhance their confidence and proficiency. This cultivation of competence and capability ensures the crew is well-prepared for the challenges they may face during the journey across the Atlantic.

Routes for Crossing the Atlantic by Sailboat

Looking to set sail across the vast Atlantic by sailboat? Let’s explore the numerous routes available for this incredible adventure. From the renowned Trade Wind Route to the lesser-known Northern and Southern Atlantic Routes, each option offers its own unique challenges and rewards. Whether you seek steady winds or a more adventurous path, these sub-sections will unveil the secrets and possibilities of each route, helping you plan your epic journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

Trade Wind Route

The Trade Wind Route is a popular route for crossing the Atlantic by sailboat. Sailors on this route can take advantage of the consistent easterly trade winds in the subtropical regions. These winds are caused by temperature differences and the Earth’s rotation.

The trade winds on this route typically blow at speeds of 10 to 25 knots , occasionally gusting stronger. Sailors can expect a smooth journey with smaller waves and less challenging weather compared to other routes.

The duration of the Atlantic crossing varies based on factors such as boat size , type, crew experience , and weather conditions. On average, it takes 14 to 21 days to complete this crossing.

To navigate the Trade Wind Route successfully, sailors should plan, prepare, monitor weather conditions, maintain communication, and ensure safety equipment is in place . Following these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable crossing.

Northern Atlantic Route

The Northern Atlantic Route is a popular sailboat route between Europe and North America . It offers an adventurous journey across the Atlantic Ocean .

Factors to consider when taking the Northern Atlantic Route include:

– Route Distance: The route covers approximately 2,800 nautical miles .

– Weather Conditions: The Northern Atlantic can have unpredictable weather with variable winds and potential storms. Sailors need to be prepared for adverse conditions and strong currents .

– Strong Currents : The North Atlantic Drift is a strong eastward-flowing current that can affect the progress of sailors. It is important to consider these currents when planning the route and timings.

– Potential Hazards: Icebergs are a potential hazard, especially in the Labrador Sea . It is crucial to be aware of these hazards and navigate safely around them.

– Duration: The duration of the journey can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions, boat size and speed, and crew experience. On average, it takes between 15 to 25 days to complete the journey.

When planning a sailboat journey on the Northern Atlantic Route , sailors should carefully consider the distance, weather conditions, strong currents, potential hazards, and expected duration. Adequate preparation, monitoring of weather conditions, and good communication are essential for a safe and successful crossing.

Southern Atlantic Route

The Southern Atlantic Route is a popular choice for sailors crossing the Atlantic. It offers a unique experience compared to other routes.

1. Strong Trade Winds: The route experiences strong and consistent trade winds blowing from the southeast. These winds provide favorable conditions for sailing and can increase speed.

2. Great Circle Route: The Southern Atlantic Route follows the shortest distance between two points on a globe. This allows for a more direct and efficient path, reducing the duration of the crossing.

3. Warmer Climate: Sailing along this route means encountering a warmer climate compared to northern routes. The waters are generally calmer, making it a more comfortable journey.

4. Wildlife and Scenic Views: Sailors have the opportunity to witness diverse marine life and enjoy picturesque views. Dolphins, whales, and other marine creatures are often spotted along the way.

5. Possible Stopover: Some sailors choose to make a stopover in Cape Verde , an archipelago off the coast of West Africa. This allows for a break in the journey and an opportunity to restock supplies.

The Southern Atlantic Route provides an exciting and challenging adventure for sailors. With its strong trade winds, shorter distance, and beautiful scenery, it is a popular choice for those seeking a memorable journey.

Average Duration of Atlantic Crossing

Ready to embark on a journey across the vast Atlantic? In this section, we’ll explore the average duration of an Atlantic crossing, providing insights into various routes such as the Trade Wind Route , Northern Atlantic Route , and Southern Atlantic Route . Discover the importance of proper planning, vigilant monitoring of weather conditions, effective communication, and ensuring essential safety equipment is in place. Get ready to set sail and unlock the secrets of crossing the Atlantic like a seasoned sailor.

The Trade Wind Route is a popular route for sailing across the Atlantic due to its favorable wind patterns. These winds, known as trade winds, blow from east to west in the tropics. The route starts from the Canary Islands and heads west towards the Caribbean or South America .

Sailing along the Trade Wind Route offers advantages. The trade winds provide consistent and steady winds, making it easier to maintain a good sailing speed. The route offers a smooth and comfortable passage with less rough seas compared to other routes. The Trade Wind Route allows sailors to take advantage of warm and pleasant weather conditions in the trade wind belt.

The time it takes to cross the Atlantic via the Trade Wind Route varies depending on factors such as sailboat size, speed, weather conditions, and crew experience. On average, it takes around 15 to 21 days to complete the crossing using this route. It’s important to note that these are rough estimates and actual crossing times can vary.

Fact: Some sailors have reported completing the Atlantic crossing via the Trade Wind Route in under two weeks, while others have taken over a month. The duration largely depends on the specific conditions encountered during the voyage.

The Northern Atlantic Route is an important consideration for sailors planning to cross the Atlantic by sailboat. The duration of the crossing via this route is influenced by various factors. The route itself, sailing from Europe to North America, can be longer due to distance and prevailing wind and current patterns. The type of sailboat used also impacts the duration, as different boats have different speeds and capabilities. Weather conditions along the route, including storms, wind patterns, and currents, can significantly affect the crossing time. The skill and experience of the crew onboard also play a role in navigating the route efficiently. Sailors should carefully consider these factors for a safe and successful journey.

The Southern Atlantic Route is popular for sailboat crossings due to favorable weather conditions and reliable wind patterns. This route, also known as the Cape Town Route , starts from Europe or the Americas and heads south towards the Canary Islands . Sailors then continue southwest across the Atlantic Ocean towards their final destination in South America or South Africa .

The Southern Atlantic Route offers consistent trade winds and mild weather compared to other routes. The prevailing winds blow from the southeast, providing a steady breeze that helps propel the sailboat forward. This makes it easier to maintain a good average speed and complete the crossing efficiently.

The duration of the Southern Atlantic Route can vary depending on factors such as sailboat type, crew skill and experience, and specific weather conditions encountered. On average, the crossing from Europe to South America takes around 20 to 30 days, while the journey from Europe to South Africa typically takes around 25 to 35 days.

Sailors navigating the Southern Atlantic Route should be prepared for challenges posed by the open ocean, including unpredictable weather patterns, potential storms, and the need for self-sufficiency. It is crucial to plan and prepare adequately, monitor weather conditions constantly, maintain good communication, and ensure all safety equipment is in place for a successful and safe crossing.

The Southern Atlantic Route has been a preferred route for sailors for centuries, connecting Europe with Africa and South America . The route played a significant role in the Age of Discovery , facilitating the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between continents. Today, it continues to be a popular route for adventurous sailors seeking to experience the thrill and challenge of crossing the Atlantic Ocean by sailboat.

Tips for a Successful and Safe Atlantic Crossing

Add tips for a Successful and Safe Atlantic Crossing

Here are some tips for a successful and safe Atlantic crossing:

1. Plan your route carefully, considering weather patterns, currents, and potential hazards. Have charts, navigation equipment, and a reliable GPS system.

2. Prepare your boat by inspecting for wear or damage. Ensure all safety equipment, including life jackets, flares, and a well-maintained life raft, is in good working condition.

3. Stock up on essential supplies like non-perishable food, water, and fuel. Have enough provisions for the entire journey and extra reserves for emergencies or delays.

4. Stay informed about potential hazards or changes in weather conditions by communicating with other sailors and maritime authorities.

5. Develop a detailed sailing plan that includes rest cycles for the crew and potential stops for restocking supplies or refueling.

6. Ensure all crew members are experienced and prepared for the challenges. Conduct regular safety drills and assign specific roles and responsibilities.

7. Monitor weather conditions closely and be ready to alter course or adjust schedule if needed. Prioritize safety above all else.

By following these tips, you can increase your chances of a successful and safe Atlantic crossing.

Plan and Prepare Adequately

When planning and preparing for an Atlantic crossing by sailboat, it is important to plan and prepare adequately to ensure a successful and safe journey. Here are the key steps to follow:

Research the route: It is crucial to thoroughly research the different routes available for crossing the Atlantic, such as the Trade Wind Route, the Northern Atlantic Route, and the Southern Atlantic Route.
Check weather conditions: Monitor weather forecasts and have a clear understanding of the typical weather patterns along your chosen route. Take note of any potential storms or unfavorable conditions that may arise.
Prepare the sailboat: Before setting off, ensure that the sailboat is in good condition and equipped with all the necessary safety equipment. This includes life jackets, flares, a first aid kit, and emergency communication devices.
Stock up on supplies: Make a comprehensive list of essential provisions needed for the journey, including an ample supply of food, water, fuel, and spare parts. Calculate the amount needed based on the estimated duration of the crossing.
Create a navigation plan: Develop a detailed navigation plan that includes waypoints, potential stops, and alternative routes. Familiarize yourself with navigational charts and instruments to aid in navigation throughout the journey.

By following these steps and planning and preparing adequately , you can embark on your Atlantic crossing with confidence and peace of mind . Just like Christopher Columbus , who meticulously planned and prepared for his transatlantic voyage , you too can open up new horizons for exploration and have a smooth and safe journey.

Monitor Weather Conditions

When crossing the Atlantic by sailboat, it is crucial to monitor weather conditions for a safe and successful journey. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Check weather forecasts: Stay updated with the latest forecasts for your entire journey. Pay attention to wind patterns, storm systems, and potential hazards.

2. Use weather routing services: Subscribe to a specialized routing service tailored to your specific route. These services can help you navigate around unfavorable weather conditions.

3. Monitor weather systems: Keep a constant eye on changing weather systems, especially tropical storms or hurricanes that can pose a significant threat. Take appropriate measures to avoid these dangerous conditions.

4. Be aware of wind patterns: Understand the prevailing winds along your route for planning and optimizing your sailing strategy. Trade wind routes offer consistent winds for a faster crossing.

5. Consider swell and sea state: Besides wind conditions, pay attention to the sea state. Large swells and rough seas can affect your comfort and safety at sea.

By actively monitoring weather conditions during your Atlantic crossing, you can make informed decisions and adjust your plans accordingly. Remember, safety should always be the top priority.

Maintain Good Communication

Maintaining good communication is absolutely crucial during an Atlantic crossing by sailboat. It is of utmost importance as it guarantees the safety and seamless operation of the voyage.

To ensure effective communication, there are several key steps that need to be taken:

1. Establish clear communication protocols: It is essential to set up a system that allows crew members and the skipper to effectively communicate with each other. This can be achieved by using designated channels such as radios or walkie-talkies for conveying important messages.

2. Implement regular check-ins: Designate specific times for crew check-ins. This enables everyone to report their status, share vital information, and address any concerns that may arise.

3. Create a comprehensive communication plan: Develop a plan that outlines how to communicate with land-based support teams or coastguard services in case of emergencies. This plan should include contact information and the correct procedures to be followed.

4. Maintain good radio etiquette: It is crucial to adhere to proper radio protocols in order to ensure clear and concise communication. Utilize standard phrases and refrain from engaging in unnecessary chatter to prevent any confusion.

5. Utilize technology: Take advantage of modern communication devices, such as satellite phones, that provide reliable coverage even in remote areas. This will enable seamless communication throughout the entire journey.

It is important to remember that maintaining good communication is not solely about accurately conveying information. It also plays a vital role in fostering teamwork and creating a sense of security among the crew members. By communicating effectively, the crew can promptly respond to any changing conditions and thus ensure a safe and successful Atlantic crossing.

Ensure Safety Equipment is in Place

Ensuring safety equipment is crucial for a successful and safe Atlantic crossing by sailboat. Follow these steps:

Inspect and test all safety equipment before departure, including life jackets, harnesses, tethers, and personal locator beacons, to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Ensure the boat has proper navigation equipment, such as GPS, charts, and radar, for accurate navigation and to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Install and regularly check the functioning of essential safety devices like EPIRBs and SARTs, to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Equip the boat with a well-stocked first aid kit, including necessary medications, bandages, and disinfectants, to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Have a reliable communication system, such as a VHF radio or satellite phone, to stay in contact with other vessels and emergency services and to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Ensure the boat has proper fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors, to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Install and regularly test the boat’s bilge pumps to handle water ingress and to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Keep all essential safety equipment easily accessible and in good working condition, to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Train the crew on how to use and deploy safety equipment properly, to ensure safety equipment is in place.
Regularly review and update the safety plan, considering the specific challenges and risks of the Atlantic crossing, to ensure safety equipment is in place.

By following these steps and ensuring safety equipment is in place, sailors can improve their preparedness and enhance the overall safety of the Atlantic crossing.

Some Facts About How Long To Cross The Atlantic By Sailboat:

✅ An Atlantic crossing on a sailboat takes an average of 20 to 25 days.
✅ It is important to know the shortcuts, maximize speed, and have experience to cross the Atlantic.
✅ The best time to cross the Atlantic is between November and February.
✅ The total distance of the trip can be as much as 4,000 nautical miles.
✅ The trade winds blow from east to west and are predictable due to the rotation of the earth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cross the atlantic by sailboat.

An Atlantic crossing on a sailboat takes an average of 20 to 25 days, but can be completed in two weeks if lucky, take shortcuts, and have a fast sailboat. The time it takes to cross depends on the route, type of ship, size, skills, and speed.

What are the best routes for crossing the Atlantic by sailboat?

There are two main routes for crossing the Atlantic by sailboat: the Southern passage (east to west) and the Northern passage (west to east). The Southern passage starts from Europe and goes to the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, or the Windward Islands. The Northern passage starts from the Caribbean and goes to Bermuda, the Azores, and then the Portuguese coast.

When is the best time to cross the Atlantic by sailboat?

The best time to cross the Atlantic by sailboat is between late November and February, as there is less chance of hurricanes and the water is warmer. Timing is important to avoid the hurricane season, which lasts from June to November.

What are the challenges of crossing the Atlantic by sailboat?

Sailing across the Atlantic can be challenging mentally and physically. It requires sailing expertise, familiarity with weather forecasting and navigation, and the ability to quickly adjust to sudden changes in weather. The trip can also involve long travel, large waves, severe weather, collisions, encounters with whales, and epic proportions of wear and tear on the boat.

What type of sailboat is suitable for crossing the Atlantic?

The best sailboat for crossing the Atlantic should be at least 30 feet long, have a fixed keel, and be sturdy with durable sails. A monohull sailboat is recommended over a sailboat with multiple hulls. The type of boat used affects the speed of travel, and the location can also be a factor.

Can I hire a skipper for the Atlantic crossing if I lack experience?

Yes, hiring an experienced skipper is an option for those without the necessary skills and experience to safely make the journey. A skipper can provide guidance, navigation expertise, and help ensure a successful crossing.

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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!

How Long Does it Take to Sail Across the Atlantic? (With Maps)

I'm checking my map here, and I'm just curious: how long does it take to cross the Atlantic? In this article, I'll answer the question for the most common sailing boats and routes.

So there's a short and a long answer. If you want the short answer, here it is:

How long does it take to sail across the Atlantic? The Atlantic takes about 3-4 weeks to cross. If you're fast, take shortcuts, and get lucky, it can be done in about 2 weeks. If you're out of luck and are without wind for a week or more, or use a slow ship, it can easily take up to one month.

It really depends on how you plan to travel, what type of ship you're sailing, its size, and -of course- your skills and speed. So there you have it. It takes three weeks. But why ? If you're in the least like me, you're not at all satisfied with this answer. You'd want the long and detailed answer. If so, read on.

How Long Does it Take to Sail Across the Pacific?

Of course, there are multiple possible routes. For sailing, however, it is advised to make use of the tradewinds (read on for details). The easiest route from East to West follows Portugal - The Canary Island - Cape Verde - Windward Islands. The total distance of this journey on a map is about 6,800km.

A boat rarely sails in a straight line. It most likely will cover more distance due to a curved or S-shaped journey. A good rule of thumb is to add 15-20% on top of the theoretical distance. In real life, you'll travel about 8,000km. This comes down to about 20 days of sailing in good weather .

Please note that sailers prefer to speak of distance (nautical miles), rather than time. You never know what the weather brings. A Nautical Mile is exactly 1.1508mi or 1,852m.

Want to know how far a sailboat can sail in a day ? Check out my other article on the average sailing distance in different conditions (new tab).

Well, I don't suggest you go and cross the Atlantic after reading this article. Sailing open seas is for experienced skippers. I'm including this part to give you a detailed idea of how to do it, and what the journey consists of.

There are two main routes , from east to west and from west to east.

The Southern passage (which is east to west)
The Northern passage (which is west to east)

You'll see that both of these routes seem like enormous detours (which they are), but they are the most forgiving sailing route and have worked for over centuries. The routes are dictated by the trade winds. I'll explain them further on.

The Southern passage (east to west)

You first need to reach the port of departure. If you travel from Europe to the Americas, you want to sail South-East. Your port of departure will most likely be the Canary Islands, offshore from Western Sahara. Then you will set sail to Cape Verde, offshore from Dakar. Or you'll sail directly to the Windward Island in the Carribean.

The distances of this route are:

Portugal to the Canary Islands - 750NM (5-7 days)
Canary Islands to Cape Verde - 850NM (5-8 days)
Canary Islands to Windward Islands - 2700NM (16-21 days)

This brings your total travel distance around 4000NM and travel time between three and four weeks.

Quickly learn how to use a boat compass with my short beginner's guide here (new tab)

The Northern passage (west to east)

First, you need to reach Bermuda, serving as your port of departure, since it has the best westward winds. Mostly you'd be sailing from somewhere in the Carribean to Bermuda. Then you will set sail to the Portuguese Azores, and from there you'll set sail to the Portuguese coast, and then your final destination.

Carribean to Bermuda - 850NM (5-8 days)
Bermuda to Azores - 1900NM (14-17 days)
Azores to Portugal - 700NM (4-8 days)
An additional 3-10 days to reach your destination

Your total sailing time will again be between three and four weeks, though this journey will take a bit longer that the westward journey.

Avoiding the hurricane season

Timing also plays an important role in the planning of your journey. Your main concern is to avoid the hurricane season, which lasts from June to November. Most boats leave in November, arriving just in time for Christmas. But the trading winds are stronger in January, making for a faster crossing.

Want to see a handy map with the best sailing season across the globe? Check out my article on sailing seasons here (opens in new tab).

Some info on the Atlantic Ocean

The crossing of the Atlantic is quite a journey. It's the seconds largest ocean in the world, after the Pacific. It covers about 41 million square miles, which is 20% of the Earth's surface. Conclusion: it's big, and you want to be smart about it.

In short: it's as hard you allow it to be.

Sailing across an ocean can seem pretty daunting. I haven't done the crossing myself (yet), but from what I understand, it's actually pretty dull. Bluewater sailing is mostly long stretches of blue, in light airs, cruising at 5 knots. So, in general, it's not super hard.

However, it can get pretty lonely at times. Being alone for 20+ days, with nothing but water and air, can take a toll on you mentally. Most sailors agree that this is the most difficult part of crossing the Atlantic.

It does take some nerve to cross an ocean. Open sea can get quite rough, and when it does, the waves are higher and the winds blow harder than anything you're used to inland.

You should be prepared for these kinds of changes. The most important thing is that you're able to quickly take down a reef. So you should have a simple rig, that allows you to adjust to sudden changes in weather.

If you don't have the experience necessary to deal with heavy weather, you could make (fatal) mistakes. You need to have the confidence that you are in control of your sailboat.

If you want to get into sailing, I recommend you read my article 9 Ways to Learn to Sail for (Practically) Free here .

Also, make sure to bring enough fuel.

How much fuel should you actually carry? It's easy to calculate . Find out how in my article on fuel usage here (opens in new tab).

But what about storms? - A solid boat with a good, capable crew can deal with almost any kind of weather.

I think that if you have the knowledge, experience, and proper gear, it's not difficult. However, if you're unprepared, inexperienced, and unsure about your own capabilities, the great blue could get the better of you.

Luckily our ancestors from the sixteenth century and up were plenty smart. They found the Atlantic had very reliable 'wind roads', which they could use to relatively safely sail to the Americas. These are called trade winds , and they're so useful precisely because they're very predictable. Each new season we can be sure the trade winds bring us to the land of the free. And so they have been used by merchants for many centuries.

In the North Atlantic, only the east-to-west blowing winds are trade winds.

The reason they are called trade winds isn't at all obvious

You might think that, since we've used them for trading so much, so we'd call them after the trade. But it's actually the other way around. The word derives from the Late Middle English trade , which means path or track. The winds were first called trade winds, and then we've named our commerce after them . In the eighteenth century, the word trade comes to mean 'commerce'.

So how do these trade winds work?

In the dead center of the Atlantic basin, there's a large area of high atmospheric pressure. We know it as the Azores High, and it stretches all the way to Bermuda. Hot air rises in tropical regions below, after which it cools at higher altitudes, and comes down near the poles. This indefinite transaction creates wind.

Because of that, there's a dead zone in the center of the Atlantic, where there's or no wind at all, or hurricanes. The reason the winds are so predictable, and nearly always blow in the same direction, is due to the rotation of the earth (this is called the Coriolis effect). The current also moves in this direction, creating a comfortable ride.

If we line up our routes with our trade winds, you'll notice they line up perfectly.

You can learn more about the prevailing winds and their origins in this excellent article at Yachting.com.

My Favorite Beginner Cruising Gear

For passages like these, you need sound navigation gear. It doesn't have to be expensive. Here are my top 3 items:

Chartplotter: Garmin echoMAP CHIRP 74cv (check current price at Amazon )
Compass: Ritchie Navigation Explorer (check current price on Amazon )
Backup GPS: Garmin Strike 4 (check current price on Amazon )

For more details on each one, head over to my recommended gear section .

How long did the Atlantic crossing use to take? In 1492 it took Columbus two months to cross the Atlantic. In the 18th and 19th century, it still took on average six weeks. If weather conditions were bad, it could take up to three months.

So why are we faster now? The wind hasn't increased (or maybe it did, how can I possibly know?).

Why does crossing the Atlantic take less time nowadays? It's mostly due to improved sailing technologies; the shape of the hull, the overall efficiency of boats, and, of course, improved navigation techniques. And sailing boats nowadays use an engine to keep going once the wind lays down. Which, you can imagine, will make quite the difference.

Pinterest image for How Long Does it Take to Sail Across the Atlantic? (With Maps)

I really enjoyed reading this article and learned a few things. Maybe one day I will embark on such a journey. :)

Great Easy text! Thank you so much! I am thinking and reading about this journey a long time.. I might do it.. nice article!!

James Hospedales

Enjoyed your article, which I read because I need to cross the Atlantic but don’t want to pay the carbon cost to the planet. The future of sustainable tourism and travel will have to return to using these ancient “tracks”. This will be among the messages of EarthMedic.

Roy cumming

Good information and written so a novice can understand it.

I have never sailed in my life but I am planing to learn and go from Florda to Batumi, 🇬🇪 Georgia. Great article btw!

John Bowman

Great article really put in terms a beginner sailor can understand, especially the Trade winds. You have a great site and I enjoy reading everything

Cool Breeze

Thanks for sharing. My Pake and I enjoyed sailing and spent never enough time on the water. My family is originally from Marrum and Holwerd. I look forward to one day sailing across the Atlantic.

I really like your blog posts and wondered if there is any chance to get in touch either via e-mail or https://yachting.com/en-gb/ to cover/share some of the content and cooperate?

Many thanks for considering my request. :)

Martin Richardson

I’m a healthy/fit retired person that has dreamed of taking on a challenge of a trans Atlantic sail East to West. What a great tale it would be to buy a sailboat in France and sail it back to the States. My sailing experience has been mostly in the BVI’s.

My question is: Since I don’t possess the necessary skills, how would one go about hiring a experienced skipper to make the trip with me.

Michael Hearns

Thanks so much, very informative, I will be reading again…

Great article.

Very enjoyable read! I would like to cross myself but my other half wants to go the other way!

“The most important thing is that you’re able to quickly take down a reef.” Usually we say, “to reef” or “put in a reef”. This made it sound like you’re actually taking OUT a reef. Or shaking out a reef. Which is what you do when the wind lightens a bit. :)

Wooo! [email protected] this massage keep it up.

it is so inspirational

Hugh Tetley

There is some good information in your article, but also some heavy errors. I have done multiple Atlantic crossings since the 1950’s. The worst error is that you don’t have you own crossing experience, which means you are only relaying second hand information. Reliance on electronics is only for fools. You mention GPS and back up GPS. The only back up is charts and a compass .. if you keep sailing west, then eventually you are going to reach land. I sail with a fifty year old Shipman 28 and all I ever use are charts and compass. Not even a sextant .. and I’m still alive. It is essential to have knowledge, tools and materials to do repairs. Ocean crossings create a lot of wear and tear, particularly with sails. Now, there are far too many spoilt idiots in supermarket level boats, especially catamarans of dubious quality and suitability who give up (and cry about it on social media) or need to be rescued.

You may also like, how long does it take to sail around the world.

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How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic?

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

You've probably been dreaming of sailing across the Atlantic your entire life and now you're at a point where you've started planning for it. Well, this will be one of the greatest if not the greatest expedition on your sailboat. This is undeniably a sail of epic dimension and so you should be well prepared. Here are a few points to help you make this once-in-a-lifetime voyage.

Whether in the trade winds or back to Europe, sailing across the Atlantic is, without a doubt, is one of the biggest adventures and feats in sailing. Generally, it requires years of planning and preparation but one of the many questions that might be lingering in your mind is; how long does it take to sail across the Atlantic ? Believe it or not, crossing the Atlantic isn't as difficult as many people always imagine. For many sailors, the imagination of the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean is the most intimidating factor. But with a degree of sailing experience and with a proper sailboat that can make the voyage, sailing across the Atlantic shouldn't be so demanding.

Sailing across the Atlantic takes about 3-4 weeks but you can cut it down to two weeks if you get lucky, take shortcuts, and your sailboat is fast. If you're without proper wind for a week or more, it can take you up to a month. It's important to know the shortcuts, maximize speed, and have the experience of sailing across the Atlantic.

You obviously need to be well-informed about the voyage before setting sail. This article will, therefore, tell you everything you need to know about sailing across the Atlantic. It will tell you how to plan the voyage, the best time to sail , how to use trade winds to your benefit, the appropriate boat size for this voyage, and the level of difficulty to expect.

Table of contents

The Best Time to Cross the Atlantic on a Sailboat

While it can take about three weeks to sail across the Atlantic Ocean, it would only be wise if you anticipate that you'll spend at least a month out there on your sailboat. In most cases, you'll be exposed to changing weather for the entire period, so it's very important to know when to sail.

You should also take into consideration the trade winds. Keep in mind that trade winds can change direction depending on the season so it can either hinder your voyage or help you sail along smoothly.

That being said, the best time to sail across the Atlantic is between November and February. You may be wondering why it's appropriate to sail during the coldest months of the year. Believe it or not, the Atlantic is warmer during this period with water temperatures reaching 82.9 degrees Fahrenheit during winter, so you won't be shaking and shivering.

Another reason why you should sail between November and February is that hurricanes are less prone so it's a lot safer to set sail during this period than other periods of the year. Needless to say, sailing during hurricane season can be deadly and it isn't the right way to test your sailing skills or faith.

Again, the trade winds are most likely to be in your favor if you sail between November and February. The Easterly winds and Mid-Atlantic trade winds will let you sail with more ease during this period.

How to Cross the Atlantic

It wouldn't be a great idea to start planning for your sail after reading this article unless you're an experienced sailor. The truth of the matter is, you may not even know that there are routes that you need to take. There are two main routes: sailing from east to west and from west to east.

These routes may seem enormous but they're the most forgiving and sailors have used them for centuries since the days of Christopher Columbus. Let's get into the details.

The Northern Passage (West to East)

Like any other route, this route is dictated by the trade winds and you, of course, want the trade winds to work in your favor. The first thing that you have to do is to reach your port of departure. If you're sailing from the Americas to Europe, you'll have to reach Bermuda, which generally serves as the point of departure for sailors sailing from the Americas to Europe.

The idea of departing from Bermuda is based on the fact that it offers the best windward winds. In essence, you can sail south to the Caribbean and then to Bermuda. You should then set sail to the Portuguese Azores, after which you can sail to the Portuguese coast and then to your final destination.

Here are the expected distances.

The Caribbean to Bermuda - 850NM (5-8 days)
Bermuda to the Azores - 1900NM (14-17 days)
The Azores to Portugal - 700NM (4-8 days)
It may take you an additional 3 days to reach your destination.

Keep in mind that this voyage will take a little bit longer than the westward voyage.

The Southern Passage (East to West)

Just like when sailing eastward, you'll first have to reach your port of departure. The best way to make this voyage is by sailing South-East, so the best port of departure should be the Canary Islands just offshore from Western Sahara. You should set sail to Cape Verde just offshore from Dakar, Senegal before sailing windward to the Caribbean.

Here are the distances that you'll cover.

Portugal to the Canary Islands - 750NM (5-7 days)
The Canary Islands to Cape Verde - 850NM (5-8 days)
The Canary Islands to the Caribbean - 2700NM (16-21 days)

So Why Does it Take about Three to Four Weeks?

In addition to the fact that the total distance of this journey is about 6,800km, a sailboat never sails in a straight line. The voyage is general S-shaped or curved so you'll cover more distance than the normal 6,800 km. In other words, you'll most likely cover 8,000 km, which may take you up to three weeks in good weather and an additional one week if the weather and the winds are working against you.

And because you never know what the ocean and the weather might bring, it only makes sense to talk about distance in nautical miles and not based on time. There are, however, several factors that come into play when crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat.

For example, the type of boat you are using will influence your traveling speed. Generally, sailboats may reach 10 knots which is just about 11.51 MPH. Besides the speed, your location may also be a huge factor. For instance, you may have to cover a greater distance if you're traveling from California than if you're traveling from California.

How to Use Trade Winds to Your Advantage

Trade winds typically come from the southeasterly direction if you're sailing in the southern hemisphere and may tend to push you towards the equator. On the other hand, it may come from the northeasterly direction and can push you along the equator if you're sailing in the northern hemisphere.

Keeping in mind that voyaging through the Atlantic Ocean will hugely depend on how you effectively use reliable road winds. These trade winds are very predictable, which can make them quite useful for your voyage. At the center of the Atlantic basin, there's an enormous area of high atmospheric pressure. This area is known as Azores High and goes all the way to Bermuda.

The trade winds are predictable since they blow in the same direction due to the earth's rotation or what some may refer to as the Coriolis Effect. The currents also move in the same direction with the winds, thereby offering comfortable sailing.

What's the Ideal Sailboat for Crossing the Atlantic

The world's record for the smallest sailboat to ever cross the Atlantic was set in 1993 by a sailor named Hugo Vihlen. The boat named Father's Day measured only five feet and four inches. But if you're sailing for the first time, it wouldn't a really good idea to try replicating Father's Day. In essence, your sailboat shouldn't be less than six feet at it may be too dangerous out there. With that in mind, the best sailboat to cross the Atlantic should measure at least 30 or 40 feet long to be able to withstand the stormy weather and the rough waves and winds. Here's a list of the best cruising sailboats , all of which would do just fine crossing the Atlantic.

In addition to the size of the sailboat, there are other important factors that you should take into consideration. For instance, the design, stability, condition, build quality, the number of crew and the size of holding tanks are other important factors to consider. The sails should be durable and you should be able to control them without any difficulty, especially when there's an emergency.

When it comes to choosing a boat, go for a sailboat with a fixed keel as it works much better than sailboats with suspended rudders. Instead of going for a sailboat with more than one hull, you can go for a mono-hulled sailboat. The idea here is that a sailboat with several hulls can be very difficult to control when the weather becomes bad. The fact that you want to put more focus on your route should mean than you avoid anything that can distract you, so a mono-hulled sailboat might be the best way to go.

Some of the models that can be perfect for this voyage include Albin 27, Vancouver 28, Dufour 29, Westsail 28, and Cape Dory 28. These are exceptional sailboats that have huge reputations when it comes to sailing across the Atlantic.

What You Need

Let's be very honest here, crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat isn't about pointing your sailboat east or west and start sailing. You have to be a skillful sailor, gain experience, and prepare for the voyage. The most important thing is to get informed, plan, and attain some experience.

Here are some of the things that you should do.

Have a budget
Create a timescale for the voyage
Pick on the most appropriate route
Choose your crew
Make sure that the crew is skilled, self-sufficient, and experienced

If you're planning to sail solo, you have to keep in mind that the risks are higher because you'll be all alone out there on the ocean and have to keep watch at all times. You'll also have to be self-sufficient and have the ability to self-rescue. We, however, believe that this is not the type of voyage that you should go solo. Find a crew and let them be by your side on this journey.

The Right Clothing for the Voyage

When it comes to crossing the Atlantic, it's a good idea to always pack light without compromising your safety. This voyage will take you through a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions so you have to pack accordingly.

Here are some of the things that you must have for this voyage.

Boots and trainers
Two sets of foul weather gear
Running shorts
1 full mid-layer and 1 fleece
2 long sleeve t-shirts
2 full sets of thermals
1 short sleeve t-shirt
4 sets of gloves
3 pairs of warm socks
3 pairs of light socks
Travel towel
2 sets of sunglasses

So How Hard is it to Sail across the Atlantic Ocean?

You're probably still wondering whether or not it is hard to sail across the Atlantic . The truth is; sailing across the Atlantic won't be the same for everyone so it's tough to say whether or not it's going to be tough for you. For experienced sailors, they may find it a lot easier to sail across the Atlantic even if they've done it, thanks to their level of experience. On the contrary, a beginner may find it quite challenging and may have to gain some experience by sailing in their neck of the woods before even thinking of trying crossing the Atlantic.

Additionally, you should have a sturdy boat with durable and easy-to-use sails and have a GPS, as well as all the accessories such as a Watermaker . More importantly, have an experienced boat and make sure that everybody is self-sufficient and contributes to making the voyage.

Sailing across the Atlantic Ocean is, without a doubt no mean feat. While it's very challenging, it's an attainable one and perhaps a dream for every sailor out there. The key is to get informed, preparing, planning your route, choosing the right crew, gearing up for the voyage, and learning how to use the winds to your advantage. You should also make sure that the time is right and the sailboat is of appropriate size and well-fitted for the voyage.

Bon voyage!

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How Long Does It Take to Sail Across the Atlantic?

It’ll be your greatest expedition yet on your boat: sailing across the Atlantic. You’ve always dreamed of doing this, and now you’re at the point where you’re starting to plan it out, too.

There’s just one question on your mind, and that’s how long does it take to sail the Atlantic? If you plan on sailing the Atlantic, you should expect the expedition to last 3 to 3 weeks one way. It’s possible to cut the trek down to two weeks, but this mostly involves knowing shortcuts, maximizing speed, and having experience in crossing the Atlantic.

Before you set sail, you need to have as much information as possible. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about sailing across the Atlantic. This includes the best time of year for doing so, how to use trade winds to your advantage, the level of difficulty to expect, and the best boat size for the venture. Keep reading!

What Is the Best Time of Year for an Atlantic Crossing on a Sailboat?

You have to anticipate spending at least a month on your sailboat if you plan on crossing the Atlantic. Given that most sailboats have open designs, this means you’ll be exposed to all the changing weather for nearly a month straight. You must be careful about when you decide to set sail, then.

Another factor you have to keep in mind as you choose when you set sail is the trade winds. These can change direction depending on the season, either helping you sail along smoothly or hindering your voyage.

Okay, keeping all that in mind, what’s the best time of year for this expedition? Well, if you plan on stopping at South America or the Caribbean, then you want to set sail in November, December, January, or February.

Now, we know what you’re thinking. Those are the coldest months of the year! Why sail then? Well, for starters, the Atlantic is one of the warmer oceans. In November, the average high water temperature is 82.9 degrees Fahrenheit, which is very comfortable. By December, the temps drop to 81.9 degrees. In January, the temps hit 81.4 degrees and in February, 80.8 degrees. You’re not going to be shaking and shivering if you set sail then.

There are yet a few more reasons to sail this time of the year. In this article on UK site Sailing Today , the author, sailor Chris Tibbs, mentions that the Canary Islands are more prone to hurricanes between June and November. Some sailors opt to leave from the Canaries and go to the Caribbean that way.

As you can imagine, sailing during hurricane season is exponentially more dangerous than voyaging during other times of the year. If you’re new to sailing, you do not want to test your faith. Wait until November is about over and then head out.

Also, the winds between November and February are in your favor. The Easterly winds and Mid-Atlantic trade winds will let you sail from the east to the west with more ease.

The Best Routes to Take to Cross the Atlantic Ocean

Throughout this article, we’ve talked about sailing routes to take when crisscrossing from the US to Europe or back again. What other routes should you consider as you cross the Atlantic?

Heading north is one recommended route. You want to maintain wind but not too much when riding this direction. Generally, faster boats can handle this route better. Somewhere in the middle of Atlantic, there is the risk of depressions forming, so that’s something to keep in mind if you choose this route.

You can also go southernly if you’re more comfortable with that. It’s less dangerous than sailing north because you don’t have to worry about the depressions or any northerly swells. The trade winds are also more consistent, so beginner sailors can rely on these for guidance as they travel.

If you wanted, you could even go east to west, but we don’t suggest you do the opposite. One sailor who did it wrote about their experience in Yachting World back in 2016. They called it a “very different experience” and one that was quite “challenging.”

How to Use Trade Winds as You Sail

Let’s talk a bit more about trade winds and how you can use them to your advantage. If you’re not familiar, trade winds typically come from a northeasterly direction and can push you along the equator if you’re sailing in the northern hemisphere. If you’re riding in the southern hemisphere, then the winds come from a southeasterly direction. These trade winds will start either southbound or northbound from the equator at respective angles of 30 degrees. The region created here is referred to as horse latitudes.

The air, which blows at a slant, coming from both the southern and northern hemisphere is known as the Coriolis Effect. Gaspard Gustave de Coriolis, a mathematician from France, learned a lot about the phenomenon before people really understood trade winds. Thus, the Coriolis Effect was named in his honor.

When higher pressure and the Coriolis Effect mix, the trade winds form along a belt that’s on either side of the equator. The wind near the equator cerates dry, hot air that stops ocean and air currents. This happens either five degrees to the equator’s south or five degrees to its north. This is a smaller belt that goes by the name the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone, aka the doldrums.

The doldrums serve an important purpose, providing solar heat that keeps the trade winds nice and warm. In doing so, atmospheric air goes up, becoming cooler. That’s why the rainforests and tropics get storms that other parts of the world don’t, because they’re in that band from the doldrums.

This higher, cooler air travels to the poles and then descends. When it does, it lands close to the horse latitudes. This affects the trade winds, calming them down without precipitation. Then the cycle can begin again.

Back in the old days when ships from around the world would venture to the Americas, these sailors relied heavily on trade winds. So too is the case for many modern ships and other vessels. You can do the same by following the trade winds and letting them guide you to your destination.

Some sailors recommend special accessories for trade wind sailing. These include sheet-to-tiller steering if you’re going downwind, as it will keep you on-course. You may also consider an electronic steering system or a windvane steering system, as both can help you sail the trade winds more efficiently.

How Big of a Sailboat Do You Need to Cross the Atlantic Ocean?

Back in 1993, a sailboat named Father’s Day as sailed by Hugo Vihlen crossed the Atlantic Ocean. The boat was only five feet, four inches long. It set a World Record for the smallest boat of its kind to cross the Atlantic, a record that remains standing today. You can find the Father’s Day sailboat at the National Maritime Museum.

Trust us when we say you don’t want to try to replicate Vihlen’s success yourself. A sailboat that’s under six feet long is far too small for safely crossing the Atlantic. Instead, you need a sailboat that’s at least 30 feet long, preferably 40 feet. Otherwise, you can’t guarantee your boat can withstand rough waves and stormy weather.

Ideally, your sailboat should also have durable sails that you can control without difficulty, especially in a case of emergency. A fixed keel does well in ocean travel while suspended rudders do not. It’s best if you can get a mono-hulled sailboat over one with more than one hull, as the latter may give you more headaches when the weather turns bad. You want to focus on your route and have as few distractions as possible, so opt for a mono-hulled sailboat if you can.

What is the smallest Boat that Has Ever Crossed The Atlantic Ocean?

It is reported that smallest boat that have crossed the Atlantic was only 5 ft, 4in long and it was made of stainless steel just as a submarine in order to keep the captain safe.

The captain, Hugo Vihlen, was 61 years old at that time. His crossing took him 106 days to make the crossing successfully, although he expected to reach the other side in 75 days. This delay was caused by lack of wend to push him forward.

How Hard Is It to Sail the Atlantic Ocean?

Okay, so that brings us to another great question. Just how difficult is it to sail the Atlantic Ocean? This is one of those questions that’s tough to answer, because it won’t be the same for everyone. I have written a more in depth article answering this very question. Read here.

A more seasoned sailor, even if they’ve never crossed the Atlantic, should still have enough experience under their belt that they might not find this trip too difficult. Beginner sailors, on the other hand, should familiarize themselves with sailing in their own neck of the woods before attempting to cross an ocean.

Having a sturdy boat that you’re very comfortable using is another crucial part of succeeding at this trip. With today’s tech, including boat GPS, it’s harder to get lost, which is a plus. That doesn’t mean you can’t get knocked off-course though, so you can’t get lax in your own duties as the captain of the boat.

There are several things you can do to make the trip more difficult for yourself, and we wouldn’t recommend that. For one, like we just mentioned in the above section, you can try sailing the Atlantic from west to east. Also, you could go out during hurricane season, when the winds will whip more unpredictably and going solo as opposed to having a good experienced sailor with you onboard. .

By planning a route, following the trade winds, and maintaining your speed, you will reach your destination sooner than later. Just always have a backup route and even a secondary backup route ready after that. Flexibility is good, since wind patterns and weather can always throw your original plans out the window.

How To Prepare For Your Atlantic Crossing?

Crossing the Atlantic ocean is the dream of most sailors, but it requires a lot of preparation before you actualise this dream. To make this happen, you will need to be knowledgeable, skilful and have already gained some years of experience sailing.

It is beyond the scope of this article to discuss in detail how you should prepare for the voyage, but here we will give you a general idea of what it takes to make the crossing successfully.

To begin with you will need a thorough plan of your journey. Besides, you will need to make sure your boat is seaworthy and in a good shape. Choosing the best routes and appropriate time to leave port are very crucial steps that must not be taken lightly. For sure this crossing is not advisable to be done solo, although many sailors have crossed alone.

Here are some of the essential equipment you need to have for this voyage:

Whether your next boat trip is two miles out or 2000, there are certain must-have items you should never go without. This equipment can ensure the safety of all passengers onboard your boat, not to mention yourself.

The following safety equipment is required to have:

Sound signalling devices
Visual signalling devices
EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)
Fire extinguisher
Throwable flotation device
Personal flotation device
Grab bag: Best place to store all your items such as survival gear, signalling device, first aid kit, SOLAS flares and as it is waterproof and floatable.
Patching Materials in case you need them.
Marine Compass
Handheld GPS
First Aid & Medical kit

These items are highly recommended as well:

Refrigerator
Diver down or skier flag
Powerful flashlight & Headlamp (ideally with rechargeable batteries)
Snorkel mask (if you have to go in the water)
Safety Harnesses and Tethers
Warm clothing
T-shirt long & short sleeves
Foul Weather Gear
Shoes, Trainers & Water Shoes
gloves, Socks & hats
Large towel

Although there could be many other essentials added to the list above, however this list forms a solid starting point.

How Long Would It Take to Sail from New York City to London on a Charter Boat?

In the next few sections, we want to talk about specifics, such as from sailing from one part of the ocean to another. Let’s say for now that you wanted to go from New York City to London. This would involve you sailing from the United States to the United Kingdom and using a charter boat to do it.

Charter boats are either yachts or sailboats, but they can include other vessels as well. You may opt for skipper or bareboat chartering. With skipper chartering, you sail with several other people, including perhaps a professional sailor. If you do bareboat chartering, then you’re in charge of navigating the boat yourself.

If you left port at New York, it’d take you 3,290 nautical miles to reach London. As you recall from this blog, a nautical mile is 2,025 yards or 1,852 meters. Converting a nautical mile to standard miles, the equivalent is 3,786 miles.

Okay, so that’s quite a bit of ground to cover, err, sea. How long would the journey take you? It depends on several factors. You’d have to maintain speed, traversing the water at about 8 knots. This is the equivalent of 9.20 miles per hour (MPH), so it’s a leisurely yet determined pace. It’s not impossible to keep up, but it could be a little tough for beginner sailors.

Should you travel along at that speed for the duration of your trip, you might get to London from New York via a chartered boat in 17 days.

How Long Would It Take to Sail from the United States to Spain?

What if your destination isn’t London, but somewhere like Spain instead? You’re still starting from the US, but this time you’re using your own sailboat or a similar vessel. How long would it take you to get to Spain?

There are a lot of factors at play here. For instance, what type of boat are you using? Is it a sailboat, a cargo ship, a cruise ship, or even a frigate? That will influence your traveling speed.

Sailboats may reach 10 knots at most, which is about 11.51 MPH. In a cargo ship, your speed is a little greater, between 12 and 14 knots. That converts to 13.81 to 16.11 MPH. Cruise ships may travel at a speed of 18 to 20 knots or 20.71 to 23.02 MPH. Frigates would be the fastest boat here, traversing the waters at 28 to 30 knots. That’s about 32.22 to 34.52 MPH.

Besides the speed, we also have to ask, where in the US are you disembarking from? Is it New York City, somewhere in California, or a different coast in the country entirely? We don’t need to tell you that the US is a very large place, so where you leave from definitely matters.

Let’s say you were starting at New Bedford, Massachusetts and arriving in Vigo, Spain. That’s 2,800 nautical miles. If you traveled at a consistent speed of 10 knots across your entire journey, that’s about 280 hours, which means it would take you 12 days to get there.

How Long Would It Take to Sail from Europe to California?

What if you want to start in Europe and go to California? You’re almost reversing the above trip, although not exactly. In Europe, it’s best to leave from Cape Horn or Panama, particularly the latter if speed is a consideration.

By following the Gibraltar-Canaries-Cape Verde-Caribbean route and maintaining a speed of only 5 knots, you’re traveling about 8,100 nautical miles. This means you’d sail for roughly 67.5 days, which makes this quite a lengthy trip!

That said, there are plenty of factors that can impact the duration of your voyage. Again, where you’re sailing from matters. The type of boat you use is important, too, as is the route you take. Traveling faster can also shorten how many days you spend out at sea.

Sailing across the Atlantic Ocean is quite a feat, but it’s an attainable one. If you want to follow in the footsteps of many sailors before you, you must begin by planning a route. There are lots of ways you can traverse the Atlantic, but you want a route that’s easy and manageable. You should also use the trade winds to your benefit. Make sure your boat is appropriately sized as well.

Wish you all the best on your sailing trip!

I am the owner of sailoradvice. I live in Birmingham, UK and love to sail with my wife and three boys throughout the year.

Journey Across the Atlantic: How long Does it Take by Sailboat

Published by sail on january 14, 2023 january 14, 2023.

The Atlantic Ocean is a vast expanse of water that has fascinated sailors for centuries. Crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat is a challenging and rewarding experience that can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on various factors. In this article, we’ll explore the best time to cross the Atlantic on a sailboat, how to cross the Atlantic, why it typically takes about three to four weeks, and what the ideal sailboat for crossing the Atlantic is.

The Best Time to Cross the Atlantic on a Sailboat

To Europe: The best time to cross the Atlantic on a sailboat is a complex topic and depends on a variety of factors. One of the most important considerations is your destination. If you’re planning to sail to Europe, the best time to cross the Atlantic is during the summer months, from May to September. During this time, the weather is typically more favorable, with calmer seas and more consistent winds. This makes it an ideal time for sailors of all skill levels to make the journey.

To Caribbean or South America: However, if you’re planning to sail to the Caribbean or South America, the best time to cross the Atlantic is during the winter months, from November to April. This is because the trade winds are stronger during this time, making for a faster and more efficient sail. Additionally, during the winter months, the Atlantic is typically less crowded and the risk of tropical storms is lower. For experienced sailors, this can be an ideal time to make the journey.

Another important factor to consider is the type of sailboat you will be using. Larger sailing yachts and catamarans may be better suited for the journey during the summer months, due to their stability and comfort. While smaller sailboats and monohulls may be more suitable for the journey during the winter months, due to their agility and ability to handle stronger winds.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the Atlantic Ocean can be unpredictable and weather patterns can change quickly. Sailors should always monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for any eventuality. Additionally, it’s important to have a well-equipped boat, a detailed plan, and a good understanding of navigation and safety procedures.

To put it short, the best time to cross the Atlantic on a sailboat depends on a variety of factors such as your destination, sailing experience, and the type of sailboat you will be using. It’s important to consider these factors when planning your journey and to always be prepared for any eventuality. With the right preparation, knowledge and mindset, crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat can be a truly exhilarating and rewarding experience. It’s important to research and understand the weather patterns and seasonal changes, as well as the trade winds, so you can plan your journey accordingly. It’s also essential to have a well-maintained and equipped sailboat, as well as a detailed plan and a good understanding of navigation and safety procedures. With the right preparation and mindset, you can make your dream of sailing across the Atlantic a reality, no matter what time of the year you choose to embark on this adventure.

How to Cross the Atlantic: Tips and Strategies

Crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat requires careful planning and preparation. Before setting sail, you’ll need to consider various factors such as your destination, the weather, and your sailing experience. You’ll also need to make sure your sailboat is in good condition and properly equipped for the journey. Some of the key things to consider when crossing the Atlantic include:

Weather: It is essential to check the forecast for the entire journey before setting sail across the Atlantic. This includes monitoring weather patterns, wind direction and speed, and any potential storms or inclement weather that may arise. By planning your route accordingly, you can avoid any dangerous weather conditions and ensure a safer and more comfortable journey. It is also important to have a plan B in case of any unexpected weather changes.
Navigation: Proper navigation is crucial when crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat. Make sure to have all necessary navigation equipment such as a GPS, charts, and compass on board. It’s also important to have a good understanding of navigation techniques and to stay updated on any potential hazards or changes in the sea conditions. Navigation is the key to a safe and successful journey across the Atlantic.
Safety: Safety should be a top priority when crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat. Make sure to have all necessary safety equipment on board, such as life jackets, flares, and a properly equipped first aid kit. It’s also important to know how to use all the safety equipment and to have emergency procedures in place in case of any unexpected events. It’s also important to have a reliable means of communication in case of emergency.
Food and water: Crossing the Atlantic can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, so it’s essential to stock up on enough food and water to last the entire journey. This includes non-perishable food items, fresh fruits, and vegetables, as well as a water filtration system or water maker on board. It’s also important to have a plan for food and water in case of any emergency.
Communication: Communication is a vital part of any sailing journey, and this is especially true when crossing the Atlantic. Make sure to have a reliable means of communication on board, such as a VHF radio or satellite phone, in case of emergency. It’s also important to have a plan in place for communication with friends and family on land, as well as staying updated on any potential hazards or changes in the sea conditions.

Why it takes Three to Four Weeks?

Crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat typically takes about three to four weeks. This is because the distance between Europe and North America is roughly 3,000 miles, and the average sailing speed for a sailboat is around 5-7 knots. However, the actual time it takes to cross the Atlantic can vary depending on various factors such as weather conditions, the route taken, and the type of sailboat used.

Another reason for the time frame is the safety factor, sailors need to be prepared for any kind of weather and sea conditions, and also need to have a plan B in case of any emergency. Hence it’s always better to take more time and be safe than to rush and put oneself in danger.

Importance of Boat Selection for a Transatlantic Journey

The ideal sailboat for crossing the Atlantic will depend on your sailing experience, budget, and preferences. Some sailors prefer a traditional sailboat, while others prefer a sailing yacht or catamaran. A catamaran is an ideal choice for crossing the Atlantic as it offers more stability and space compared to traditional sailboats. Catamarans also have a shallower draft which allows them to access anchorages that are not available to monohulls.

Sailing Yachts are also a great option, they offer more luxury and comfort and are better suited for long-distance sailing. They are also equipped with more advanced navigation and safety equipment which makes them a safer option. Learn more about suitable sailboats here!

Traditional sailboats are also a good option, they are generally more affordable and are better suited for experienced sailors who enjoy the challenge of sailing a more basic vessel.

In conclusion, crossing the Atlantic on a sailboat is a challenging and rewarding experience that can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. The best time to cross the Atlantic depends on your destination and your sailing experience. To cross the Atlantic safely and efficiently, it’s important to carefully plan and prepare, choose the right sailboat for the journey, and be prepared for any unexpected events that may arise. With the right preparation and mindset, you can make your dream of sailing across the Atlantic a reality.

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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 .

A woman and two men sitting on the deck of their yacht

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.

You will need a solid yacht to sail across the Atlantic

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.

A couple on the trampoline of their catamaran

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.

A yacht anchored in a bay with a palm tree

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.

A crew on a yacht about to sail across the Atlantic on the ARC

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.

A yacht being craned onto a transporter ship

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.

Provision on yacht ahead of the crew left to cross the Atlantic

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.

Some cruisers decide to replace their engine for peace of mind before leaving to cross the Atlantic

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

A woman raised a flag on a yacht at the end of crossing the Atlantic

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.

A family on the deck of their yacht before they left to cross the Atlantic

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.

School lessons kept the children from getting too bored during the crossing

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.

Two children with a half way sign to mark the half way point of an ocean crossing

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.

A yacht set up with a preventer on the sail

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.

A man carrying out maintenance on his yacht

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.

The ARC fleet leaving the Canary Islands

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.

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Sail Across the Atlantic – Everything You Need to Know

Whether you’re a serious sailor, sailing enthusiast or even a family with a shared love of the ocean, sailing across the Atlantic Ocean is an unforgettable offshore adventure.

Sailing across the Atlantic Ocean is a dream that has captivated the hearts and minds of adventurers, explorers, and sailors for centuries. The vast expanse of water stretching between the continents of Europe and the Americas offers a unique and exhilarating challenge that beckons those with a spirit of adventure.

How Long Does It Take To Sail Across the Atlantic

Embarking on a transatlantic voyage is a dance with time itself. The duration of the journey hinges on several factors, especially the route you choose to take.

The northern passage typically takes between 15 to 30 days, depending on the specific route taken and prevailing conditions, while the southern passage route usually takes around 20 to 40 days to complete, depending on factors such as wind strength and sailing speed.

Transatlantic Routes

The Atlantic Ocean offers several routes, each with its own unique character and challenges.

Sailing West to East with the North Atlantic Route

The North Atlantic route is known for its challenging conditions, including strong winds, rough seas, and rapidly changing weather. Sailors must be prepared to handle adverse conditions and make strategic decisions to ensure the safety of the crew and the vessel.

The voyage typically begins on the east coast of the United States or Canada and follows a northeasterly course toward Europe from Bermuda.

One of the most popular routes is from Bermuda to Portugal and covers just over 2,706 nautical miles and takes 20 to 25 days to complete. Another popular route is Bermuda to the United Kingdom via the Azores covering 3,129 nautical miles and taking 25 to 31 days to complete.

The best time to complete this route is from 1 July to 30 September.

Sailing East to West with the Southern Passage

The southern passage route from Europe to the Caribbean is guided by steady trade winds and a gentler rhythm of the ocean. It offers a more predictable and comfortable sailing experience, as sailors can harness the consistent trade winds that blow from east to west across the Atlantic. This route is popular among sailors seeking a smoother and more leisurely crossing.

The voyage typically begins in Europe , often from ports in Portugal or Spain, and heads southwest toward the Caribbean. While the southern passage is generally more favourable in terms of weather and sea conditions, sailors must still remain vigilant and prepared for changes in wind strength and direction.

The most popular routes east to west are from Portugal to Barbados which covers 4,100 nautical miles and takes 21 to 31 days to complete, and from Gran Canaria to Saint Lucia which covers 2,700 nautical miles and takes 20 to 25 days to complete.

The best time to complete this route is from 30 November to 28 February.

Weather on an Atlantic Crossing

The weather during a sailing trip across the Atlantic is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Prevailing wind patterns, such as the Trade Winds and the Westerlies, shape the direction and speed of the vessel’s journey.

Ocean currents, like the Gulf Stream, can accelerate or impede progress, affecting navigation decisions. Atmospheric pressure systems, such as high atmospheric pressure and low-pressure areas, dictate wind strength and weather conditions.

Seasonal variations and geographical features, like the Azores High and the Intertropical Convergence Zone, introduce variability in wind and rain patterns. Additionally, the Atlantic’s vast size and varied geography contribute to regional differences in climate, with the potential for sudden weather changes and the formation of storms.

Weather information and forecasts play a critical role in helping skippers make informed decisions to navigate challenging conditions and avoid potential dangers.

The Right Sailboat to Sail Across the Atlantic

Selecting the appropriate vessel for a transatlantic voyage is a decision that shapes the entire experience.

Monohulls: Monohull sailboats are known for their stability in rough seas and their ability to handle a variety of weather conditions. However, it’s essential to choose a well-built, ocean-worthy vessel designed for long-distance cruising. The right one can provide a level of comfort and convenience that can be especially appealing for those seeking a more leisurely transatlantic crossing.

Multihulls: Crossing the Atlantic Ocean on a multihull sailboat, which includes catamarans and trimarans, is becoming increasingly popular due to their unique advantages and capabilities. Multihulls have multiple hulls, which offer benefits in terms of stability, speed, and comfort, as well as much mroe deck space.

Tall Ship: Steeped in history and romance, tall ships evoke the nostalgia of a bygone era. Their majestic masts and billowing sails harken back to the golden age of exploration and offer a unique and authentic seafaring experience. However, despite their size, crossing the ocean with a tall ship has its challenges and demands a skilled crew familiar with traditional sailing techniques.

Unconventional Boats: Many unconventional boats have crossed the Atlantic. British adventurer Roz Savage completed two solo Atlantic Ocean crossings in a rowboat. While others have tried but not yet succeeded in unconventional vessels like Andrew Bedwell who tried to cross in a 3.5 metre vessel.

Technology Onboard

When undertaking an Atlantic crossing, a boat should be equipped with essential technology for safety and navigation. This includes GPS, electronic charts, radar, AIS, communication tools like VHF radio and satellite phone, emergency equipment such as EPIRB and life rafts, navigation and weather software, power generation sources like solar panels and wind generators, and backup systems for redundancy.

Having backup tools, spare parts, and navigational charts ensures preparedness for emergency repairs. Proper familiarity with and maintenance of these technologies are crucial for a successful and secure voyage.

Is Bigger Better?

Ultimately, the “right” boat size for crossing the Atlantic depends on your personal preferences, the type of vessel you’re comfortable with, your sailing experience, and your intended voyage. Smaller boats, including monohulls and multihulls, have successfully crossed the Atlantic Ocean, often with solo sailors or small crews.

It’s essential to match the boat’s size with your skill level, comfort, and the goals you have for your voyage. Proper planning, preparation, and understanding your boat’s capabilities are key to a safe and enjoyable transatlantic crossing.

Who Can Sail Across the Atlantic

The allure of transatlantic sailing transcends skill levels, beckoning both seasoned sailors and those new to the world of seafaring.

Skill Level

Novices can sail in guided group expeditions. Many sailing schools and organisations offer transatlantic training programs designed to prepare novice sailors for the challenges of open-ocean voyages. These programs cover topics such as navigation, seamanship, weather forecasting, and emergency procedures, ensuring that participants are well-equipped to handle the demands of a transatlantic crossing.

To start gaining more knowledge consider a course like your RYA Day Skipper.

Solo and Groups

Experienced sailors can opt for solo endeavours, navigating the challenges of the open water alone. Solo transatlantic crossings require a high level of skill, self-sufficiency, and mental resilience. Solo sailors must be prepared to handle all aspects of the voyage, from navigation and sail trim to maintenance and emergency repairs. It is not an easy task but a rewarding one.

Group transatlantic voyages offer the opportunity to share the challenges and triumphs of the journey with like-minded individuals. Crew members can provide support, share knowledge, and contribute their unique skills to the overall success of the voyage.

When Is The Best Time To Sail Across The Atlantic?

Navigating the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean demands strategic timing to ensure a safe and rewarding transatlantic crossing. Sailors must carefully consider multiple factors when determining the best time to embark on this epic journey.

Avoid Hurricane Season

To mitigate risks, it’s crucial to avoid the peak of the hurricane season, which spans from early June to late November, by planning departures before or after this period.

Trade Winds

The trade wind seasons play a pivotal role. Departing between November and January is ideal for east-to-west crossings (Europe to the Americas), taking advantage of strong easterly winds, while west-to-east voyages (Americas to Europe) are best undertaken from April to June.

Transitional Seasons

The transitional seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer milder conditions, reducing the likelihood of encountering severe weather. Additionally, the Northern Hemisphere summer (June to August) may provide calmer conditions near specific regions like the Azores and Bermuda due to seasonal temperature gradients.

Monitoring and Flexibility

Even with careful planning, weather conditions can vary. Modern technology, including advanced weather forecasting and satellite communication, allows sailors to monitor changing weather patterns closely. This flexibility enables them to adjust departure dates to align with the most favourable conditions.

What To Expect When You Sail Across The Atlantic

Embarking on a transatlantic voyage is a transformative experience that unveils a variety of emotions and encounters.

Isolation and Self-Discovery

The vastness of the open ocean fosters introspection, offering moments of solitude and self-contemplation. Sailing farther from land, the ocean becomes a place for self-discovery. Away from distractions, sailors connect with their thoughts, gaining profound insights and a deeper understanding of themselves.

Adapting to Dynamic Conditions

Navigating the Atlantic demands adaptability, as calm waters can swiftly turn tempestuous. Sailors encounter a range of weather patterns, from tranquillity to storms. Success hinges on quick decision-making, adjusting sails, altering course, and ensuring safety in rapidly changing wind and wave conditions.

Marine Life and Celestial Wonders

The Atlantic unveils captivating marine life and celestial spectacles. Sailors witness dolphins, whales, and seabirds in their natural habitat. Nights offer starry skies and bioluminescent wonders, like meteor showers, illuminating the transatlantic journey with awe-inspiring beauty.

Camaraderie

The challenges and triumphs of crossing an ocean create a deep bond among crew members. Everyone is on the same journey, facing the same conditions, and working together towards a common goal.

Preparing for Sailing Across The Atlantic

Preparing for a transatlantic crossing demands meticulous planning and a comprehensive understanding of the necessities.

Route and Preparation

Craft a detailed route plan, communication strategies, and contingency plans for a successful transatlantic journey. Thorough preparation is key, covering route selection, departure dates, emergency procedures, and communication protocols.

Consider wind patterns, currents, and potential hazards during route planning. Prepare provisions like food, water, and supplies. Develop contingency plans for adverse weather, medical emergencies, and navigation challenges.

Apparel for All Conditions

Pack layered clothing, foul-weather gear, and safety equipment to adapt to changing weather. Proper clothing ensures comfort and safety. Layering helps regulate temperature, and specialised gear like waterproof jackets, pants, and boots protects against the elements. Safety items like life jackets and harnesses are crucial on deck. Include hats, gloves, and sunglasses for sun protection.

Essential Gear and Tools

Equip with navigation tools, communication devices, safety gear, and spare parts. Success relies on proper gear. Navigation tools (GPS, charts, compasses) aid in plotting courses. Communication devices (satellite phones, radios) keep sailors connected. Safety gear like life rafts, EPIRBs, and flares are vital in emergencies. Carrying spare parts and tools prevents breakdowns.

Stock up on non-perishable food, fresh water, and cooking facilities. Consider food diversity and nutritional balance. Fresh water should be rationed, and watermakers or desalination systems help generate freshwater. Cooking facilities enable meal preparation, accounting for dietary preferences and nutritional needs.

Navigating Legally

Secure necessary permits and documentation for international waters. Crossing boundaries requires permits, visas, and paperwork for foreign ports. Research entry requirements and apply for permits early. Maintain organised vessel documentation for customs and immigration inspections.

Risks of Sailing Across the Atlantic

While Atlantic crossings offer an unparalleled sense of accomplishment, ocean sailing carries some inherent risks.

Weather Challenges

The Atlantic’s unpredictable weather presents dangers from storms to hurricane-force winds. Vigilant weather monitoring and advanced prediction tools help sailors adapt routes and sail plans. A defined storm plan, including course adjustments and reducing sail, is vital for safety in the face of approaching storms.

Health Considerations

Seasickness, fatigue, and medical emergencies require self-sufficiency at sea. Coping with seasickness involves staying hydrated and using medications. Combatting fatigue demands a well-structured watch schedule for adequate rest. Basic first-aid training and well-equipped medical kits are crucial for addressing health issues in remote settings.

Equipment Reliability

Vessel malfunctions demand resourcefulness and preparation. Mechanical, electronic, and communication systems can fail due to the ocean’s rigours. Pre-departure checks and onboard tools aid in identifying and addressing potential issues. Crew members should possess repair skills and improvisational abilities to tackle unexpected breakdowns and ensure vessel safety.

The ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers)

Participating in organized events like the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is one way to cross the ocean. The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is a renowned annual sailing event organised by the World Cruising Club and a favourite in the yachting world. It brings together sailors worldwide and provides an opportunity for sailors to cross the Atlantic Ocean in the company of a group, enhancing safety and camaraderie.

There are three different ARC events, which present three different ways to cross the Atlantic.

The original and most well-known event is the ARC. It typically takes place in November and involves a west-to-east crossing of the Atlantic Ocean from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands to Rodney Bay in Saint Lucia, in the Caribbean.

The ARC covers a distance of approximately 2,700 nautical miles and is open to a wide range of sailing vessels, from small cruisers to larger yachts. It offers a combination of bluewater sailing, challenges, and social activities, making it a popular choice for sailors seeking both adventure and community.

ARC Europe is a variation of the ARC that offers a more flexible route for sailors who prefer a northern European departure. It typically starts from a European port (such as Portsmouth, UK) and finishes in the same location as the main ARC event, Rodney Bay in Saint Lucia. ARC Europe provides participants with the opportunity to experience a mix of coastal and offshore sailing as they make their way south to the Caribbean.

The ARC+ is designed for sailors who want to extend their voyage and explore more destinations before reaching the Caribbean. The ARC+ event offers two routes: one starting from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, as in the main ARC event, and another starting from Mindelo in Cape Verde. Both routes converge in Saint Lucia, giving participants a chance to experience different cultures and sailing challenges along the way.

Each of these ARC events emphasises safety, camaraderie, and adventure. The World Cruising Club provides extensive support, including safety seminars, social events, weather routing, and radio nets to ensure participants have a smooth and enjoyable crossing.

Sailing across the Atlantic Ocean is a remarkable journey that demands a blend of skill, preparation, and a spirit of adventure. While it may seem like a daunting experience, it’s not just for seasoned sailors. With the right boat, people, equipment and preparation it is an accessible, life-changing adventure that almost anyone can enjoy.

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How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic? (Where To Cross!)

Learn how long it takes to sail across the Atlantic, optimal routes, and essential tips for potential travelers eyeing this thrilling ocean adventure.

Do you dream of hopping aboard your sailboat, sailing across the ocean, and getting away from it all? It might sound like something out of a movie, but many people share this goal. But it’s a big endeavor that takes lots of planning, especially knowing how long it will take you to sail across the Atlantic.

It takes an average of 21 to 28 days to sail across the Atlantic Ocean on a sailboat. If conditions are favorable, you could do it in two weeks. However, it could take one month or a month and a half if the wind isn’t on your side. A cruise ship could cross the Atlantic in 6 to 8 days.

Many factors influence how long a transatlantic adventure will take you, including weather, your boat, and your sailing skills. If you’re curious, you can start learning more about this ocean adventure right here.

How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic On A Sailboat?

On average, you can expect to spend three to four weeks sailing across the Atlantic Ocean on a sailboat. However, if everything goes right and the wind is favorable for the duration of your journey, you could do it in two weeks.

But this is assuming you are an expert sailor. It also assumes you have a fast and reliable boat (the average sailboat has top speeds of 10 miles per hour or 8.69 knots). Also, you likely would know some shortcuts and only plan to make a few stops.

You also need preexisting knowledge of the Atlantic and what it takes to sail across it. This feat is certainly not one you jump into and try. It takes lots of preparation, information, and skill.

Expect The Unexpected When Sailing Across The Atlantic

On the flip side, even if you’re experienced, various situations can add time to your journey. If the wind isn’t going your way for several days, it could extend your trip a week or more. In some cases, you might spend closer to 40 days sailing across the Atlantic.

You also must always figure out what to expect, as anything can happen on the open sea. Therefore, you can plan around an average of 21 to 28 days, but expect it to take longer. In other words, plan and pack supplies as if it were going to take you at least one month.

How Long Does It Take To Cross The Atlantic At 20 Knots?

If you’re traveling at 20 knots, roughly 23 miles per hour, you could cross the Atlantic in 12.5 days under favorable conditions. One knot is equivalent to moving one nautical mile or 1.151 miles per hour.

The Atlantic Ocean is approximately 3,500 nautical miles at its widest point (roughly 6,800 kilometers). However, you will not travel in a precise straight line when sailing. Instead, you will travel from one point to the next, making more of an S or zig-zag pattern.

Therefore, you will likely travel slightly farther than 3,500 nautical miles. Depending on your route, you’re more likely to travel between 4,300 and 4,700 nautical miles. Furthermore, you need to add time for breaks and stops.

How Long Did It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic in 1942?

Christopher Columbus sailed westward across the Atlantic, from Spain to the Bahamas, in 91 days starting on August 3, 1942. He was trying to find a direct route from Europe to Asia, but he was unsuccessful.

He would later make three more attempts over the next ten years, none of which would lead to Asia. Instead, he visited places like Hispaniola, the Americas, and he reached Panama on his last voyage in 1502.

Where To Cross The Atlantic

Two primary routes for crossing the Atlantic are the Northern Passage (west to east) and the Southern Passage (east to west). To cross the Atlantic, you must first plan out your route. Sailors have used the Northern and Southern Passages for centuries, and many believe them to be the most manageable routes.

The Northern Passage

The Northern Passage takes you west to east and takes slightly longer than the Southern Passage. Precisely how long it takes you depends on the weather, your boat, and the tradewinds.

Typically, you would first need to reach the Caribbean, then sail to Bermuda. Bermuda is a popular port of departure for those sailing from the Americas to Europe.

From Bermuda to the Caribbean is 850 nm, which would take about 5 to 8 days. Next, from Bermuda, sail to the Azores, which is 1,900 nm and could take up to 17 days.

Then travel another 700 nm to Portugal in roughly 4 to 8 days, and head to your final destination. This route is approximately 3450 nm, not including your route to get to Bermuda and then to reach your final destination. Overall, the trip would likely take between 27 and 38 days.

The Southern Passage

The Southern Passage goes east to west and lasts an average of 26 days. Once again, you first need to sail to your port of departure, the most popular of which is the Canary Islands. People usually travel from Portugal to the Canary Islands, which is 750 nm and takes 5 to 7 days.

Next, sail to Cape Verde, which is 850nm and takes 5 to 8 days. From Cape Verde, you can continue to the Caribbean. This is the longest leg of the journey, at 2,700 nautical miles, and can take 21 days.

Once you add the distance from the Caribbean to your final port, you will travel over 4,300 nautical miles.

Keep in mind these are common routes, but you need to consider where you are going and plan. There are specific routes to take when crossing the Atlantic, and heading out without a plan will doom you before you leave port.

What Size Boat Would You Need To Sail Across The Atlantic?

Most sailors recommend a boat that is at least 30 feet long to cross the Atlantic, but 40 feet is ideal. The smallest boat to cross the Atlantic was only 5 feet, 4 inches long. Hugo Vihlen sailed it across the ocean in 1993, taking 115 days.

The boat was named Father’s Day . It was his third attempt in 1993 (he had also tried in 1968). The boat was 5 feet, 6 inches on the first two attempts. Hugo cut two inches off the boat before setting out for the third time.

Every year, the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers is a favorite event for many sailors, with over 200 boats participating. The event involves going 2,700 nautical miles across the Atlantic. Boaters travel from Gran Canaria to Saint Lucia.

The boat requirements to participate state that boats must be at least 27 feet long and have a minimum two-person crew. However, most boats that enter are closer to 38 feet long. Depending on the weather, the ARC suggests 18 to 21 days for this voyage if you’re on a 40-foot-long boat.

Can A Yacht Cross The Ocean?

A large superyacht could cross the ocean if it has the proper range, but smaller yachts likely cannot. It all depends on how many nautical miles the vessel can handle before needing more fuel.

Many superyachts could handle the voyage easily, following specific routes and with the proper preparations. For example, the Azzam , the largest yacht in the world, is over 550 feet long. It can also reach top speeds of 33+ knots.

If the yacht can’t handle the necessary fuel load for the journey, it won’t be able to make it. Therefore, some people end up shipping their vessels across the ocean via specially-designed freighters.

How Long Does It Take To Cross The Atlantic On A Cruise Ship?

A cruise ship could sail across the Atlantic in 6 to 8 days in good conditions without any stops. A standard cruise ship travels at 20 to 25 knots; the average cruise ship is roughly 1,000 feet long.

However, a transatlantic cruise actually lasts much longer, typically about two weeks. This longer duration is because of the itineraries, which include stopping at different ports along the way.

When Is the Best Time To Sail Across The Atlantic Ocean?

The best time to sail the Atlantic is between November and February when the water is warmer, and there's less chance of hurricanes. The trade winds are strong, between 15 and 25 knots, from late November through December.

This is the timeframe the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers recommends sailing (they use the southern route). When January approaches, the trade winds will grow stronger, up to 30 knots, when the high over the Azores moves further south.

These winds can make it difficult for recreational sailing. Therefore, keep this in mind when you plan your route. Sailing south of the Azores could be preferable instead of going across during this time.

What Do You Need To Sail Across The Atlantic Ocean?

You need sailing experience, knowledge of the ocean and routes, a reliable boat, expert skills, and proper supplies for a transatlantic trip. It takes a lot more than a dream and an adventurous spirit to make the trip successfully. In fact, setting out with little to no experience or planning could even be a fatal mistake.

You also want a knowledgeable and reliable crew to come with you. You’ll need enough food and supplies (think medical, basic toiletries, etc.) for everyone. If you plan to fish to supplement your food, you’ll need fishing gear, and so on.

You also need a budget.

How Much Does It Cost To Sail Across The Atlantic?

Sailing across the Atlantic Ocean is expensive, quickly adding up to over $50,000 or more if you rent the boat. Putting one price tag on this adventure is hard since so many factors go into the total.

Even with your own boat, you could spend $50 to $500 daily on fuel, depending on your boat’s size and motors. There are also costs for food, supplies, boat insurance, docking fees, and more. Docking fees can range from as little as $60 to over $1,000.

For your food, estimate between $20 and $50 per day per person. Once you start factoring in your insurance and other supplies, you can see how it adds up fast.

What If You Rent A Boat?

Of course, if you don't consider yourself a sailor but want to have the experience, you could hire an expert to handle the sailing. Whether it's on a sailboat or you charter a yacht , this will add significantly to your bottom line. Leasing a yacht capable of crossing the Atlantic could easily cost you almost a quarter of a million dollars per week.

If you don’t have your own sailboat and choose to rent one, it could cost you about $1,000 to $1,200 a day. This price range would be for a boat around 30 feet long. You're looking at even more if you need to hire a captain.

Another option, if you’re willing and able, is to look for larger vessels about to make the trip. If the crew is shorthanded, you might be able to join for only a small fee to cover your food costs. If you attempt this, make sure the captain and crew you choose are experienced.

Sailing across the Atlantic could be the adventure of a lifetime if you prepare for it and know what you are doing. The voyage can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, depending on your experience, the weather, water conditions, and your boat. Typically, the larger the vessel, the easier your crossing will be.

The going recommendation is to use a sailboat at least 30 feet long, but 40 feet long is better. Cruise ships that average 1,000 feet long and go 20 to 25 knots can make the pass in 6 to 8 days. Superyachts could also easily cross the Atlantic if they can handle enough fuel for the trip.

No matter in what vessel you attempt to cross the Atlantic, you’ll need to follow specific routes. Sailing across requires careful planning, expert skill, and enough supplies to cover you for at least one month.

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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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Atlantic crossing: When’s the best time to go?

November 11, 2021

When it comes to an Atlantic crossing there are clearly defined weather windows. But how flexible can you be and what challenges are you like to face? Weather Guru Chris Tibbs reports.

An Atlantic crossing or Atlantic circuit has often been seen as a year-long adventure, crossing the ocean in late November or December to the Caribbean , with a return to Europe starting in May.

There are good reasons for this timetable, the overriding one being the hurricane season. This runs from the beginning of June through to the end of November. Hurricanes can happen outside of the ‘official season’, but they are rare – although the last few years have all seen named storms in May.

By departing towards the end of November, with the bulk of the crossing in December, we maximise the Caribbean season, often coming back to Europe after Antigua Race Week in May.

The Caribbean winter season now begins with two major events starting in January; the RORC Transatlantic Race, and for this year an additional January departure for the ARC. Both are scheduled to depart early January from Lanzarote and Gran Canaria respectively.

Not much to split them? Using reanalysis data and routing software the routes in green show late November departures and those in red January

Interestingly, for the actual crossing from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean, statistics show that the wind tends to become stronger as we get into January and February – so there may be some truth in the Christmas trade winds that we hear about starting to blow around Christmas and lasting well into the following months.

Article continues below…

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Chris Tibbs on a dream Atlantic crossing and a heavenly Caribbean winter

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When departing the Canaries the prevailing wind direction is from north through to east-north-east. These are the trade winds found on the eastern side of the semi-permanent high pressure which we know as the Azores high. The wind blows from this direction for 55-65% of the time with little variation from November to March. However, averages do not tell us everything and we do get a number of days when the Canaries are affected by low pressure passing close to the north.

Winter winds

This is important for a pleasurable passage; few people enjoy headwinds when supposedly on a downwind passage or race. Near the Canaries the wind is between south and west for around 10% of the time in December and higher at 14% in January. That is not a huge difference and the variability between years makes it hard to make firm predictions.

There are lots of statistics from different sources and although they roughly agree the older pilot charts and routing charts tend to indicate a higher incidence of trade winds, while winds derived from newer satellite observations show more variability.

Harry Scott leaving the Canaries.

When looking at reanalysis data we see an even greater variation in the wind patterns, and this is consistent with a greater variability in the weather which we expect with climate change.

Additionally, if the wind becomes south-westerly, the average strength tends to increase from November and December through to February. This is an indication of deeper winter depressions passing closer to, and affecting the Canary Islands.

On the way across there will remain a small chance of south-westerly winds which decreases the further south and west you get; mid-Atlantic adverse and light winds are generally linked to the tail of cold fronts splitting the Azores high or more rarely areas of low pressure.

When to go?

To compare conditions between months, I ran some weather routing for a late November and an early January departure. This was from the Canaries to St Lucia using 11 years of reanalysis data from 2010-2020 departing in late November and early January. By using the polars from a cruiser-racer production boat some of the results were quite surprising.

The earlier departures gave a greater range of routes with the January departures slightly closer to the direct route and to the south; this reflects the expected stronger winds (from historical data) with shorter courses following closer to the great circle route.

However, the main surprise came with the timings as the late November departures were on average 10 hours faster than the January ones. This didn’t make a great deal of sense because historical data, as well as anecdotal evidence from the Caribbean, suggested the later crossings should have stronger and steadier trade winds.

But by looking at the routes and weather patterns a little more closely, I found that on four of the January routes there was low pressure in the central and eastern Atlantic that was further south than usually expected and impacted on the first part of the route. This gave moderate to strong headwinds and a slow start to the passage which was followed by light winds until the trade winds filled in after the lows had moved away.

An unusually large low in January, completely disturbing the trade winds

So a January passage on a ‘good’ year should, given long term average conditions, be faster with stronger wind particularly on the latter part of the passage. But, rather significantly, there is a greater chance of low pressure affecting the Canary Islands and delaying the start if cruising, or giving a period of beating if racing.

Planning our sailing is rarely as simple as deciding a date on which we are leaving. Something that should be taken equally seriously is the weather expected on the passage to the Canary Islands. This is more important when heading south from the UK and north-west Europe, although it must also be taken into consideration when departing from the Mediterranean.

Head south early

The usual advice is to get south as early as possible, as an easier passage will be had in September rather than leaving it until November or December. If crossing the Bay of Biscay, once into September the likelihood of gales increases, as does the probability of south-westerly winds.

In September pilot charts indicate that gales in northern Biscay are likely 3% of the time, which increases to 7% in October and 9% in November. We also get a significant increase in south-westerly winds; this reflects the passing of lows to the north-west which tend to pass further south during autumn and winter.

sailing-autopilots-ARC-2016-credit-TimBisMedia

Classic tradewind setup for an Atlantic crossing. Photo: TimBisMedia

There are some breaks in the weather as cold fronts rattle through veering the wind to the north-west and occasionally to the north. As the season progresses so does the likelihood that the Portuguese trade winds will fail, giving a beat south down the Portuguese coast only picking up the trade winds south of the latitude of Gibraltar.

As we’ve seen from the start of races from France in the autumn, there can be a high attrition rate before the yachts have even left Biscay. It’s not that you can’t cross Biscay in any month, but the later it’s left the longer the time between weather windows and the shorter the weather windows tend to be. This can lead us to make choices based on necessity rather than prudence.

Once south of Portugal we should get into the start of the trade winds – but we still need to watch for lows further south than normal.

While most yachts arrive in the Canary Islands having had a good sail, there are always a number that get caught out and end up beating for some of the way – usually yachts that have left it late and are on a tight schedule. This is also true for yachts leaving the Mediterranean and it’s not uncommon for yachts to have to wait in Gibraltar for strong westerly winds to diminish.

Whether intending to start your transatlantic in November or wait until later, I prefer to see boats south of Biscay well before the end of September and would not be far behind if leaving from the Med.

A crossing in January will generally have stronger winds, but there’s a greater chance of headwinds particularly when getting away from the Canary Islands. Whenever you decide to cross, getting to the Canaries early is important and the later you leave it to get south the more chance there is of having to wait for a weather window.

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

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How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic?

Let’s make it clear from the very beginning how long does it take to cross the Atlantic?

In general, sailing across the Atlantic takes about 20-25 days (3-4 weeks), in a sailboat of the 30-40ft class.

So it’s three to four weeks of constantly sailing day and night, tired, wet, and miserable .

In this post we are sharing a compilation of what you need to know essentially to estimate the time to sail across the Atlantic, and minimize the suffering of being alone in the middle of the ocean.

The Distance

How long to sail across the atlantic from west to east, and from east to west, what is the best time to cross the atlantic by sailboat, how to use the trade winds, how long does it take a cruise ship to cross the atlantic, how long does it take to cross the atlantic by motor yacht, do your math, how long to sail across the atlantic – final words.

First, let’s define the problem we are going to face.

The distance of a journey across the Atlantic is roughly 3000 nautical miles , where 2700 NM is the classic distance between the Canary Islands and the Caribbean.

Still, a boat never travels in a straight line; neither does she hold a constant speed, and there are also weather, waves, how great is your steering skill, and many other things.

Look at the online charts to excite yourself about what a crowd is there when it’s the best season to cross the Atlantic. Every pink mark is a private boat!

NOTE The snapshot was taken in late November, the high season.

How long to sail across the Atlantic, marine traffic screenshot, November

So, to sail across the Atlantic may take about 20-25 days for most of them to travel, or it may eventually take a whole month in an unfortunate situation.

Does the Direction Matter?

Apparently, we cross the Atlantic in both directions. So, what is the real difference, and does it matter at all?

You will probably take the so-called Northern Passage eastward from America to Europe across the Atlantic. That means you “climb” north first, then travel the main distance, about two thousand miles, from the Bermudas to the Azores, then head to the coast of Portugal.

Sail Across The Atlantic From West To East

The westerlies are yet another type of ocean wind; they work similarly to the trade winds but for the opposite direction. The westerlies occur farther to the North, which is not alike the trade winds blowing practically next to the equator. Prevailing in the latitudes between 30 and 60 degrees North, the westerlies make us to choose the Northern passage for traveling across the Atlantic eastward, from the Americas to Europe.

Here is the breakdown of the route:

Caribbean to Bermuda – 850NM (5-8 days)
Bermudas to Azores – 1900 NM (14-17 days)
Azores to Portugal – 700 NM (4-8 days)

Totaling about 3500NM it will take roughly 23 to 33 days (three to five weeks).

TIP NM is a nautical mile, which is 1852 meters.

Have it in mind the Northern route in the eastward direction will probably take a little longer compared to the “classical” Southern when you cross the Atlantic westward. And it will be chilling over there in the North, consider clothes.

As we’ve mentioned earlier in this post, the Southern Passage fits best to cross the Atlantic westward – from Europe to the Americas.

Everyone starts from the Canary Islands, embarking on the Southern route across the Atlantic, including you, me, and Christopher Columbus, in 1492 (the yellow line on the image below).

But some sail to Cape Verde, offshore from Dakar, and then straight to the west (the orange line).

Sail Across The Atlantic From East To West

Here is the route breakdown:

Portugal to Canary Islands – 750 NM (5-7 days)
Canary Islands to Cape Verde – 850NM (6-8 days)
Canary Islands to Caribbean – 2700NM (15-20 days)

If you’d love to visit Cape Verde, then the total distance to cross Atlantic from East to West is around 4300NM and time needed is about 26-35 days (three to five weeks). But if you are going straight to the Caribbean from the Canaries, no Cape Verde, then the route shall be shorter and constitute something about 3000+ miles.

The truth: you cannot just go any day across the Atlantic unless you want to spend a whole month or more rambling in the ocean (yeah, what exactly Columbus did wandering around for three months).

The weather and the temperatures jointly make November and December the best time to sail across the Atlantic catching those sweet trade winds to ease your journey.

So, the ocean is warmer, hurricanes are less probable, and the trade winds work in your favor once you sail from the Old World to America in November and/or December.

The trade winds blow from the northeast in the Northern Hemisphere and the southeast in the Southern Hemisphere. For both sailboats and motorboats, the trade winds define how long to sail across the Atlantic from Europe to America.

So, in the Atlantic, the trade winds will push you along the equator southeast towards the Caribbean at a particular span of the year.

Now, all you have to do is pick a good season to take the best advantage of the trade winds, and it is November and December – just head south from Tenerife (the Canary Islands) at least 100 miles down for the trade-wind magic to begin.

The trade winds are predictable and blow in the same direction every time. As a result, the trade winds served well for centuries, allowing significant commercial benefits: such as fewer supplies and less fuel.

DID YOU KNOW?

It depends on a cruise ship you are on to cross the Atlantic, you know, Titanic hasn’t yet arrived. Seriously, crossing the Atlantic nowadays by cruise ship takes 6-8 days .

Until this point, we’ve mentioned crossing the Atlantic by an average sailboat , like 35-40 feet, making 5-6 knots average speed, where the average is not maximum.

A regular motor yacht makes an average 10-12 knots cruising speed, which should be significantly lower compared to a maximum speed you’ve performed while fishing with friends. As you carry all fuel through the ocean, you care about the efficiency, where 10-12 knots should serve as an efficient cruising speed.

For the mentioned 3000 miles of the cross-Atlantic voyage, you’ll require somewhat 300 hours, which constitutes 10-12 days , maybe two weeks, by the motor yacht.

Without prejudice, this is already pretty close to what a cruising ship performs through the Atlantic.

Before starting your passage math and planning your journey, estimating how long does it take to cross the Atlantic ocean, consider our short list of tips for a first-timer to remember about the time and the distance:

Choose a Proper Time to Travel

Local locals say that hurricane season in the Caribbean officially lasts from June to October, with peaks in June and July, going milder since August. The trade winds blow well in November-December , and the period counts as the best season for that.

Stick to the Average Speed

Average speed is not the maximum speed and not even the cruising speed. While counting how long does it take to cross the Atlantic, consider the average speed shall be surprisingly low , which you will be fighting for.

Count Miles, not Time

Speed, fuel consumption, wind, waves, and other conditions make us count miles instead of the time required, which means “ gallons per hour ” rather than a distance traveled per hour.

Single-handed vs Crewed

In terms of how long does it take to cross the Atlantic, also understand that an average speed of a single-handed boat, logically, may be lower than if you are a crew of at least two people.

Crew Dilemma

Let’s call it a crew dilemma: the bigger crew makes it easier to sail; on the other hand – such requires more supplies. The equilibrium to find you need, Yoda said (ha-ha, kidding).

Nonetheless, many-many boaters travel single handed , and yet another big number of us travel as couples .

Four people on a 30-40ft boat is somewhat fine yet.

My friend sailed from England to the south of Brazil, apparently much longer rather than the classic route, carrying 6 people on a 30ft boat, and he did not look too happy recalling this 50-day voyage heavily overcrowded.

Do not plan any “important business meeting” on the next day after your expected arrival. That means – you’d better have a lot of spare time , as your travel across the Atlantic may suddenly become a little longer.

Mind food and water supplies. We have a separate post advising what you need to know before going through the Atlantic. However, knowing the how-long, do not forget to supply an excessive amount of food and fresh water . And fuel.

Speaking about how long to sail across the Atlantic, we emphasize on sailing, I bet the majority of all private boats crossing the Atlantic are sailboats, rather than motorboats.

The price rises higher when you want to go across the Atlantic by motor, because the fuel hits the price, also it’ll require extra storage (by the way, for safety matters, remember at least to double an amount of fuel calculated for the distance).

A good news is that it’s usual boats go through the ocean, skippered by amateur skippers, like you and me. The internet is flooded with reports about how 30-40 foot boats cross the Atlantic both directions, so you can do it too . It won’t be ezpz though.

Choose the right time, plan everything properly, the route, the stop overs, supplies, energy, and book slightly above of those 3 to 4 weeks in your schedule to cross the Atlantic comfortably, and it will be something you will remember for the rest of your life.

Good luck, Captain!

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Hi, I’m Igor, Skipper of S/Y "The Hooker". A decade ago, I conquered my childhood dream: to be a sailing skipper, own a sailing yacht. Yes, it knocked dullness out of my urban life — Read more →

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The Caribbean to Mediterranean sailing routes: how to cross the Atlantic Eastward

Countless boats sail the transatlantic route from the Caribbean to Europe each year, but you should not take navigation lightly because it must endure disturbances from the west moving east for up to 15-20 days. The traditional sailing ship path is called either an arch approach or possibly a stop in Bermuda simply to exit the trade wind system and enter the perturbations zone, where there would be enough wind. Let’s dive deep to know the sailing routes from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean.

Why crossing the Atlantic from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean isn’t the same as the Mediterranean to the Caribbean?

By early summer, the Caribbean’s prime season is winding down, pushed out by a barrage of large regattas. Then, when summer returns to the northern latitudes, the workers return home.

While most people concentrate on traversing the Atlantic from Europe to the Caribbean, the journey back to Europe or the east coast of the United States is as or perhaps more significant. The return trip may be more difficult, but it is also more diverse, and you should begin arranging for it as soon as you decide to go on a season abroad. The return path is well-traveled but presents a different situation than the way out. As a crew travels northeast, the days will grow longer, but temperatures will drop, and the climate can be highly variable and occasionally challenging. What should you consider while preparing your crew and yacht, and what is the ideal route and strategy?

The Azores High or the Bermuda High dictates the wind direction and the weather in the Atlantic.

Winds from the east are blowing against the south side of the high, which has the power to push tropical systems further west. From the eastern Atlantic to the Caribbean Sea or even over to the Gulf of Mexico, these easterly winds can carry them. That implies the Bermuda high’s effects are so profound that a hurricane may proceed in any direction—westward toward Louisiana, eastward toward the East Coast, or anywhere in between.

Taking the same route as the Mediterranean to the Caribbean (or a very direct line) would mean sailing upwind against tradewinds.

The weather window to cross the West to East is much shorter and more volatile than East to West.

The predominant winds in the northern hemisphere, more especially in the United States, blow from west to east in accordance with the rotation of the Earth. As a result, storms follow the jet stream in that same direction, making the weather very volatile. Thus, we get a very short window to travel in this direction.

Your chances of navigating very calm waters are high around the Azores High

The air is circulated clockwise by the high-pressure block of the Azores High, which behaves anticyclonically. Due to this movement, African eastern waves are pushed away from coastal West Africa and into the Bahamas, Central America, and the Caribbean, along the southern edge of the Azores High. Therefore, the chances of navigating very calm waters are high around the Azores High.

The best routes to cross the Atlantic from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean

Use our Sailing Distance calculator here

The weather plays a significant role in determining when to set sail, the route to take, and which sails to bring. The primary priority is avoiding the storm season from June to November. Hence, most boats depart in late November to arrive before Christmas, even though the tradewinds are typically stronger in January.

However, it is like humans to test the limits; some crews always depart early to extend the season. The sooner you go, however, the more crucial it is to maintain an easterly trajectory before deciding on a westerly route. Late storms from the west make a route through the Cape Verde islands increasingly appealing. It reduces the time spent in possible storm zones and provides a southern escape route since hurricanes seldom track south of 10°N.

Most sailing routes try to cross the Atlantic above the Azores-Bermuda High and head to the Azores islands.

Early in the season, low-pressure systems are more likely to be located further south; if you head north, you’ll often encounter headwinds north of the Azores. As summer draws near, low-pressure systems have a tendency to drift further north, and the Azores High widens, resulting in lighter winds as you approach the Azores.

The arch route going around the north of the Azores high straight to the Azores (Horta): the fastest and most reliable route

A yacht undertaking the west-to-east trip will eventually be overtaken by at least one front, and perhaps more, due to weather systems spinning off the US East Coast that can produce lows and frontal systems that can stretch well south. Therefore, the goal is to catch and ride favorable winds as far as possible. To do this, most boats head for the Azores to halt before choosing the best time to continue on to Spain, Portugal, or up to the UK.

The two stops route: head first to the Bermudas, then to the Azores

The most well-liked launching places are St. Maarten and Tortola in the British Virgin Islands; both are conveniently located and suitable for provisioning, spare parts, chandlery, and repairs. However, many crews stop at Bermuda on their way to or from the Caribbean, and this is a particularly wise move if the wind patterns alter three to four days out. Crews can rest, replenish supplies, have fun in Bermuda, and wait for favorable weather to start the next leg.

Going directly into the North Atlantic High straight to the Azores: a potential route for cruisers and yachts with plenty of fuel only

For cruisers, it is typically preferred to travel in a southerly direction, staying south of the Gulf Stream in light winds and adding extra fuel and motoring as needed.

What are the best Caribbean islands to cross the Atlantic from West to East?

One of the most well-liked launching points is Tortola in the British Virgin Islands or St. Maarten because of its convenient locations, chandlery services, and superior provisioning. However, several crews make a stopover at Bermuda, which is an excellent choice if the prevailing winds alter three to four days before reaching the Caribbean. In Bermuda, crews may rest, resupply, explore the island, and await a window of favorable weather conditions for the next round.

Read also: BVI Hurricane Season – Everything You Have to Know

What is the best time of the year to cross the Atlantic from the Caribbean to Europe?

Some people consider an Atlantic crossing or circuit to take a full year. It starts with a trip from Europe to the Caribbean in late November or early December and the yacht circle back in Europe in April/May to start enjoying the Mediterranean again summer time.

There are valid reasons for this schedule, the most important being the hurricane season. So this spans from the start of June until the conclusion of November. Hurricanes can occur beyond the ‘official season,’ although uncommon; yet, the previous three years have all had named storms during May.

What does your yacht need to have to cross the Atlantic from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean?

You should include essential spares, like pump and autopilot components. Moreover, replace any you may have used after your Atlantic voyage. Spare parts transportation to the Azores may be challenging and time-consuming.

A thorough inspection of the rigging before departure is required. Your standing and running rigging will have already traversed thousands of bright, salty miles. Likewise, the returning transatlantic trip will need you to remain days at a time on a single tack, so anticipate chafing on sheets and halyards. A skilled rigging inspection could be well worth the investment. However, if you perform it yourself, examine every piece.

In addition to bringing additional gasoline in jerry cans or flexible tanks, don’t forget to stock up on engine fuel filters and Racor water separator filters to prevent fuel supply difficulties. On most crossings, you seldom use the engine. But, when the wind is low, it’s excellent to push through a wind hole and get into the wind on the other side; more gasoline offers you more alternatives. Consider purchasing a portable transfer pump since wrangling funnels and pouring fuel at sea are filthy and cumbersome tasks.

Read also: 10 Sailing Myths And Bad Advice You Shouldn’t Listen To

How long does it take to cross the Atlantic from West to East?

On average, you will spend between three and four weeks sailing across the Atlantic Ocean. However, it is possible to finish in two weeks if you are fortunate, find shortcuts, and have a speedy sailboat. If there is insufficient wind for one week or longer, it may take as long as a month.

How hard is the sailing experience of crossing the Atlantic eastward?

Before setting sail across the Atlantic Ocean, you should be knowledgeable of and well equipped for the following circumstances and dangers:

A lengthy travel
Large waves
severe weather, such as hurricanes (depending on when you set sail)
Collisions involving cargo ships and vessels

How experienced do you have to be to cross the Atlantic from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean on your own?

Crossing the Atlantic requires a solid, well-equipped vessel and a great deal of sailing expertise and talent. You will require expertise in weather forecasting, awareness of weather conditions, and familiarity with charts and course planning.

Can you charter a yacht for a transatlantic sailing trip from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean?

Transatlantic voyages are not just unique but also exhilarating experiences altogether. For many sailors, crossing the approximately 2,850nm (Canaries) – 3,200nm (Western France) distance across the Atlantic is a “must do experience of a lifetime.” It is an amazing yacht charter journey of a lifetime. The most seasoned, daring, and keen sailors are invited to participate in this yacht charter experience if they want to challenge themselves or just go on a brand-new sailing adventure. After an Atlantic crossing, we can surely say that yacht charters are no longer the same. Take advantage of these exclusive yachting vacation packages right away.

You can pick the yacht charter as sailing catamarans between 40 – 62′ or sailing yachts between 40-65′. You can visit a range of amazing destinations such as Saint Thomas, Saint Martin, Barbados, Portugal or even Spain.

Read also: Five Easy Beginners-Friendly Sailing Trips And Destinations

The Caribbean to the Mediterranean sailing route is lengthy. But it is worthwhile to those who complete it to the other side. The pleasure and feeling of success you will feel after completing the crossing will more than compensate for the months of planning and the difficulties you will undoubtedly encounter on the way.

If you are planning to traverse the Atlantic, good luck!

How Big of a Sailboat Do You Need To Cross the Atlantic? (Detailed Guidelines)

Crossing the Atlantic in a sailboat is a dream for many.

But how do you know what size sailboat is best for you? In this article, we’ll cover the considerations you need to take into account when selecting a sailboat for your Atlantic crossing, including the size of your crew, the duration of your voyage, and the level of comfort you desire.

We’ll also discuss the advantages of larger sailboats and provide our recommended size for crossing the Atlantic.

Read on to get the detailed guidelines you need to make an informed decision about the size of your sailboat.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

The size of sailboat you need to cross the Atlantic depends on the individual’s experience level as a sailor and the type of voyage they plan to take.

Generally, for a safe and comfortable voyage, a sailboat of at least 35 feet in length would be recommended.

Additionally, the boat should have a solid and reliable design, as well as enough storage for enough food and water for the crew.

Finally, it is important to have a reliable source of propulsion in case of any emergencies.

Considerations for Choosing the Right Size Sailboat

When deciding on the right size of sailboat to cross the Atlantic, there are a few key factors to consider.

First, the size of the crew and the duration of the voyage should be considered.

A larger crew may require a larger boat for more living space and storage, while a shorter voyage may require a smaller boat.

The level of comfort desired should also be taken into account.

A larger boat will provide a more comfortable ride in the oceans waves, and will also provide more storage space for provisions and supplies.

On the other hand, a smaller boat may be more maneuverable and easier to handle in rougher seas.

In addition, the size of the boat should be considered in relation to the type of voyage.

A longer voyage may require a larger boat, while a shorter voyage may be well suited to a smaller boat.

It is important to note that a larger boat may also require more time to prepare for the voyage, as the boat must be properly maintained and outfitted with the necessary items for a safe and comfortable journey.

Overall, when considering how big of a sailboat is necessary for crossing the Atlantic, a sailboat of at least 35-50 feet is recommended.

This size of boat will provide ample living space, storage, and a comfortable ride in the oceans waves.

With careful consideration of the size of the crew, the desired duration of the voyage, and the level of comfort desired, the right size of sailboat can be chosen for a safe and enjoyable journey across the Atlantic.

Size of the Crew

When considering how big of a sailboat is necessary for crossing the Atlantic, the size of the boat depends on many factors, one of the most important being the size of the crew.

The number of people on board will be a major factor in deciding the size of the boat.

A larger boat may be needed for a larger crew, as more living space and storage will be required.

A sailboat should have enough space for everyone to move around freely and to store all the necessary supplies and equipment for the voyage.

Additionally, the crew should have adequate sleeping quarters and room to relax and socialize during the journey.

If the crew is large enough, a boat of at least 45-50 feet should be considered, as this size of boat will provide ample living space and storage.

Duration of the Voyage

The duration of your voyage across the Atlantic is a major factor in determining the size of the sailboat youll need.

If youre planning a short trip, around a few weeks, a smaller sailboat of 35-50 feet should suffice.

This size of boat provides plenty of space for comfortable living and storage, and is suitable for a smaller crew.

However, if youre planning a longer voyage, such as a month or more, then youll need a larger boat.

The bigger the boat, the more space youll have for living and storage.

Boats of 50-60 feet are suitable for these longer voyages.

These boats are large enough to provide plenty of living and storage space, while still being able to handle the waves of the ocean.

Its important to remember that the duration of your voyage will determine how large of a sailboat youll need.

If youre planning a short trip, then a sailboat of 35-50 feet should suffice.

However, if youre planning a longer voyage, then youll need a larger boat of 50-60 feet.

This size of boat will provide you with ample living and storage space, and will be able to handle the waves of the ocean.

Level of Comfort Desired

When considering how big of a sailboat is necessary for crossing the Atlantic, the level of comfort desired is an important factor.

While some people may be comfortable sailing in a smaller boat, others may require a larger boat to ensure a more pleasant experience.

A larger boat will provide more living space, storage, and a comfortable ride in the oceans waves.

For a comfortable and safe voyage across the Atlantic, a sailboat of at least 35-50 feet is recommended.

This size of boat will provide ample living space, storage, and a comfortable ride in the ocean’s waves.

It also allows for more supplies to be stored on board, such as additional food, drinks, and other items.

Additionally, larger sailboats tend to offer more stability and can be better equipped to handle heavy winds and waves, which can sometimes be encountered when crossing the Atlantic.

For those who prefer a more luxurious experience, a larger boat may be necessary.

Boats of 50 feet or more can provide spacious cabins, comfortable seating areas, and even amenities such as a galley, showers and toilets.

Such amenities can make for a more comfortable experience, especially when spending days or weeks at sea.

Ultimately, the size of the boat chosen for a transatlantic voyage depends on the individuals needs and preferences.

A small boat could be adequate for a shorter voyage, while a larger boat may be more suitable for a longer journey.

By considering the level of comfort desired, one can determine the size of sailboat needed for a safe and comfortable crossing of the Atlantic.

Advantages of Larger Sailboats

When it comes to sailing across the Atlantic, bigger is often better. Larger sailboats provide a variety of advantages over smaller boats, making them ideal for longer voyages. Here are some of the benefits of a larger boat:

1. Increased Stability A larger boat has a greater ability to stay upright in rough seas, providing greater comfort and safety for the crew. The wider beam of a larger boat also helps keep it from rocking too much, reducing seasickness.

2. More Room for Gear and Passengers Larger sailboats have more room for passengers and gear. This is especially important when crossing the Atlantic, as a longer journey requires more supplies and potentially more crew members.

3. More Room to Relax Larger boats provide more space for the crew to relax during the voyage. There is plenty of room for comfortable seating, cooking and food preparation, and entertainment.

4. More Room for Storage A larger boat allows for more storage space, which is essential when crossing the Atlantic. Not only will you need to store extra supplies, but youll also need room for sails and other equipment.

5. Greater Range Since larger boats have more space for fuel and supplies, they can travel for greater distances than smaller boats. This is important when crossing the Atlantic, as youll need to have enough fuel and food to last the entire trip.

All in all, a larger sailboat is the best choice when crossing the Atlantic.

It provides greater stability, more space for passengers and gear, and greater range.

Furthermore, it provides a comfortable and safe environment for the crew, allowing them to enjoy their voyage.

Recommended Size of Sailboat for Crossing the Atlantic

When it comes to crossing the Atlantic, the size of the sailboat you need depends on multiple factors.

Generally, a boat of at least 35-50 feet is necessary for a comfortable and safe voyage.

This size will provide you with ample living space, storage, and a comfortable ride when you encounter the ocean’s waves.

The size of your boat should depend on the size of your crew and the duration of your voyage.

If you are planning a long-term journey, then a bigger boat may be necessary to provide enough room for the crew.

Likewise, if you are planning a shorter voyage with a larger crew, then you may need a larger boat to accommodate everyone.

In addition to the size of the boat, you should also consider the features of the boat that are necessary for a comfortable voyage.

For example, you may want to look for a boat with plenty of storage space, comfortable living quarters, and a sturdy hull to handle the waves.

You may also want to consider features such as a galley, navigation equipment, and a generator to provide power while at sea.

When choosing the right sailboat for crossing the Atlantic, it’s important to do your research and find a boat that meets your needs.

Do some comparison shopping, read reviews, and speak to experienced sailors to get an idea of what is necessary for a safe and comfortable voyage.

With the right boat, you can have a memorable and enjoyable voyage across the Atlantic.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Size Sailboat

When it comes to deciding on the size of the sailboat that is necessary to cross the Atlantic, there are several factors to consider.

Chief among them is the size of the crew, the duration of the journey, and the level of comfort desired.

A larger boat will be needed for a longer journey or a larger crew, and a smaller boat will be more suitable for a shorter journey with fewer people aboard.

The size of the boat should also be in line with the level of comfort desired.

A larger boat will provide more living space, storage, and a smoother ride in the ocean’s waves.

In general, a sailboat of at least 35-50 feet is recommended for a comfortable and safe voyage across the Atlantic.

This size of boat provides enough room for a crew of two or three, as well as ample storage and living space for a comfortable journey.

The larger size also provides stability in the waves, allowing for a smoother ride.

For those who are looking for a more luxurious journey, larger boats in the 50-70 feet range are recommended.

These boats provide more living space and storage, as well as a higher level of comfort.

They also have more amenities such as a larger galley, larger cabins, and a spacious cockpit.

Ultimately, the size of the sailboat necessary to cross the Atlantic depends on the size of the crew, the duration of the journey, and the level of comfort desired.

A sailboat of at least 35-50 feet is recommended for a comfortable and safe voyage, and larger boats in the 50-70 feet range are recommended for more luxurious journeys.

Final Thoughts

Crossing the Atlantic is a thrilling and rewarding adventure, but its important to select a sailboat of the appropriate size.

Consider the size of the crew, the duration of the voyage, and the level of comfort desired for a safe and comfortable journey.

A sailboat of at least 35-50 feet is recommended for crossing the Atlantic.

With the right size sailboat, youll have ample living space, storage, and a comfortable ride in the oceans waves.

Now that youre equipped with the knowledge of how big of a sailboat you need to cross the Atlantic, what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream voyage today!

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

6 Top Transatlantic Cruises for 2024

T ransatlantic cruises are unique when you compare them to traditional cruises most people book for family trips and romantic getaways. These voyages tend to be longer in general, and they have more built-in days at sea and offer a lot more time on board as a result. Repositioning cruises that include a transatlantic crossing tend to attract more retirees and travelers who just want to relax and enjoy their ships' amenities, especially since fewer days in port means fewer excursions and more time doing nothing at all.

That said, the fact that transatlantic cruises can last as few as seven nights means they may fit in your plans more easily than you may think. There are also some benefits to transatlantic crossings that may not be obvious, including lower nightly rates, more onboard credit, and more time to kick back and relax at a floating luxury resort in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you're curious which transatlantic cruises are best for 2024, here are six top picks with different cruise lengths, itineraries and unique destinations to explore.

Explore cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Cunard Line

Date: Departs May 5, 2024

Departure port: Brooklyn, New York

Starting price: $2,449 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 7 to 18 nights

In May of 2024, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 vessel will offer three different transatlantic crossings of various lengths. Choose from a seven-night sailing from Brooklyn, New York , to Southampton, England; a nine-night sailing to Hamburg, Germany ; and an 18-night round-trip sailing that departs from Brooklyn and crosses the Atlantic twice on the way back to its starting point. This unique combination of itineraries lets you cross the sea and tailor your trip to how long you want to be away from home.

The 18-night itinerary is especially interesting, since it lets you depart from the United States and arrive back in Brooklyn in the end with stops in both England and Germany, as well as plenty of sea days in between. Luxury cruise line Cunard is known for its elegant design, lush amenities and upscale feel, and the Queen Mary 2 is one of the line's most luxurious ships. Highlights on this exclusive vessel include the Royal Court Theatre, a casino, gala evenings, an onboard spa and a vast library. The Queen Mary 2 holds up to 2,691 guests with 1,173 crew to cater to your every need.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Date: Departs March 24, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Starting price: $5,949 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 21 nights

Seabourn is offering a 21-night transatlantic cruise from Miami on Seabourn Quest in March 2024 that offers a diverse range of ports of call before ending its voyage in Las Palmas in Spain's Canary Islands . Departure from Miami is followed by nine days at sea. Then, you'll enjoy multiple stops in the Canary Islands – including Santa Cruz de La Palma and San Sebastián de La Gomera – as well as stops in Praia and Mindelo the Cape Verde archipelago.

This journey with Seabourn makes it possible for travelers to see some of the most beautiful and remote tropical islands in the world. The Canary Islands are known for their white sand beaches , volcanoes and lush greenery; similar landscapes can also be found in Cape Verde's coastal towns and villages. Seabourn Quest, a smaller ocean vessel, accommodates just 229 guests.

MSC Cruises

Date: Departs Nov. 8, 2024

Departure port: Southampton, England

Starting price: $769 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 16 nights

The MSC Virtuosa from MSC Cruises is repositioning from Europe to the Caribbean in November 2024, which gives travelers the chance to enjoy a lengthy transatlantic crossing with plenty of unique ports. This sailing departs from England with eight sea days plus stops in France, the Azores of Portugal, St. Maarten , Antigua and Barbuda, and Martinique . The ship ends its journey in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe.

The MSC Virtuosa is a larger cruise vessel that boasts an impressive grand promenade with a LED dome ceiling, dedicated clubs for children and teens, an onboard spa, a lavish casino and the luxurious MSC Yacht Club section of the ship. This vessel holds a maximum of 6,334 passengers at once.

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Princess Cruises

Date: Departs July 5, 2024

Departure port: New York City (Manhattan or Brooklyn)

Starting price: $4,098 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 31 nights

Princess Cruises also offers its share of transatlantic sailings on various vessels. Its 31-night crossing from New York to Barcelona, Spain , on Island Princess in July 2024 is jam-packed with exciting destinations to explore. This lengthy transatlantic voyage has only 13 sea days with planned stops in Canada's Newfoundland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, England, Spain, Portugal and Morocco before the journey ends in Barcelona.

This intriguing sailing experience with Princess takes passengers to eight different countries in the span of a month. Island Princess is a nice ship for a long sailing because of its smaller size, with just 2,200 passengers and 900 crew. But the ship is also large enough to have a huge selection of included and specialty dining options, a Vegas-style casino, a sports court, a large central atrium for gathering, and several pools and hot tubs to enjoy.

Celebrity Cruises

Date: Departs April 11, 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Starting price: $760 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 12 nights

Celebrity Cruises is offering a 12-night sailing on Celebrity Equinox in April 2024 that starts in Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and ends in Lisbon, Portugal – making it possible for travelers to enjoy eight relaxing days at sea. What's interesting about this sailing is its stops along the way, which include the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda; Porta Delgada in Portugal's Azores archipelago; and Porto in mainland Portugal.

The Celebrity Equinox accommodates a maximum of just 2,852 passengers at once, so this Celebrity vessel is a solid choice for travelers who want just the right size ship instead of a smaller vessel or a megaship. There are also plenty of onboard features to keep you happy and entertained as you float across the Atlantic Ocean, including The Casino, The Lawn Club with outdoor games like bocce ball and croquet, The Martini Bar, the adults-only Solarium and more.

Royal Caribbean International

Dates: Departs Oct. 24, 2024

Departure port: Barcelona, Spain

Starting price: $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees)

Cruise length: 14 nights

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is hosting a transatlantic voyage in October 2024 that departs from Barcelona, Spain, and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This vessel will make stops in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena and Málaga in Spain, then spend eight days at sea. After that, enjoy a day in Nassau in the Bahamas before the cruise drops passengers off in sunny Florida.

Interior staterooms on this Royal Caribbean sailing start at just $876 per person (plus port taxes and fees), which works out to around $60 per night, per person. The Oasis of the Seas megaship can hold a total of 6,771 guests and 2,109 crew, so it's an enormous vessel – to put it mildly. This size may not be ideal for travelers who want a more intimate cruising experience, but it's perfect for cruisers who want plenty of space to spread out and endless activities to take part in. Oasis of the Seas boasts 20 different restaurants and cafes, 11 bars and lounges, a variety of pools and whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, the AquaTheater diving and entertainment venue, mini-golf, a casino and plenty more.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: April 4, 2024 / 8:10 AM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early on the morning of March 26 led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city.

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Locator map showing the typical traffic routes of cargo vessels passing beneath the bridge and the trajectory Dali followed before the collision.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future.

The outer loop I-695 closure shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access.

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed.

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes.

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping.

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA.

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic.

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said.

Francis Scott Key Bridge
Bridge Collapse
Patapsco River

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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A Virginia-class submarine during US sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean

US shipyards up to three years behind schedule on submarines as concerns grow for Aukus pact

Greens senator David Shoebridge says review of shipbuilding program ‘adds to the growing list of reasons why Aukus is likely to fall over’

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US shipyards are running up to three years late in building new Virginia-class submarines, despite suggestions from a senior US diplomat that the Aukus pact with Australia will help deter Beijing from seizing Taiwan.

Australia is relying on a US promise to sell it at least three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines in the 2030s, prior to Australian-made boats starting to enter into service in the 2040s.

But a report ordered by the US navy secretary, Carlos Del Toro, found the Virginia Block IV program was running about three years late, while the Virginia Block V program was about two years late.

The findings, published this week, will only add to existing concerns about the viability of the plan for Australia to buy at least three Virginia-class submarines to fill a “capability gap” in the 2030s.

It follows revelations last month that the US navy planned to build only one Virginia-class submarine next year .

The pace of construction in the US has an impact on Aukus because the transfer of submarines can only occur after the sitting president certifies to Congress that there will be no degradation of the US’s own undersea capabilities.

Under existing Aukus plans, Australia would buy two secondhand Virginia-class submarines and one new one in the 2030s.

The Congressional Research Service says the boats expected to be sold to Australia in 2032 and 2035 “would be existing boats with 18 to 27 years each of remaining expected service life”.

A third boat, expected to be sold in 2038, “would be a new boat taken directly from the US production line, and thus have a full 33-year expected service life”.

The US navy expects to build additional Virginia-class submarines as replacements for the three sold to Australia.

Officials predict that in order to meet both American and Australian needs, the US has to be building two Virginia-class submarines each year by 2028 and then 2.33 each year after.

The Greens’ defence spokesperson, David Shoebridge, said the latest review of the shipbuilding program “adds to the growing list of reasons why Aukus is likely to fall over”.

“Increasingly the question is when will the Albanese government wave the white flag on Aukus submarines and how many billions more will be lost in the meantime?” he said.

The Australian government has long played down concerns about risks to this part of the Aukus pact, which is also intended to include collaboration on other advanced defence capabilities with the US and the UK.

Ministers have said the strain on US shipyards has been known for some time, and that is why Australia will contribute $US3bn ($A4.5bn) to boost the US industrial base under the plan.

“[Aukus] is entirely factored into how America is now thinking about their own construction of Virginia-class submarines,” the defence minister, Richard Marles, told the ABC’s Insiders program late last month.

“And we knew that the production rate needed to be increased in the US, which is why we’re making the contributions that we’re making.”

Marles said in a speech on Thursday evening that Aukus was progressing “at pace”.

“While many said it would never happen, the US has delivered the legislation to enable the transfer to Australia of both nuclear-powered submarines and importantly knowhow,” he told the Sydney Institute.

Asked whether the deal would survive a potential return to the White House of Donald Trump, Marles confirmed the government was thinking about “whatever contingencies might arise post-November”.

But he said the Aukus legislation had won support from across the US political spectrum, including from Republicans who supported Trump.

“What gives us a sense of real confidence that Aukus will survive the journey, I think, is fundamentally that it’s in the strategic interests of the three countries.”

The comments came after the US deputy secretary of state, Kurt Campbell, made a rare linkage between Aukus and the fate of self-governed Taiwan, which Beijing has not ruled out taking by force.

Campbell told the Center for a New American Security thinktank that the submarine capabilities would “have enormous implications in a variety of scenarios, including in cross-strait circumstances”.

“I would argue that working closely with other nations, not just diplomatically but in defence avenues, has the consequence of strengthening peace and stability more generally,” he added.

China has repeatedly labelled the Aukus pact as a dangerous initiative that would only fuel regional tensions.

Additional reporting by Reuters

Australian military
Australian foreign policy

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? What to know about collapsed Baltimore bridge

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge , a major transportation link in the Baltimore area, sparked a massive search and rescue effort early Tuesday morning.

The bridge has been a critical transportation passageway along the East Coast for decades. Video captured the collapse , after Singapore-flagged container ship, the Dali, collided with one of the bridge's pillars.

The ship had caught fire, and several vehicles fell into the river below.

Here's what to know about the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Follow here for live updates → Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship collision; rescue effort underway

Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge located?

The bridge crosses over the Patapsco River on I-695 and is the final link on the Baltimore Beltway, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority .

It is the outermost of the three tollways that cross Baltimore's Harbor.

How long is the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The 4-lane bridge structure alone is 1.6 miles long. The facility also includes the Curtis Creek Drawbridge. Including approach roadways, the entire stretch is around 10.9 miles long, MDTA said.

Why did a ship hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The ship, a container vessel chartered by Maersk, apparently lost power a few minutes before striking the bridge, a senior U.S. official told USA TODAY .

No Maersk crew or personnel were onboard the vessel when it struck the bridge, according to a statement from the company. It was operated by a charter company, Synergy Group, and owned by Grace Ocean Pte., based in Singapore, and ultimately bound for Sri Lanka.

Accidents like this, called Marine casualties, are not uncommon, the official told USA TODAY, with an allision (an immobile object being struck by a ship) occurring about every 10 years or so. Investigators will likely look into the cause of the power outage and whether there was a mechanical failure on the ship.

How old is the Key Bridge in Baltimore?

The Francis Scott Key Bridge opened in March 1977, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority .

What type of bridge is the Francis Scott Key?

The steel-arched bridge was the second-longest continuous-truss bridge span in the world when it was built and remains the second longest in the United States and third in the world, according to the American Civil Engineering Society .

When was the Francis Scott Key Bridge built?

Construction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge began in 1972.

Francis Scott Key Bridge has a deep history

According to the MDTA, the bridge crosses over the Patapsco River, near where Francis Scott Key, the bridge's namesake, was inspired to write the lyrics of the Star Spangled Banner.

Key is believed to have witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry on the night of Sept. 12, 1814, within 100 yards of the modern-day bridge. That battle is what inspired him to the national anthem.

How vital is the Francis Scott Key Bridge?

The bridge is critical to East Coast shipping. The port’s private and public terminals handled 847,158 autos and light trucks in 2023, the most of any U.S. port. The port also handles farm and construction machinery, sugar, gypsum and coal, according to a Maryland government website.

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A group of four people, including a child in a pink shirt, embrace in a group hug.

Sexual Assault of Migrants in Panama Rises to Level Rarely Seen Outside War

The New York Times interviewed more than 70 people who said they had been victims of armed robbery. Fourteen were women who said they had suffered sexual violence.

After fleeing Venezuela and crossing the Darién jungle, the 8-year-old, in pink, was held up by armed men and forced to strip naked, her parents said. Her mother, in white, was sexually assaulted and her parents were robbed. Credit...

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By Julie Turkewitz

Photographs by Federico Rios

Julie Turkewitz and Federico Rios have spent months in the Darién Gap region reporting on migration.

April 4, 2024

The girl, 8, from Venezuela, had slept fitfully the night before, wailing in her dreams, her mother said, about the men trying to kill her.

Days earlier, the family had entered the Darién Gap, the jungle straddling Colombia and Panama that in the last three years has become one of the world’s busiest migrant highways. After climbing mountains and crisscrossing rivers in their quest to reach the United States, their group was accosted by a half-dozen men in ski masks, holding long guns and issuing threats.

“Women, take off your clothes!” the assailants shouted, the mother said, before they probed each woman’s intimate parts looking for cash.

Sons, brothers and husbands were forced to watch. Then the men turned to the girl, her mother said, ordering her to undress for a search, too.

Assault, robbery and rape have long been a grim risk of migrant journeys around the globe. But aid groups working in the Darién Gap say that in the past six months they have documented an extraordinary spike in attacks, with patterns and frequencies rarely seen outside of war zones.

A long line of people winds through a rural area and small town.

Nearly all the attacks, they say, are happening on the Panamanian side of the jungle.

Long-established aid groups, including Doctors Without Borders and UNICEF, with experience working in conflicts, say the attacks are organized and exceptionally cruel. Perpetrators beat victims and take food, even baby formula, leaving people battered and starving in the forest.

And the assaults often involve cases in which dozens of women are violated in a single event.

In January and February, Doctors Without Borders recorded 328 reports of sexual violence, compared with 676 in all of 2023. This year, 113 came in a single week in February.

“The level of brutality is extreme,” said Luis Eguiluz, the organization’s director in Colombia and Panama.

Caribbean Sea

UNITED States

Several humanitarian organizations, including Human Rights Watch , accuse Panama’s border police, which is charged with security in the jungle and has officers patrolling the forest, of failing to protect migrants and allowing perpetrators to commit crimes with impunity.

These accusations come as top Panamanian officials voice growing frustration with the financial and environmental cost that migration has inflicted on the small nation, and amid growing calls among political leaders — including candidates in an upcoming presidential election — to halt the flow of people.

Two reporters for The New York Times captured a snapshot of the violence in March, speaking with more than 70 people during a four-day period who said they had been robbed by clusters of armed men in the jungle.

Of those interviewed, 14 were women who said they had been sexually violated, ranging from forcible touching to rape.

“They do all kinds of evil to you,” said one woman, 40, a mother of six who had been living in Chile. She was surrounded by a half-dozen masked men and raped, she said, after the group she was traveling with left her alone in the jungle. (The Times is withholding the names of people who say they had been victims of sexual violence to protect their privacy.)

Panama’s top security official, Juan Manuel Pino, whose ministry oversees the 5,000-person border police, known as Senafront, declined repeated requests for an interview.

Speaking at a public event, Edgar Pitti, the top Senafront official in the Darién, said officers were doing all they could to protect migrants, considering the jungle’s challenging terrain.

“It’s important to understand the geographic context,” he said.

Several Panamanian officials said the problem was not as serious as described by aid groups and migrants.

The prosecutor charged with leading investigations into organized crime, Emeldo Márquez, insisted in an interview that sexual violence on the migrant route in his country “has gone down.”

But data from his office shows investigators opened 17 cases into sexual assault on the Panamanian side of the jungle in 2023, and 14 so far this year. Mr. Márquez explained that for some of this year’s cases he was still verifying claims by victims.

The director of the country’s National Migration Service, Samira Gozaine, expressed skepticism recently in a post on the platform X about the data provided by Doctors Without Borders.

“It is easy to say people here are raped every day,” she said . “Where is the evidence?”

Ms. Gozaine declined a request for an interview.

Until recently, Doctors Without Borders was the primary nonprofit providing health care to migrants at the end of the Darién route, with 67 staff serving roughly 5,000 people a month, the organization said. It was also the main group collecting testimony of sexual assault claims.

But in early March, following the organization’s repeated public statements about violence against migrants, Panama ordered Doctors Without Borders to suspend operations.

The country’s health minister, Luis Fernando Sucre, said in an interview with The Times that the medical group had not complied with local regulations, including reporting the names of sexual assault victims to the government to help with investigations.

The suspension order, he said, was not in retaliation for the group’s reports about attacks in the jungle.

But Ms. Gozaine also accused the organization and other “international bodies” of directing migrants into Panama by providing information about the route, contributing to the country’s problems.

Doctors Without Borders declined to comment.

The 8-year-old girl from Venezuela had been in third grade when her parents decided to leave for the United States. With dark curly hair and a love for animals, she said she wanted to be a veterinarian when she grew up.

Her mother, age 35, said their family left Venezuela after they were threatened by supporters of President Nicolás Maduro, whom they had refused to support. They moved to Colombia, where her husband delivered groceries, making less than the minimum monthly wage of about $300. With their two children they eventually decided to follow hundreds of thousands of other Venezuelans on a now well-trodden path north.

During the attack in early March, the mother said, masked men patrolled a line of terrified people.

A woman who refused to take off her clothes was yanked violently by her hair, she added.

The mother said she was beaten, and then, naked, searched between her legs, a man probing with his fingers, demanding money.

When they turned to her daughter, they threatened to kill the girl if she did not undress.

“Mami,” she recalled her daughter shouting, “I’ll take off my clothes! I don’t want to die.”

The men did not touch the girl, her mother said, and after they were sure she had no money, left quickly.

Other survivors recounted stories of nearly identical attacks, saying the assaults often happened a few hours’ hike past a Senafront camp inside the forest.

Last year, Panama arrested four people accused of sexual assault in the jungle, according to Mr. Márquez, who declined to say if there had been any arrests this year.

People crossing the Darién in Panama must pass a stretch of the jungle that is home to communities of Kuna and Emberá Indigenous peoples. These communities have seen their livelihoods transformed by migration: Their water and land has been polluted by trash, but they also have new opportunities to make money selling food, boat transport and other services.

Dozens of victims, all of whom spoke Spanish, said the perpetrators spoke to each other in an Indigenous language. Some people said they were robbed multiple times, by men speaking an Indigenous language and, separately, by men speaking Spanish with a Colombian accent.

A representative of the Colombian police declined to comment on violence in the jungle.

In interviews, several Indigenous leaders said some perpetrators might come from their villages, and urged the Panamanian border police to investigate.

Tulio Rosales, a leader in the Emberá village of Villa Caleta, called on the border police to “put more force” into migrant protection.

A 29-year-old woman from Venezuela left with her partner and four children, fleeing poverty. They had been walking roughly 12 hours a day when armed men stopped them, she said.

The woman’s partner was allowed to move on with the children, but the woman was forced to stay behind and undress. She wept as she described how one of the masked men placed his fingers inside each of the roughly 16 women who remained, searching for money, she said.

Afterward, she fled in a panic, forgetting the family’s food.

Then her group was accosted a second time, this time while they slept. Again a group of masked men forced some people to strip naked and hand over cash. This time, the woman said, she had nothing left to give.

As crises around the world have pushed a record number of people from their homes, the Darién jungle — which must be traversed to reach the United States from South America by foot — has become an unforgiving rite of passage for those seeking new lives.

More than 520,000 people crossed this stretch last year, more than twice the year before, which has helped fuel the historic number of arrivals at the U.S. border.

This year, Darién crossings in January, February and March were up nearly 25 percent compared to the same period in 2023, according to Panamanian authorities , with most people coming from Venezuela, Ecuador, Haiti and Colombia.

Panama, a nation of just over four million people, has seen a million migrants pass through in just three years. Ms. Gozaine, the director of the National Migration Service, says this tide of people has cost the country $70 million, including money spent on lodging and food at government-run camps at the end of the jungle.

The government’s goal, Ms. Gozaine has said, is to provide migrants a “dignified” experience in her country.

But as frustration among Panamanian officials has grown, the country’s security officials have deepened ties to several right-wing influencers who have become popular in the United States by portraying migrants as potential criminals and aid groups as profiteers encouraging their journey .

Some influencers have toured the Darién Gap with the border police. Oscar Ramirez, a correspondent for Real America’s Voice, which also hosts Steve Bannon’s show, was invited in February to address hundreds of Panamanian officials at a security conference in Panama City.

The accusations of sexual assault come as the Biden administration ramps up aid to Panama, which it has called a key partner in its efforts to control and halt the flow of people.

In the last three years, Washington has delivered nearly $40 million to help Panama deal with migration.

Asked at a recent event if the United States would urge Panama to do more to protect migrants, the U.S. Embassy’s second-in-command in Panama, John Barrett, declined to answer, saying simply that he understood that there was a “humanitarian situation” in the jungle.

The mother of the 8-year-old said that on the day the family was attacked, perpetrators took the last of their savings: $280.

“They stole my daughter’s innocence,” she said of the attack in the Darién. “I can stand anything, but she cannot.”

Eventually, the family made it to southern Mexico. There, the mother said in audio message from a friend’s cellphone, the family was kidnapped and held for two days in a cockfighting arena.

The mother was again forced to strip naked and searched for valuables, she said.

Once released, the family sold candies in the street, planning to use their earnings to try and continue north.

Federico Rios, Simón Posada and Ken Bensinger contributed reporting.

Julie Turkewitz is the Andes Bureau Chief for The Times, based in Bogotá, Colombia, covering Colombia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. More about Julie Turkewitz

Crossing the Darién Gap

An increasing number of migrants are trying to pass through the perilous terrain connecting south and central america in the hopes of reaching the united states..

A Deadly Journey : With mountains, intense mud, fast-running rivers and thick rainforest, the Darién Gap is one of the most dangerous places on the planet .

Chasing Clicks in the Jungle : The treacherous migrant crossing in Panama is drawing packs of right-wing American influencers , who are distorting how immigration is perceived, and debated, at home.

An Endless Wait: After setting off for the United States and surviving a perilous jungle, a mother and daughter obeyed President Biden’s plea to turn around and apply to enter the country legally. Now they are languishing in migrant purgatory ..

Record-Breaking Numbers : As more migrants risk a deadly trek to the U.S. border, brutal scenes are developing along the roadless stretch of jungle terrain .

Turning a Profit: The Biden administration and the Colombian government have vowed to stop the migrant tide through the jungle. But for politicians and businessmen in the region, the profits are too big to pass up .

Chinese Migrants: Trekking the perilous route and seeking asylum in the United States are risks worth taking for a growing number of Chinese citizens who have lost hope in their country’s future.

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COMMENTS

Time to Cross the Atlantic by Sailboat: A Comprehensive Guide
An Atlantic crossing on a sailboat takes an average of 20 to 25 days. It is important to know the shortcuts, maximize speed, and have experience to cross the Atlantic. The best time to cross the Atlantic is between November and February. The total distance of the trip can be as much as 4,000 nautical miles.
How To Cross the Atlantic, Routes and Timelines
Here's how long it takes to cross the Atlantic on various types of boats. Type of boat: Distance NM: Route: Time: Average speed Knots: Average speed MPH: Catamaran: 2700: ... Most people seem to cross the Atlantic with a boat in the 35 -45 ft spectrum, which fulfills both requirements!
How Long Does it Take to Sail Across the Atlantic? (With Maps)
The total distance of this journey on a map is about 6,800km. A boat rarely sails in a straight line. It most likely will cover more distance due to a curved or S-shaped journey. A good rule of thumb is to add 15-20% on top of the theoretical distance. In real life, you'll travel about 8,000km.
How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic?
With that in mind, the best sailboat to cross the Atlantic should measure at least 30 or 40 feet long to be able to withstand the stormy weather and the rough waves and winds. Here's a list of the best cruising sailboats , all of which would do just fine crossing the Atlantic.
Guide to Atlantic crossing by sailboat or catamaran
The classic route to cross the Atlantic by sailboat begins in Europe and ends in the Caribbean or more rarely somewhere else in Central America. A common example of a transatlantic crossing departing from the Canary Islands with a possible stop in Cape Verde and landing in the Antilles. The distance of the crossing from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean is about 2800-3000 nautical miles ...
How Long Does It Take to Sail Across the Atlantic?
If you plan on sailing the Atlantic, you should expect the expedition to last 3 to 3 weeks one way. It's possible to cut the trek down to two weeks, but this mostly involves knowing shortcuts, maximizing speed, and having experience in crossing the Atlantic. Before you set sail, you need to have as much information as possible.
How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic?
An Atlantic crossing on a sailboat takes an average of 20 to 25 days, but it can be completed in two weeks: if you are lucky, take shortcuts, and have a fast sailboat. If you don't have enough wind for a week or more, it can take up to a month. It is important to know the shortcuts, maximize speed and have the experience to cross the Atlantic.
Journey Across the Atlantic: How long Does it Take by Sailboat
This is because the distance between Europe and North America is roughly 3,000 miles, and the average sailing speed for a sailboat is around 5-7 knots. However, the actual time it takes to cross the Atlantic can vary depending on various factors such as weather conditions, the route taken, and the type of sailboat used.
Sail Across the Atlantic Ocean
Sailing from East to West. The most common route for those looking to sail across the Atlantic is from east to west, sailing west from the Canary Islands to the West Indies, notably St Lucia. Around 2100 miles, this route has the considerable advantage of being in the north-easterly trade winds. Formed by the heating of the earth at the equator ...
How to sail across the Atlantic and back
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.
Sail Across the Atlantic
The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is a renowned annual sailing event organised by the World Cruising Club and a favourite in the yachting world. It brings together sailors worldwide and provides an opportunity for sailors to cross the Atlantic Ocean in the company of a group, enhancing safety and camaraderie.
How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic? (Where To Cross!)
Most sailors recommend a boat that is at least 30 feet long to cross the Atlantic, but 40 feet is ideal. The smallest boat to cross the Atlantic was only 5 feet, 4 inches long. Hugo Vihlen sailed it across the ocean in 1993, taking 115 days. The boat was named Father's Day. It was his third attempt in 1993 (he had also tried in 1968).
Crossing the Atlantic in a sailboat: the most famous crossings
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 ...
Atlantic crossing: When's the best time to go?
An Atlantic crossing or Atlantic circuit has often been seen as a year-long adventure, crossing the ocean in late November or December to the Caribbean, ... Sailing across the Atlantic; 5 tips ...
Crossing the Atlantic Ocean by sailboat: pure adventure
4 September, 2019. The best time to cross the Atlantic by sailboat from Europe or Africa to the American continent is between the months of October to January. On those dates, hundreds of boats are preparing to carry out an adventure that will take them between 15 and 30 days, depending on the capabilities of the ship and the route they intend ...
How Long Does It Take To Sail Across The Atlantic?
In general, sailing across the Atlantic takes about 20-25 days (3-4 weeks), in a sailboat of the 30-40ft class. So it's three to four weeks of constantly sailing day and night, tired, wet, and miserable. In this post we are sharing a compilation of what you need to know essentially to estimate the time to sail across the Atlantic, and ...
How Long to Cross the Atlantic by Boat? Sailboat, Cruise Ship
The time it takes for different boats to cross the Atlantic are as follows: Sailboat: 3 to 6 weeks. Cruise Ship: 7 or 8 days. Cargo Ship or Oil Tanker: 10 to 20 days. Aircraft Carrier: 6 days. There are people who have sailed across the Atlantic to achieve different kinds of world records.
Sailing Routes : How to Cross the Atlantic Eastward
Transatlantic voyages are not just unique but also exhilarating experiences altogether. For many sailors, crossing the approximately 2,850nm (Canaries) - 3,200nm (Western France) distance across the Atlantic is a "must do experience of a lifetime.". It is an amazing yacht charter journey of a lifetime.
How long would it take to cross the Atlantic by boat in the 1700s?
How long did it take to cross the Atlantic in 1700s? Typically, it took at least six weeks to cross the Atlantic by boat in the 1700s. 2. How fast did ships go in the 1700s? A common speed for ships in the 1700s was 3-4 knots in a moderate breeze, but they could reach speeds of 8-11 knots during strong winds. 3.
How Big of a Sailboat Do You Need To Cross the Atlantic? (Detailed
Short Answer. The size of sailboat you need to cross the Atlantic depends on the individual's experience level as a sailor and the type of voyage they plan to take. Generally, for a safe and comfortable voyage, a sailboat of at least 35 feet in length would be recommended. Additionally, the boat should have a solid and reliable design, as ...
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Cruise length: 7 to 18 nights In May of 2024, Cunard's Queen Mary 2 vessel will offer three different transatlantic crossings of various lengths. Choose from a seven-night sailing from Brooklyn ...
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Time to Cross the Atlantic by Sailboat: A Comprehensive Guide

Key takeaway:

What Is the Atlantic Crossing?

Factors Affecting the Duration of Atlantic Crossing

Type of Sailboat

Weather Conditions

Skill and Experience of the Crew

Routes for Crossing the Atlantic by Sailboat

Trade Wind Route

Northern Atlantic Route

Southern Atlantic Route

Average Duration of Atlantic Crossing

Tips for a Successful and Safe Atlantic Crossing

Plan and Prepare Adequately

Maintain Good Communication

Ensure Safety Equipment is in Place

Some Facts About How Long To Cross The Atlantic By Sailboat:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best routes for crossing the Atlantic by sailboat?

When is the best time to cross the Atlantic by sailboat?

What are the challenges of crossing the Atlantic by sailboat?

What type of sailboat is suitable for crossing the Atlantic?

Can I hire a skipper for the Atlantic crossing if I lack experience?

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Latest posts

The history of sailing – from ancient times to modern adventures

Sailing Solo: Adventures and Challenges of Single-Handed Sailing

Sustainable Sailing: Eco-Friendly Practices on the boat

How To Cross the Atlantic, Routes and Timelines

Transatlantic Crossing in Record Time

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

What Gear Do You Need to Cross the Atlantic?

Different Routes to Cross the Atlantic

Planing a Stop on Cape Verde

Westbound Route On a Catamaran

Eastbound Route: The Caribbean to Europe

When is The Best Time to Cross The Atlantic

What Is The Best Route For an Atlantic Crossing

Can You Cross the Atlantic Single Handed?

Is Transatlantic Passages Dangerous?

How Lonely Is Crossing The Atlantic?

Can You Get Rescued If Something Goes Wrong?

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How Long Does it Take to Sail Across the Atlantic? (With Maps)

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The Northern passage (west to east)

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My Favorite Beginner Cruising Gear

James Hospedales

Roy cumming

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Cool Breeze

Martin Richardson

Michael Hearns

Wooo! [email protected] this massage keep it up.

Hugh Tetley

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