What type of sailboat will I need to make a trip to so south america?
Question by Edy: What type of sailboat will I need to make a trip to so south america?
I’m thinking of doing a trip from san diego, Ca all the way down south america and back up again from the other side to TX with a friend. The problem is we don’t know anything about sailboats so we are trying to find the best kind to make such a long trip and comfortably live in for a while.
Best answer:
Answer by A.J.
I was going to attempt a comical answer, but I’ll save that for another post. Sailing around a continent is not something to plan lightheartedly, even if you have experience. I’m not sure all that is required, but I would start with the U.S.Coast Guard. I’m sure they can tell you all that’s required (training, equipment, learning navigation, etc.).
Y’know what? get a land yacht (RV motorhome) and drive down to S. America and back up. Gotta be easier than two noobies with a Christopher Columbus complex trying to take to the sea.
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First read some books from people that have tried this before. Then consider why the Panama canal was such a boon to international trade.
And if that wont cure you of this insane idea make sure you get a really seaworthy vessel and some one really seaworthy to go with you and teach you.
sailing around south america is not a trip to be taken with out experience sailing in all types of sailing conditions. there is a series of videos that describe sailing around south america from the east to west that may give sou some insight into the length of the trip. he does describe storms encountered and problems with adverse currents wile trying to sail around the south end of south america.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIiqj-mJWlU
there are other sailing video that describe heavy weather sailing.
my recommendation is to take as many boating/sailing courses as you can, then join others sailing or purchase your own boat and get a lot of sea miles under your keel, before you attempt this trip.
good luck on your adventure.
my friends suspect that I’m insane and my family knows it for sure, I’ve been sailing for a long time and even I wouldn’t attempt your trip! as to your question,there’s only slightly less kinds and sizes of sailboats as there is sailors.I would suggest a well equipped 30 to 36 ft sloop and a generous amount of luck
The crossing that you are thinking about, is one of the most dangerous crossings for any size ship. To do it in a sailboat with no sailing knowledge is suicide. You’ll need to plan the timing of the crossing for the proper time of season (seasons are reverse there). The water currents are fast and rough. Then if you have poor weather conditions, it’ll sink the boat. It can be done, but by highly knowledgeable sailors with years of experience of the water/weather.
A big one..