Gulf Stream Intensive

What will the type of sailing be like?

Route Overview Departure: St. George’s, Bermuda Primary Route: Bermuda – Gulf Stream crossing – Newport, RI Estimated Distance: 650–700 nautical miles - Key Points: Full Gulf Stream crossing, extended open ocean sailing, continuous watch routine, real-world exposure to North Atlantic weather and currents Passage Breakdown Bermuda to the Gulf Stream Crew briefing, weather and routing review, and vessel prep in St. George’s Departure into the North Atlantic, establishing watch rotation (3 hours on, 6 hours off) Initial navigation focuses on optimal entry into the Gulf Stream, using forecasts and real-time ocean data Gulf Stream Crossing Monitor sea state, temperature changes, and weather as the boat enters and crosses the Gulf Stream Emphasis on navigation accuracy, route planning, and adjusting for stream-induced currents and squall activity Active log keeping and crew coordination during fast-changing conditions North Atlantic Approach to Newport After the Gulf Stream, conditions typically moderate but remain variable Continue north, monitoring weather windows, traffic, and approach timing for Newport landfall Final navigation into Newport Harbor, customs/immigration, and trip debrief Training Focus Passage planning and weather routing, with special focus on Gulf Stream analysis and crossing strategy Practical navigation: GPS, chartplotter, radar, AIS, paper chartwork Log keeping, position reporting, and safe deck practices in open ocean Watchstanding discipline: helm, lookout, systems checks, and fatigue management Emergency procedures for offshore and Gulf Stream scenarios Expected Conditions Winds: SW–NW, 12–25 knots typical; wind direction and strength highly variable depending on current weather systems Seas: 5–10 feet in the Gulf Stream, can be higher in strong winds or storms; 4–8 feet north of the stream Weather: Highly changeable—can range from calm to squally; fog possible as Newport nears; temperatures cool progressively north Hazards: Squall lines, fast weather shifts, strong currents and eddies in the Gulf Stream, shipping traffic on approach to Newport Why This Passage is Relevant True bluewater passage with a full Gulf Stream crossing—critical for any offshore sailor’s experience Exposure to complex North Atlantic weather and navigation Continuous offshore routine: watch rotation, log keeping, navigation, and systems management Ideal for sailors seeking advanced offshore experience, technical skills, and real sea miles