crossing the atlantic by motor yacht

Crossing The Atlantic By Motor Yacht? Everything You Need To Know

A yacht can travel both the Pacific and Atlantic seas. A sailing boat or a motor yacht may span the Pacific and Atlantic seas. It’s preferable to have a tank large enough to store the amount of fuel you’ll be burning.

Not all yachts, however, are capable of undertaking these journeys. If you intend to sail across any of these seas, be sure you have an ocean-going boat as well as the necessary equipment and abilities.

Some yachts will not have enough fuel to make the journey and will be transported aboard specially constructed freighters.

In this essay, I’ll go over some of the key facts concerning yachts that you should be aware of before embarking on your journey.

How Long Does it Take to Sail Across the Atlantic?

Sailing across the Atlantic takes roughly 3-4 weeks, but if you’re lucky, use shortcuts, and have a speedy sailboat, you can accomplish it in two weeks. It might take up to a month if you don’t get enough wind for a week or longer. It’s critical to know the shortcuts, optimize speed, and have cross-Atlantic sailing expertise.

How Far Can a Yacht Travel?

In an 8-hour day, a powered boat of 35 feet in length can go over 200 miles at a speed of 25 knots. They can cover about 300 miles in a day at 35 knots. You can go thousands of kilometers if you have adequate gasoline or fill-ups.

Can a Yacht Cross the Atlantic Ocean?

A typical powered boat would require a tank with a capacity of roughly 5000 gallons of petrol and a fuel efficiency of 2.5 nautical miles per gallon to traverse the Atlantic.

This is based on a gasoline consumption rate of 4 gallons per hour at a cruising speed of 10 knots. Of course, this is at cruising speed. They can’t keep going at top speed for an extended amount of time (which would burn through the fuel faster).

The voyage (about 3,000 miles) would take 300 hours or 12.5 days at 10 knots.

Every year, sailing boats cross the Atlantic since the only fuel they use is to power generators that power aboard equipment.

When the weather isn’t cooperating, some fuel may be utilized to power the boat.A fast boat traveling at 25 knots takes roughly 4–5 days to cross the Atlantic Ocean. In a sailing yacht, though, it would take longer (which also depends on the winds).

We have a lot more information on which boat types are capable of crossing oceans. If you’re thinking of taking a boat journey across the oceans, this is a must-read.

Read more: Boat Fuel Tank Vent Open or Close (What to do?)

How Large Does A Boat Need To Be In Order To Cross The Atlantic Ocean?

To cross the Atlantic, you’ll need a boat that’s at least 30 feet long, whether you’re sailing or motoring. For safety and comfort, your boat should be at least 40 feet long. Although the experience of sailing or motoring across the Atlantic is vastly different, both require a boat of this size. If you plan on having a crew on board, you may need a boat that is much larger. Why do you need a 30 or 40 foot boat when you can cross the Atlantic with a lot smaller boat? The simple answer is that attempting to cross in anything smaller may be extremely risky and inconvenient. Here are a few reasons why you should get a boat at least this size:

Seaworthiness

You don’t want to be stranded in a tiny boat as the waves start to rise. In the Atlantic, boats significantly larger than 30 or 40 feet are often sunk due to bad weather.

If you go any smaller, you run the danger of being sunk in a storm. Make the mistake of assuming you can organize your vacation around the possibility of bad weather.

Storms may appear out of nowhere in the unpredictable Atlantic Ocean, and any vessel could be caught off guard, regardless of the season. Although not every 30 or 40-foot yacht is seaworthy enough to cross the North Atlantic, this size is a minimum need for ocean navigation.

Supply Storage

Even if you want to conduct as much open-ocean fishing as possible while crossing the Atlantic, you’ll need to have supplies. You should have enough food and drink for everyone in your crew to last the whole voyage.

Keep in mind that crossings can take longer than expected, so make sure you have adequate supplies to account for delays. You’ll need to reserve gasoline if you’re crossing in a motorboat or if you have a backup motor for your sailboat.

You may need a larger boat if you need to store a lot of provisions for your voyage. Too much weight can cause your boat to sink in the water, making even a seaworthy boat much less seaworthy. A boat that is too low in the water might be swamped by waves more quickly.

Before you load up your boat and set out on the water, be sure you know how much it can securely handle.

Comfort Of The Crew

Until you’ve spent a few weeks out on the open sea aboard a 30 or 40-foot boat, it may appear to be rather large. If you want to enjoy your passage, you’ll need a boat large enough for everyone on board to have their own space and stretch their legs at regular intervals throughout the journey. Even with a one- or two-person crew, 30 to 40 feet is required to achieve this aim.

Crossing The Atlantic In A Motorboat

You might be surprised to learn how much gasoline it takes to cross the Atlantic in a powerboat. Simply storing all of that fuel aboard your yacht can take up a lot of space.

Fuel should not be utilized for longer than 90 days in most cases. This should be enough time for you to cross the Atlantic, but it could not be. You may preserve fuel for up to six months or even two years if you use a fuel stabilizer or don’t mix it before use.

Fuel storage will require a large portion of your entire storage space. For the same journey, you could require a larger motorboat than a sailboat.

The advantage of crossing in a motorboat is that, while it may require more storage and gasoline, utilizing it instead of the wind for movement may make your route much more predictable. A speedboat can move in nearly any situation except particularly severe and inclement weather, but a sailboat must wait for the wind to be right to make headway. As a result, you won’t need as many resources to prepare in case you don’t arrive at your location on time.

Enjoy Your Crossing

It’s difficult to imagine a more thrilling experience than sailing the Atlantic Ocean on your own boat. You will most likely have a very pleasurable vacation whether what kind of boat you choose, as long as you choose a boat of at least 30 or 40 feet and plan wisely.

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Crossing the Atlantic by Motor Yacht Routes

Crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht is a challenging but rewarding experience. There are a number of different routes that you can take, and the best route for you will depend on your experience, the type of boat you are sailing, and the time of year you plan to sail.

Here are some of the most popular routes for crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht:

  • The North Atlantic Route: This route is the most direct route across the Atlantic Ocean. It starts in Europe and ends in the Caribbean. The North Atlantic Route is generally the fastest route, but it can also be the most challenging. The weather conditions in the North Atlantic can be unpredictable, and there is a risk of encountering icebergs.
  • The South Atlantic Route: This route is less direct than the North Atlantic Route, but it is generally considered to be safer. The South Atlantic Route starts in Europe and ends in South America. The weather conditions in the South Atlantic are more stable, and there is no risk of encountering icebergs.
  • The Azores Route: This route is a good option for those who are looking for a more leisurely crossing. The Azores Route starts in Europe and ends in the Azores Islands. The Azores Islands are a group of volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. They offer a safe haven for yachts crossing the Atlantic, and they also offer a variety of amenities and attractions.

No matter which route you choose, it is important to do your research and plan carefully. You should also make sure that you have the proper safety equipment on board, and that you are familiar with the weather conditions and hazards that you may encounter.

Here are some additional tips for crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht:

  • Plan your route carefully. There are a number of different routes that you can take across the Atlantic Ocean. It is important to plan your route carefully and to choose a route that is appropriate for your experience and the time of year you plan to sail.
  • Check the weather forecast. It is important to check the weather forecast before you set sail. The weather conditions in the Atlantic Ocean can change quickly, so it is important to be aware of the potential hazards.
  • Have the proper safety equipment on board. It is important to have the proper safety equipment on board your yacht, including life jackets, flares, and a first-aid kit.
  • Be prepared for the worst. The Atlantic Ocean is a large and unpredictable body of water. It is important to be prepared for the worst, and to have a plan in place in case of an emergency.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable crossing of the Atlantic Ocean.

There are many different ways to cross the Atlantic by motor yacht. Some people prefer to go straight across, while others choose to sail along one of the great circle routes. There are also a number of different options for stopping along the way, depending on your preferences and needs. Here we will explore some of the most popular routes for crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht.

Setting sail from the United States to Europe is an amazing adventure. While it’s possible to fly across the Atlantic, there’s something special about taking a leisurely journey by motor yacht. Here are some popular routes for crossing the Atlantic by yacht. The most popular route for crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht is from Newport, Rhode Island to Cowes, England. This route takes advantage of the prevailing winds and currents, making for a relatively easy journey. The trip can be done in as little as two weeks, but most people take four to six weeks to enjoy all that this amazing voyage has to offer. Another popular route is from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Porto Santo in Portugal. This longer journey takes advantage of the Gulf Stream, which helps push yachts along at a good clip. Most people take three to four weeks to complete this voyage. No matter which route you choose, crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht is an incredible experience that you’ll never forget!

Crossing the Atlantic by Motor Yacht Routes

Credit: godownsize

What are Some Good Motor Yacht Routes for Crossing the Atlantic

There are many motor yacht routes for crossing the Atlantic, but some are better than others. The best route depends on the time of year, the weather conditions, and the boat’s speed and range. One good route is to start from Portugal or Spain and head west to the Canary Islands. From there, you can continue west to Cape Verde and then turn north towards the Lesser Antilles. This route takes advantage of the prevailing winds and currents in this part of the world. Another option is to start from Bermuda and head east towards Puerto Rico. This route is shorter, but it can be more difficult because of the strong trade winds that blow from east to west across this part of the ocean. Which route you choose will also depend on your destination. If you’re headed for Florida or the Gulf Coast of the United States, starting from Bermuda makes more sense. But if you’re headed for Europe or Africa, starting from Portugal or Spain is a better option. No matter which route you choose, crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht is an adventure that you’ll never forget!

What are Some Things to Consider When Planning a Motor Yacht Crossing of the Atlantic

When planning a motor yacht crossing of the Atlantic, there are a few things to consider. The first is the route. There are two main routes- one via the Canary Islands and one via Bermuda. The Canary Islands route is shorter, but has more potential for bad weather. The Bermuda route is longer, but generally has better weather. The second thing to consider is provisioning. A motor yacht uses a lot of fuel, so you will need to make sure you have enough onboard to get you across the Atlantic. You will also need to have enough food and water for everyone on board, as well as any emergency supplies that might be needed. Finally, you will need to consider the weather. This is especially important if you are taking the Canary Islands route. Check the forecast before you set sail and be prepared for any potential storms that could come your way. With some careful planning, a motor yacht crossing of the Atlantic can be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

What are Some Hazards to Be Aware of When Crossing the Atlantic by Motor Yacht

When crossing the Atlantic by motor yacht, there are a few hazards to be aware of. First and foremost is the weather. The North Atlantic is notoriously stormy, and even in summer there can be strong winds and waves. It’s important to check the weather forecast before setting out, and to have a plan for what to do if conditions start to deteriorate while you’re at sea. Another hazard is pirates. While piracy is more commonly associated with the waters off Somalia and Indonesia, it does still happen in some parts of the world, including the Caribbean Sea and parts of South America. If you’re planning on sailing through any areas where piracy is known to occur, it’s important to take precautions such as hiring armed guards or sailing in convoy with other boats. Finally, there are also political risks to consider when crossing international waters. Tensions can flare up suddenly between countries, and if you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time you could end up getting caught in the middle of a diplomatic incident or even being detained by foreign authorities. Again, it pays to do your research before setting sail and to have a contingency plan for what to do if things go wrong.

What are Some Tips for Making a Successful Transatlantic Crossing by Motor Yacht

When making a transatlantic crossing by motor yacht, there are a few key things to keep in mind in order to have a successful trip. First, it is important to have a well-equipped and well-maintained vessel. This means having all the necessary safety equipment on board and making sure that everything is in good working order before setting out. Secondly, it is crucial to have an experienced crew who knows how to handle the boat and the conditions at sea. Thirdly, it is important to plan your route carefully, taking into account weather patterns and currents. Finally, be prepared for anything and always err on the side of caution when at sea.

Atlantic Crossing in a 2019 Motor Yacht Lagoon 630

There are many ways to cross the Atlantic by motor yacht, but there are three main routes that are most popular. The first route is from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean. This route is popular because it offers good weather and sailing conditions. The second route is from the Azores to Bermuda. This route is popular because it avoids bad weather and has good sailing conditions. The third route is from Newfoundland to the United Kingdom. This route is popular because it offers great scenery and wildlife watching opportunities.

Related: How Long to Cross the Atlantic by Motor Yacht

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Crossing the Atlantic on a Yacht in Comfort

Experienced cruisers often discover Kadey-Krogen Yachts because they begin to search for yachts capable of crossing the Atlantic. If one searches the listings for Transatlantic boats for sale or contacts a broker with a very specific request to hear about yachts that can cross the Atlantic, they’re bound to discover plenty of superyachts, and some custom trawlers, and, of course, a selection of our models that are built to take on long bluewater cruising legs such as one takes on for an ocean crossinig.

Those who are more serious about open-ocean crossings begin to think about the best time to cross the Atlantic west to east and also consider provisioning, crew, a timetable, potential destinations, and all the factors, large and small, that enter into this exciting equation.

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Best Yachts for Transatlantic Crossing: Our Selection and Advice for 2023

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Sailing across the Atlantic is more than just an item on a bucket list for sailors. It’s how you get your boat to new horizons, whether to cruise the Caribbean islands or explore the waters around Europe. It’s a big undertaking and requires serious planning and a solid sailing vessel. You can cross the Atlantic by yourself, with a rally of like-minded racers and cruisers, or as part of a highly competitive race. But no matter how you go, the choice of a good sailing yacht lies at the foundation of a safe and enjoyable crossing.

What does a boat need for a transatlantic crossing?

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

If you choose to do your transatlantic crossing with a rally or race, you’ll have to meet a stringent list of required equipment and safety checks. That’s easier because you have the lists right in front of you, and a team of inspectors to check your work. Preparing for a crossing with just one boat, the captain has to take all the responsibility and know what to check.

Sailing across the Atlantic is a serious undertaking, and you will sail out of range of shore-based rescue and into rapidly changing and possibly severe weather systems. You will have several thousand miles of nonstop sailing and may be at sea for several weeks.

What you must have

Any boat sailing across the Atlantic needs solid construction and a sound rig, a reliable auxiliary engine, and enough stores for food and water for the crew. That’s a bare minimum. Every boat needs to be checked from stem to stern to make sure systems are reliable, many older boats can certainly make this trip, and not every new boat is suitable.

Some tiny boats have crossed the Atlantic, so minimum size isn’t a requirement. What successful boats have in common is a solid hull and rig, with reliable sails and systems.

Most transatlantic yachts have a lot more

You can cross the oceans with a lightly equipped boat with few conveniences or extra safety gear, but most do not. A few things to look for on your boat include:

  • An EPIRB satellite rescue beacon .
  • Long range communication devices, such as satellite phones and single sideband radios.
  • Certified life raft with space for all crew on board.
  • Storm sails
  • Storm safety gear such as drogues or sea anchors.
  • Access to up-to-date weather forecasts and reports.

Do not head offshore without these

The list of required equipment for races and rallies is exhaustive, and many of the requirements are exacting and expensive. No one is enforcing compliance when you sail on your own. But there are a few things you should not head offshore without.

  • A reliable auxiliary engine. If the wind dies and you need to dodge bad weather, this can be a lifesaver.
  • Access to good, current weather information.
  • Reliable sails. Have all sails inspected by a sailmaker for wear and damage before setting out.
  • A life raft. If you run into serious problems and lose your boat, this is your last hope for rescue.
  • Spare parts and tools for common repairs.

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

What experience do you need to do a transatlantic?

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

A transatlantic crossing is a major sailing milestone for experienced sailors. The north Atlantic is no place for new sailors and beginners, unless they’re with competent and experienced crew or a qualified captain.

If you’re thinking of a transatlantic crossing on your own, you’ll need experience with multi-day, nonstop passages. Sailing offshore is twenty-four hours a day and nonstop, there’s no place to park. Experience with night sailing, standing watches, navigation, provisioning, and basic engine and system troubleshooting are all a must.

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

Chartering a yacht – a great option for less experienced sailors.

Charter fleets make seasonal moves from Europe to the Caribbean are an excellent way to get offshore sailing experience. Charter companies provide a captain and first mate, but you can reserve a spot and fill the roles of a full crew member, standing watch and sailing far offshore.

Many boats are also available for charter in cruising rallies, races, and deliveries. You’ll need to hire a captain with the needed offshore experience, but you may come away with enough experience to skipper your own yacht the next time.

The best yachts for a transatlantic crossing

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

There are many yachts which are suitable for a transatlantic passage. Some will be less expensive, some will be more comfortable, faster, or better suited to you, your experience, and your budget.

NEEL 51: Fast and easy to sail trimaran

The NEEL 51 is a fast, comfortable trimaran suited to a smaller crew. It’s spacious, but easy to handle while putting up double digit speeds and 200+ mile days. Trimarans can be a little more sea-kindly in waves and chop than catamarans, and don’t heel hard like monohulls. A protected helm station gives great protection offshore and good visibility, and there space on board for plenty of crew and guests.

The racing version of the NEEL 51 is built with lighter materials, and features a larger rig to project more sail area for more speed, while still affording the same luxury and comfort at anchor.

More info about our Neel 51 available for charter

Outremer 5X: High-speed catamaran sailing

The Outremer 5X offers top tier performance and comfort in a single passage. Sustaining double digit speeds with east, the Outremer 5X is one of the fastest cruising catamarans on the market. Outremer is known for both performance and quality, and your transatlantic trip will be fast and safe.

With four different helm stations, she’s a sailing boat foremost. It’s designed for a small crew, even when tearing up the ocean on a fast passage. With options for three or four cabins and a cockpit that can fit a dozen people, she’ll be as comfortable when you arrive as she is fast on passage.

Hallberg-Rassy 57: Sturdy monohull with elegance and speed

Hallberg-Rassy builds tough cruising yachts, and the 57 is no exception. While monohulls don’t put up the blistering speeds you’ll find in multihulls, the Hallberg-Rassy 57 is no slouch and can log 200 mile days. Most offshore sailing and cruising is done in monohulls, and blue water sailors love their stability and seakindliness across all conditions.

The Hallberg-Rassy 57 has generous accommodations, and loads of capacity for gear supplies. The deck layout is clear, and lines and controls are laid out for easy use with a small crew. With a performance design by German Frers, the 57 sails well on all points of sail.

There are many choices for the best boat for you for a transatlantic crossing. No matter which boat you choose for your transatlantic and how you go – on your own, or on a charter – preparation is key. Your boat needs to be equipped with a full range of safety gear, and checked from top to bottom so you know your sails, hull, and engines will get you where you’re going.

Read also: The Caribbean To Mediterranean Sailing Routes: How To Cross The Atlantic Eastward

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How To Cross the Atlantic, Routes and Timelines

motor yacht transatlantic 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!

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This $12 million yacht looks like a spaceship and can cross the Atlantic twice on a single tank — see inside 'Adastra'

  • A sleek, lavish megayacht fit for a Bond villain, called "Adastra," has hit the market for $12 million.  
  • Thanks to its efficient shape and lightweight construction, the yacht can cross the Atlantic twice without refueling and boasts a total range of around 11,500 miles. 
  • Adastra has a master bedroom, two guest cabins, and room for six crew members. 
  • Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

Insider Today

Some people can't simply settle for a regular, run-of-the-mill superyacht like all the other millionaires and billionaires — they need something a bit flashier to set them apart from the crowd. 

For those people, there are yachts like Adastra , a sleek, custom-built trimaran that's currently on the market for a cool $12 million. 

The extravagant vessel — which looks less like a yacht and more like something out of "Star Wars" — is built for exploration, according to Burgess Yachts , which has the boat listed for sale. Due to its streamlined shape and lightweight construction, Adastra can travel across the Atlantic twice over without needing to refuel. Plus, Adastra's unique design means it can venture into shallow harbors and get up close to islands, unlike most traditional yachts.

But this multimillion-dollar yacht is built for pleasure, too — it sports multiple sunbathing areas, a diving platform, a lavish main room, three cabins for guests, and space for six crew members. 

See inside Adastra:

Adastra, a spaceship-like megayacht fit for a Bond villain, has hit the market for $12 million.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Commissioned in 2012 by shipping tycoon Anto Marden at a cost of at least $20 million, according to Robb Report, the trimaran yacht was built to cover vast distances and cross oceans.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Source: Robb Report

Thanks to its efficient shape, lightweight construction, and 15,000-liter fuel capacity, Adastra boasts a range of 10,000 nautical miles, or roughly 11,500 miles.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

That means the 140-foot ship can cross the Atlantic twice over without having to refuel, and its owner has done just that, he told Robb Report.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Plus, the yacht sits less than four feet below the water line, so it can venture into shallow harbors where traditional yachts can't.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

After spending several years cruising the globe aboard Adastra, Marden is ready to sell the head-turning vessel and give more attention to his other yacht, he told Robb Report.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

To keep passengers comfortable on long journeys, Adastra is every bit as luxurious as it is capable.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Inside, there's a main living space with a wraparound lounge area ...

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

... and panoramic windows.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

The yacht features lots of custom materials — including lightweight oak cabinetry — to decrease weight and improve fuel efficiency.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Behind the lounge, there's a full dining area ...

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

... complete with a kidney-shaped wood table and a pair of skylights.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Toward the back of the interior, there's a sofa and a bar area.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Below deck, there's a master suite that spans the full width of the hull.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

The master bedroom has a private full bath and desk.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

In total, Adastra sleeps up to nine guests ...

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

... along with six crew members.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

There's a second full bathroom below deck as well.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

The helm station has seating for two, and is raised up above the rest of the yacht.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

On the aft deck, there's teak flooring and a couple of lounge areas ...

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

... including a full dining setup for meals outside.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

The back of Adastra sports a large diving platform and has room for two "tenders," smaller boats for recreation and for getting to and from port.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

A sliding door at the front of the main saloon gives way to a covered lounging area on the bow.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Plus, there's a tanning area with bean bags for catching some rays. If all that sounds appealing and you've got a spare eight figures sitting around, this may be the yacht for you.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

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47m NILAYA Completes First Transatlantic Crossing

By Frances Flannagan

With her name translating to ‘blissful home’ in Sanskrit, Royal Huisman's 47m NILAYA is a stunning sailing yacht that bears bliss not only in her design, but in her exceptional performance capabilities. Recently completing her first transatlantic crossing, her impeccable craftsmanship is showcased as she boasts the title of being the world’s lightest aluminium sailing yacht by length.

NILAYA is a 47m Royal Huisman sailing yacht, featuring design by Nauta and Reichel/Pugh. Towards the end of 2023, this yacht completed her first transatlantic crossing, showcasing her exceptional interior comfort and impeccable performance capabilities. Sailing to Antigua, NILAYA successfully matched her owner’s expectations for speed, robustness, reliability and silence. 

She features low, modern lines and a concealed deckhouse, with careful proportions and a broad, open transom. NILAYA is able to achieve 17 knots on a broad reach in 18 knots of wind, showing her to be capable of effortless pace under sale. 

Mario Pedol, co-founder of Nauta Design, commented: ‘She will be the world’s lightest aluminium sailing superyacht by length, rewriting the story of high-performance superyachts.’

To achieve this light-weight sailing yacht, Royal Huisman applied its Featherlight methodology adapted from spacecraft technology to NILAYA’s design, coupled with a harmonious collaboration with Nauta and Reichel/Pugh to make significant weight savings. Notably, she was the first yacht built on the yard's featherlight specifications. 

‘The final outcome represents a new concept in aluminium construction,’ explained Pedol. ‘Nilaya has a displacement which is 15% more than an equivalent full-carbon boat. That’s a lot less than any other comparable aluminium yacht on the water.’

NILAYA’s exterior profile is as beautiful as it is pragmatic: she features a coachroof that blends seamlessly with the sheerline whilst the hull’s double chines are shown off by the wide stern that flies above the water. 

‘A wooden plinth between sections incomposite and the teak deck makes them visually lighter, and also conceals the string lights that illuminate the deck at night,’ commented Massimo Gino, co-founder of Nauta. ‘Teak inserts on the bulwarks, coamings and coachroof further enrich the deck.’

The owner desired an exceptional onboard lifestyle from NILAYA, which is met in the interior design. The interior is centred around the raised-deck house saloon: a magnificent social hub. Finished in a mix of contrasting woods, pale upholstery and inflections of muted blue and terracotta, her indoor areas are a statement of sophisticated bliss. 

Guests are offered spectacular 360-degree views in the spacious dining to port and comfortable lounging to starboard, whilst a generous skylight keeps them in touch with the wind and the sails above. 

NILAYA features the highest quality build possible, setting her out to be an exceptional and ground-breaking sailing yacht. Her programme remains under wraps; however, hopes are high for her to make an appearance at the St Barths Bucket in March 2024.

"She will be the world’s lightest aluminium sailing superyacht by length, rewriting the story of high-performance superyachts." Mario Pedol, Co-Founder, Nauta Design

"She will be the world’s lightest aluminium sailing superyacht by length, rewriting the story of high-performance superyachts."

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How to Take a Boat From the US to Europe

by Brenna Swanston

Published on 12 Feb 2023

Where’s your next European travel destination? Greece? Portugal? Italy? Iceland? Norway? Well, you can travel from the USA to Europe without ever setting foot on an airplane to get you to any ports of call in Europe – from Barcelona to Azores.

Crossing the Atlantic Ocean by boat offers a unique and economical option for those aspiring to reach Europe without having to deal with air travel. Not on any old sailboat, but one of a few different options for transatlantic ocean travel: freighter cruises, repositioning cruises and luxury cruises.

Freighter Cruises

This is the simplest and cheapest way to cross the Atlantic by ship: hopping on board a freighter ship, AKA a cargo ship whose primary purpose is to transport cargo. Freighters usually carry up to a dozen passengers, and cost around $100 per day (including meals) for each person. Traveling from the United States to Europe via freighter will usually take from one to two weeks, so these trips work best for travelers with flexible schedules and plenty of time. There are many different shipping companies.

Maris offers a couple transatlantic routes:

  • U.S. East Coast to the Mediterranean, departing every two to three weeks and carrying six passengers, travels from New York to Spain in 18 days.
  • U.S. East Coast to northern Europe and the Mediterranean, departing at least once a month and carrying seven passengers, travels from Houston to Belgium in 14 days.

Freighter cruises aren't like your typical cruise experiences in that they don't exist to entertain their passengers. They offer a more minimalist experience, so if you opt for freighter travel, make sure you know what you're in for. Other trips may leave from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or other Florida locations.

Repositioning Cruises

Somewhere between freighter journeys and luxury cruises sit repositioning cruises, which offer itineraries on cruise ships relocating from one seasonal cruising location to another. Cunard's Queen Mary 2 makes regular transatlantic repositioning trips from New York to the United Kingdom, Germany and France. Itineraries range from seven-day, one-way trips to 27-day round trips, and prices range from $800 to $2,500 per person, depending on the itinerary and time of year.

These cruises are necessary for each ship and usually take place in the low season, which is why the prices stay generally low. Still, passengers get to enjoy the amenities of a cruise ship as well as the sights at each port stop.

Luxury Cruises

Aside from its repositioning cruise offerings, Cunard offers luxury cruises from New York City to the United Kingdom. These journeys are generally scheduled during the higher seasons and cost more per passenger, with even the cheapest eastbound bookings for seven-day cruises going for more than $1,000 per person.

Some transatlantic cruises and cruise lines may even stop at the Bahamas, Caribbean, or Canary Islands on the way.

Atlantic Ocean

Mediterranean, northern europe, east caribbean, west caribbean, south east asia, indian ocean, north pacific, south pacific, bareboat yacht charter, skippered yacht charter, luxury yacht charter, super yacht charter, gullet yacht charter, transatlantic crossings, long term charter, informal regattas, racing yacht charters, one way charters, 10 day charters, any day charters, croatia tennis cruise, uk exclusive dealer, puccini yachts, charter management, central agency, unique bespoke, buying v charter, [email protected], + 44 121 285 9009, + 44 779 205 2007.

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Yacht Charters across the Atlantic Ocean:

A2AYACHTING ™ are pleased to arrange one of the most spectacular yacht charter experiences available today. Transatlantic crossings are an exhilarating as much as unique experience altogether. A ”must do experience of a lifetime” for many a sailor, crossing the 2,850nm (Canaries) – 3,200nm (Western France) or so across the Atlantic is an exhilarating yacht charter adventure of a lifetime. This yacht charter experience is offered to the most experienced, adventurous, and keenest amongst the sailors who wish to challenge themselves, or simply embark on another sailing adventure like no other. Yacht charters are no longer the same experience after an Atlantic Crossing. Take an advante of these special yachting holiday offers now.

Type of yachts:

A2AYACHTING ™ offers TRANS ATLANTIC CROSSINGS yacht charter on sailing yachts between 40-65′ and sailing catamarans between 40 – 62′. We can also offer superyachts from 80ft onwards with a SWAN 80 asking 50,000 Eur plus APA Expenses for a 3 weeks sailing adventure to include participation at ARC race and across islands of Cape Verde. The Atlantic crossings are usually offered as of October or November each year and most likely last from a minimum of 3 and up to six or at times even eight weeks. For longer yacht charter periods please do enquire by email or by filling out our online yacht charter request form. We can also offer shorter crossing between Balearic Islands and Canary Islands or between the Adriatic and Cape Verde, Canaries and Brasil or in opposite direction. Additional crossing are listed below, with any others ie. Canary Islands – Baltic Sea also available on occasion. Please enquire for your own private yacht charter crossing quote.

Other equally challenging, bareboat sailing yacht charter adventures include:

One way yacht charters between:

  • – Balearics and the Canaries
  • – Croatia and Cape Verde
  • – Canaries and Cape Verde
  • – Canaries and Baltic Sea
  • - Mallorca - Angra dos REIS (Brasil)
  • - Brasil - Cape Verde
  • - Brasil - Canaries
  • - Canaries - Brasil
  • – Sicily and Portofino
  • – Monaco and Barcelona
  • – Stockholm and Helsinki
  • – Venice and Dubrovnik
  • – Ionian Islands of Corfu or Lefkas and Athens (Corinth)
  • – Rhodes and Kos islands and Athens
  • – Istanbul and Marmaris
  • – Istria and Dubrovnik
  • – Montenegro and Split or Dubrovnik

Some of the yachts available for Atlantic Crossing during 2020 are:

  • From/TO: CROATIA – CUBA
  • Period: 3rd October – 12th Dec 2020
  • Yacht: DUFOUR 520 (2018) with watermaker and A/C
  • Cabins/Berths: 5/10, plus 3 heads Charter rate: 14,250 Eur
  • Obligatory Extras: All boat expenses, mooring fees, tourist taxes, etc.
  • Optional Extras: Extra gear not on board already, skipper fees, further deliveries etc.
  • Insurance Deposit: 5,000 Eur refundable
  • From/TO: CROATIA – USVI’s
  • Period: 17th October – 5th Dec 2020
  • Yacht: SUN Odyssey 519 (2018) with A/C
  • Cabins/Berths: 5/10, plus 3 heads Charter rate: 10,500 Eur
  • From/TO: CROATIA – BAHAMAS
  • Period: 24th October – 12th Dec 2020
  • Yacht: OCEANIS 51.1 (2020) with A/C and watermaker
  • From/TO: MALLORCA – BVI’s
  • Yacht: ASTREA 42 Cat (2020) with A/C and watermaker
  • Cabins/Berths: 4/10, plus 4 heads Charter rate: 10,500 Eur
  • Insurance Deposit: 6,000 Eur refundable
  • Period: 24th October – 5th Dec 2020
  • Yacht: ASTREA 42 Cat (2020) with A/C Cabins/Berths: 4/10, plus 4 heads Charter rate: 9,000 Eur
  • From/TO: CROATIA – MEXICO/LA PAZ
  • Yacht: SAONA 47 Cat (2019) with A/C and watermaker
  • Cabins/Berths: 5/10, plus 5 heads Charter rate: 20,000 Eur
  • Insurance Deposit: 8,000 Eur refundable
  • From/TO: ITALY – BELIZE
  • Period: 3rd October – 14th Nov 2020
  • Yacht: BALI 4.5 Cat (2019) with A/C and watermaker
  • Cabins/Berths: 5/10, plus 5 heads Charter rate: 12,000 Eur
  • From/TO: ITALY – USVI’s
  • Period: 31st October – 12th Dec 2020
  • Yacht: SAONA 47 Cat (2020) with A/C and watermaker
  • Yacht: LAGOON 52F Cat (2019) with A/C and watermaker
  • Cabins/Berths: 6/12, plus 6 heads Charter rate: 15,000 Eur
  • Insurance Deposit: 9,000 Eur refundable
  • From/TO: MALLORCA – ST VINCENT
  • Yacht: LAGOON 52F Cat (2018) with A/C and watermaker
  • Cabins/Berths: 6/12, plus 6 heads Charter rate: 17,500 Eur
  • From/TO: MALLORCA – USVI’s
  • Yacht: BALI 5.4 Cat (2020) with A/C and watermaker
  • From/TO: ITALY – East Caribbean
  • Period: 20th October 2020 – 2nd Jan 2021
  • Yacht: LAGOON 42 Cat (2018)
  • Cabins/Berths: 4+2/8+2 plus 4 heads Charter rate: 33,500 Eur
  • From/TO: Gran Canaria – East Caribbean during ARC 2020
  • Period: 18th November 2020 – 12th Dec 2020
  • Cabins/Berths: 4+2/8+2 plus 4 heads Charter rate: 15,000 Eur

Previous offers included the following

Bareboat Sailing Yachts:

  • – Sun Odyssey 509 from Spain - Cuba
  • – Dufour 460 from Stockholm to Antigua
  • – Dufour 382 from Sweden to British Virgin Islands

Bareboat Sailing Catamarans:

  • – Bali 4.0 Atlantic Crossing bareboat Yacht Charters from France to East Caribbean
  • – Lagoon 450 Atlantic Crossing bareboat Yacht charters from France to East Caribbean
  • – Lagoon 52 Atlantic Crossing bareboat Yacht Charter from Croatia to East Caribbean
  • – Helia 44 Atlantic Crossing bareboat Yacht Charter from Western France to Tortola in October 2019
  • – Saba 50 Atlantic Crossing Yacht Charter from Western France to Martinique of Tortola in December 2019
  • – Lavezzi 40 crossing from Cape Verde to the Canaries

Crossing the Atlantic from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean in Spring 2020

  • – Bahia 46 from Cuba – Mallorca in May 2018
  • – Voyage 440 from Cienfuegos to Palma de Mallorca from 12th May 2018 and at least 6 weeks
  • – Lagoon 380 from Havana to Ibiza in MAY 2018

Skippered or luxury crewed Transatlantic Crossings:

  • Available on boats such as LAGOON 560 FROM Croatia or Portugal and the Balearics with prices starting from around 20,000 Eur
  • Luxury crewed charters on superyachts such as VICTORIA 67 sailing catamaran from Fountain Pajot
  • Mega yachts including motor yachts and luxury sailing yachts are available on request.
  • 80ft SWAN luxury sailing yacht with 3 crew available from 50,000 Eur/week from Gran Canaria - East Caribbean
  • 90ft luxury sailing yacht with 4 crew available at 60,000 Eur from France - St Lucia
  • NEWISH 94ft luxury sailing yacht with 4 crew available at 120,000 Eur from Canaries - St Lucia including ARC race
  • 125ft luxury sailing yacht with 7 crew available from 150,000 Eur/week from Med - East Caribbean

How to charter a yacht for the transatlantic crossing:

Please give A2AYACHTING ™ a call, email us at [email protected] or fill out a form on these pages to provide as many information so that we can send you a detailed quote on the available yachts in the region. Ideally, you will let us know of your A) Charter dates B) Type or size of the yacht C) Cabins required D) Ideal or Maximum Budget and we will take the rest on our shoulders and prepare detailed quotes and arrange suitable boat for your sailing yacht charter vacation.

motor yacht transatlantic crossing

Call Us: +44 121 285 8010

Transatlantic crossing with a supercat 70ft Sunreef catamaran this November!

Published by Eldin Basic on July 13 th , 2022

Keen on the ultimate yachting adventure and once in a lifetime experience? We are pleased to recommend a NEW 2022 model fo  SUNREEF 70 ready for the transatlantic crossing.  With a top captain, full gear and all inclusive service, you can cross the  Atlantic in luxury …

SUNREEF 70 transatlantic charter

Only a few years ago, crossing the Atlantic was an adventure for only a few hardcore sailors.  To do so, you would have to have thousands of miles of skippering or crewing experience and choice of boats was usually limited to monohulls from 40-50ft and a couple of top racing boats up to 80ft.  Moving forward, a huge number of multihulls was introduced in 00’s and in particular during 2010’s, when fleets turned the corner and introduced higher number of catamarans into their Caribbean ports for the first time in history.   This brought higher number of both experienced and those with limited experience sailors on board, all keen to experience ARC and ARC+ racing for the first or second time.

LUXURY TRANSATLANTIC CHARTER

Some of them and others are now coming back keen to experience the crossing of the Atlantic on a luxury boat however.  Gone are the days when some were happy and ready to literally ‘’risk their lives’’ doing the night watch or sailing with inexperienced captains and crew members.  As a result, we are now offering transatlantic crossings not only on smaller bareboat catamarans, bigger skippered ones or those with crew, but the as an ultimate luxury crewed charter or superyacht charter adventure.  With fully inclusive service, top of the range yachts including monohulls from 60-125ft and catamarans from 60-145ft, you can cross the pond being served by top crew, enjoy sunbathing or book reading on deck and relax in the knowledge that fine dining and carefully chosen wines will be on board and served when required.  One of those yachts is this superbly equipped top of the range Sunreef Yachts 70ft sailing catamaran.  Book her now from 100,000 – 125,000 Eur for a 5 week adventure crossing the Atlantic from Gran Canaria to Martinique. You could also extend the experience and request a one week stopover in Cape Verde or start in the Mediterranean 2-3 weeks before.  For final pricing and a list of what’s included, do get in touch in order to receive a full quote.

Highlights of NEW Sunreef 70 (2022):

-        Owner version with 1 master suite and 3 VIP guest staterooms -        Superb 1 million Eur extra equipment on board -        NEW but experienced crew on board -        Flexible itineraries in both East and West Med -        Christmas and NEW YEAR 2022/23 bookings possible in the Caribbean -        Charter rates from only 50,000 Eur/week plus any VAT and APA -        MYBA terms apply in most cases -        Long-term charters and Transatlantic Crossing deals available

  Photos courtesy of  Sunreef Yachts – Originals available in 2022

SUNREEF 70

Nothing less than spectacular you can expect when choosing which water toys to use.  This amazing supersail catamaran will have all the latest gear on board and biggest and most luxurious superyacht tender on board that can be safely carried on the swim platform.  You will in fact find even SeaBobs on board and on top of the usual suspects such as 2x SUP, an inflatable sea kayak, water skis, knee board, donut and snorkelling gear. Aermarine 420 jet tender with 40hp outboard will also take you safely to the shore when required. You can therefore enjoy both extensive exploration of the coastline with various water toys or luxury transfers in your best attire when required as apart from fine food served on board, you can also sample a few chosen restaurant offering along the sailing itinerary both on mainland Italy around Amalfi coast as well as on request in Sicily, Sardinia or even Corsica.

TRANSATLANTIC CROSSING

Your luxury cruise in the Mediterranean, or in particular within the Cote d’Azur or Greek Islands can therefore start this week already, with flexible payment options, including us accepting a range of cryptocoins such as BITCOIN or Ethereum, or standard old credit cards from VISA/MASTER to AMEX.  Whatever your choice of payment or sailing week, you can rest assured that your private yacht charter with SuperSailYachts.com will be a success. Apart from the usual luxury yacht charters, should you wish to become an owner of a yacht, it’s worth knowing that we can also arrange commissioning of a new Benetti , Sunseeker, Azimut, Pershing or San Lorenzo motor yachts, thus if you are keen to buy a new or 2nd hand superyacht, please do contact us to forward specifications, arrange viewings and commission surveys.  As exclusive dealers for PUCCINI YACHTS and UK broker for VAAN, Aquila and Sunreef Catamarans we do specialise in bespoke orders of new motor yachts as well as sailing catamarans, power catamarans and traditional Turkish gullets which range from 23,9 – 50m and start in price from 880,000 Eur with 12 months delivery.  NEW Eco models with HYBRID engines or even solar powered boats are available. #supersailyachts WhatsApp (00447792052007)

In case you are interested in chartering one of these or similar yachts or wish to consider purchasing one of the models which are offered for sale, do let us know by filling out the CHARTER REQUEST FORM  or send us an email to [email protected]  now.  

Disclaimer:  The information provided here are made as a general guide only, made to give a broad description and latest news of the shown yacht or yachts. They are not intended to constitute part of an offer or contract.  The details of the luxury yacht or yachts displayed on this page are made merely for informational purposes, and the yacht or the yachts are not necessarily available for yacht charter or for sale, nor is she or they represented or marketed in anyway by SuperSailYachts.com. All details, including any photographs, measurements, plans and specifications mentioned, are given as a guide only and should not be relied upon for the purchase or charter of this yacht. The copyright of all details, photographs and deckplans remains the property of their rightful owners or their chosen representatives.

This news refers to:

SUNREEF 70

Italian lifestyle at its best with Southern Wind 82 supersailyacht!

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Looking to charter best Lagoon Seventy 7 there is? Look no further!

LUXURY LAGOON 77 CATAMARAN

Superyacht charter on BENETTI VISION 145 with 20% discount in Greece!

BENETTI VISION 145 - GRANDE AMORE

NEW Lagoon 65 catamaran charters in the Balearic islands!

LAGOON SIXTY 5

An Italian designed superyacht cruises the Turkish Mediterranean!

FERRETTI 850

Belgian property company chartered a luxury sailing yacht XNOI during the prestigious Cannes event MIPIM in March 2015. They stated the lovely XNOI was even better than they expected and this spectacular yacht with the fabulous captain Marco made all the difference. Their event proved successful even if the allocated choice of berth did not serve the purpose in the best possible way. The successful charter is likely to be repeated within 12 months.

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motor yacht transatlantic crossing

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.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Solo Cruises (With No Supplement Fare)
  • Sustainable Cruises: The Top Lines Making Progress
  • Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
  • The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
  • Cruise Packing List: Essentials Chosen by Experts

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Cunard Line's Queen Mary 2 in New York.

Yachting World

  • Digital Edition

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How to cross the Atlantic from the Caribbean to Europe: Everything you need to know

  • Elaine Bunting
  • April 9, 2019

Preparations for the voyage from the Caribbean to Europe need to begin before you leave home, but what should you consider?

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-credit-tor-johnson

Photo: Tor Johnson

By early summer the peak Caribbean season is coming to a close, ushered out by a fusillade of big regattas. Then, with summer returning to the northern latitudes, crews begin the return leg of their migration back home.

While most people focus on crossing the Atlantic from Europe to the Caribbean , the voyage back to Europe or the US east coast is equally important – in some ways more so. The road home can be more testing, but it is also varied, and planning for it should ideally shape your preparations from the time you plan to leave home for a season in the sun. What should you weigh up in your crew and boat preparations and which route and strategy is best?

You could, of course, always take the easy way out – remember that old saw that nothing goes to windward quite like a 747! You could get your boat sailed home by a delivery crew, or shipped back to the Mediterranean or northern Europe.

These options, once the preserve of big motorboat owners and superyachts, are gaining popularity with mainstream cruisers, especially the time-pressed – in fact, a couple of owners I interviewed at the Caribbean 600 this year had their yachts shipped out from Europe and had booked them back by ship later in the season.

Nevertheless, each year, around 1,000 yachts arrive in Horta en route to Europe (the total was 1,232 in 2015, to be exact). Yachts mainly stop here in May and June and around half have come direct from a Caribbean island, while a majority of others arrive via the staging post of Bermuda. According to a survey by Jimmy Cornell: ‘every year approximately 1,200 boats cross the Atlantic from the Cape Verdes, Canaries and Madeira along the north- east tradewinds route.’

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-helm-credit-tor-johnson

A return voyage from the Caribbean to northern latitudes can be testing for boats and crew. Photo: Tor Johnson

The route back is a well-travelled one, but it is a very different proposition to the way out. The days will be lengthening as a crew sails north-east, yet the temperatures are falling and the weather can be very varied and occasionally testing.

Dan Bower, who wrote our Bluewater Sailing Series and made his umpteenth west-east transatlantic passage in May 2018, returning from the Caribbean on his Skye 51 Skyelark , says: “We consider the passage to be heavy weather and prepare accordingly.”

But it is also one of the most interesting voyages, and the almost mandatory stop in the Azores means you’ll visit some of the most unspoilt, hospitable and interesting islands anywhere in the world. Plus there is the undoubted satisfaction of knowing that you are closing the circle of your Atlantic circuit by your own efforts and skills.

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Preparations

“We look at the west-east transatlantic as very different from the ARC or indeed any of the other ocean trips we do because it can be largely upwind and has potential for heavy weather,” says Dan Bower.

“It is guaranteed that the first week is full on, close-hauled in the tradewinds, and life at 20-30° in a big ocean swell puts more demands on the boat and crew. Then depending on the position of the Azores High, after the lull in the middle, the second half of the journey can be lively downwind or back to beating.”

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-rig-checks-credit-tor-johnson

Make regular checks on sails and rigging, looking particularly for chafe damage. Photo: Tor Johnson

Given this, you’ll need to think from the outset about your upwind and stronger wind sails, and your yacht preparations for the route across to Europe. So when you consider the outlay for an expensive downwind sail inventory, for example new spinnaker or Parasailor, don’t forget the good condition mainsail with perhaps a fourth reef and the strong staysail that will be just as invaluable on the way back.

Preparing your boat for everything from flat calms to gales is paramount, and after a lazy season in the Caribbean everything needs to be checked over. Skip Novak’s Storm Sailing Series features a run through some of the essential deck checks.

Dan Bower also emphasises these basic checks. “A good inspection and rig check before departure is a must, and we rig for heavy weather with our smaller headsail on the furler and have the staysail ready to go.

“We also consider taking some extra fuel on board to give options around the high. Because of the water that will be shipped going into a big swell, all items on deck need to be well lashed down, and thought given to any water entry points. We seal our chain hawse pipe and block off dorade vents. Thought also needs to be given to what items you will need to be easily accessible first, so that you’re not trying to fight to the back of a windward locker as you’re landing off a wave, or needing to access the forepeak for a spare rope.”

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-rig-checks-credit-richard-langdon

Careful and comprehensive rig checks are essential for an Atlantic crossing in either direction. Photo: Richard Langdon

Fuel and spares

As well as taking extra fuel in jerrycans or flexible tanks, don’t forget to pre-empt fuel supply problems by stocking lots of engine fuel filters and lots of Racor water separator filters. On most crossings you rarely use the engine, but if it’s a light wind year its great to have the ability to push through a wind hole and get into the wind on the other side, more fuel gives you more options. Also, consider buying a portable transfer pump as juggling with funnels and pouring diesel at sea is a messy, troublesome job.

To get the most from your fuel tankage, keep to your minimum cruising revs. Boat manufacturers should be able to give you a fuel consumption curve for your engine so you can calculate your range based on engine hours and how much fuel is in your tank.

Duncan Sweet runs Mid-Atlantic Yacht Services in Horta, providing a great service, but one that gets very busy in late April and May. He advises skippers to be prepared to do oil and filter changes themselves. “I get people coming in here to ask us to do it and I have to say: ‘No, sorry, we don’t have time’,” he says.

Sweet also strongly advises that you carry key spares you might need, and replace any you may have used after your Atlantic crossing on the way out, such as pump or autopilot parts. Getting spares out to the Azores can be difficult and takes time.

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-spare-fuel

Carry spare fuel in case you have to motor more than you expect, and find out from your boat manufacturer your vessel’s most economical engine cruising revs

“The average time people spend here is four to five days. If you have to wait for spares that will be six to ten days, depending on the supplier at the other end, it will delay you, and the cost of transport [air freight], for, say, a pump can be €60-80 per leg for the two legs.”

A good rigging check before leaving is essential. Your standing and running rig will now have covered thousands of salty, sunny miles and the return transatlantic crossing will see you spend long days on one tack so expect chafe to occur on sheets and halyards. A professional rigging check can be well worth the cost, but if you do it yourself make sure you work from stem to stern checking every item.

Jerry Henwood, aka Jerry the Rigger, who does most of the rig checks for the ARC rally advises: “Check your standing rigging wire where it enters the swage. Is it nice and smooth? The most common place for standing rigging to break is just inside the swage and as it’s inside you can’t always see it, but you can feel it.

“Look at the mast, boom and spreaders. Check all areas where anything joins, exits or is just attached. It should all be smooth with no cracks. All fastenings must be tight and secure. And check all split pins and key rings and make sure these are taped up so that anything passing over them (ropes, clothing, sails, etc.) does not catch on them and pull them open.”

Here’s more from Jerry’s hit list:

  • Check for any missing or damaged key rings on standing rigging, especially guardwires.
  • Check for any loose nuts on pelican hooks on the guardwires.
  • Check there are no cracks on the tang on the boom where the vang joins.
  • Check struts on the radar brackets aren’t wearing away or coming loose.
  • Check VHF aerials at the masthead aren’t loose.
  • Re-mouse all your shackles so they don’t come undone.

Choosing the best route

Should you sail to the Azores (generally Horta) or go the longer route via Bermuda?

There are pros and cons to each. Weather systems spinning off the US East Coast bring lows and frontal systems that can extend well south, and at some point a yacht making the west-to-east crossing will be overtaken by at least one front, possibly more. So the aim is to catch and ride favourable winds for as far as possible, and most boats head for the Azores to make a stop there and then pick their timing to head across to Spain or Portugal or up to the UK.

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-helm-isbjorn-sailing

Photo: Isbjorn Sailing

Tortola in the British Virgin Islands or St Maarten are the most popular starting points – they are well positioned and good for provisioning, spares, chandlery and repairs. But many crews make an intermediate stop in Bermuda and this is a particularly good option if the wind patterns change three to four days out from the Caribbean. In Bermuda, crews can take a break, re-provision, enjoy the island, and wait for a good weather springboard for the next leg.

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 decades, the late Herb Hilgenberg provided free weather services to eastbound yachtsmen, and when I interviewed him a few years ago he also advised an even more cautious route:

“I advocate the southerly route to the Azores,” he said, “and recommend that boats head east and stay south of 35°N until I see that nothing significant is developing. “You can stay at 32-33°N until a few days out from the Azores and then head north. I would not go north of the area north of 35°N or west of 45°W until June.”

Low pressure systems tend to lie further south earlier in the season and if you head north you would typically end up north of the Azores in headwinds. As summer approaches the lows tend to move further north and the Azores High expands so that you get lighter winds as you make your way towards the Azores.

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

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-lookout-credit-tor-johnson

Weather forecasts

Whether or not you’ve considered paying for tailored forecasting and routeing information on the way out to the Caribbean, it’s a good investment on the way back. In effect, you’re gaining an extra crewmember, someone with proper connectivity to put the hours into obtaining weather data including real time information from satellites and weather buoys, to work out your best options.

Weather experts can provide a service as and when you need it – what forecaster Simon Rowell calls ‘leaving note for the milkman’ – or on a daily basis. A good forecaster will ask you to check in anyway and will be keeping an eye out for anything untoward heading your way. They will help you decide how to shape your route, and even adapt your sailing to, say, slow down if necessary and track south out of stronger winds.

Rowell estimates his costs for providing this service to an average 40-footer doing Atlantic crossing at around £500, while Stephanie Ball at MeteoGib charges around £70 for daily 24hr SMS-type forecasts to a satphone or tracker. You can sign up to more comprehensive information and grib files, or request forecasts every two or three days.

Some reputable forecasters include:

  • Rowell Yachting Services
  • Chris Tibbs, Sailing Weather
  • Chris Parker, Marine Weather Center Services

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-galley-isbjorn-sailing

Hearty, warming meals will be required as the temperature drops. Photo: Isbjorn Sailing

Crew for the voyage

You might not have quite the number of takers for a voyage to Europe as you had on the way to the Caribbean and, as skipper, you need to think about crew who have the appetite for what might be more of challenge.

As Dan Bower puts it: “There is an increased chance of seasickness and even for those not afflicted there is less desire to do much in the way of domestic duties. “Crew agility and fitness becomes more important as deck work and moving around the boat can be a challenge, at least initially.”

On Skyelark , they make life easier by pre-cooking most of the main meals and keeping lunches and breakfasts simple, though “we carry some other celebration meals for when conditions merit; a Sunday roast is great for morale,” he says.

crossing-atlantic-west-to-east-roast-dinner-credit-tor-johnson

Hearty and warming meals are needed just at a time when you will be sailing at an angle for perhaps days, so anything that makes it easier is worth investing in. A pressure cooker will come back into its own for probably the first time since you left colder waters.

Round the world sailors Anne and Stuart Letton, who have sailed two-handed back across the Atlantic several times, recommend Mr D’s Thermal Cooker, a slow cooker you can put all the ingredients in during the morning, bring to a simmer and then leave to cook slowly throughout the day to be ready in the evening.

You also need to unpack all those mid-layers and boots that got stowed away when you reached the Tropics. By day the temperatures might be warm enough for T-shirts and shorts, but at night it can get quite cold. This also makes watchkeeping more tiring, so you may want to consider changing your previous rota.

Rolling watches or double watches can help the time go by quicker, and give you as skipper more confidence and rest, though it might mean you need more crew for this route.

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The weather will be cooling on a west-east Atlantic crossing… but there might still be a chance for a mid-ocean swim. Photo: Tor Johnson

But the way across to Europe is one of the best ocean voyages, argues Dan Bower. “With all of the above in mind, this remains one of my favourite trips. You have powerful upwind sailing, the days are getting longer, the weather and skies becoming more interesting and the sea and bird life are plentiful.

“The lighter winds midway give a chance for the boat and crew to be scrubbed clean, and perhaps you get a chance to have a mid-ocean swim and a midway celebration, before (hopefully) a downwind ride to the Azores, where the sense of accomplishment and the warm welcome is remembered by every sailor who ever visits.”

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