St. Maarten to St. Kitts by boat

Pilotage Plan: St. Maarten to St. Kitts

Route Overview:Embarking from St. Maarten, a popular hub in the Caribbean known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches, your journey will lead you to St. Kitts, an island rich in history and natural beauty. This trip is ideal for seasoned cruisers and those looking for a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration, perfect for medium to large cruising yachts.

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Segment 1: Departure from St. Maarten

Starting from St. Maarten (18.0428° N, 63.0587° W), make sure to check the latest weather conditions. The channel leading out of Simpson Bay is well marked with channel buoys—keep a close watch on your chart to avoid any shallows. Before you leave the bay, consider a brief stop at Maho Beach, famous for its proximity to the airport, where you can witness planes flying low over the beach.

Navigational Aids:

• Follow the buoys from Simpson Bay to the open sea.
• Pay close attention to the Simpson Bay Bridge and its opening times if you plan to explore dishes at nearby restaurants.

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Segment 2: Crossing the Anguilla Channel

As you set your course across the Anguilla Channel, you will navigate toward the British Virgin Islands but provide a slight adjustment eastward towards Grenada for the most favorable winds. The channel can be navigated directly but watch closely for any impending squalls. Here is where your keen observational skills and knowledge of weather patterns will serve you well. It’s also a good idea to have updated weather apps and tools for real-time tracking, like savvy navvy.

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Hazards to Watch For:

• Shifting winds and currents around Sandy Island.
• Pay heed to distant reefs; they are well charted but should still be treated with caution.

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Segment 3: Notable Landmarks and Bailout Bays on the Route

1. Anegada (BVI) - If conditions allow, make a detour to Anegada, known for its stunning coral reefs, making it a perfect side trip for snorkeling. Anegada has a good anchorage and is relatively safe to shelter from bad weather.

2. Jost Van Dyke - Famous for its lively beach bars, such as Foxy's and One Love, this island is a fantastic stopover for both fun and a culinary adventure. The anchorage is safe, and you can find good shelter from north winds.

3. Tortola (BVI) - As you move southwards, consider a stop at Soper’s Hole for any last-minute provisions and a laid-back atmosphere. The harbor is well protected from swells.

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Segment 4: Arrival and Navigational Considerations for St. Kitts

Nearing St. Kitts, the Narrows between St. Kitts and Nevis presents a strategic maritime route to navigate. Keep an eye out for the MOL St. Kitts beacon; it serves as a vital landmark when approaching.

Final Approach:Entering Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts, you will find yourself amongst the bustling harbor activity. Be mindful of local commercial traffic, as the harbor is regularly frequented by ferries and cargo vessels.

Safe Havens:If conditions deteriorate, Cades Bay is a reliable anchorage on the western side of the island, known for its calming waters.

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Regulations and Points of Interest:

• Ensure you are familiar with and adhere to local maritime regulations regarding anchoring, especially around marine reserves.
• The stunning Brimstone Hill Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see either by boat or onshore and offers lots of history to delve into once you arrive.

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Conclusion:This journey from St. Maarten to St. Kitts offers not only beautiful views and historical landmarks but also safe havens should weather conditions change. The experienced boater will find a perfect overall escape while mastering basic navigation through commercial waters. Prepare well, stay informed using your navigation apps, with savvy navvy at the top of your list, and enjoy the unique experiences that each island has to offer. Safe cruising!