Sample Itineraries:

    South Florida & Florida Keys

    Bahamas

The climate of South Florida, the Keys and the Bahamas is directly affected by weather patterns in the United States and the Gulf Stream. Occasional cold fronts in December through February make it necessary to carry warm clothing as temperatures can dip into the low 60's. For yachtsmen unaccustomed to the combination of high summer heat and humidity, summer cruising can be uncomfortable.

Easterly trade winds are strongest in the winter and can quickly shift out of the west if a cold front approaches. Winter trades can reach 20 knots in the Bahamas and 15 knots in South Florida and the Florida Keys. Summer winds often drop as low as 5 knots in both locales.

Winter or summer, travelers who enjoy bright, sunny days are rarely disappointed. Summer days are often punctuated with brief, afternoon rain showers. Occasional thunderstorms can bring severe weather and while usually brief, proper precautions must be taken. Thunderstorms are more common in the Keys and South Florida in the summer than in the Bahamas. Average yearly temperatures range from 75-90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Like the rest of the Caribbean, late summer represents the traditional storm season. Tropical storms are rare and warnings are announced several days in advance. The biggest advantage of summer cruising is uncrowded anchorage, especially in the Bahamas.


Average Daytime High Temperatures:

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