Day 1 · Boarding in Gran Canaria and preparation.
We will meet at 18:00 in Gran Canaria, where our sailboat will be waiting for us.
After getting to know each other and distributing the cabins, we will review the security equipment, study the weather and plan our defeat to the Caribbean.
We will organize the guards, make the purchase and stock the supplies needed for approximately three weeks of ocean sailing.
With everything ready and when the weather conditions permit, we will release moorings heading to the other side of the Atlantic!
First stage · We left the Canary Islands sternly.
We will begin the journey heading in a general south-southwest direction to search for the northeastern trade wind band.
During the first few days we will become familiar with continuous navigation, the operation of the ship and the organization of day and night guards.
We will actively participate in the governance of the sailboat, the trimming of the sails, the maneuvers and the planning of navigation.
Little by little, the Canary Islands will disappear over the horizon and we will begin to experience what it means to sail for weeks without land in sight.
Second stage · In search of the trade winds.
One of the great lessons learned from the crossing will be to understand the meteorology of the Atlantic and how it influences our route.
We will analyze daily the wind, pressure and wave models, the position of the Azores anticyclone and the stability of the trade winds.
We will seek the best conditions to begin to win the west, taking advantage of the prevailing northeastern winds and, progressively, the Northern Equatorial Current.
We will have to decide what course to follow and what configuration of sails is most appropriate at any given time, always seeking the balance between speed, comfort and safety.
Third stage · Life in the middle of the Atlantic.
After the first few days we will begin to find our own sailing rhythm.
The guards will mark our days. We will learn to rest while the ship continues sailing, to anticipate wind changes, to manage water and energy and to adapt to living together for several weeks in the ocean.
We will share everyday tasks, cook, participate in maneuvers and enjoy conversations, sunrises and starry nights.
We will keep an eye on weather changes and possible tropical showers, adjusting course and sails when necessary.
They will be days to learn, disconnect from routine and discover a way of life in which the sea and the crew become protagonists.
Fourth stage · Heading to the Caribbean.
With thousands of miles aft, we will continue sailing west, following the evolution of the trade winds and taking advantage of ocean currents.
As we approach the Lesser Antilles, we will study the approach to Martinique and the weather conditions in the area.
After weeks surrounded only by ocean, one of the most exciting moments of the journey will arrive: seeing land on the horizon again!
Last stage · Arrival to Martinique and end of year in the Caribbean.
We will make the final approach to Martinique and enter Le Marin, our destination port.
After approximately 2,700 miles of sailing, we will celebrate together the arrival to the Caribbean and everything experienced during these weeks.
If weather conditions permit, we can enjoy the end of the year in Martinique, surrounded by tropical landscapes and with the satisfaction of having crossed an ocean under sail.
Expected disembarkation: 12:00 p.m., in Le Marin (Martinique).
Important about the program:
- This is an ocean voyage of approximately three weeks, not a tourist itinerary with scheduled stops. Our goal is to sail continuously from Gran Canaria to Martinique.
- Weather and safety will determine our route, schedules and the actual date of arrival. Therefore, we recommend booking return flights at least one day apart and, whenever possible, with an option to change.
- Throughout the navigation we will participate in life on board, sharing guards, maneuvers, cooking and daily tasks, always under the supervision of Víctor, our professional skipper.
- You don't need a license or previous ocean experience, although we recommend having sailed before.
Three weeks to cross the Atlantic, learn to sail out to sea and experience one of the great adventures of sailing!
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