6. Dominica to Jamaica

We will leave Dominica heading just north of west for a 900 mile downwind sleigh ride to Jamaica! The tradewinds will really be blowing this time of year and you can look forward to some fast sailing as we surf down cobalt blue Caribbean swell. I think this passage will be the record setter for daily runs! The navigation is relatively straightforward and we should be able to settle into passage life with ease.
This passage will offer the opportunity to experiment with different downwind sail plans depending on the wind and sea conditions. For anyone planning a tradewind circumnavigation this will be the primary point of sail for ocean passages and is worth getting right. We will be dealing with squalls, shipping, and all of the other unknowns of a bluewater passage, and this will be a great trip to gain real offshore experience. Also, we hear Jamaica in March is just about perfect!