Comfortable draft in the Carribean

[doczweivel]

We occasionally had problems with a five and half foot draft on our 34' Roberts design while sailing in the Bahamas. As I plan to purchase a new boat, what draft are folks most comfortable with cruising in the Bahamas?

[jen.brett]

Hello!
When my husband and I cruised the Bahamas several years ago, I remember thinking that the 4.5' draft of our Pearson Vanguard is as deep as I'd ever want to go there. Indeed, I was envious of folks with shallower draft or a centerboard.
But, I should add that the 4.5' draft was still pretty good and allowed us to tuck into some nice out-of-the-way anchorages.

It's unfortunate that our current boat has a 6.5' draft! (for Bahamas cruising anyway!)

Cheers,
Jen Brett
CW associate editor

[doczweivel]

Thanks for the post, Jen. 6.5' draft does sound deep for the Bahamas. I was thinking that GPS is helping to keep folks out of trouble (usually), but that a shallow draft is a good safety feature for the Bahamas any way.

[ramblinrod]

Anything 5 feet or less should be fine.