Tales And Tips From Our Cruising Adventure Canada To Florida And The Bahamas

Embarking on a cruising adventure from Canada to Florida and the Bahamas is a one-of-a-kind experience that offers breathtaking sights, unforgettable memories, and valuable lessons along the way. In this article, we will share some of our tales and provide tips for a successful journey.

Preparing for the Journey

Before setting sail, thorough preparation is key. Researching and planning your route, understanding weather patterns, and equipping your vessel with necessary supplies are essential steps to guarantee a smooth journey.

Start by consulting nautical charts and guides to determine the best route for your cruising adventure. Take into account any navigational challenges, such as shallow waters or strong currents, and plan your itinerary accordingly. Additionally, stay updated on weather conditions and create a flexible schedule to adjust your journey if necessary.

Ashanti Sails South: Tales and Tips from Our Cruising Adventure - Canada to Florida and the Bahamas

by Carola Englert (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11085 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	278 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Ensuring your vessel is equipped with the right supplies and safety equipment is crucial. Stock up on food, water, and other essential items to last the entire trip. Have a first aid kit readily available, as well as communication devices to stay connected with the coastguard and other boaters.

Exploring Canada's Coastline

As you depart from Canada, get ready to witness stunning natural beauty along the coastline. From picturesque lighthouses to breathtaking cliffs, the Atlantic provinces offer a diverse and captivating landscape.

One highlight of the journey is Newfoundland and Labrador, where you can witness towering icebergs and spot whales in their natural habitat. The rugged beauty of Nova Scotia's coastline is also not to be missed, with its charming fishing villages and stunning national parks.

Take your time to explore each province and discover hidden gems along the way. Engage with locals and learn about their customs and traditions. The cruising adventure is not just about reaching the destination; it is about embracing the journey and the stories it unfolds.

Arriving in Florida: Sun, Sand, and Sightseeing

Upon reaching Florida, prepare for a change of scenery as you are greeted with warm weather, stunning beaches, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Sunshine State offers a plethora of activities for boaters, from world-class fishing to exciting water sports.

Enjoy the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, home to the famous Key West, where the southernmost point of the United States resides. Discover the diverse marine life while snorkeling or diving in the stunning coral reefs.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to St. Augustine is a must. As the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States, this charming city offers a delightful blend of history and modern attractions.

Exploring the Beauty of the Bahamas

Continuing the cruising adventure, the Bahamas is a paradise for boaters and offers a myriad of stunning islands and cays to explore. From the Exumas with their crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches to bustling Nassau with its vibrant culture, the Bahamas has it all.

The Exumas, in particular, are a cruising paradise. With their pristine white sand beaches and numerous anchorages, these islands are an idyllic retreat for boaters. Swim with friendly pigs, feed iguanas, and snorkel in the Thunderball Grotto, made famous by the James Bond film.

Don't forget to immerse yourself in the local culture by trying traditional Bahamian dishes, such as conch fritters or grilled mahi-mahi. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.

Top Tips for a Successful Cruising Adventure

1. Stay cautious of weather conditions and plan your journey accordingly. Take advantage of modern weather forecasting tools to ensure safe travels.

2. Join boating communities and forums to connect with other boaters who have experienced similar journeys. Their insights and advice can be invaluable.

3. Embrace flexibility and be open to unexpected detours or changes in plans. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from unexpected adventures.

4. Maintain regular maintenance and checks on your vessel to prevent any potential issues during your journey.

5. Respect the environment and adhere to sustainable boating practices. Dispose of waste properly and avoid damaging sensitive marine ecosystems.

6. Document your journey with photos, videos, and a journal to preserve the memories of your cruising adventure.

Embarking on a cruising adventure from Canada to Florida and the Bahamas is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and thrilling exploration. Prepare, plan, and embrace the journey as you create unforgettable tales of your own.

Ashanti Sails South: Tales and Tips from Our Cruising Adventure - Canada to Florida and the Bahamas

by Carola Englert (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11085 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	278 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

After three decades of hard work Carola and Elmar, her husband and captain, are about to fulfil their lifelong dream: To sail south on Ashanti, their CS 36T sailboat. Despite their misgivings of abandoning house and family, and whether their boat and 33-year marriage will survive the adventure, they risk storms and gales to traverse the tumultuous Great Lakes to Florida and the Bahamas.
This journey, like life itself, may not all be smooth sailing, but together they discover many hidden gems. Along the way they reunite with good friends, forge new friendships and meet many well travelled sailors.
Award-winning photographer Carola captures the impact of the places they visit with her vibrant photographs and witty and heart-warming journals. Whether you are an armchair traveller, a seasoned sailor, or are considering making your own dreams a reality, join this astonishing couple on their escapades.
Bon voyage!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Carola along with her husband, son and daughter have always enjoyed the outdoors and spending their leisure time biking, hiking, camping and canoeing.
Throughout their 40 years of running various businesses, Carola and her husband Elmar planned to make their sailing dreams a reality upon retirement. Always passionate about exploring and travelling, they have sailed extensively over the past twenty years.
An avid, award winning photographer and meticulous journalist, the ever-energetic Carola shares their exciting and sometimes dangerous escapades sailing south through Ontario’s September storms. Her articles and photography have been featured in magazines, such as The Port Hole and Sideroads.
As Training Officer for Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons, she won the Beldon W Fox Trophy for having taught the most advanced and elective courses with the most students and most passes. Carola and her husband Elmar won the Lemon Hart National Award for saving the life of a boater whose boat burned completely. Her husband also won the A W Ripley Trophy when he was Training Officer. Between 1981 and 1993 Carola took 12 courses, earning her the most coveted ‘Complete Certificate’, while earning 13 merit marks for volunteering to run the squadron at all levels. She also won 1st and 3rd prize at National Conferences for creating a pictorial history of the squadron.
Ashanti Sails South is Carola’s debut travel biography of an exciting year of preparing and sailing south on their CS 36 boat, the Ashanti. She shares, alongside Elmar, her husband and courageous captain, the highlights, the low points, and lessons learned while navigating from Owen Sound in Ontario to Florida, to the Bahamas and back to Florida.
These days Carola spends many fun hours with her children and grandchildren, while finding time to blog and write her next book. For more interesting information on sailing and life visit www.AshantiSailsSouth.com and subscribe to Carola's newsletter. You can contact Carol at [email protected]