Open Water Cruising Can be the Adventure of a Lifetime!

For boating enthusiasts and seasoned yacht owners, the thrill of open water cruising is unlike any other. It’s the ultimate adventure—a blend of freedom, challenge, and discovery that calls to those who look to explore all the ocean has to offer. For North Americans, with access to some of the world's most diverse and scenic waterways, open water cruising offers endless possibilities. Whether you’re eyeing the icy waters of Alaska, the tropical paradise of the Caribbean, or the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, the journey can be as rewarding as the destination.

Why Open Water Cruising?

At its core, open water cruising is about freedom. Unlike coastal or inland cruising, where you’re tethered to marinas and ports, open water cruising lets you break free from the shore. There’s a unique sense of accomplishment that comes with navigating vast stretches of water, relying on your skills, your boat, and the elements.

For boat owners, open water cruising is often the next logical step after mastering coastal waters. It challenges you to push beyond your comfort zone, to test the limits of your vessel, and to experience the ocean in its varying form.

Top North American Open Water Destinations

  1. The Caribbean: A favorite for North American cruisers, the Caribbean offers crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and a vibrant culture. The consistent trade winds and relatively short distances between islands make it a great destination for both seasoned cruisers and those new to open water.
  2. The Pacific Northwest: Known for its dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife, the waters off the coasts of Washington, British Columbia, and Alaska offer a more rugged and challenging experience. Here, you’ll navigate fjords, glaciers, and untamed wilderness, all while keeping an eye out for orcas, bears, and eagles.
  3. The Great Lakes: For those based in the heartland of North America, the Great Lakes offer an inland open water cruising experience that rivals the coasts. With vast stretches of open water, you can enjoy sailing without the concerns of ocean swells or unpredictable tides. Plus, you’ll find loads to do in small towns and cities along the way.
  4. The Gulf of Mexico: The warm waters of the Gulf offer a unique cruising experience, with opportunities to explore the Florida Keys, the Texas coastline, and even make the jump to Mexico or Cuba. The relatively calm waters and diverse destinations make it a popular choice for both short and extended cruises.

Preparing for the Journey

Open water cruising requires a different mindset and level of preparation compared to coastal cruising. Here are a few key considerations:

  1. Know Your Boat: Your vessel needs to be seaworthy for open water conditions. This means understanding your boat’s limitations and ensuring it’s equipped with the necessary safety gear, including life rafts, EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons), and a robust navigation system. Regular maintenance is crucial, as you become your own mechanic when hundreds of miles from shore.
  2. Weather Awareness: Open water cruising exposes you to the full force of the elements. Understanding weather patterns and being able to interpret forecasts is essential. In the North Pacific, for example, weather can change rapidly, and you need to be prepared for rough seas. In the Caribbean, hurricane season is a significant concern, requiring careful planning and flexibility.
  3. Self-Sufficiency: Unlike coastal cruising, where marinas and ports are readily available, open water cruising requires a high degree of self-sufficiency. This means carrying sufficient provisions, water, and fuel for extended periods, as well as being prepared to handle repairs at sea. Redundancy in critical systems, such as navigation and communication, is key.
  4. Safety First: Safety should be your top priority. Always file a float plan with someone onshore, keep in regular communication with a trusted contact, and ensure that all aboard are trained in emergency procedures. Regular safety drills can make the difference in a critical situation.

The Community of Open Water Cruisers

One of the joys of open water cruising is the camaraderie that develops among fellow cruisers. Out on the open sea, you’re part of a close-knit community. Whether it’s sharing a sundowner at a remote anchorage, swapping stories on the VHF radio, or lending a hand with a repair, there’s a sense of mutual respect and support among those who’ve answered the call of the open water.

Online forums and cruising clubs offer a wealth of knowledge and connections. The American Great Loop Cruisers’ Association (AGLCA), for instance, provides valuable resources for those cruising the Great Loop, while groups like the Seven Seas Cruising Association (SSCA) connect bluewater sailors from around the world.

Open water cruising isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. For North American boat owners, the opportunities for exploration are endless, from the warm waters of the Caribbean to the rugged shores of Alaska. It’s about pushing boundaries, embracing the unknown, and finding freedom on the open seas. If you’ve ever dreamed of charting your own course and experiencing the world from the water, there’s no better time to start planning your next open water adventure.

Happy cruising!