Hundreds of cruising yachts sail across the Atlantic Ocean every year. Some of them make a single crossing on their way to or from peripheral cruising grounds such as the Mediterranean or the Caribbean. Others make a return crossing and complete a circuit. There are several different route options. Most cruising yachts crossing the Atlantic from northern Europe tend to head south to join the trade wind route, although a few hardy souls head westwards in the high latitudes. Those departing from the Mediterranean usually set their sights on Madeira or the Canaries, but the Moroccan coast is becoming more popular as an alternative.
The classic trade wind route runs from the Canaries to the Caribbean. For those with more time, the coast of West Africa can prove to be a memorable cruising ground before heading west. The Cape Verde Islands are a logical stop-off as they sit on an ocean crossroad within the trade wind belt and are a good departure point for passages westwards or southwest towards Brazil. Each year some yachts sail up from the South Atlantic to join the North Atlantic circuit. A few boats sail eastwards through Panama on their way towards Europe. Many more will leave the circle by way of Panama as they head for the Pacific. The classic route out from the eastern shores of the USA is via Bermuda and the Azores, however there are always some who are tempted northwards, despite tales of high winds, fog and ice.
There is a wealth of information now available to the would-be ocean passage maker, including books, websites, courses and seminars, some of which go into great depth on a specific topic. Reference to some of these is made in the appropriate sections of the text. This guide does not attempt to go into great detail on any specific aspect of cruising. Rather it is intended as an introduction and an overview, appropriate to the North Atlantic and its peripheral cruising grounds. It covers a wide range of related topics brought together with a depth of experience from all the contributors, both past and present. Hopefully it will confirm your hopes, ease your concerns and encourage you to consider making your own Atlantic crossing.
Well proven Atlantic cruising yachts on the wall in Horta, Azores. Photo: David Ridout