Best Time to Sail In the Abacos – Discover the Ideal Time!

Are you planning to go on a sailing adventure to the Abacos but have scanty or no information about the ideal time to visit?

Well, any time of the year is really the best time to sail in the Abacos, but the amount of fun and convenience you’ll enjoy will depend on a number of factors. Some of the important aspects you might need to consider when planning your sailing trip to the island include weather, hurricanes, and sailing seasons.

While some holidaymakers prefer to sail when temperatures (both sea and air) are high, others find it perfect when the weather is cool and wet. If you would wish to visit the Abacos when the seas are calm and the winds steady, there are months that can guarantee you just that. It’s all about perfect timing.

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Here are some of the most important things you need to know about the Abacos:

The Climate All Year Round

The Abacos Islands boast of a tropical savannah climate all year round, thanks to the mild trade winds and the warm Gulf Stream. The weather and temperatures here are pretty similar to those of South Florida, safe for occasional squalls that hit the island.

Abacos usually experience a cooler climate from the month of December through to February, where average temperatures range between 15°C to 24°C.

It’s particularly colder during the months of January and February.

Lower rainfalls can be witnessed between November and April but summer and fall do record significant rains on these islands.

The rest of the year is warmer and records temperatures of between 25°C and 31°C.

The months of May through September are usually very hot with sunny days and UV index of 10+.

April to June can be great if you love sailing in a warm but not-so-hot and muggy weather.

This can also be a good time to immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of the island if you love snorkeling or diving. If you want to enjoy calm but steady winds when sailing in the Abacos, November, and December can be an ideal time.

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About The Hurricanes

The period between 1st June and November 30th marks the official Hurricane Season both in the Abaco Islands and the entire Bahamas. Though numerous hurricanes have hit this region before, you should not be discouraged from planning your sailing tour to the islands. Even so, the chances of a hurricane hitting the Abaco Islands are 1 out of 5. Hence there’s no cause for panic.

In order to enjoy an easy time sailing and conquer the unexpected during this hurricane season, you have to be keen on weather forecasting and hurricane tracking news. Even tropical storms can be downright dangerous at this time; hence you need to be careful.

For a clear insight on what to expect in terms of weather and hurricanes, you can visit the Weather Channel website www.weather.com to get a 10-day or so weather forecast. www.nws.noaa.gov can also be resourceful in terms of weather updates and advice if you’re planning to sail in the Abaco at this time.

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Best Starting Point

If you’re planning to sail to the Abacos with your own yacht or a private charter from the mainland, then the perfect departure point can be Miami, Florida. There’s usually a 48-hour window period of well-predicted weather that can allow sailors to cruise safely into the Bahamas.

Most boats usually sail to Nassau (Bahamas capital) before proceeding to other destinations like the Abacos. If your boat is under the stewardship of an experienced captain and crew, then you won’t have to worry about how to reach the coveted Abaco Islands.

If you’re already in Nassau, you can get to Abacos by taking a ferry that sails that route. From there, you can go to Marsh Harbor-the main departure point for most boats and yachts – where you can book a sailing trip to any part of the island.

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Peak Season

The official peak sailing season in the Abaco Islands is usually between the months of December and April. This is a winter period when temperatures are cool and refreshing. The islands of the Abaco usually witness a surge of people, especially from the north, that are out to enjoy sailing and make the most out of their Christmas break.

Advantages of Sailing During Peak Season:

• Gives you a chance to escape the colder weather and otherwise annoying winter snow
• You can have the chance to celebrate Christmas and New Year with other people on the Abacos
• it’s quite thrilling to sail alongside many other boats and yachts
• There are plenty of events, festivals, and parties happening around the Abaco Islands, which you can gladly take advantage of

Disadvantages of Sailing During Peak Season:

• It’s the most expensive time to visit Abacos, as sailing tour and hotel bookings are in high demand
• Marinas and beaches are usually overcrowded
• There are no special discounts given on any booking
  

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Off-Peak Season

The off-peak season officially starts in mid-April and runs through to November 31st, the tail-end of the hurricane season. With minimal holiday breaks, hotter temperatures, and hurricane threats, the Abacos usually experience a tiny number of sailors during this period. And just like the peak season, the off-season usually comes with a set of its own advantages and disadvantages as well.

Advantages

• Most of the beaches and marina resorts are deserted and peaceful
• The prices of hiring a boat, booking a sailing tour, or renting apartments or hotel rooms are cheaper at this time
• Sailing tours and beach activities are usually discounted during the off-peak season
• Choosing dining options and playing land-based sports like golf is way easier as there are no long wait times
• You can sail to any part of the island seamlessly without experiencing any boat traffic

Disadvantages

• Most beach resorts and marinas are likely to carry out repairs and maintenance, which can jeopardize your stay.
• Some banks, restaurants, shops, and government offices may close to observe public holidays.
• Cruising through the Abacos Islands solo on a yacht can be less exciting compared to doing it alongside other sailors.
• Tropical storms and squalls during the hurricane season can limit your sailing experience.
  

So..When is Really the Best Time?

There’s not really the best time of the year to sail the Abacos, as it all depends on your preferences and the cruising experiences you’re looking for. If you would love to spend less and enjoy a quieter sailing experience, then you should avoid the peak season, between December and April, by all means.

If you are too much into snorkeling, diving, and/or sunbathing, then the period between mid-April and early June can be the most ideal. At this time, you can have all the time in the world to enjoy as many water-related activities as possible, considering it’s off-season. But be sure to carry sunscreen to avoid some sunburns or sunstroke.

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In Conclusion

The Abacos is really a great place to take on your crazy sailing adventures at any time of the year. With crystal clear waters, beautifully secluded beaches, and charming landscapes, you’ll surely love every bit of your sailing trip on this part of the Bahamas.

Renting a boat or booking a sailing tour on the Abacos is easier, especially during the off-peak season; hence setting out into the sea is quite seamless. And with daily weather forecasts and advice available at your disposal, you can always plan to sail to your desired destinations with greater convenience.

 

 

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What is your favorite time of the year to sail to the Abacos? You are welcome to share your experience in the comment below.