Hello all,

I am looking to possible head over to Bimini from Lauderdale tomorrow and wanted to see if the forum can lend some advice and suggestions. I am a long time boater but not too familiar with that trip. Were looking to just head over there for lunch (more of a dry run) and weather looks like it will cooperate. We're running a 2004 38' Donzi ZX and will cruise around 45-50mph.

I'm interested in learning more about the area around Bimini, depths, precautions, etc. Also, if anyone can recommend a good place for such that would be great too!!!

Also, if I am not in the correct forum, I apologize.

Thank you.

will follow your tread for same info

The biggest worry is crossing the Gulf Stream and the winds / tide movement. If the NOAA faucets plays game you wont have too heavy a sea to cross. Otherwise have a compass, good charts, fuel and papers.....it isn't far but the conditions can change and for 20-30 miles it can get choppy. Loads of forums and you tube guides out there, and the sailors have the biggest problems due to no BHP to race away from issues. Watch the depths as you approach any harbours and just be aware of what is beneath you.

Here is an interesting three minute read for anybody crossing and wanting a 'heads up'.

http://www.yachtingmagazine.com/cros...-stream-safely

Thank you you all for the responses!!! I assume that even if we were there for an hours for lunch, we would have to go through the whole customs process? And is it $300 each time you go there or does that cover a certain period of time?

Thanks!!!

No the fee covers the boat for this trip and one other to be taken within ninety days. It also allows you to fish.

Anyone going for memorial day?

No, going to be boating on Lake Erie.... You?

I was there last weekend, can't find anyone with weekend off to go with

Only thing I would recomend is that you verify your insurance. When I first moved here I had State Farm. A few month after the trip I realized that most insurance companies do "Inland lakes and waterways" this insures you up to about a mile out.

If you have a general policy you probably arent insured... Verify it before its too late.