[PUP] Spanish Main and hurricanes

[B. P. Hawkins]

Bob, 

To me, the "Spanish Main" means the Caribbean mainland coast of the Spanish
Empire - specifically Florida, Old Mexico, Central America and the north
coast of South America (Columbia and Venezuela). 

Your comments regarding hurricanes and hurricane holes, as referenced are
these referring to the left coast and the gulf?  I don't have much
experience in these areas, but completely agree with Keith regarding the
rest of the Caribbean.  An alert cruiser forewarned 2/3 to 4 days can always
safely and comfortably get out of the Hurricane Watch areas or at the least
find a hole. 

Regarding bad weather being hot, humid, and sticky, I can not think or
remember these conditions lasting more than a day and definitely hardily
ever on the windward sides.   

The rainy season varies from island to island and different areas along the
mainland. Generally, the rainy season is from May to December but varies
from year to year. It should be noted that, during rainy season, it does not
mean rain all the time. During the rainy season, there are daily short
torrential outbursts (usually minutes and seldom an hour or more) followed
by sunshine with the air being very clean, fresh, and invigorating
afterwards!  The exception can be the occasional tropical low. 

As one of the hazards, you refer to the trade winds and waves.  How do you
mean?  Do you not think these are normal weather related issues that require
a cruiser to pay attention to forecasts and plan trips/timing to their
comfort level?      

Bob, as regards security, I have never had a problem including spending a
lot of time in Venezuela. I am interested in reading about other peoples
first hand experience in the Caribbean.  Where would I find these
posts/bulletins on the SSCA covering this subject?  


-----Original Message-----
From: passagemaking-under-power-bounces at lists.samurai.com
[mailto:passagemaking-under-power-bounces at lists.samurai.com] On Behalf Of
bob Austin
Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 9:25 PM
To: Passage under power
Subject: [PUP] Spanish Main and hurricanes