- Messages
- 13,329
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- Location
- Royal, AR
- Boat Make
- Yamaha
- Year
- 2007
- Boat Model
- SX
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- 23
Ladies and Gentlemen,
@Andy S and I (@Bruce) are pleased to announce that there will be two Bimini Flings in 2018.
@Andy S will lead the first on June 25th to the 30th and @Bruce will lead the second on July 9th through 14th. Andy was in the first Jet Boat group to cross in 2010 or 2011. He and @upperdeck led the first two crossings that I participated in.
I expect that the July dates will be a less crowded time allowing for more opportunity in Bimini. I know that a jetski group will be in Bimini including Bimini Sands during June dates and the large Boston Whalers group is likely to be there around that time. There will be great people and great experiences in both groups. My only regret is that I can not attend both.
Bimini Sands is offering us the same discount and rates as last year. The only changes are a $2.50 increase in cleaning fees and the deposit has increased from one night to 25%. Reservations should be made by calling Marci or Jerome at (954) 463-4829 or 888-588-2464. Make sure to tell them you are part of JetBoaters group to get the discount. After you have reserved your condo please post your unit number which will be used to confirm that you plan to attend. Rates and a cost estimation spreadsheet created by @Kevin are available at bimini-sands-jetboaters-net-discounted-rates-2016vs2018-xlsx.50558.xlsx
All of the vendors at Bimini Sands have been replaced. The ship store at Bimini Sands is now operating and well stocked as a community store. The shelves are full of reasonably priced groceries and alcohol. The bar at the infinity pool and the cafe above the ship store are open 7 days a week with new menus and prices sufficiently low to attract locals. Despite these improvements in food availability I would still plan to bring everything that you might need.
Bimini Sands is collecting information on our boats in order to have slips available. Slip rental is expected to be $50 per day.
I have not yet made arrangements for the discounted hotel, slips or parking in Fort Lauderdale. I will do so and announce availability for both date ranges in coming weeks.
This thread is to discuss the July 9th through 14th Bimini Fling.
Information on the June 25th to the 30th Bimini Fling can be found at https://jetboaters.net/threads/2018-bimini-june-trip-june-25th-june-30th.16253/
July 9th though 14th Confirmed Registrants so far are;
Alfa
Bravo
Charlie
Not Confirmed
You can register for the July 9th to 14th Bimini Fling using the form at https://jetboaters.net/forms/bimini-2018-registration-july-9th-to-14th.6/respond.
Completing the form will also create a new post with a little info about your boat and crew.
We need to get some things out of the way up front....
The Bimini Crossing is more than 50 miles in length, crosses The Gulf Stream and is in The Bermuda Triangle. The weather for the crossing is unpredictable and can change rapidly. We have no idea what the weather will hold when we pick dates six months in advance. There is a real possibility of damaging or losing your boat on the crossing. Two Jet Boaters were swamped and disabled during the 2015 crossing. It is possible that lives could be lost. Two experienced young men lost their lives in July of 2016. I am aware of four fisherman who have lost their lives in two boats in the last year. If your boat is disabled during the trip the cost to tow, salvage or repair your boat could be more than you planned to spend on the entire trip
There is added safety in numbers when we cross as a group. But as the Captain you are responsible for your boat and crew. Any boat or crew member that is not prepared to pound waves for six hours to spend a week in paradise should not attempt the trip. You need to have quality flotation, signaling, navigation and communications equipment on your boat. Boats should not be overloaded. For me that means that I would not want to transport anyone beyond my family of four to Bimini. All boats need to carry sufficient fuel to reach Bimini with a reasonable reserve. For most of our boats that is simply a full tank but for 192s that is perhaps an extra 25 gallons. In the 2015 and 2017 crossing we have found that 2015+ 240/242 models are likely to need additional fuel for rough crossings.
All boats should maintain sufficient speed to keep up with the group. At minimum that speed will be planing speed. In good water our speed will be around 30 MPH at which our boats are most efficient. We will target a 20 to 25 mph speed for the crossing to Bimini and 25 to 30 mph for the return. All cargo in your boat needs to be secured. Any heavy cargo in the bow area needs to be secured in such a way that it can be quickly moved backward. All crew should be seated in the cockpit area with the windscreen passage closed.
Moving on to the fun stuff......
Bimini is an amazing place. My family's trips there have been the most relaxing and enjoyable vacations that we have ever had. It is something that you will talk about all year long and be counting the days until you can go back again. The experience is similar to camping in a condo with the most amazing scenery and wildlife that you could imagine. You will want to bring everything that you need for the entire trip but also pack light. It is an adventure and will test your boating, navigational, communication, planning, camping, cooking and survival skills. It is a great learning opportunity for my children. You can find lots of info about the location and trip in the Preparing For Bimini Thread https://jetboaters.net/threads/preparing-for-bimini.3800/ .
And now the organizational......
2017 was the biggest JetBoaters group to ever go to Bimini. Both in 2015 and 2017 we experienced much larger water than was forecast. Due to the water conditions we experienced two unexpected issues during the 2015 crossing to Bimini. Initially we had two boats that were swamped and had to be towed back into Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale). After refueling we set off again and were able to avoid the swamping problem by avoiding stopping but by that point we were nervous about water conditions and the entire group slowed to speeds that were not compatible with arriving in Bimini with the fuel onboard.
When we leave Port Everglades many Captains and Crew in our group will be entering the ocean for the first time. I have been there and understand that experience. Our boats are capable of way more than our bodies and minds are. For example;
Knowing that my boat and family had been in rougher water in the Gulf helped enormously with our 2015 crossing.
For 2016 I made changes that I believe addressed issues from 2015. We will continue to tweak these based on what we learned in 2017;
1. Focusing on the responsibility of individual Captains for their boat, equipment, crew, cargo, fuel and crossing.
a. Boat - our boats need to be in optimal condition. Everything on the boat needs to be tested. I would recommend having a free US Coast Guard Vessel Safety Check and will do so myself.
b. Equipment - at a very minimum, beyond requirements for operating on a lake, you need to add a handheld VHF and flares. Even though you are crossing in a group you may venture out on your own once in Bimini. Please consider what safety equipment you will have. In 2014 we added Type 1 Life Vests, a fixed VHF radio (up to 20 mile range), two handheld VHF radios (up to 5 mile range), a chart plotter for navigation with a tablet for backup and a second bilge pump. In 2015 planning for a single boat return crossing we added a Delorme inReach satellite tracker and messaging device. In 2017 we had two boats that drifted for hours before being rescued. Those situations could have been much worse. A satellite tracking device would have been helpful in both situations.
c. Crew - if any of your crew has back or medical issues it would be a good idea to fly or ferry them over. On the relatively smooth return portion of the 2015 Fling an experienced Captain hit a rogue wave and suffered a back injury. In 2017 a crew member suffered a back injury on the rough crossing to Bimini and had to fly home soon after arrival. There is plenty of fun to be had once we get to Bimini. If they are not suited for a long rough crossing of pounding waves please fly or ferry them over. I have been in the drivers seat with a screaming passenger where I had to make the decision to ignore that passenger rather than take on water. I would prefer not to experience that again.
d. Cargo - In 2014 we had much better water than 2015 but we had a number of boats stop to secure cargo. We pack our boat so that the only cargo that is not inside of storage areas is limited to ice chest(s) and an inflatable SUP in the bow. Everything else is inside a door or under a seat. The ice chests are secured so that they can be easily moved into the cockpit without needing to stop the boat. If you have other cargo outside of the storage areas your boat is likely too heavy. If you have to stop to secure cargo in good water you impede the progress of the group, in rough water you are creating risk for your boat and any others that stop with you.
e. Fuel - Any four stroke Yamaha except for a 190/192 or 2015+ 240/242 should be able to cross with the fuel in the tank. Many members have done this for years. Even though his crew were the saints at the back of the pack taking care of the slower boats during the 2015 crossing @Andy S's SX230 made it to Bimini without refueling. In comparison I accelerated to planing speeds around the 20 mile mark and burned 38 gallons with my family, two weeks of food and ham for the group in our SX230. My perspective is that carrying fuel cans increases your boats weight and fuel consumption. It is your decision if you want to carry extra fuel. If you do please do not place the fuel cans where they make clean out ports difficult to use. It is recommended that a 190 carry 10 gallons of extra fuel and a 192 carry 25 gallons of extra fuel at a minimum.
f. Crossing - It is your decision if you want to take your boat out of Port Everglades and attempt the crossing. I am sure that we will all be monitoring the weather and wave forecasts but we learned in 2015 that the forecast may be wrong. If you do venture out of Port Everglades it is your responsibility to get your crew safely to Bimini or return them to Port Everglades. If you experience difficulties other boats will attempt to help but in conditions such as those experienced in 2015 there is very little that another boat of our size and type can do. If you do take on water please keep your crew on your boat. in 2015 a crew member was injured exiting the stern of a swamped boat but perfectly safe boat. Once in the water your crew will be moving at an average of 4 mph in the Gulf Stream. It is much safer to stay in the boat and wait for rescue. You need to monitor your fuel consumption. If fuel consumption becomes an issue you need to travel at a more efficient speed.
2. Splitting into smaller groups departing at five minute intervals. The most experienced boaters making the crossing will each lead a small group of six to eight boats. I believe this addresses several potential issues;
a. Inaccurate Forecasts - the first group will be several miles out of Port Everglades before the second group exits the port. This lead group will report back about the water conditions. This will avoid the other groups being surprised.
b. Leadership - Each member of the small group will have a leader running immediately ahead. They will be able to see how the leader is taking the waves. This should allow members of the group to emulate the leader and have confidence that they also can handle the upcoming waves.
c. Stopping - each group will handle any issues that occur within that group. If a boat needs to stop the others in the group will either circle or stop depending on the conditions.
d. Communications - it is difficult to hear radio calls with all of the water, wind and engine noise. Each group will use a specific VHF frequency for the group. That way any call on that frequency will be relevant.
e. Observation - After we exit Port Everglades the group members should fan out into a line running beside each other at safe, perhaps 100', intervals at a safe distance behind the leader. This will allow a spotter from the lead boat to observe all of the boats in that group.
3. We will not have a tail. In past years a specific boat has volunteered to be the last and watch for any boats to fall behind. It is unreasonable to ask any boat to take this position. In 2015 the tail spent hours of extra time suffering through rough and dangerous waves. We will not need a tail with small groups that stay together. Our leaders will not travel at unsafe speeds or above the speed that the slowest boat in his group is capable of. Unless the water is very smooth this will be a top speed of 25 to 30 mph. It is the responsibility of the individual Captains to keep up with their leader.
Rough water tips ......
1. Keep your boat above the water and the water below your boat. Our boats have open bows, a bilge pump and limited self bailing capability. Some boat designs allow water to run out almost as fast as it gets in. Ours do not. So staying on plane and avoiding stuffing the bow into waves is important.
2. Move your crew as far back as possible while staying in the cockpit. Your boat is basically hinging on the stern when it goes over a wave. The farther back they are the less impact that they feel.
3. Some small crew members in a lightly loaded boat may wish to lay on one of the side seat cushions while holding on to the nearest handle. The seat cushion will reduce the impact for them.
4. I find it easiest to stand with my legs bent slightly while crossing rough water. That way my leg muscles can take the force of impact. I have the seat bolster up and in place to catch me if I find the waves to be too rough.
5. Make sure that you have the kill switch lanyard on.
6. When the water is rough but not tall enough to come over the bow adding weight to the bow will help to prevent the bow rising which will reduce the impact. Adjustable trim tabs accomplish the same task without the need to shift weight and make it much more convenient to raise or lower the bow.
7. Regardless of speed you will use more fuel in rough water. On a smooth lake our SX230 should get around 3.4 MPG. On the way to Bimini in 2015 we achieved 1.4 MPG. I believe we saw around 1 MPG when we were caught in a 30 MPH cross wind in the Gulf of Mexico. Even on the lightly loaded and relatively calm return trips from Bimini we have experienced around 2.4 MPG. Our boats are most efficient in undisturbed water so you want to avoid running in the water that has been churned up by the boat in front of you for long periods of time.
8. Have everything in your boat secured before you enter rough water. It is much more difficult to secure items when you are bouncing around.
9. If you need to stop decelerate slowly. Coming off plane quickly causes the bow to dip and may result in taking on water. Using reverse will definitely cause your bow to dip.
10. If you get something in your jet(s) continue on until you find an area of smoother water before stopping to clean out your jets. Having seaweed or something else clogging your jet(s) is unfortunate but not nearly as bad as taking on water while your boat is disabled to clean out the jet(s). We experienced a lot of seaweed around Port Everglades in 2015. It was mixed into the waves and often was impossible to avoid. Once we had a jet clogged we gave it a little time to see if it would free itself then we would move to the leeward side of the groups wake and stop when it looked like the big waves had settled for a while. We decelerated slowly and cleaned out the jet(s) as quickly as possible. @Rana and I would each clean out a jet so that we could complete the task in half of the time. After cleaning our jets we would accelerate to a speed that was sufficient to allow us to catch up with the group and move into our previous position. It is important not to have fuel cans or anything else on top of your clean out plug hatch. It would be good to practice this skill before you venture into rough water.
11. When you cross large waves you will hear your jets spinning in the air. This is normal. Many of us have heard it hundreds or thousands of times.
12. If you do get water in your boat stay calm and stay on plane or at minimum keep the bow up. The water will run out through the scupper valve at the stern. Stopping is the worst thing that you can do.
13. Your boat has built in flotation. It is very unlikely to sink. Even when filled with water our boats maintain significant freeboard. If your boat were to become disabled stay in the boat. Your boat is easier for rescuers to locate than individuals who will likely be separated once they are in the water.
Approximate Agenda
Day Before Departure (July 8th) before 4:00 PM. This is the time to stock up on supplies and food for the trip, pack everything in your boat and launch.
My family will spend the night of the 8th in Fort Pierce, FL which is a little under 2 hours from Fort Lauderdale. Being close will give us more time for final preparations on the 9th.
Bass Pro Shop with a nice aquarium and restaurant that is likely on your way to launch. A Divers Direct is also located in the same parking lot.
Groceries - We shop at the Publix Grocery Store near the Harbor Towne Marina and load the groceries directly into the boat. There is a Winn Dixie a few blocks to the West.
Launch - I recommend launching your boat and leaving your tow vehicle and trailer at Harbour Towne Marina on the Dania Cutoff Canal. They have 24 hour security and charge $15 per day cash for parking. Alternately I will be posting information on an airport parking service where we can prepay and have parking waiting. We used the airport parking with great success in 2017. Harbor Towne is 5 miles by water from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center. You will be boating through slow speed areas. I was pulled over for 7 MPH last year so it will take approximately an hour to boat from Harbor Towne to Bahia Mar. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/zpzh8yu or download it from http://tinyurl.com/hu8r32u .
Day Before Departure (July 8th) 5:30 PM. Please have your boat docked in a slip at Bahia Mar with a full tank of fuel. We will not stop for fuel on the way to Bimini on the 20th. The fuel dock that is open at that time has asked us to fuel up during the day on Sunday as they had difficulty handling our group in 2014. So please fuel up on the 9th. I will do so at Bahia Mar's fuel dock which closes at 5:30 PM. Lauderdale Marina which is NW of the 17th Street Draw Bridge is another option which offers bait and tackle as well as fuel.
Day Before Departure (July 8th) 6:00 PM Captains meeting(s) at Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel. I would like to break captains meetings up into groups that will be making the crossing together. So we will have three or four smaller captains meetings at locations to be determined. The group leaders and I will work out the split of confirmed participants into groups in April.
Day of Departure (July 9th) 5:40 AM Departure from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center for Bimini Bahamas. I will update the times for departure as we get closer. Current intentions are to have groups leaving at 5:40, 5:45, 5:50, 5:55 and 6:00. Please have your boat loaded with all cargo secured before your departure time. Your group will conduct a combination radio check and roll call ten minutes before departure. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/zlatnzuor download it from http://tinyurl.com/jo45osd .
Second Day of Trip ~ Noon Pot Luck / Party at the sandbar on the East Side of North Bimini followed by an evening dolphin cruise. My family has enjoyed this long deserted beach since 2014 and we had some amazing group trips there in 2016. @JROD has explored the mangroves and @waterboy has found some amazing starfish at the southern end. This is an area of shallow water and shifting sand so we will need to be careful but should be a great time. If anyone is really adventurous the wreck of the Hesperus is perhaps 10 miles further west and is covered up in sharks and barracuda. There are many reef areas West of North Bimini that you will pass on the 12.6 mile route to this location. I recommend visiting the Three Sisters rocks where you will find mooring buoys to tie off to, amazing scenery for snorkeling and smaller but hungry reef fish are an easy catch. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/zy75fsb or download it from http://tinyurl.com/h5ufatb .
Best Water Day a tour of Cat Cay and the beautiful reefs in this area. We will start with fishing at Tuna Alley then move on to drift diving / snorkeling at the colorful Rainbow Reefs. There are three mooring buoys at Tuna Alley where some of us can tie up while others can raft to the side of those on the buoys. In 2015 my family caught 16+ meals of trigger and snapper in less than an hour. When we deployed chum we were surrounded by a boat size school of fish. Rainbow Reef has a single mooring buoy. Whoever snags the buoy can allow other boats to tie off to them forming a chain. When my family visited Rainbow Reef we found that the strong currents necessitated drift snorkeling. After @Emma and I drifted away from the boat we decided to extend a 100' rope out of the boat and allow snorkelers to drift downstream with he boat. Then they would hold onto the rope to be towed upstream to drift again. These reefs are only a few miles apart. I imagine that those who are not interested in fishing will proceed to Rainbow Reef then perhaps come back to Tuna Alley after we have caught our fill. This is easy fishing that requires nothing more than a hook, line and squid or other bait. We will also go past the Capone, the light house on Gun Cay and the marina at Cat Cay. If time allows we will stop at Honeymoon Harbor to feed the rays on the way back.
Another Worthy Outing Honeymoon Harbor, Gun Cay Bahamas. This beautiful location is 9.1 miles south of Bimini Sands. There are many locations to explore along the way including an airplane wreck, the Sapona, Turtle Rocks and a lighthouse a little further south. The rays are friendly so be sure to bring squid or other suitable food to feed them. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/hb556av or download it from http://tinyurl.com/jaaggpl . If water conditions or fuel availability make this destination undesirable we will change the location to the beaches on the North East or North West sides of North Bimini Island.
Day of Return (July 14th) ~ 6:00 AM Departure from Bimini Sands. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/j8gu5ng or download it from http://tinyurl.com/zwuw56q .
CUSTOMS
Please remember to fill out the customs form that is attached to this post or it can be completed online at http://pdf.ac/6pQ8gY. We will have the immigration forms available at the captain's meeting. The custom's form needs to be completed by the master of the vessel. This form should be downloaded, printed on legal (8.5x14) sized paper and filled out prior to departure. Each person/family needs to fill out the immigration form but cannot be downloaded. I also have attached a mostly completed copy of my form from 2016 in case anyone wants a cheat sheet. More info on customs/immigration can be found at Bahamas.com/boating or http://www.bahamas.com/boating-enter-exit
@Bill D tested out the "fillable" version of the form located at http://pdf.ac/6pQ8gY and has the following advice for us.
"When you create a text box, all you have to do is click about where you want it and start typing. After you fill the box, you can click and hold on the little arrow right above to drag it into position. Also, after the first text box is placed, there are alignment lines that show up.
A few hints for newbies like me (Thanks Bruce).... Our port of departure is Port Everglades, USA. Our port of arrival is Bimini. Our next port / country is Port Everglades & USA."
Thank you @Bill D!
Unfortunately Bimini Sands has a limited number of each type of unit in the rental pool. That means that many of us will not get the exactly the unit they want. On the positive side once we arrive in paradise this will be remembered as a minor issue. The condos start with one bedroom units which have one bathroom with a shower, a small kitchen, an american sized refrigerator, microwave, range with oven, washer, dryer and living room with a television, a couch and likely a love seat, futon or other large seating item. My family of four with two small children has fit into a one bedroom with the children sleeping in the living room in the past. The next step up is an inexpensive upgrade to a one bedroom with a loft. The loft is a semi private bedroom with an attached bathroom. We find the additional bathroom to be very nice to have. Some lofts have stair access while others have a tall PVC ladder running up the wall. I do not recommend the ladder lofts for small children. From there the units go up in size by bedroom count. Each additional bedroom includes an additional bathroom. I have attached floor plans for one bedroom and two bedroom units. Beyond unit size your choices expand to view. Ocean view units are a little more expensive but provide amazing sunset views which you may catch at the pool instead of your condo. Marina view condos allow for an reassuring glance at your boat. We have enjoyed both options. The infinity pool will be a gather spot in the evenings. It is roughly an 8/10th mile walk from building 21 which is on the opposite side of the resort. This may be an issue for some while others will be attracted to the four very nice one bed with loft ocean view units in building 21 with a private beach. My family chose to spend 2014 and 2015 in building 21. In recent years we have chosen to squeeze into a small unit to be close to the pool.
Most condos will have satellite television. Some will have HD antennas receiving stations from Miami. Most will have a DVD player and may have some movies. My family rarely uses a television in Bimini except for the year that we were there during Shark Week. Some condos have dedicated DSL internet provided by BTC. BTC is years behind on completing a project to provide internet and TV to every condo and appears to be unable to complete. There is sporadic WiFi around the resort. I suggest that you plan to enable international data on your phone if you want to use the internet in Bimini. I spent $10 a day to use my existing data plan including tethering in Bimini in 2017.
Here is a map of the Resort to allow you to see where your assigned condo is located.
This is the layout of a one bedroom condo
This is the layout of a two bedroom condo
Condo reservations should be made by calling Marci at (954) 463-4829 or 888-588-2464.
After you have reserved your condo please post your unit number which will be used to confirm that you plan to attend.
Here is a map of interesting places to visit in Bimini
#Bimini, #Bimini2018, @Bimini
@Andy S and I (@Bruce) are pleased to announce that there will be two Bimini Flings in 2018.
@Andy S will lead the first on June 25th to the 30th and @Bruce will lead the second on July 9th through 14th. Andy was in the first Jet Boat group to cross in 2010 or 2011. He and @upperdeck led the first two crossings that I participated in.
I expect that the July dates will be a less crowded time allowing for more opportunity in Bimini. I know that a jetski group will be in Bimini including Bimini Sands during June dates and the large Boston Whalers group is likely to be there around that time. There will be great people and great experiences in both groups. My only regret is that I can not attend both.
Bimini Sands is offering us the same discount and rates as last year. The only changes are a $2.50 increase in cleaning fees and the deposit has increased from one night to 25%. Reservations should be made by calling Marci or Jerome at (954) 463-4829 or 888-588-2464. Make sure to tell them you are part of JetBoaters group to get the discount. After you have reserved your condo please post your unit number which will be used to confirm that you plan to attend. Rates and a cost estimation spreadsheet created by @Kevin are available at bimini-sands-jetboaters-net-discounted-rates-2016vs2018-xlsx.50558.xlsx
All of the vendors at Bimini Sands have been replaced. The ship store at Bimini Sands is now operating and well stocked as a community store. The shelves are full of reasonably priced groceries and alcohol. The bar at the infinity pool and the cafe above the ship store are open 7 days a week with new menus and prices sufficiently low to attract locals. Despite these improvements in food availability I would still plan to bring everything that you might need.
Bimini Sands is collecting information on our boats in order to have slips available. Slip rental is expected to be $50 per day.
I have not yet made arrangements for the discounted hotel, slips or parking in Fort Lauderdale. I will do so and announce availability for both date ranges in coming weeks.
This thread is to discuss the July 9th through 14th Bimini Fling.
Information on the June 25th to the 30th Bimini Fling can be found at https://jetboaters.net/threads/2018-bimini-june-trip-june-25th-june-30th.16253/
July 9th though 14th Confirmed Registrants so far are;
Alfa
- Jewels captained by @Kevin Sargent with 2 previous Bimini trips from Atlanta, GA with 4 adults and 4 children in Unit 14K
- Out of control captained by @leonard delia with 2 previous Bimini trips from Port everglades with 2 adults and 1 children in Unit 17R
- Play Money captained by @rsrlegends with 1 previous Bimini trips from Jordan Lake, Apex, NC with 4 adults and 0 children in Unit 15I/15J
- Scott's Yacht captained by @Skroggy66 with 1 previous Bimini trips from Flagler Beach FL with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit 3B
- Liquid Therapy captained by @Mainah with 0 previous Bimini trips from Lake Murray, Chapin, SC with 4 adults and 2 children in Unit 21L
- Becky Sue captained by @Dochapel with 0 previous Bimini trips from Jordan Lake Apex, NC with 4 adults and 1 children in Unit 15L
- Mark Hoell in Unit 21O
- Stealin' Time captained by @D3nN1s with 0 previous Bimini trips from Rancocas, Delran, NJ with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit 3F
- Dirty girl captained by @James R Whitten with 0 previous Bimini trips from Conroe tx with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit 21A
- Sick Day captained by @Screennameinuse with 0 previous Bimini trips from Atlanta, GA with 4 adults and 0 children in Unit 20D
Bravo
- Knot at Work captained by @Ryuc14911 with 1 previous Bimini trip from Port canaveral with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit (Slip Only)
- Daddys Dollar captained by @Omar8thgen with 0 previous Bimini trips from Kissimmee, FL with 4 adults and 0 children in Unit 13D
- La Jela captained by @Jessenia Serrano with 0 previous Bimini trips from TAMPA, FL with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit (Slip Only)
- +11 Unregistered
Charlie
- Chooch's Halo captained by @Water Girl with 1 previous Bimini trips from Philadelphia, PA with 2 to 4 adults and 0 children in Unit 2B
- Into The Blue captained by @jaburt with 1 previous Bimini trips from Enterprise, MS with 4 adults and 4 children in Unit 2A
- Never Satisfied captained by @steven rivera with 1 previous Bimini trips from Redbank, NJ with 3 adults and 3 children in Unit 14D
- Jet Ski Dream Rider captained by @JROD with 5 previous Bimini trips from Oak Island, NC staying in Port Royal
- PropLess captained by @JerseyYami with 0 previous Bimini trips from Atlantic City, New Jersey with 4 adults and 3 children in Unit 15H
- Marcus Thompson in 5F
- It's About Time captained by @Patricia Mershon with 0 previous Bimini trips from Staten Island, NY with 4 adults and 0 children in Unit 14J
- Code Blue captained by @Yadel with 0 previous Bimini trips from Miami with 1 adults and 0 children in Unit 7F
- Polar captained by @Erica Almond with 0 previous Bimini trips from Southport, NC with 3 adults and 2 children in Unit
- Eric on a ski following @JROD.
- Making Waves captained by @James Thoms with 0 previous Bimini trips from Jacksonville, FL with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit 21G
- Propless captained by @Bruce with 4 previous Bimini trips from The Sandbar, Royal, AR with 2 adults and 2 children in Unit 4M
- GERALDINE captained by @zedxmike with 1 previous Bimini trips from WINTER GARDEN, FL with 2 adults and 1 children in unit 14H
- Lito captained by @Hector with 1 previous Bimini trips from Richmond, Virginia with 4 adults and 1 children in unit 17M
- Rest Stop captained by @Speedling with 0 previous Bimini trips from Cedar Lake, IN with 2 adults and 3 children in unit 7Q
- Newbote captained by @newbote with 0 previous Bimini trips from Fort Mill SC with 3 adults and 0 children in Unit 7L/7R
- Monterey captained by @Berrie with 0 previous Bimini trips from Lawson, MO with 2 adults and 2 children in Unit 8E
- Island Girl 2 captained by @Hamp with 0 previous Bimini trips from Birmingham, AL with 1 adults and 0 children in Unit 16L
- No Reserve captained by @Rod5 with 0 previous Bimini trips from Marietta GA with 4 or 6 adults and 0 children in Unit 14E
- Yet To Be Named captained by @BBottoms with 0 previous Bimini trips from Buffalo, KY with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit 1B
- Aljariah captained by @AbuAyd with 0 previous Bimini trips from Round Rock, TX with 1 adults and 2 children in Unit 1A
- Midlife Crisis captained by @Lowstar with 0 previous Bimini trips from Middleburg, fl with 2 adults and 0 children in Unit14B
Not Confirmed
- POSEIDON captained by @Pantelis with 0 previous Bimini trips from COLUMBIA ISLAND MARINA, WASHINGTON DC with 4 to 6 adults and 0 children in unit
- Caramelito captained by @Tico-Rafael with 0 previous Bimini trips from Crandon Key Biscayne with 2 adults on 0 children in Unit
- PWC JetSki captained by @JamesParks with 0 previous Bimini trips from Richmond, Virginia with 1 adults and 0 children in Unit
- Greg’s captained by @Dallas with 0 previous Bimini trips from Charlotte, NC with 1 adults and 0 children in Unit
- Lucifer captained by @Mgray with 0 previous Bimini trips from Richmond,va with 3 adults and 0 children in Unit
- Yamaha captained by @Erica Almond with 0 previous Bimini trips from Lake Tillery NC with 1 adults and 0 children in Unit
You can register for the July 9th to 14th Bimini Fling using the form at https://jetboaters.net/forms/bimini-2018-registration-july-9th-to-14th.6/respond.
Completing the form will also create a new post with a little info about your boat and crew.
We need to get some things out of the way up front....
The Bimini Crossing is more than 50 miles in length, crosses The Gulf Stream and is in The Bermuda Triangle. The weather for the crossing is unpredictable and can change rapidly. We have no idea what the weather will hold when we pick dates six months in advance. There is a real possibility of damaging or losing your boat on the crossing. Two Jet Boaters were swamped and disabled during the 2015 crossing. It is possible that lives could be lost. Two experienced young men lost their lives in July of 2016. I am aware of four fisherman who have lost their lives in two boats in the last year. If your boat is disabled during the trip the cost to tow, salvage or repair your boat could be more than you planned to spend on the entire trip
There is added safety in numbers when we cross as a group. But as the Captain you are responsible for your boat and crew. Any boat or crew member that is not prepared to pound waves for six hours to spend a week in paradise should not attempt the trip. You need to have quality flotation, signaling, navigation and communications equipment on your boat. Boats should not be overloaded. For me that means that I would not want to transport anyone beyond my family of four to Bimini. All boats need to carry sufficient fuel to reach Bimini with a reasonable reserve. For most of our boats that is simply a full tank but for 192s that is perhaps an extra 25 gallons. In the 2015 and 2017 crossing we have found that 2015+ 240/242 models are likely to need additional fuel for rough crossings.
All boats should maintain sufficient speed to keep up with the group. At minimum that speed will be planing speed. In good water our speed will be around 30 MPH at which our boats are most efficient. We will target a 20 to 25 mph speed for the crossing to Bimini and 25 to 30 mph for the return. All cargo in your boat needs to be secured. Any heavy cargo in the bow area needs to be secured in such a way that it can be quickly moved backward. All crew should be seated in the cockpit area with the windscreen passage closed.
Moving on to the fun stuff......
Bimini is an amazing place. My family's trips there have been the most relaxing and enjoyable vacations that we have ever had. It is something that you will talk about all year long and be counting the days until you can go back again. The experience is similar to camping in a condo with the most amazing scenery and wildlife that you could imagine. You will want to bring everything that you need for the entire trip but also pack light. It is an adventure and will test your boating, navigational, communication, planning, camping, cooking and survival skills. It is a great learning opportunity for my children. You can find lots of info about the location and trip in the Preparing For Bimini Thread https://jetboaters.net/threads/preparing-for-bimini.3800/ .
And now the organizational......
2017 was the biggest JetBoaters group to ever go to Bimini. Both in 2015 and 2017 we experienced much larger water than was forecast. Due to the water conditions we experienced two unexpected issues during the 2015 crossing to Bimini. Initially we had two boats that were swamped and had to be towed back into Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale). After refueling we set off again and were able to avoid the swamping problem by avoiding stopping but by that point we were nervous about water conditions and the entire group slowed to speeds that were not compatible with arriving in Bimini with the fuel onboard.
When we leave Port Everglades many Captains and Crew in our group will be entering the ocean for the first time. I have been there and understand that experience. Our boats are capable of way more than our bodies and minds are. For example;
Knowing that my boat and family had been in rougher water in the Gulf helped enormously with our 2015 crossing.
For 2016 I made changes that I believe addressed issues from 2015. We will continue to tweak these based on what we learned in 2017;
1. Focusing on the responsibility of individual Captains for their boat, equipment, crew, cargo, fuel and crossing.
a. Boat - our boats need to be in optimal condition. Everything on the boat needs to be tested. I would recommend having a free US Coast Guard Vessel Safety Check and will do so myself.
b. Equipment - at a very minimum, beyond requirements for operating on a lake, you need to add a handheld VHF and flares. Even though you are crossing in a group you may venture out on your own once in Bimini. Please consider what safety equipment you will have. In 2014 we added Type 1 Life Vests, a fixed VHF radio (up to 20 mile range), two handheld VHF radios (up to 5 mile range), a chart plotter for navigation with a tablet for backup and a second bilge pump. In 2015 planning for a single boat return crossing we added a Delorme inReach satellite tracker and messaging device. In 2017 we had two boats that drifted for hours before being rescued. Those situations could have been much worse. A satellite tracking device would have been helpful in both situations.
c. Crew - if any of your crew has back or medical issues it would be a good idea to fly or ferry them over. On the relatively smooth return portion of the 2015 Fling an experienced Captain hit a rogue wave and suffered a back injury. In 2017 a crew member suffered a back injury on the rough crossing to Bimini and had to fly home soon after arrival. There is plenty of fun to be had once we get to Bimini. If they are not suited for a long rough crossing of pounding waves please fly or ferry them over. I have been in the drivers seat with a screaming passenger where I had to make the decision to ignore that passenger rather than take on water. I would prefer not to experience that again.
d. Cargo - In 2014 we had much better water than 2015 but we had a number of boats stop to secure cargo. We pack our boat so that the only cargo that is not inside of storage areas is limited to ice chest(s) and an inflatable SUP in the bow. Everything else is inside a door or under a seat. The ice chests are secured so that they can be easily moved into the cockpit without needing to stop the boat. If you have other cargo outside of the storage areas your boat is likely too heavy. If you have to stop to secure cargo in good water you impede the progress of the group, in rough water you are creating risk for your boat and any others that stop with you.
e. Fuel - Any four stroke Yamaha except for a 190/192 or 2015+ 240/242 should be able to cross with the fuel in the tank. Many members have done this for years. Even though his crew were the saints at the back of the pack taking care of the slower boats during the 2015 crossing @Andy S's SX230 made it to Bimini without refueling. In comparison I accelerated to planing speeds around the 20 mile mark and burned 38 gallons with my family, two weeks of food and ham for the group in our SX230. My perspective is that carrying fuel cans increases your boats weight and fuel consumption. It is your decision if you want to carry extra fuel. If you do please do not place the fuel cans where they make clean out ports difficult to use. It is recommended that a 190 carry 10 gallons of extra fuel and a 192 carry 25 gallons of extra fuel at a minimum.
f. Crossing - It is your decision if you want to take your boat out of Port Everglades and attempt the crossing. I am sure that we will all be monitoring the weather and wave forecasts but we learned in 2015 that the forecast may be wrong. If you do venture out of Port Everglades it is your responsibility to get your crew safely to Bimini or return them to Port Everglades. If you experience difficulties other boats will attempt to help but in conditions such as those experienced in 2015 there is very little that another boat of our size and type can do. If you do take on water please keep your crew on your boat. in 2015 a crew member was injured exiting the stern of a swamped boat but perfectly safe boat. Once in the water your crew will be moving at an average of 4 mph in the Gulf Stream. It is much safer to stay in the boat and wait for rescue. You need to monitor your fuel consumption. If fuel consumption becomes an issue you need to travel at a more efficient speed.
2. Splitting into smaller groups departing at five minute intervals. The most experienced boaters making the crossing will each lead a small group of six to eight boats. I believe this addresses several potential issues;
a. Inaccurate Forecasts - the first group will be several miles out of Port Everglades before the second group exits the port. This lead group will report back about the water conditions. This will avoid the other groups being surprised.
b. Leadership - Each member of the small group will have a leader running immediately ahead. They will be able to see how the leader is taking the waves. This should allow members of the group to emulate the leader and have confidence that they also can handle the upcoming waves.
c. Stopping - each group will handle any issues that occur within that group. If a boat needs to stop the others in the group will either circle or stop depending on the conditions.
d. Communications - it is difficult to hear radio calls with all of the water, wind and engine noise. Each group will use a specific VHF frequency for the group. That way any call on that frequency will be relevant.
e. Observation - After we exit Port Everglades the group members should fan out into a line running beside each other at safe, perhaps 100', intervals at a safe distance behind the leader. This will allow a spotter from the lead boat to observe all of the boats in that group.
3. We will not have a tail. In past years a specific boat has volunteered to be the last and watch for any boats to fall behind. It is unreasonable to ask any boat to take this position. In 2015 the tail spent hours of extra time suffering through rough and dangerous waves. We will not need a tail with small groups that stay together. Our leaders will not travel at unsafe speeds or above the speed that the slowest boat in his group is capable of. Unless the water is very smooth this will be a top speed of 25 to 30 mph. It is the responsibility of the individual Captains to keep up with their leader.
Rough water tips ......
1. Keep your boat above the water and the water below your boat. Our boats have open bows, a bilge pump and limited self bailing capability. Some boat designs allow water to run out almost as fast as it gets in. Ours do not. So staying on plane and avoiding stuffing the bow into waves is important.
2. Move your crew as far back as possible while staying in the cockpit. Your boat is basically hinging on the stern when it goes over a wave. The farther back they are the less impact that they feel.
3. Some small crew members in a lightly loaded boat may wish to lay on one of the side seat cushions while holding on to the nearest handle. The seat cushion will reduce the impact for them.
4. I find it easiest to stand with my legs bent slightly while crossing rough water. That way my leg muscles can take the force of impact. I have the seat bolster up and in place to catch me if I find the waves to be too rough.
5. Make sure that you have the kill switch lanyard on.
6. When the water is rough but not tall enough to come over the bow adding weight to the bow will help to prevent the bow rising which will reduce the impact. Adjustable trim tabs accomplish the same task without the need to shift weight and make it much more convenient to raise or lower the bow.
7. Regardless of speed you will use more fuel in rough water. On a smooth lake our SX230 should get around 3.4 MPG. On the way to Bimini in 2015 we achieved 1.4 MPG. I believe we saw around 1 MPG when we were caught in a 30 MPH cross wind in the Gulf of Mexico. Even on the lightly loaded and relatively calm return trips from Bimini we have experienced around 2.4 MPG. Our boats are most efficient in undisturbed water so you want to avoid running in the water that has been churned up by the boat in front of you for long periods of time.
8. Have everything in your boat secured before you enter rough water. It is much more difficult to secure items when you are bouncing around.
9. If you need to stop decelerate slowly. Coming off plane quickly causes the bow to dip and may result in taking on water. Using reverse will definitely cause your bow to dip.
10. If you get something in your jet(s) continue on until you find an area of smoother water before stopping to clean out your jets. Having seaweed or something else clogging your jet(s) is unfortunate but not nearly as bad as taking on water while your boat is disabled to clean out the jet(s). We experienced a lot of seaweed around Port Everglades in 2015. It was mixed into the waves and often was impossible to avoid. Once we had a jet clogged we gave it a little time to see if it would free itself then we would move to the leeward side of the groups wake and stop when it looked like the big waves had settled for a while. We decelerated slowly and cleaned out the jet(s) as quickly as possible. @Rana and I would each clean out a jet so that we could complete the task in half of the time. After cleaning our jets we would accelerate to a speed that was sufficient to allow us to catch up with the group and move into our previous position. It is important not to have fuel cans or anything else on top of your clean out plug hatch. It would be good to practice this skill before you venture into rough water.
11. When you cross large waves you will hear your jets spinning in the air. This is normal. Many of us have heard it hundreds or thousands of times.
12. If you do get water in your boat stay calm and stay on plane or at minimum keep the bow up. The water will run out through the scupper valve at the stern. Stopping is the worst thing that you can do.
13. Your boat has built in flotation. It is very unlikely to sink. Even when filled with water our boats maintain significant freeboard. If your boat were to become disabled stay in the boat. Your boat is easier for rescuers to locate than individuals who will likely be separated once they are in the water.
Approximate Agenda
Day Before Departure (July 8th) before 4:00 PM. This is the time to stock up on supplies and food for the trip, pack everything in your boat and launch.
My family will spend the night of the 8th in Fort Pierce, FL which is a little under 2 hours from Fort Lauderdale. Being close will give us more time for final preparations on the 9th.
Bass Pro Shop with a nice aquarium and restaurant that is likely on your way to launch. A Divers Direct is also located in the same parking lot.
Groceries - We shop at the Publix Grocery Store near the Harbor Towne Marina and load the groceries directly into the boat. There is a Winn Dixie a few blocks to the West.
Launch - I recommend launching your boat and leaving your tow vehicle and trailer at Harbour Towne Marina on the Dania Cutoff Canal. They have 24 hour security and charge $15 per day cash for parking. Alternately I will be posting information on an airport parking service where we can prepay and have parking waiting. We used the airport parking with great success in 2017. Harbor Towne is 5 miles by water from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center. You will be boating through slow speed areas. I was pulled over for 7 MPH last year so it will take approximately an hour to boat from Harbor Towne to Bahia Mar. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/zpzh8yu or download it from http://tinyurl.com/hu8r32u .
Day Before Departure (July 8th) 5:30 PM. Please have your boat docked in a slip at Bahia Mar with a full tank of fuel. We will not stop for fuel on the way to Bimini on the 20th. The fuel dock that is open at that time has asked us to fuel up during the day on Sunday as they had difficulty handling our group in 2014. So please fuel up on the 9th. I will do so at Bahia Mar's fuel dock which closes at 5:30 PM. Lauderdale Marina which is NW of the 17th Street Draw Bridge is another option which offers bait and tackle as well as fuel.
Day Before Departure (July 8th) 6:00 PM Captains meeting(s) at Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel. I would like to break captains meetings up into groups that will be making the crossing together. So we will have three or four smaller captains meetings at locations to be determined. The group leaders and I will work out the split of confirmed participants into groups in April.
Day of Departure (July 9th) 5:40 AM Departure from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center for Bimini Bahamas. I will update the times for departure as we get closer. Current intentions are to have groups leaving at 5:40, 5:45, 5:50, 5:55 and 6:00. Please have your boat loaded with all cargo secured before your departure time. Your group will conduct a combination radio check and roll call ten minutes before departure. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/zlatnzuor download it from http://tinyurl.com/jo45osd .
Second Day of Trip ~ Noon Pot Luck / Party at the sandbar on the East Side of North Bimini followed by an evening dolphin cruise. My family has enjoyed this long deserted beach since 2014 and we had some amazing group trips there in 2016. @JROD has explored the mangroves and @waterboy has found some amazing starfish at the southern end. This is an area of shallow water and shifting sand so we will need to be careful but should be a great time. If anyone is really adventurous the wreck of the Hesperus is perhaps 10 miles further west and is covered up in sharks and barracuda. There are many reef areas West of North Bimini that you will pass on the 12.6 mile route to this location. I recommend visiting the Three Sisters rocks where you will find mooring buoys to tie off to, amazing scenery for snorkeling and smaller but hungry reef fish are an easy catch. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/zy75fsb or download it from http://tinyurl.com/h5ufatb .
Best Water Day a tour of Cat Cay and the beautiful reefs in this area. We will start with fishing at Tuna Alley then move on to drift diving / snorkeling at the colorful Rainbow Reefs. There are three mooring buoys at Tuna Alley where some of us can tie up while others can raft to the side of those on the buoys. In 2015 my family caught 16+ meals of trigger and snapper in less than an hour. When we deployed chum we were surrounded by a boat size school of fish. Rainbow Reef has a single mooring buoy. Whoever snags the buoy can allow other boats to tie off to them forming a chain. When my family visited Rainbow Reef we found that the strong currents necessitated drift snorkeling. After @Emma and I drifted away from the boat we decided to extend a 100' rope out of the boat and allow snorkelers to drift downstream with he boat. Then they would hold onto the rope to be towed upstream to drift again. These reefs are only a few miles apart. I imagine that those who are not interested in fishing will proceed to Rainbow Reef then perhaps come back to Tuna Alley after we have caught our fill. This is easy fishing that requires nothing more than a hook, line and squid or other bait. We will also go past the Capone, the light house on Gun Cay and the marina at Cat Cay. If time allows we will stop at Honeymoon Harbor to feed the rays on the way back.
Another Worthy Outing Honeymoon Harbor, Gun Cay Bahamas. This beautiful location is 9.1 miles south of Bimini Sands. There are many locations to explore along the way including an airplane wreck, the Sapona, Turtle Rocks and a lighthouse a little further south. The rays are friendly so be sure to bring squid or other suitable food to feed them. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/hb556av or download it from http://tinyurl.com/jaaggpl . If water conditions or fuel availability make this destination undesirable we will change the location to the beaches on the North East or North West sides of North Bimini Island.
Day of Return (July 14th) ~ 6:00 AM Departure from Bimini Sands. You can view the route at http://tinyurl.com/j8gu5ng or download it from http://tinyurl.com/zwuw56q .
CUSTOMS
Please remember to fill out the customs form that is attached to this post or it can be completed online at http://pdf.ac/6pQ8gY. We will have the immigration forms available at the captain's meeting. The custom's form needs to be completed by the master of the vessel. This form should be downloaded, printed on legal (8.5x14) sized paper and filled out prior to departure. Each person/family needs to fill out the immigration form but cannot be downloaded. I also have attached a mostly completed copy of my form from 2016 in case anyone wants a cheat sheet. More info on customs/immigration can be found at Bahamas.com/boating or http://www.bahamas.com/boating-enter-exit
@Bill D tested out the "fillable" version of the form located at http://pdf.ac/6pQ8gY and has the following advice for us.
"When you create a text box, all you have to do is click about where you want it and start typing. After you fill the box, you can click and hold on the little arrow right above to drag it into position. Also, after the first text box is placed, there are alignment lines that show up.
A few hints for newbies like me (Thanks Bruce).... Our port of departure is Port Everglades, USA. Our port of arrival is Bimini. Our next port / country is Port Everglades & USA."
Thank you @Bill D!
Unfortunately Bimini Sands has a limited number of each type of unit in the rental pool. That means that many of us will not get the exactly the unit they want. On the positive side once we arrive in paradise this will be remembered as a minor issue. The condos start with one bedroom units which have one bathroom with a shower, a small kitchen, an american sized refrigerator, microwave, range with oven, washer, dryer and living room with a television, a couch and likely a love seat, futon or other large seating item. My family of four with two small children has fit into a one bedroom with the children sleeping in the living room in the past. The next step up is an inexpensive upgrade to a one bedroom with a loft. The loft is a semi private bedroom with an attached bathroom. We find the additional bathroom to be very nice to have. Some lofts have stair access while others have a tall PVC ladder running up the wall. I do not recommend the ladder lofts for small children. From there the units go up in size by bedroom count. Each additional bedroom includes an additional bathroom. I have attached floor plans for one bedroom and two bedroom units. Beyond unit size your choices expand to view. Ocean view units are a little more expensive but provide amazing sunset views which you may catch at the pool instead of your condo. Marina view condos allow for an reassuring glance at your boat. We have enjoyed both options. The infinity pool will be a gather spot in the evenings. It is roughly an 8/10th mile walk from building 21 which is on the opposite side of the resort. This may be an issue for some while others will be attracted to the four very nice one bed with loft ocean view units in building 21 with a private beach. My family chose to spend 2014 and 2015 in building 21. In recent years we have chosen to squeeze into a small unit to be close to the pool.
Most condos will have satellite television. Some will have HD antennas receiving stations from Miami. Most will have a DVD player and may have some movies. My family rarely uses a television in Bimini except for the year that we were there during Shark Week. Some condos have dedicated DSL internet provided by BTC. BTC is years behind on completing a project to provide internet and TV to every condo and appears to be unable to complete. There is sporadic WiFi around the resort. I suggest that you plan to enable international data on your phone if you want to use the internet in Bimini. I spent $10 a day to use my existing data plan including tethering in Bimini in 2017.
Here is a map of the Resort to allow you to see where your assigned condo is located.
This is the layout of a one bedroom condo
This is the layout of a two bedroom condo
Condo reservations should be made by calling Marci at (954) 463-4829 or 888-588-2464.
After you have reserved your condo please post your unit number which will be used to confirm that you plan to attend.
Here is a map of interesting places to visit in Bimini
#Bimini, #Bimini2018, @Bimini
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