I get questions like this often. Clearly, the allure of foreign ports, and the invitation to adventure are among the most intoxicating attractions of "serious cruising".

My answer, however, is not that direct. All kinds of boats successfully travel to all kinds of places. Competent delivery captains do it every day. That does not suggest that you should try the same. Capability means much more than just the right boat. The ability to safely complete a complex passage involves the boat’s capabilities, yes but it also involves many other important (maybe more important) elements. That truth disturbs me when ads suggest all you need to do is buy the right boat and drive off to whatever adventure you choose.

Life is not that simple. Cruising off into "harms way" involves a host of other responsibilities. Because of space, lets boil them down to Planning, Luck, and Experience: categories that overlap a great deal.

First it is amazing how much your luck improves with meticulous planning. Even with that knowledge for comfort however, the unexpected often happens. A yacht, a big yacht, even a 150 foot yacht is a small speck in a big ocean. The larger factor therefore, becomes experience. So stretch your wings slowly. Reach out farther as your own capability and your confidence grow.

When you think you are ready, plan some more. Pick the best boat; the best weather window; and hope that those in charge of luck shine on you and yours. Above all else, however, remember no boat is going to save you from yourself. Please do not overreach your own capabilities.